Jimmy Ray Denton

Jimmy Ray Denton, the son of James Howard and Lucille (Sullivan) Denton, was born October 10, 1960 at Alley Springs, Missouri. He departed this life on December 26, 2025 with family at his side at St. Francis Hospital in Mountain View, Missouri at the age of 65 years, 2 months, and 17 days.

Jim was united in marriage to Beverly Merckling on March 6, 1982, making their union together over 43 years. To their union, two children were born: James and Shayla.

Jim grew up in Summersville, MO and attended Summersville High School, graduating in 1978. He lived in Mountain View for 22 years, where he raised his family. After graduating high school, he started driving a truck until 1997.

In 1997, he graduated from Mineral Area Law Enforcement Academy, and he attended the Missouri State Highway Patrol Academy and became certified as a firearms instructor. He also attended the DEA Clandestine Laboratory in Quantico, Virginia and became certified in Investigation/Safety and was certified by John Ried in interviewing and interrogation. Jim worked for the Reynolds County Sheriff’s Office as a Deputy, City of Ellington as a Sergeant, Howell County Sheriff’s Office as a Deputy, and the City of Summersville as Chief of Police. He also served as a First Responder and Volunteer Fire Fighter in Summersville.

Jim then turned back to his true love, driving a truck. He became owner/operator of Denton Trucking, where he owned four trucks and hauled wind energy equipment for American Transport until his health failed and he sold his trucks. He then served as Site Coordinator for American until 2 years ago, when his failing health required him to retire.

Jim was a true servant, always looking to help anyone in need, day or night. His favorite pastime was spending time with his family, attending his childrens sporting events, cooking and tailgating with friends, and working on the farm. However, his greatest pastime was spending time with his granddaughters, who adored their “Pa.”

Jim attended Faith In the Word Ministries and was baptized on September 14, 2025.

He was preceded in death by his father, “Shorty”, his mother, Lucille, his brother, Tim, and his nephew, Greg Davis.

Jim is survived by his wife, Beverly of the home in Mtn. View; son, James (Paige) of Paragould, Arkansas; daughter, Shayla (Kendell) of Mtn. View; granddaughters Espy and Sadie; sister, Marla Kay Denton of Summersville; brother, Lenual (Ann) Denton of Willow Springs; sister-in-law, Terri Denton of Summersville; sister-in-law, Linda Watkins (Billy) of Springfield, as well as a host of nieces, nephews and friends.

Jim was a devoted husband, father, brother, uncle, brother-in-law, Pa and friend to so many. He will be greatly missed by all.