John Riley Almond

John Riley "JR" Almond completed his journey on December 5, 2025, surrounded by his wife, Mary Catherine, and "the girls"-his daughters: Senee Almond of Memphis, TN; Kristi Harrington of Overland Park, KS; and Kami Pearson (Christopher) of Trimble, MO. He was also surrounded in life and love by his grandson, James "Riley" Ferren of Memphis, TN. Two very special young people, Justice and Zane Milz of Georgia, were also part of his life and heart. JR was the only child of Nelson and Thelma (Morelock) Almond and grew up in the close-knit community of New Boston, Missouri. Surrounded by uncles Jack, Carl and Harold and a large circle of Almond cousins, he treasured his memories of New Boston and the Almond Trucking & General Store. A 1960 graduate of Bucklin High School, he went on to attend Kirksville State Teachers College. He enjoyed a 28+ year career as Regional Sales Director for H & H Technology of Alabama, which took him across the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Along the way, he built a network of colleagues who became the brothers he never had. John seemed to know someone everywhere he went-and if he didn't, he soon would. He always knew the best route to take and, more importantly, the best place to eat. A true craftsman, JR could build or repair just about anything. His garage was a mini Home Depot, filled with tools and projects. He loved teaching others to create or fix things themselves, sharing both his skill and his joy in making. JR was a proud Kansas City Chiefs season ticket holder and a devoted fan of all things Chiefs, Royals, Mizzou, and Georgia Bulldogs softball. Cheering on his teams was one of his greatest pleasures, and he rarely missed a game. No matter where life took him, JR always returned to New Boston and to his family. He delighted in being wherever his daughters or grandson needed him, always ready to help, share a laugh, or enjoy a meal together. In addition to his wife Mary Catherine, his daughters, and grandson Riley, John is survived by the Almond cousins and many other Almond relatives who were an important part of his life; his sister-in-law, Norma Jean Smith (Ray) of Brookfield; and his very special cousin, Randy Almond (Mary Carol) of Bucklin. He also shared a close bond with the late Herman Almond. Though John traveled many miles from the streets of New Boston, he always found his way back home. An informal Celebration of Life will be held at New Boston Christian Church, 15881 Highway 129, New Boston, MO, on Saturday, December 13, at 11:00 a.m., immediately followed by a light lunch for all to enjoy-because anyone who knew John knew he loved a good gathering of friends, laughter, and great food. John was a longtime supporter of the New Boston Cemetery. Those who wish may honor his memory with a contribution to the cemetery's upkeep in lieu of flowers. Contributions may be mailed to New Boston Cemetery, c/o Roger Liebhart, 17422 Lacey Dr., New Boston, MO 63557