With deep love and gratitude, we celebrate the life of James “Jim” Linwood Decker, 88, Bland, who passed away Nov.15, 2025, at the Truman VA Hospital in Columbia.
He was born July 7, 1937, to the late Admiral Dewey and Minnie C. (Lockhart) Decker in Canaan.
He devoted his entire life to serving others.
After graduating from Owensville High School with the class of 1955, Jim was united in marriage to Patricia “Pat” Ann Matthews Dec. 8, 1955.
With Pat by his side, he began his life of service as a proud member of the U.S. Army 11th Airborne, 505th Battle Group, where the values of discipline, honor, and teamwork—instilled in him from childhood—were strengthened and carried throughout his life.
After completing his military service, Jim joined the Missouri State Highway Patrol, where he spent many years protecting and supporting the people of his home state.
He later channeled his determination and work ethic into building two successful local businesses: Beaufort Transfer Company and L&D Properties. While operating these businesses, Jim also served as an alderman for the City of Owensville and as a board member for the Meramec Regional Planning Committee, always advocating for practical improvements, responsible planning and the well-being of families in his community. To this day, countless families continue to benefit from the jobs and opportunities created by businesses Jim helped bring to the Owensville area.
Beyond his public service, he was a loving husband, father, and grandfather. He cherished every moment with his family and loved sharing stories about his friends and his experiences in the military—and especially his time with the state patrol. His legacy is one of service, kindness, and steadfast devotion.
Jim was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 65 years, Pat; parents, Admiral Dewey and Minnie; son, James “Bo” Decker; siblings, Billy and Bobby Jenkins, Adelle Thomas, Louella Picker and Shirley Felton; and parents-in-law, Jess and Sis Matthews.
He is survived by his children, Diane Decker and significant other Craig Garth of Owensville, Daryl “Hootie” Decker and wife Briana of Bland and Tracy Bonnell and husband Mike of Overland Park, Kan.; brother, Darrell Decker of Owensville; daughter-in-law, Pam Idel and husband Chuck of Owensville; grandchildren, April Jardes and husband Brian, Zach Dintelman and wife Fernanda,Clara Swift and husband Mike, Zeb Dintelman and wife Kylee, Brian Decker and wife Angela, Jade Irish and fiancé Nich, Beau Decker and wife Erica, Ethan Garth and wife Maddie, and Chris Decker and wife Alexis; nine great-grandchildren, with another expected in June.
Jim’s body was cremated, and a Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.
Memorial contributions suggested to The Fisher House of Mid-Missouri, PO Box 998, Fenton, MO 63026.
Arrangements entrusted to Gottenstroeter Funeral Home in Owensville.
