James Lester Hathcock of Joplin, Missouri passed away on Friday, June 26, 2020, at the age of 89. After several weeks of declining health, James died peacefully with his beloved granddaughter Alison Pendergrass by his side.

James was born in Sycamore, Missouri on June 8, 1931, to father Lester Hathcock and mother Celestia Hathcock. The oldest of two children, James didn't have the opportunity for much formal education, but it never hindered him. His work ethic and desire to take care of his family led him into bridge construction where he moved up the ranks from a laborer to a supervisor with as he would say, "only an eighth-grade education." He was respected and adored by the men and women that worked beside him. He prided himself on the fact that he worked alongside his crew, never asking them to do anything he wasn't willing to do himself.

Prior to working construction, James served a tour in the Army. He served in the military from Feb. 2, 1953 to Feb. 3, 1955. While in the Army, he was stationed in Japan and held the rank of Corporal. At the end of his tour, James returned to Missouri and his wife Francelene Cockrum. Together they raised a daughter Sharolette Cockrum Pendergrass.

James enjoyed life. He loved to read, listen to music, ride motorcycles, fish, hunt, play bingo and checkers while spinning tall tales. Like clockwork, he would call his sister Velma and son-in-law Scott several times a day to chat over the day's events or reminisce old times while drinking coffee, eating Rice Krispy Treats, and the whole nine yards.

James was preceded in death by his parents, his first wife Francelene Cockrum, and second wife Dorothy Huff. He is survived by his sister Velma Strong; daughter Sharolette Pendergrass; granddaughter Alison Pendergrass; and great-granddaughter Lorene Pendergrass.

A visitation for James is planned for Tuesday, June 30, 2020, from 2 to 3 pm. The visitation will be at the Clinkingbeard Funeral Home, 434 Main St, Gainesville, Missouri. All are invited to attend. The funeral will follow immediately at 3 pm.