Obituary of Johnnie Kiser

Johnnie Kiser, 92 of Wright City, went home to rest in the Lord on Sunday, February 15, 2009 at his home. He was born March 12, 1916 at Valliant, the son of William Joseph and Parto Lick Kiser. He married Alta Rhea Ralls on June 19, 1948. The couple was blessed with over 50 years of marriage. Entering the United States Army at the age of 26, Johnnie proudly served his country during WWII. Having fought in Tunisia, Naples, Foggia, Southern France, Sicily, Rome and Central Europe, he spoke often about his war experiences. He was very proud to be apart of the war and received a Distinguished Unit Badge, Service Ribbon, a Silver Star, 2 Bronze Service Stars, a Bronze Arrowhead and a Good Conduct Medal. Johnnie was honorably discharged from the Company B 474th Infantry October 31, 1945. A sawyer, farmer and rancher, Johnnie raised cattle, enjoyed planting a vegetable garden. When his wife became ill, he sold all of his cattle to be able to stay at home and take care of her. Johnnie served as deacon of the First Baptist Church at Wright City since 1975. He was a very faithful Christian and loved talking of the Lord. He was a lifetime resident of Wright City. He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Alta Kiser; 11 brothers and sisters. Johnnie is survived by his son, Johnny Ray Kiser of Vicksburg, Mississippi; daughters and sons-in-law, Judy and Ron Green of Hugo, Oklahoma and Sheila and Charles Hudson of Texarkana, Texas; brothers, Jack and Freda Kiser of Texas; grandchildren, Zachary Kiser and Ciara Kiser both of Vicksburg, Mississippi and Tristin Forbus of Hugo, Oklahoma; several nieces, nephews, other relatives and a host of friends. Special thanks to Tri-County Hospice and special caregivers Lonna Fray and Lynell Moore who treated Johnnie as their own.