ELRAY HARRISON FIFE

Elray Harrison Fife, 89, Gainesville, MO, passed away and went to his reward on Wednesday afternoon, June 24, 2009 at his residence. He was born on August 14, 1919 in Pigeon Hill, AR son of the late Benjamin and Minnie (Cisco) Fife.

He was a veteran having proudly served his country in the U.S. Army during World War II. He worked for Dixie Creamery, Tom's Toasted Peanuts, and co-owned a painting and contracting business; he was also employed by and retired from John Milam Construction. Most importantly, he preached, practiced, and lived the word of God throughout his life.

He will be greatly missed by his large family and numerous friends.

Mr. Fife was preceded in death by his parents, Ben Fife and Minnie Shinpock; one son John Howard Fife; two brothers Chester and Marvin Fife; two sisters Annie Dale and Dorothy; one daughter-in-law Phyllis Jane Fife; and numerous family members and friends.

He is survived by his life long soul mate, Edith Pearl Fife in which he was united in marriage for 68 years and 10 months; his children left to carry on are Donald Ray Fife of Searcy, AR, Jane Adell Spencer of El Dorado, AR, Ronald Ned Fife and wife Mary of Gainesville, MO, and Rose Lynn Richardson and husband Joe of Camden, AR; Elray was also graced with 9 grandchildren; 24 great grandchildren; and 11 great-great grandchildren; other survivors include two brothers Bennie Fife and wife Virgie of El Dorado, AR and Roy Fife and wife Olga of Louann; one sister Allie Gorman of Mississippi; and a multitude of nieces, nephews, and friends.

Funeral services will be 10:00 AM on Saturday, June 27, 2009 at the Mammoth Assembly of God Church south of Gainesville, MO with Gale Wooten officiating. Interment will be in the Mammoth Cemetery. Visitation will be Friday evening, June 26, 2009 from 5 - 7 PM at Clinkingbeard Funeral Home, Gainesville, MO. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Mammoth Assembly of God Church, HC 5 Box 36, Gainesville, MO 65655, or left at the funeral home.