Eddie Gene McGruder was born on July 3, 1950, in Parkin, Arkansas. He passed away on January 18, 2024, at Pemiscot Memorial Hospital in Hayti, Missouri. He was 73 years of age.

He was preceded in death by his mother: Mable Lee (Clay) Neal, father: Willie Fred McGruder, wife: Ester Mae McGruder, one brother: Freddie Lee McGruder, one sister: Linda McGruder, and one son: Willie Burch.

Eddie was a proud veteran of the United States Army and Marine Corps. He immensely enjoyed working on cars. He also enjoyed the outdoors. Eddie loved spending time with his family and friends.

He leaves the following behind to cherish his memory:

5 Children: Rose Marie (Donald) Hurst, Gregory (Eboni) Ellis, Eddie Gene Bunch, Jason Rodgers, and Jeanette (Marcus) McGruder-Shields

Wife: Julie Johnson

6 Siblings: Veverly Joyce Foster of Las Vegas, NV., Willie "Clemons" (Lois) McGruder of Hayti Heights, MO., Harry (Debra "Debby") Neal of South Haven. MS., Rickey McKinney of Little Rock, AR., and Brenda McKinney of Jamaica, NY.

28 Grandchildren and 5 Great Grandchildren

And a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.

Visitation services were held on January 27, 2024, from 11:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. at the John W. German Funeral Home in Hayti, MO. Due to weather burial will be held at a later date in Homestown Cemetery in Homestown, MO.

John W. German Funeral Home of Hayti oversaw arrangements.