December 5, 1936 – October 26, 2026
His life was built on family, hard work, dedication, and a deep love for the farm he called home for more than six decades. As we reflect on his 89 years, we celebrate the memories he created, the family he raised, and the legacy he leaves behind.
John was born on December 5, 1936, in his parents’ home in Chillicothe, Missouri, to William “Bill” Thomas Hutcherson and Fontella (Ellis) Hutcherson. He was one of 14 children and grew up surrounded by the experiences of a large family.
As a child, John spent his early years in Chillicothe before the family moved to Leon, Iowa, where his parents purchased a 40-acre farm. They later returned to Hale, Missouri, during John’s senior year of high school. He graduated from Hale High School in 1954.
After graduation, John worked at Dye Phosphate & Grain, operating the grain elevator, before beginning a new chapter in his life. In 1955 he joined the United States Air Force and proudly served overseas in France, England, and Germany. He returned home to Hale in 1959, bringing with him new experiences and a lifetime of memories from his service.
That same fall, John met Ruth Ann Smith. Their love led to marriage on July 24, 1960, at the Smith family residence. Together, John and Ruth Ann Built a life centered on family, hard work, and the land they loved.
In 1963 they purchased their farm in Bedford, Missouri, where they would spend the next 63 years making a lifetime of memories. It was there that they raised their two sons, John Michael “Mike” and Steven “Steve” Edward. The farm became more than just a place to live and work; it became the heart of their family and a place where generations would grow up together.
John and Ruth Ann farmed together and maintained a small herd of cattle, making farming a true family affair. John was a hardworking man who took pride in providing for his family and caring for his land and livestock. He later joined the United Auto Workers Union and spent 21 years working at Donaldson Company before retiring in 1984.
Retirement did not mean slowing down for John. He continued doing what he loved most: working on his farm, building fence, and taking care of his cattle. The farm remained an important part of his life, giving him purpose and a place to enjoy the simple rewards of a hard day’s work.
John enjoyed spending time with his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, and his loyal dog Sparky. In his later years, he especially enjoyed watching RFD-TV and visiting with his family.
John is survived by his loving wife of 66years, Ruth Ann (Smith) Hutcherson; his two sons, John Michael “Mike” Hutcherson and Steven “Steve” (Jessica) Hutcherson; his sister, Carolyn (Hutcherson) Sheilds of Carrollton, Missouri; and his two sisters-in-law, Ruth Ann (Hughes) Hutcherson and Janice Hutcherson.
His grandchildren include Cory (Laura) Hutcherson, Ryan (Savannah) Hutcherson, Jacob “Jake” Hutcherson, Alex Hutcherson, and Brandon (Mariah) Hutcherson. His great-grandchildren, Lauren, Maylee, and Aubree Hutcherson, brought another generation of love and joy to his family. He is also survived by several nieces and nephews.
John was preceded in death by his parents, William “Bill” and Fontella (Ellis) Hutcherson, and by his siblings: Marian (Stanley) Frizzell, Virginia “Gin” (Everett) Wilson, Ruth (Harold) Gray, Jack (Loleta “Sug”) Hutcherson, Rosa Lee (John) Woods, Bill Hutcherson, Dorothy (Jack) Peacher, Donald (Nancy) Hutcherson, Floyd Hutcherson, Lloyd Hutcherson, Betty Barlow, and Shirley Wheeler.
As we say goodbye to John “Ed” Hutcherson, we remember a husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, veteran, farmer, and friend. We remember a man who spent his life working hard, caring for his family, and tending to the land that meant so much to him. He will be remembered for the life he lived, the family he helped build, and the home he and Ruth Ann created together on their Bedford farm.