Joe Dee Whitley, age 80, of Hollister, Missouri.

Joe Dee Whitley, age 80, of Hollister, Missouri, peacefully left this life March 4, 2024, with his family by his side. He entered this world September 28, 1943, in Ottawa, Kansas, the son of Lester and Sarah Armina (Hasty) Whitley. His parents preceded him in death. On June 15, 1963, Joe was joined in marriage to his best friend and love of his life, Mary Anna Jones. They shared over 60 years together.

Joe grew up in Wellsville, Kansas, graduating from Wellsville High School in 1961. He was a natural-born, self-taught man who could build or fix anything. By trade, Joe began his career as a journeyman mechanic with Kellogg and Clark Rock Quarry. He spent eight years with them before taking a position with Kansas City Power and Light. Joe’s career with KCPL spanned more than two decades, retiring after 21 years of service.

After retirement, Joe and Mary moved to the Branson area in 2001, eventually settling in Hollister. Joe was not only a jack-of-all-trades, but a master of them as well. Being a true craftsman, he was a talented wood worker and could build, plumb, or wire anything.

Of the many talents Joe possessed, his greatest talent and accomplishment was his family. He was a faithful and dedicated husband to Mary, a wonderful dad to his daughter, Stacey, a loving grandfather and great-grandfather to Rachel, Mason, Alivia, and Warren, as well as a great brother to Penny with whom he shared many childhood memories. Joe leaves a legacy of generosity and love to his family and friends who will cherish the many stories and adventures he created throughout his life.

Joe is survived by his loving wife, Mary Whitley of Hollister, Missouri; his daughter, Stacey Brown of Lenexa, Kansas; a granddaughter, Rachel Ann White; his three grandkids: Mason Lee Hill, Alivia Crabtree, and Warren Crabtree; a sister, Penny Andrews and husband Mark of Clinton, Missouri; as well as several nieces and nephews.

No local services are planned at this time. Graveside memorial service will be held 2:00 p.m. Saturday April 20, 2024, at Wellsville Cemetery, Wellsville, Kansas. Joe’s family would like to express their gratitude for the care St. Croix Hospice gave Joe in his final days. Memorials may be made to St. Croix Hospice www.stcroixhospice.com/nixa-missouri/ in memory of Joe. Arrangements and cremation are under the direction of Cremations of the Ozarks. To leave a condolence or memory of Joe for his family, please visit www.cremationsoftheozarks.com.