James Lloyd Fitzwater

James Lloyd Fitzwater was born on October 9, 1927 in Shirley, Missouri where he was raised as a young boy. He was one of six children born to James Leonard Fitzwater and Sarah (Dotson) Fitzwater.

On May 2, 1992, Lloyd was united in marriage to Mary F. (Strong) McPherson at White Oak Grove Baptist Church and they shared nearly 30 years together. In past years, he enjoyed traveling with Mary to Arkansas, Colorado, and Michigan. In addition, they also found delight in camping and meeting new friends. Lloyd was a member of Potosi Southern Baptist Church. He was also a member of Potosi Masonic Lodge #131 and a past member of Potosi Elks Lodge #2218 and the Eagles. Lloyd worked for Phelco Tucking Company in the mid 80’s. He was commonly known by truckers across the country as “Water Boy”. Lloyd proudly served in the United States Army from December 11, 1945 to November 16, 1946. Lloyd always enjoyed having a good time. From picking his guitar to playing practical jokes on family and friends.

Lloyd passed away peacefully on Tuesday, February 22, 2022 at the age of 94. He left this world reminding his family of how much he loved them. There was never a visit that he failed to mention it. He’d always say “Dad loves you very much”. His legacy will forever live on in the hearts of those he touched.

Those left behind to cherish his memory include his loving wife, Mary Fitzwater; twelve children: Karen Conway, Jimmy Fitzwater, Brenda Holst, Dale Fitzwater, Garland Fitzwater, Paul Fitzwater (wife, Sandy), Patricia Henry (husband, Richard), Joe Fitzwater, Terry Lynn "Peewee" Fitzwater and Fiancé, Karen, Angela Fitzwater, Kimberly Hodges (husband, Mike) and Nancy Ayers (husband, Bryon); forty-three grandchildren, and a host of great and great great grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and extended family.

Lloyd was preceded in death by his parents, James and Sarah Fitzwater; and infant son and two children: Ruth Ann Pruitt and Dennis Fitzwater; five siblings: Avis Blount, Alice Eye, May Brickey, Everett Fitzwater, and Addie Gibson.

Visitation for Mr. Fitzwater will be Saturday, February 26, 2022 from 5 to 8 PM at DeClue Funeral Home. Visitation will resume on Sunday from 11 AM to 1 PM.

Funeral Services will be conducted on Sunday, February 27, 2022 at 1 PM held in the DeClue Chapel. Bro. Jeff Richards will officiate the services assisted by Bro. H. Wayne Isgriggs.

Interment will follow by his parents in the Shirley Union Church Cemetery. DeClue Funeral Home was honored to have served and ministered to the family of Mr. Lloyd Fitzwater.