Francis Laverne "Vern" Staggs

Francis LaVerne Staggs (Vern), 98, of Kirksville, passed away at his home on January 8, 2021. He was born near Steffenville on August 12, 1922 to Samuel and Myrtle (Wilcox) Staggs, who farmed a family homestead near Shelbyville. He grew up sixth in a family of six children.

Vern graduated from high school in 1939 at the age of 16. He moved to Kirksville, where he attended Kirksville State Teachers College. Vern did not hesitate to heed the call of duty in 1942 when he left college and enlisted in the United States Navy. As a member of the Greatest Generation that defended the free world from totalitarianism, he bravely served in the Pacific Theatre.

Vern married Lora Faye Robertson on March 28, 1942, and they were together for 71 years until her passing in 2013. They were proud parents of two children, Rod and Jeanne. After WW II, Vern got a job with the Missouri State High Patrol in 1946. He had a successful career with the Patrol and retired as a Lieutenant in 1977. Vern loved hunting and fishing and traveled all over the country to enjoy these activities, including spending many summers in Alaska. Vern was a farmer at heart and was happiest when on his land.

Vern is survived by his son, Rod (Rhonda) Staggs of Overland Park, KS, and his daughter, Jeanne Moeller of Powell, WY; four granddaughters, Jennifer (Dr. Steven) Lechner, Stefanie (Mike) Horton, Drs. Shayna (Craig) Bahr, and Dr. Shelby (James) Applegate; 11 great grandchildren, Grace and Abera Lechner, Tyler, Bridger and Katie Lynn Horton, Channing, Addison, and Bennett Bahr, and Dempsey, Deacon, and Roman Applegate. He shared his final years with his companion Georgina Taylor.

Vern was preceded in death by his wife, Lora Faye; his son-in-law Dr. James Moeller; his parents; his brothers Harold, Ennis, Claude and Lydle, and his sister Eula.

A memorial service will be held a future date. Interment will be at the Pleasant Prairie Cemetery near Bethel, MO. Memorials may be made to the First Christian Church in Kirksville.

Arrangements in the care of Davis-Playle-Hudson-Rimer Funeral Home; www.davisplaylehudsonrimer.com.