Jimmy "Jim" Dale Piper (Buffalo)'s Obituary
Jimmy "Jim" Dale Piper, age 85, of Buffalo, Missouri, passed away peacefully in his home on Friday, April 10, 2026, at his home with loved ones by his side. Jim was born on August 28, 1940, in Polk County, Missouri to the late James and Gladys (Cofer) Piper. Jim spent his childhood in Dallas County and attended school at Kelly School through the 7th grade at which point Dallas County schools consolidated and he began attending Buffalo Jr. High. Jim graduated from Buffalo High School in 1958.In 1962 Jim met the love of his life, Donaell Brown. They were united in marriage on September 21, 1963, and to this union four children were born, Christie (1964), Catherine (1965), Mark (1970), and Kirk (1975).Throughout his life Jim exhibited pride in his family and an honest, hard-working approach to making a living. He spent the majority of his life in construction and farming. He was a member of the laborers union in Springfield Missouri for approximately 15 years before becoming a self-employed carpenter for many years while also operating a dairy farm followed by a beef cow operation. Jim built numerous homes in the Dallas County area as well as completing several renovation projects for himself and others. He owned a number of rental properties in the Buffalo area and demonstrated a great deal of care and respect for his tenants. Jim was a true craftsman, he took great pride in his work, was very particular, and strived to be honest in his dealings with everyone he encountered. He was preceded in death by his parents, James Piper and Gladys Warren and his sister Mary Jane Robb. Jim is survived by his loving wife of 62 years, Donaell Piper; his children Christie Spence (Lanny Doty), Cathey Hicks (Allan), Mark Piper (Dana), and Kirk Piper (Tessa); one sister, Joy Gilpin; nine grandchildren Julia Twichell (Shane), Jared Spence, Sawnie Moody (Kyle), Cody Hicks (McKenzie), Shade Piper (Mica), Dune Piper (Meghan), Ryce Piper (Grace), Fallon Anderson (Colby), and Lakyn Piper (Peyton Bills) as well 18 great-grandchildren. Funeral services are scheduled for 2:00 p.m. on Tuesday, April 14, 2026, at the Cantlon-Otterness & Viets Funeral Home, Buffalo, Missouri, with Rev. Allan Saunders officiating. Jim will be laid to rest at Memorial Gardens of Memory, pallbearers will be Jared Spence, Cody Hicks, Shade Piper, Dune Piper, Ryce Piper, and Peyton Bills. Arrangements are under the care and direction of Cantlon - Otterness & Viets Funeral Home, Buffalo, Missouri.
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