David Ray Retherford

David Ray Retherford Sr., 87, of Oak Ridge passed away Wednesday, April 16, 2025, at home, surrounded by his loved ones. He was born on January 12, 1938, in Cape Girardeau to Thomas Cecil Retherford and Mattie Katherine Calhoun. He graduated from Central High School in 1956. David married Marilyn Rose Bahr on September 21, 1957, in Ste. Genevieve. They had 4 children: Mary (Virgil) Freeman, David (Jackie) Retherford, Evelyn (Barry) Gilliland, and Mark (Barb) Retherford. He worked at Shaw Manufacturing where he was responsible for making and installing the decorative railing for the fountain at the Cape County Courthouse in Jackson. He later worked at Marquette Cement plant for several years. He then went on to Sears where he drove a truck and worked in the warehouse. In 1971, David moved his family to a farm in Oak Ridge and began farming and raising registered American Saddlebred Horses and Charolais Cattle. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, woodworking, playing cards, and spending time with his family and friends. He was always available to share his knowledge or lend a hand to a neighbor. In his later years, he enjoyed training dogs and making wind chimes for family and friends. His greatest joy and accomplishment was the time he spent loving and teaching his children and grandchildren. Survivors include his wife of 67 years, his 4 children, 14 grandchildren, 21 great grandchildren, and 1 great, great grandchild; 1 brother, 4 sisters-in-law, and 1 brother-in-law. He was preceded in death by his parents, 2 brothers, 1 sister, 1 grandson, 3 sisters-in-law, and 2 brothers-in-law. The Rev. Randolph Tochtrop will conduct the funeral mass at 10 a.m., on Saturday, April 26, 2025, at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Jackson. A celebration of life will be held in the cafeteria following the mass, providing an opportunity for friends to offer their condolences to the family. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Easter Seals Midwest. Online condolences may be sent to the family by clicking on the tribute wall tab above David's obituary at mccombsfuneralhome.com.