Delmar Elders

FARMINGTON – Delmar Lee Elders passed away at his home in Farmington on December 1, 2025, at the age of 96. He was born in Desloge, Missouri, on September 30, 1929, to the late Albert M. Elders and Mary Ellen (Wray) Elders. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his loving wife of 74 years, Virginia Marie (Woods) Elders; his daughter Phyllis Eller and her husband, Gary; four brothers, Herschel, Myron, Lindell, and Kenneth Elders; and a beloved nephew, Gary Barbee.

As a young man, Delmar proudly served in the U. S. Air Force, a military career that would span 13 years as a flight engineer. He served during the Korean Conflict and the Vietnam War. When Delmar was still in the Air Force, he began building houses on the side, and upon his return to civilian life, he and his brother-in-law formed Barbee & Elders Construction. He developed an exceptionally good rapport with business associates who respected his exemplary work ethic and quality workmanship. He worked in the construction business until the age of 82. Woodworking was one of Delmar’s favorite hobbies; he made many items and donated them to both the St. Paul Lutheran High School and Elementary School. Delmar had many other hobbies throughout his life, including gardening, canning, model trains, hunting, fishing, wine making, and working on old cars. He truly was a jack of all trades. Attending his grandchildren’s sporting events throughout the years was also a frequent activity that he held dear to his heart. He and Virginia loved to travel the USA, and they even drove all the way from Missouri up into Alaska one time. Having lived through the Great Depression, he instilled a strong work ethic in his daughters. His favorite saying to them was “make sure you earn your nickel”.

Survivors include his two daughters, Marcia (Elders) Buckley and husband, Tom, and Lisa (Elders) Bird and husband, Jonathon; grandchildren, Bethany Sherrill (Andy), Ryan Buckley (Caity), Allison Eller, Mallory Smith (Shaun) and Ross Ledbetter (Holli); fourteen great-grandchildren; many nieces, nephews and his very special canine companion, Belle.

The family would like to extend their gratitude to a special caregiver, Rena Feller.

Visitation will be held at Cozean Memorial Chapel on Friday, December 5, 2025, from 5 – 9 p.m. Due to the Farmington Christmas parade that evening at 6 p.m., visitors may park directly across from the funeral home in a reserved lot, which can be accessed from Harrison Street. The funeral service will be held Saturday, December 6, 2025, at St. Paul Lutheran Church beginning at 10 a.m. with Pastor David Schmitt officiating. Interment with military honors will follow at St. Francois Memorial Park in Bonne Terre.  Memorials may be made in Delmar's name to St. Paul Lutheran High School, Farmington, Missouri.  View the tribute video and share your condolences at cozeanfuneralhome.com