Dolores Gail Vandergrift, 82, of Bois D’Arc, Missouri, passed away on June 27, 2023, in her home. She was born on August 29, 1940, in Fayette, Missouri, to Arvil and Cordelia (Todd) Jackson.

Dolores moved to Springfield, Missouri, where she attended Draughn’s Business College while working at Zales Jewelry and living at the YMCA with her girlfriends. This was when she met a sailor from the Navy, Wayne Vandergrift. She married the love of her life on September 23, 1960. Wayne recently preceded her in death. From this marriage of 62 years, she had two children, Allen and Gaylen.

Dolores worked at the Herford Groom Restaurant and Litton Industries before she settled into the United States Postal Service as a rural mail carrier for approximately 20 years until retirement.

Dolores had many talents. She could paint a portrait on old saw blades or the side of a barn. She also refinished old furniture, bringing it back to its original beauty, and loved going to auctions to find a bargain.

Dolores was also a great cook. She hosted many dinners for family and friends, making sure no one missed out on having a place to go and have a good meal.

Dolores was a huge supporter of the Jehovah’s Witnesses and formed a great friendship with her spiritual family.

Dolores was preceded in death by her husband, Wayne Vandergrift; her parents; brother Raymond Jackson, son-in-law Joe Urbain; and grandson Brandon Moore.

She is survived by her children, Allen and Gaylen; brother Allen Jackson; grandson Curtis Moore; great-grandchildren, Conner, Ellie, and Avery; and several nephews, nieces, family, and friends.

We want to thank all of those who have supported us during this time, and a special thank you to Pam Smith for the care given to Dolores this past year.

Funeral Service will be 10 a.m. on Friday, July 7, at Greenlawn Funeral Home North, with burial following at Clear Creek Cemetery. A luncheon will follow at the Fire Station at 1405 S. Scenic in Springfield, Mo.