James Don Terrett, 78, of Hayti, Missouri, passed away on May 29, 2026, in Cape Girardeau, MO.  He was born on May 31, 1947, in Pascola, Missouri, to Alton and Martha Terrett.

James was known for his love of fishing and for the joy he found driving his daddy's tractor. He appreciated simple pleasures, valued family deeply, and created lasting memories with those who knew him.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Alton and Martha Terrett; his sister, Sue Ann Robbins; and an infant sister, Martha Eugene Terrett.

He is survived by his stepchildren, Ken Abbott, Rob Elliott, and Jamie Elliott; his niece, Kathy Hounihan; his great-nephew, Ricky Jo Parks; his great-niece, Elizabeth Parks; his cousin, Mike Terrett; grandchildren Alexis Brandon, Stetson Brandon, Robby Elliott, and Gabby Elliott; and great-grandchildren Amelia Whitley, AJ Whitley, Miles Scroggins, Faris Scroggins, and Daliah Bates.

The family extends special thanks to Jalin Whitley, Steve Braden, Mike Terrett, and Alexis Brandon for their love, care, and support.

James will be remembered for his kindness, his love of family, and the many lives he touched throughout the years.

Funeral Services will be held at 1:00 p.m. Friday, June 5, 2026, in the John W. German Funeral Home Chapel in Hayti, with Brother Doug Wahls officiating. Visitation will be held from 12 until service time. Pallbearers will be Mike Terrett, Steven Braden, Jalin Whitley, Stetson Brandon, Homer and Maynerd Babcock.  Burial will be in Woodlawn Cemetery with Military Honors.