Howard Edward Sexton

Howard Edward “Ed” Sexton, 79 of Springfield, Missouri, a devoted husband, father, veteran, and beloved patriarch, passed away peacefully on March 6, 2026, surrounded by his loving wife and family. He leaves behind a legacy of faith, service, and love that profoundly touched his family, his community, and the many friends who were blessed to know him. Ed lived a life marked by integrity, humility, and a steadfast commitment to others.

Ed was born on January 14, 1947, in Columbia, Missouri, to Cecil and Mary Sexton. Following his graduation from Hickman High School, he began working alongside his father as a mechanic before answering the call to serve his country.

Ed proudly served as a Staff Sergeant in the United States Air Force with the 22nd Field Maintenance Squadron (Strategic Air Command) from 1966 to 1970. During his service, Ed completed two tours in Guam in support of operations during the Vietnam conflict. As a highly skilled B-52 bomber jet engine mechanic, he distinguished himself through dedication and excellence, earning the respect of those who served alongside him.

After his military service, Ed built a successful masonry business before dedicating 32 years of service to the United States Postal Service. Even in retirement, his strong work ethic and love for the open road led him to travel across the country delivering trailers, combining his passion for travel with his enduring sense of purpose.

On March 26, 1977, Ed married Marilyn Jane “Janie” Cloud in an intimate ceremony in Columbia, Missouri. Together, they built a life rooted in love, faith, and family, raising a blended family of six children: Timothy, Daryl, Shawn, Michael, Stacey, and Jason. Ed’s legacy continues through his fourteen grandchildren and five great-grandchildren, each a reflection of the values he held dear.

Ed and Janie created a home known for its warmth, generosity, and open doors. Family gatherings, shared meals, and simple moments of togetherness were the foundation of a life well lived. He deeply cherished time spent with his loved ones and found great joy in the companionship of his loyal four-legged friends.

A devoted husband and family man, Ed remained unwavering in his faith and steadfast in his love for his family. Even in his final moments, his thoughts were not of himself, but of those he loved—expressing concern for their well-being, their faith, and their future. His life was a quiet but powerful testimony of selflessness, strength, and enduring devotion.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Cecil and Mary Sexton.

Ed is survived by his loving wife of 49 years, Marilyn Jane “Janie” Sexton; his sister, Elaine (Bob) Biggs; his children, Timothy (Sherrie) Berry, Daryl (Mechele) Sexton, Shawn (Vicki) Sexton, Michael (DeAnn) Berry, Stacey (Larry) Uptegrove, and Jason (Sara) Sexton; his cherished grandchildren, Anna, Taylor, Philip, Kurtis, Zachary, Cathryn, Griffin, Maggie, Ben, Dakota, Madison, Paige, Addison, and Lucas; as well as five great-grandchildren, many nieces, nephews, and dear friends.

His life stands as a testament to a faith faithfully lived, a family deeply loved, and a community honorably served.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday, April 19, 2026, at 5:30 p.m. at The Chapel at Finley Farms in Ozark, Missouri.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial contributions be made to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society in loving memory of Howard Sexton. You may use the QR code below to donate.