Paul Bob McMurtrey

Paul “Bob” McMurtrey was born on November 22, 1934, the beloved son of the late Paul A. McMurtrey and Edith Caroline (Parkhurst) McMurtrey. Nearly ninety-one years later, he passed away peacefully at his home on the family farm just outside of Caledonia—land he cherished and faithfully tended throughout his life. He was 90 years, 11 months, and 28 days old, leaving behind a legacy rich in love, loyalty, and humble dedication.

On July 17, 1972, Bob married the love of his life, Lola Mae (Coultas) Clarke. They shared 47 years of steady, enduring companionship—years shaped by their devotion to one another, the joy of family, and a deep-rooted partnership that weathered every season.

Bob grew up in the Belgrade area, where his foundation was built early as the son of a dairy farmer. From milking cows before sunrise to putting up hay under the summer sun, he learned young what hard work meant and what it took to support a family. He carried these lessons with him all his life. A proud member of Valley Caledonia’s first graduating class, he received his diploma in 1953.

A lifelong farmer, Bob found his purpose in the rhythm of the land. He loved tending his fields from the seat of his 630 John Deere tractor. Each year, he planted a large vegetable garden and acres of corn, taking great pride in watching his crops flourish. Bob also served his community faithfully—as past president of the National Farmers Organization and as treasurer of the Washington County Coon Club—reflecting his dedication to rural life and the people who shared his passion for farming.

Outside of work, Bob found joy in the simple comforts that made life sweet. He rarely missed an episode of The Price Is Right, and he could regularly be found with a cold Diet Pepsi and a Snickers candy bar—two of his favorite indulgences. In earlier years, he enjoyed riding horses, another connection to the land and animals he loved.

Above all, Bob was a family man. His happiest moments were spent riding his 4-wheeler around the farm with his grandchildren, showing them the places that meant so much to him. He treasured the family tradition of making homemade apple butter and proudly held the role of “official taste tester.” These traditions, filled with warmth and laughter, became treasured memories for his loved ones.

Bob leaves behind two daughters, Nancy Clarke and Clara Province and her husband, Earl; daughter-in-law, Michaelle Clarke; six grandchildren, Nathan (Laura) Harl, Scott (Alyssa) Harl, Justin (Shelly) Province, Jennifer (Matthew) Turner, Rebecca Clarke, and Theresa (Kyle) Hubbard; and nine great-grandchildren, Caleb Harl, Emily Harl, Keeley Province, Clarke Province, Briley Turner, Laurie Turner, Aurelia Hubbard, Elowen Hubbard, and Tyler Harl. He is also survived by his three siblings, Edi Davis, Virginia Russell, and Marie Matlock; his honorary grandson, Andrew Schrum; several nieces and nephews; and his faithful companions—his dog, Red, and his cat, Punkin.

Bob was preceded in death by his parents; his beloved wife, Lola Mae McMurtrey; his son, Frederick Henry Clarke Jr.; two siblings, Daniel McMurtrey and Eva Lea Clements; along with aunts, uncles, and many cherished relatives.

A time of visitation will be held at DeClue Funeral Home on Saturday, November 22, 2025, from 10:30 a.m. until the time of his Funeral Service at 1 p.m. Pastor Steve Turner will be officiating. Interment and final prayers will follow at Caledonia Methodist Cemetery. Funeral arrangements have been respectfully entrusted to the care and direction of DeClue Funeral Home, Potosi, Missouri.

Bob’s life was one of humility, devotion, and steadfast purpose. His legacy lives on in the land he loved, the family he adored, and the countless lives he touched. As he takes his eternal rest, we honor a life beautifully lived—rich with memories, lessons, and love that will endure for generations.