James “Hershel” Demore, 97, passed away peacefully on July 22, 2026, at The Manor at Elfindale, surrounded by his loving family.

Born on December 24, 1928, in Bois D’Arc, Missouri, Hershel lived a life rooted in faith, family, and perseverance. A devoted follower of Jesus Christ, and longtime member of First Baptist Church of Springfield, his faith carried him through every trial and triumph during his 97 years.

Hershel married the love of his life and high school sweetheart, Doris Jean Combs, on July 9, 1950. Soon after their marriage, he was drafted into the United States Army and proudly served his country while stationed in Ulm, Germany, for two years. Upon returning home, Hershel and Doris settled in Springfield, Missouri, where they built a wonderful life together and welcomed their two children, daughter Dolores Sue Demore and son Robert James Demore.

Together, Hershel and Doris owned and operated two successful businesses, building not only a livelihood but a legacy of hard work and integrity that they passed on to their family. Hershel was immensely proud of his children and found his greatest joy in being a grandfather. His grandsons, Blake James Demore and Ryan Lee Demore, lovingly called him "Bop,” a name that became his most cherished title. He treasured the time spent with Blake and Ryan, taking them on Disney vacations and cross-country adventures and making memories that will last a lifetime.

Hershel also had a passion for the stock market, a love he shared with his grandson Ryan. Until the very end of his life, the two spoke nearly every evening about the day’s market activity. The bond they shared left such a lasting impact that Ryan and his wife, Desirae, named their son, James Demore, in Hershel’s honor, ensuring his name and legacy will continue on.

Those who knew Hershel admired his determination and competitive spirit. Remarkably, he could still ride a bicycle backwards and bowl with his grandson Blake well into his early nineties and proudly earned several “Olympic” medals while living at The Manor at Elfindale. Although he endured the heartbreak of outliving his parents, siblings, beloved wife, cherished friends, and many loved ones, he never lost his grit or steadfast faith in God.

Hershel was preceded in death by his parents, James “Grover” and Hattie Demore; his sisters, Mary Jane Talbot and Lucille Aldridge; his infant brother, Carl Demore; his beloved wife of 65 years, Doris Jean Demore; and seven nieces and nephews.

He is lovingly survived by his children, Robert James Demore and Dolores Sue Demore; his grandsons, Blake James Demore and Ryan Lee Demore and wife, Desirae; his great-grandson, James Demore; and two special young ladies, Alyson and Cassidy Miller, along with many extended family members and dear friends who will forever treasure his memory.

Visitation will be held Monday, July 27, 2026, beginning at 10:00 a.m., with funeral services immediately following at 11:00 a.m., at First Baptist Church, 525 South Avenue, Springfield, Missouri, with Rev. Michael Overton officiating. Interment will follow at Yeakley Cemetery, west of Springfield, under the care and direction of Wilson-Griffin Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Hershel’s memory to the Missouri Baptist Children’s Home: 11300 St. Charles Rock Road, Bridgeton, Missouri, 63044.

Hershel leaves behind a legacy of unwavering faith, steadfast love, and enduring tenacity. He taught those around him the value of hard work, loyalty, and trusting God through every season of life. His influence will continue to live on in the family he loved so deeply and in the countless lives he touched over his remarkable 97 years.

The family wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude to the staff of The Manor at Elfindale for the exceptional care, kindness, and dignity they provided to both Hershel and his wife, Doris. Their care and compassion brought comfort not only to Hershel and Doris, but to the entire family, and will always be remembered with deep appreciation.