Joseph C. “Joe” Tuggle, 77, passed away Sept. 24, 2026 at his home in Centralia.

Family and friends are invited to Joe's Life Celebration 11:00 AM Wednesday, September 30, 2026 at Fenton-Kendrick Funeral Home in Centralia.

Visitation will be held from 10:00 AM until the time of the service at the funeral home on Wednesday.

Joe was born in Hannibal, MO to Donnie Tuggle and Rita (Spalding) Tuggle, the second of four children. Joe attended primary grades in Monroe City, MO, Hannibal, MO, Shelbyville, MO and Centralia, MO where the young family moved in 1957. Joe graduated from Centralia High school in 1967. He immediately began a long and rewarding career with the U.S. Postal Service.

He was a loving husband to Pam Kirks, who together they built an enviable union that would last almost 30 years. Joe and Pam both would say that their love and admiration began on the first day they met.

Kindness mattered to Joe in all that he did and how he lived his life. He had a gentle sense of humor that would conjure up the best belly laughs. He always saw the richness of life, even as he struggled with health issues.

Joe faced his cancer diagnosis with courage and strength, never complaining, and remaining brave as he continued to fight through an unfair disease that became too much for his once strong, robust body. But cancer never broke his devotion to Pam and the life they built together. Until he was just too weak, they still spent every day making as many memories as possible.

 Joe’s family was the center of his life. He enjoyed being a loving father to three children who will miss their father’s mentoring, friendship, love, and laughter: Cassie Wallsmith (David) of Columbia, MO, Greg Tuggle of Centralia, MO, and Kevin Tuggle (Jeana), also of Centralia, MO. His devoted stepchildren include Troy (Mendy) Head and Shane Head.

Joe was grandfather to Brittney, Courtney, Rebecca, Allison, Hunter, Nick, Austin, Kyle, Ryan , Melissa and Katelyn; 15 great-grandchildren.

Surviving siblings will forever miss their fourth member: Donna Shields (Gene) of Overland Park, KS, Bill Tuggle (Cheryl) of Centralia, Mo, and Shelley Becker (Mike) of Centralia, MO. Joe was preceded in death by his parents and grandparents. Nieces, nephews, cousins, and dedicated friends will all miss Joe but cherish the impact he had on their lives just by the way he lived his.

Joe had a desire for the simpler things in life; a nice home, a love for nature, especially camping, canoeing, and Colorado. He loved barbecuing, a nice fire pit at night, and good country music, most notably George Jones. He was also quick to help out whenever he could. Throughout his life, he was looked up to because he was always there to lend a hand—or a truck or a trailer. Joe valued family, friends, and hard work. He enjoyed spending time outdoors. Joe shared his passion for the outdoors with Pam. They made adventures dancing on gravel roads in the moonlight, sitting outside at night with a cold beer, traveling throughout mid-Missouri on another adventure, laughing and spending quality time together. Even the simplest task was a loving adventure for them. 

Joe’s memory will live on in our hearts and will forever be missed at family get togethers, especially his trademark blue jean shorts, which he wore until the first snowfall, his quick wit, his sparking blue eyes, and the familiar sound of “Howdy” when he would greet you. Joe and Pam treasured time spent camping, being on the hunt for antiques and collectibles, making meals together, and watching their favorite shows. They filled their beautiful home with love and friendship. Joe found joy in cheering for his beloved Denver Broncos and cherishing time with family and friends. These moments brought him happiness. He also enjoyed his employment with the Columbia post office and later with the Centralia post office.

The family asks that you honor and remember Joe by sitting by a fire, listening to country music, surrounding yourself with friends and family, and making memories with the ones you love for as long as you can.

The family extends a special thank you for the gentle kindness and care shown to Joe by St. Croix Hospice.

Joe’s kindness, and humor will live on in all who knew him. He will be deeply missed but never forgotten. We love you, Joe, and we thank God for the example of love and friendship you left us.

Memorial contributions can be made to the American Cancer Society and may be sent in care of Fenton-Kendrick Funeral Home, 104 S. Collier St. Centralia, MO 65240.