The Richmond News, Mar. 22, 2024

John Townsend

John Milton Townsend, 89, of Orrick went to be with the Lord Sunday, March 17, 2024, at his home, surrounded by family. John was born March 4, 1935, in Orrick to Harold and Helen Townsend. He was united in marriage to M. Patricia “Pat” Cox on Jan. 18, 1958. She preceded him in death on Feb. 17, 2020. He is survived by his loving family: son Keith (Cecilia) Townsend of Cary, N.C.; son Tom (Deanne) Townsend of Orrick; and daughter Diane (Eric) White of Springfield. He also is survived by six grandchildren: Candice, Phillip, Douglas, Ashley, Brittany and Joshua; and nine great-grandchildren.

Additionally, he is survived by a brother, Charles Townsend; and sister, Ada June Andrews.

In addition to his wife, he was preceded in death by his parents; a grandson, Andrew Townsend; one brother, Harold Bushnell Townsend; and two sisters, Mary Robinson and Virginia Whitsitt.

He graduated in 1953 from Orrick High School and went on to receive his B.S. degree in agriculture in 1957 from the University of Missouri before returning to the family farm in Orrick. He also was a U.S. Army veteran.

In 1984, his son Tom joined him in the multigenerational farming operation, where they worked together for more than 40 years. Farming was not just his livelihood, but also his passion that he enjoyed sharing with family who came back to visit the farm.

John was a giving, caring and selfless man. He volunteered on many local and county boards. He was a member of the Richmond Shrine Club and the Orrick Masonic Lodge, where he had just received his 50-year membership pin. He was a lifetime member of the Orrick Christian Church, serving as a deacon and elder.

John’s greatest joy was spending time with his children and grandchildren. For many years, he and Pat spent time at the Lake of the Ozarks, where they enjoyed boating with family. He also loved his many trips to visit Keith’s family in North Carolina and Diane’s family in Springfield. He especially enjoyed restoring the family Model T Ford with Keith and attending numerous country music shows in Branson.

As we celebrate a life well-lived, he will always be remembered for his friendly smile and positive outlook on life.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions be made to either the Orrick Christian Church or South Point Cemetery. They can be left at or mailed to Gowing Funeral Home; P. O. Box 168; Orrick, MO 64077.

Visitation will be held 5:30-7:30 p.m. Friday, March 22, at Gowing Funeral Home in Orrick. A Masonic service will be held during the visitation, starting at 5:30.

Funeral services will be held at 1 p.m. Saturday, March 23, at the Orrick Christian Church. A burial will be at South Point Cemetery, Orrick.