Denzil Batson

Denzil Batson, 91, of Republic, passed away Tuesday, Feb. 11, 2020. He was born Monday, March 19, 1928 in Republic, to James and Cora (Keltner) Batson. Batson was one of 13 children in the home.
Batson enlisted in the US Army and served four years, including a tour in the Korean War. He married Eva Etheridge in 1951, while still in boot camp. This union was blessed with two children, Denny and Connie. Batson worked for approximately 25 years in the newsroom at The Springfield News Leader. When he retired from the News Leader, he began working as an independent contractor in the construction business for 25 years.
Batson was very passionate about the time he served in the Korean War. He received a combat infantry metal as well as a Bronze Star for his service in Korea. He was an active member of the Korean War Veterans Association in Springfield. In 1999 he wrote and published a book about his experience in the Korean War called “Korea We Call It War.” This book caught the attention of a filmmaker by the name of John Gilbert who made a documentary film about the book. This documentary was televised on PBS from coast to coast and was featured at the Santa Monica Film Festival.
Batson started the Kiwanis youth baseball program in Republic with the help of Jay Mooneyham.
Denzil and Eva were active members of First Baptist Church in Republic, until their health began to decline.
Preceding him in death are his parents; James and Cora, sisters; Ethel Curnett, Pauline Robertson, Sylvia Batson and Erma Linberger, brothers; Guy Batson, Carl Batson, Noel Batson, Virgil Batson, Stanley Batson, Ray Batson, Earl Batson, Everett Wayne “Barney” Batson and an infant brother.
Left to mourn his passing is his loving wife of 69 years, Eva, of the home; son Denny Wayne and wife Kathie Batson, daughter; Connie Walton, three grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; four four-legged fur babies; Salem, Louie, Arlo and Peanut, as well as a host of nieces, nephews and countless friends.
A graveside service, with full honors, was Friday, Feb. 14, 2020 at 1 p.m. in the chapel at Missouri Veterans Cemetery, Springfield.

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Lawrence County Record

312 S. Hickory St.
Mt. Vernon, MO, 65712
www.lawrencecountyrecord.com

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