Gail Francis Heather

Gail Francis Heather, 78, of California, passed away Wednesday, May 23, 2018 at his home. He was born on August 29, 1939 in Clarksburg, the son of Gilbert Heather and Elsie Winebrenner Yarnell. He married his wife, Joyce Arlene Bowlin Senior on August 14, 1971, who survives of the home. Gail was a graduate of California High School and worked for many years at Stride Rite in Tipton before retiring from the Department of Corrections after 30 years in 2002. He attended the United Church of Christ in California before he was unable. He was a member of the Eagles 4027 for many years, serving as President and Secretary. He was very proud of his family, especially his grandchildren, and he loved making them laugh. He always said, "ain't no need to rush off," as he loved to have company and wanted a house-full at all times. He enjoyed spending time camping with his family. He was an avid NASCAR - Carl Edwards and KC Chiefs fan. He enjoyed watching westerns and followed Missouri sports. Gail was often doing word searches and reading the newspaper. His favorite pastime was spending time with his best friend, his Dashchund - Lilly, who passed away in March 2016. Gail is survived by his wife of almost 47 years, Joyce, and children, Alisha Burger with her husband Jeremy, Vicki Glenn with her husband Dale, all of California, Bruce Senior with his wife Jana, Jefferson City; three granddaughters, Jaime Miller (James), and Danielle Farris (Charley), of Columbia and Jessica Jordan (Dave) of Jefferson City; two grandsons, Daryl Glenn (Meghan) of Jefferson City and Garrett Burger of California; six great-grandchildren, Tavian, Maliyah and Layton Miller, Oliver Farris of Columbia and Jack and Clayton Jordan of Jefferson City. He is survived by his sisters in-law, Lois Jean Heather and Lucille Barbour of Clarksburg and Ruby Martin of California. He is also survived by two very special little girls who he helped care for, Emily and Ella Burger of California, and many nieces and nephews. He was also a good father and grandfather to all those extras that his children and grandchildren brought home. Along with his parents, he was preceded in death by five brothers, Jack Heather, Kenny Heather, Paul Yarnell, Mac Yarnell and Ed Yarnell. Funeral services were held Tuesday, May 29 at Windmill Ridge Funeral Services. Burial was at the City of California Cemetery. Memorials can be made in his honor to the United Church of Christ, California, Breast Cancer Foundation or the American Heart Association. Condolences to the family may be contributed at www.windmillridgefuneralservice.com.