James Dean Masters

Dean served in the Vietnam War and was a Veteran of the United States Air Force. He served 3 tours, earning The Air Force Good Conduct Medal with one Oak Leaf Cluster, Air Force Long Service Medal with one Oak Leaf Cluster, Republic of Vietnam Medal with one Oak Leaf Cluster. He was Honorably discharged as a Sergeant. In short, he was a true hero in every aspect of the word.

In his final moments, he gave his life to save the life of another. Dean was an inspiration to all who knew him. He never knew a stranger, they were simply a friend he hadn't met yet. Dean served his community by helping the homeless and less fortunate. He also sat on the board for Angel Eyes Maternity House. He worked with many outreach ministries around the city and also in Branson “his second home”.

Dean loved The Lord with all his heart and set a wonderful example of how to walk by Faith and not by sight.

Dean is survived by four brothers: Neal (Kathy) Masters of Millington TN, Gayle Masters of Washington, IL, Greg Masters of Flanagan, IL, Roger Masters of Henry, IL; one sister, Audrey Bishop of Washington, IL; eleven children: Richard Masters Sr. of Buckner, MO, Debbie (Mike) Riley of Deridder, LA, Shawn (Kim) Masters of Deep Water, MO, Tonia (Gerald) Baty of Branson, MO, Cherlyn Wright of Lebanon, MO, Carmen (Jared) Forbes of Glasgow, MO, Deanna (Donald) Glenn of Elmer, LA, Jamie Masters of Tulsa, OK, Curtis (Julie) Sipu of Blue Springs, MO, Gina Marshall and Christina and Kyle all of Kansas City, MO; numerous Grandchildren and Great Grandchildren; and many people of the community that he adopted as family.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Frances Masters; parents, Delmar Dean and Rebecca "Betty" (Egli) Masters; Grandson, Allen Lilly; and Granddaughters, Katelyn Glenn and Abigail Logan.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Commerce Bank or Bank of America, checks made payable to Dean Masters. His family will disburse the money to the charities of his choice.