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Bethany, MO: James Dale Tuggle, 76, passed away on Saturday, August 1, 2026, peacefully surrounded by his family.
James was born on February 8, 1950, in Bethany, Mo., to George and Betty (Hawkins) Tuggle. He grew up on a farm where he split chores with his two sisters and two brothers. When him and his brothers weren’t causing trouble around Ridgeway, he was busy helping raise turkeys and growing row crops on the family farm. At the young age of 15, James was married and had a daughter, Jeanette Hogan.
After graduating from Ridgeway High School in 1968, he was drafted by the United States Army. He was sent to Germany to work in the finance department. Once he came back home, he attended college at Northwest Missouri State University and earned his degree in accounting.
On January 2, 1977, James married his wife of almost 50 years, Mary (Hamilton) Tuggle. They moved to Grand Island, Neb. in 1978 where Jim worked as an account at Ford New Holland manufacturing plant. While in Nebraska, they had two children: son, Zachary Tuggle and daughter, Molly Tuggle. The family moved to Shenandoah, Iowa in 1988. When James wasn’t working at NSK manufacturing plant as an accountant, he was busy attending sporting events to cheer on Zach and Molly. Once both Jim and Mary retired, they moved to Republic, Mo. There he could be seen cuddling with the family dog, Yoda Eugene, and sitting on the back porch watching the birds.
James is survived by his beloved wife, Mary (Hamilton) Tuggle; daughter, Jeanette (Tom) Hogan of Ridgeway, Mo.; son, Zachary Tuggle of Republic, Mo.; daughter, Molly Tuggle of Kansas City, Mo.; one brother, Bob (Rita) Tuggle of Bethany, Mo.; and two sisters, Carolyn Tuggle of Cleveland, Tenn. and Marilyn (Ronnie) Jones of Eagleville, Mo. He was preceded in death by his parents, George and Betty (Hawkins) Tuggle; and his brother, Michael Tuggle.
James will be remembered for the love he shared with his family, his caring heart, and the many lives he touched through his kindness and friendship. His memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.
A visitation was August 11, 2026 at Roberson Funeral Home, 1107 S. 25th St., Bethany, Mo. 64424. Burial in the Rose Hill Cemetery in Ridgeway, Mo.
Memorials and contributions are suggested to the Rose Hill Cemetery. Online condolences can be left at www.robersonfuneralhome.com.
The family appreciates the kindness, prayers, and support shown during this difficult time.
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