Lyle Lee Gifford, 73, of Rural Hardin, died Sunday, July 12, 2020, at his home.

Lyle was born on October 26, 1946, in Kansas City, the son of James Lee and Oleva June (Hall) Gifford.  He was first united in marriage to Ann Forsee; to this union his son, Matt, was born; they later divorced.  He was then united in marriage to Earlene Davidson of Hardin; to this union his son, Justin, was born; they later divorced.  He was then married to Julie Diane Still of Hardin on June 24, 1989; she survives of the home.

Additional survivors include: two sons, Matthew (Kristina) "Matt" Gifford of Memphis, TN, and Justin (Marisela Rodriguez) of Olathe, KS; five granddaughters: Kylee Gifford, Alicia Gifford, Andrea Del Real, Angela Del Real, and Avanica Del Real; and sister, Susan Jenkins also survives.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded by son, Benjamin Gifford, in infancy.

Lyle was reared and educated in Martin City and graduated from Grandview High School.  After high school, he joined the Local Plumber's Union #8, where he completed his apprenticeship to be a licensed plumber.  He was the longest-term member in the plumber's union, with 44 years of active service.  He was a lifetime member of the Local Plumber's Union #8 and a lifetime member of the UA National Plumber's Union.  In his younger years, he loved bowling.  The family enjoyed deer hunting together, for many years.  Julie and Lyle enjoyed their yearly trips to Las Vegas.  Lyle was raised Baptist and was currently a member with his wife at the United Christian Presbyterian Church in Richmond.

The family suggest memorial contributions be made to the Richmond United Christian Presbyterian Church Organ Fund.  They can be left at or mailed to Thurman Funeral Home, 507 East Main Street-P.O. Box 190, Richmond, MO 64085.

Visitation with funeral services will be held on Thursday, July 16, 2020, at the United Christian Presbyterian Church, Richmond, with visitation beginning at 10:00 A.M., with services to follow at 11:00 A.M.  Burial will be in the Belton Cemetery, Belton.  Ceremonies entrusted to Thurman Funeral Home, Richmond.  Please remember to share your memories of Lyle with the family by visiting www.thurmanfuneralhome.com .