Jimmy L. Strosnider

Jimmy Lee Strosnider, 86, of Bourbon, MO, known affectionately as Jim to his friends and family, passed away peacefully at his home on Tuesday, May 20, 2025. Born on January 19, 1939, in Alton, MO, to his parents, Joe and Rella "Pauline" (Andrews) Strosnider, Jim lived a life defined by love for family, service to his country, dedication to his work, and unwavering faith in Christ.
Jim grew up in the rural setting of Alton and later in Maplewood, MO, where he attended local schools and laid the foundations of his lifelong learning and work ethic. His commitment to service was evident early on when he proudly joined the United States Air Force, serving our nation with honor for three years. His time in the military not only shaped his character but also honed his skills as a mechanic, a trade that would define his professional life.
On December 17, 1955, Jim married the love of his life, Jeanette Close. Their loving partnership was blessed with five children: Jimmy, Carl, Terry, Joe, and Melody. Jim's devotion to his family was unwavering, and together with Jeanette, he raised their children with values of hard work, respect, and love.
After his honorable discharge from the Air Force, Jim and Jeanette returned to Missouri, where they embarked on a journey through Leasburg, Sullivan, and finally Bourbon, which they chose as their permanent home. As a young man, Jim placed his trust in Jesus Christ as his Savior under the ministry of Pastor Ollie Mullins at First Baptist Church of Bourbon. His life was transformed by that decision, and he went on to serve the Lord faithfully for the rest of his days. He taught Sunday School for over 40 years and served as a deacon for 36 years, leaving a lasting spiritual legacy in his church and community.
Jim's career as an accomplished mechanic flourished in the automobile industry, where he applied the skills he had acquired in the military to his work at various local Ford dealerships, including Tucker Ford in Sullivan and Bo Beuckman Ford in St. Louis, before his well-deserved retirement.
Jim's entrepreneurial spirit led him to own the Shell Station in Bourbon and later J & B Auto, also in Bourbon. His reputation as a trustworthy and skilled mechanic was well-known in the community, and his businesses thrived under his careful management and genuine passion for automobiles.
Beyond his work, Jim had a zest for life and a love for adventure. He found joy in riding motorcycles, a pastime he shared with Jeanette, cruising the open roads together and creating memories that would last a lifetime. Jim's love for the outdoors was evident in his enthusiasm for fishing and camping, activities that brought him closer to nature and provided precious moments with his family. The family fondly recalls trips to places like New York and Idaho, where laughter and camaraderie were always in abundance.
Jim will be remembered for his steadfast faith, loving heart, servant's spirit, and the rich legacy he leaves in both his family and church.
Jim is survived by his loving wife, Jeanette; his children: Terry Strosnider of Hannibal, MO, Joe Strosnider and wife, Pam of Union, MO and Melody Strosnider of Sullivan, MO; a daughter-in-law, Neva Strosnider of Bourbon, MO; numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren; a brother, Fred Strosnider and his wife, Karen of Bourbon, MO; and numerous nieces, nephews, and other relatives.
He was preceded in death two sons: Jimmy Strosnider and Carl Strosnider Sr.; a grandson, Chad Brewer; his parents, Joe and Pauline Strosnider; and siblings, Mary Stotler and Joe Strosnider.
Services will be 12:00 PM on Saturday, May 24, 2025, at the New Testament Baptist Church, Sullivan with Pastors Carl Strosnider Jr. and Josh Wright officiating. Burial will be at Bourbon Cemetery, Bourbon, MO with full military honors.
Visitation will be 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM, Saturday, May 24, 2025 prior to the service at the church.
Memorial contributions may be made to Tunnel to Towers Foundation.
Friends may send their online condolences to Jim's family at www.eatonfuneralhome.com.
All arrangements are under the care and direction of the Eaton Funeral Home of Sullivan.