It is with great sadness that the family of Gerald “Jake” Tinsley announces his passing on January 20, 2026, at 92 years old in West Plains, Missouri. Jake was a devoted husband, father, uncle, grandfather, great-uncle, and great-grandfather and will be forever remembered for his caring personality and his warm smile; he never knew a stranger.
Jake was born December 21, 1933 in Horton, KS. He was the son of Lloyd E. Tinsley and Myrtle M. Tinsley (Miller). He graduated from Atchison County Community High School in 1951 and from Highland Junior College (Highland, KS) with his associate’s degree in 1953. In July of that year, he enlisted in the United States Air Force and was stationed at Patrick Air Force Base in Brevard County, Florida, until his retirement in 1957. In 1961, Jake married Alma Jean Conger in Kansas. Their love story spanned 57 years; together, they built a life filled with love, laughter, and family. They supported each other through life’s joys and challenges. Their 57-year marriage was a testament to true love and companionship. It is almost certain that Alma Jean greeted Jake in Heaven with a glass of his favorite iced tea. After owning and operating their own business in Kansas, the Tinsley’s moved back to Florida in 1964, where Jake returned to work in the civil services field at Patrick Air Force Base. He coached Little League Baseball for ten years, helped coach Little League Football, and ran the chains at football games for several years. In Melbourne, Florida, he was also a member of the Eau Gallie Booster Club, and he bowled on a league for several years. After 26 years of civil service in Florida, he retired with his bride to Willow Springs, Missouri in 1991. After retiring to Willow Springs, he took great pride in using his woodworking and stained-glass skills to create different decorative “what-nots” and furniture not only for Jean’s collections but for family and friends, too. When Jake wasn’t in his shop creating, he could be found at his pond catching something to eat for supper. Jake also took great pride in tending the gardens he and Jean planted every year. He was also a member of the American Legion in Willow Springs. At 92 years old, he wasn’t one to know a stranger, especially in his little town of Willow. Always willing to lend a helping hand or a listening ear, it’s no wonder his family extended far beyond any shared bloodline or family tree. Whether sharing a pancake at the café or sitting in on a lodge meeting, friendship and fellowship were always in plenty with Jake. Jake was happiest when surrounded by family, telling stories from his travels or time in the military. He loved making homemade ice cream, and in his final days, he loved doting over and loving his great-grandson, Weslee. His legacy of community, love, learning, adventure, and perseverance will be carried on in those who had the privilege of knowing him.
Jake was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Alma Jean; sister, JoAnn and husband, Ike; and his great-grandchildren, Abrielle Nicole and Kenlee Rhys.
Jake is survived by his son, Kenneth (Pamela); granddaughter, LeeAnn (Shaun); great-grandson, Weslee; grandson, Robert (Taylor; Emmalynn, Lauraleigh). Nieces, Jan (Steve Calfas), Suzie (Dennis Rohr), Alison (Cory Ostertag), and Marilyn Groves. Close family friend Jim Mormon. Several great nieces, nephews, and cousins.
In place of flowers, please donate in honor of Gerald “Jake” Tinsley to the American Legion Post #384 in Willow Springs, MO. A memorial service for Jake will be held at 11:00 AM, Saturday, February 7, 2026, at Willow Funeral Home, 106 E. 3rd Street, Willow Springs, MO.
