Theodore James Tarrant Sr., 76, of Kirksville, Missouri, passed away Saturday (July 5, 2014) at Twin Pines Adult Care Center in Kirksville.

The son of Berl Ellis and Edith Madonna (Oseland) Tarrant, he was born June 10, 1938 in Alton, Illinois. He was united in marriage to Betty Fortschneider and two this union two children were born. On July 5, 1969 he married Elinor Hawkins who preceded him in death in 2011.

He was also preceded in death by his parents; one son, Scott Mathew Tarrant; one brother, Dick Tarrant and two step brothers, Paul and Bill Yenne.

Theodore is survived by one son and daughter-in-law Ted and Amanda Tarrant of Kirksville, MO; one daughter and son-in-law, Pam and Brad Baker of Kirksville, MO; five step sons, John, Steve, Jim, Mark and Jeff Hawkins; two step daughters, Mary Jones and Beatrice Hawkins, as well as numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Theodore served in the United States Navy nine years. He resided most of his life in Kirksville, Missouri, and was employed twenty-five years at Florsheim Shoe Factory until retiring.

He enjoyed fishing, hunting and was an avid Cardinal Baseball fan.

He was a member of V.F.W. Post 48 of Kirksville.

It was Theodore’s wish to be cremated and no service be held.

Arrangements were taken care of by Travis-Noe Funeral Home in Kirksville.

Expressions of sympathy in memory of Theodore Tarrant may be made to American Diabetes Association. Memorials may be left at or mailed to Travis-Noe Funeral Home, P.O. Box 306, Kirksville, MO 63501.