J.C. Havens

J.C. Havens, age 69, of Nixa, passed away Wednesday, September 5, 2012. He was born October 3, 1942, in Belleville, Illinois, the son of Jack and Loretta (Niehanke) Havens. On May 18, 1963, he and Pauletta Wantland were united in marriage. They were to have celebrated 50 years of marriage in the coming months. J.C. retired after 35 years as an insurance agent. He gave his heart to the Lord at the age of 22. He was always there when needed, serving others with a heartfelt passion. He enjoyed serving as a deacon and in other church leadership roles including Sunday school and children"�s ministries, and as director and president of the Nixa Fire Board. Most recently he was a faithful member and served as usher at Brookside Church in Branson. J.C. was a loving husband, father, and Paw Paw. He enjoyed hunting and spending time with his family. He and Paula shared their special prayer and coffee time, which they called "happy hour"� each day. Survivors include: His wife, Paula; three children, John Havens and wife Cathy, Willard; Lisa Gyger and husband, David, Reeds Spring; and Christy Goodwin and husband Brian, Nixa; nine grandchildren, Ryan and Rachel Gyger; Hannah, Carter, and Haley Havens; and Cody, Justin, Maddison, and Aaron Goodwin; and a host of special nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, and three brothers, David, Mark, and Michael, and infant grandson, Toby. Funeral services will be 10:00 AM Saturday, September 8, in Adams Funeral Home, Nixa, with Rev. Kevin Reich officiating. A graveside funeral will be 2:00 PM Saturday, in Ozarks Memorial Park Cemetery, Branson. Visitation will be from 5:00 "� 7:00 PM Friday in the funeral home.