John Norman Sitton

John Norman Sitton, 89, was born on July 16, 1937, to Norman Kirkhart “Stumpy” Sitton and Dasarene Gentry. He married the love of his life, Eleanor Sue Smith, on September 20, 1958. Together they built a life centered on faith, family, hard work, and service, and were blessed with three daughters: Christina Kay Sitton, Sherry Lea Moses (Kenny), and Cynthia Sue Blaylock (Gregg). John began his career in the grocery industry before discovering his true calling in the insurance business. Through determination, confidence, and a gift for connecting with people, he persuaded the local District Manager for State Farm Insurance to appoint him as the agent for the Louisiana, Missouri office. John and Sue built the agency into one of the area’s most respected businesses, faithfully serving the people of Pike County and surrounding communities for more than 47 years. Their daughters, Cindy and Sherry, followed in their parents’ footsteps and continue successful careers in the insurance industry today. Although insurance became his life’s work, John never lost his passion for the grocery business. He owned and operated several grocery ventures throughout the years, including a highly successful Save A Lot franchise in Pittsfield, Illinois. His daughter, Chris, devoted 30 years to managing the store, making it a true family enterprise. John believed in giving back to the community that had given so much to him. Throughout his life, he served on numerous local boards and was an active member of Rotary International, Louisiana Elks Lodge No. 791, Sons of the American Legion, and Perseverance Lodge No. 93, A.F. & A.M. He served the Elks as both a Trustee and Trimble Board Director. A proud 32nd Degree Mason, John was recently honored with his 65-year membership pin. His commitment to public service also included serving as a Deputy Sheriff and as a member of the Louisiana Fire Department for many years. Those who knew John will remember his generous and compassionate heart. Whether quietly paying for a stranger’s meal, treating a table of friends to lunch without seeking recognition, or establishing a scholarship fund at Clopton High School, he found genuine joy in helping others. He also loved spending time around the card table, especially playing poker and pinochle, and his many card-playing friends will deeply miss his wit, laughter, and companionship. John is survived by his daughters, Christina Kay Sitton, Sherry Lea Moses (Kenny), and Cynthia Sue Blaylock (Gregg); his sister, Sandra Kay Orf; his brother-in-law, Gerald Wayne Smith (Gail); his grandchildren, Brad Stoops (Jessica), J.T. Miederhoff, and Emily Sitton; his great-grandchildren, Raelynn Stoops and J.W. Stoops; his step-grandchildren, Jody, Christa, and Bo Blaylock, and Deegan Mitchell. He was eagerly anticipating the arrival of his first great-great-grandchild, a fifth-generation granddaughter due in December. He also leaves behind a large extended family of nieces, nephews, cousins, and countless friends, each of whom held a special place in his heart. Visitation will be held on Wednesday, August 5, at Collier Funeral Home in Louisiana, Missouri, from 10:00 a.m. until 12:00 noon. Funeral services will begin at 12:00 noon and will include an Elks Memorial Service and a Masonic Funeral Ceremony. Brothers Terry Cook and Richard Biggs, both dear friends of John, will officiate. Burial will be at the Riverview Cemetery in Louisiana, Missouri. The family would also like for you to join them for a light lunch at the Keely Center, 3523 Georgia St. in Louisiana at 2pm following interment. John’s life was a testament to hard work, integrity, generosity, and quiet service. He leaves behind a legacy of family, friendship, and community that will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing him. Memorials may be made to the Clopton Alumni Association, Louisiana Alumni & Friends Association, or the John Cotton Memorial Animal Shelter.

John Norman Sitton

July 16, 1937 - August 1, 2026