Joseph Benjamin “JB” McGinnis, age 88, of Excelsior Springs, Missouri, passed away peacefully at his home on January 17, 2025 surrounded by family. Born on December 22, 1936, in Richmond, Missouri, JB lived a life filled with love, dedication, and service to his family and community.
A 1955 graduate of Excelsior Springs High School, JB proudly served his country in the United States Air Force before embarking on a fulfilling career at TWA. Following his retirement, JB channeled his craftsmanship and entrepreneurial spirit into founding J&S Woodcrafters, where he earned a reputation for excellence in woodworking.
Everyone you ask about JB will be quick to acknowledge his way of doing things was almost always the “right way” to tackle any task at hand. JB was a pillar of strength for his family and a helping hand to everyone he knew in need. Whether it was building furniture and cabinets, repairing homes, or cutting down a tree, his skill and generosity left a lasting impact on all who knew him.
JB cherished the great outdoors and could often be found hunting, fishing, or simply enjoying nature. Above all, his greatest joy was his family. He was a devoted husband to his bride of 68 years, Shirley Ann (Wilson) McGinnis, and a proud father, grandfather, and great-grandfather.
He is survived by his loving wife, Shirley, and their children, Chris (Mell) McGinnis of Rayville, MO, Sheri (Jim) Wheaton of Gravois Mills, MO, Sandy (Donnie) Ganzer of Excelsior Springs, MO, and Tim (Janet) McGinnis of Kearney, MO. His grandchildren include Patrick (Amber) McGinnis, Christina McGinnis, Darren (Laura Nielson) Blackburn, Matthew (Whitney) Wheaton, Mariah Wheaton, Zac (Kayla) Ganzer, Luke (Emily Keller) Ganzer, Brooke McGinnis, Brandon (Mayme) Petree, Jessica McGinnis, Ashley (Calvin) Penning, and Travis (Hannah) Andres. JB was further blessed with 19 beloved great-grandchildren.
JB was preceded in death by his parents, Omer Neal and Mattie Ashley (Hall) McGinnis, as well as his siblings and their significant others except for his sister-in-law, Iris Willson. Siblings and their significant others included Bill (Barbara Davis) McGinnis, Peggy (Ralph) Dooley, Betty Sue (John) Knapp, Bob (Iris – living) Wilson and Dick (Gere) Wilson.
A memorial service will be held on Wednesday, January 22, 2025, at Bross & Spidle Funeral Home, 217 W. Broadway Ave., Excelsior Springs, MO 64024. Visitation begins at 9:30 a.m., followed by the service promptly at 10:30 a.m. with interment to follow at Hillcrest Cemetery.
The family kindly requests that memorial donations be made to Shriners Hospital, PO Box 947765, Atlanta, GA 30394, in honor of JB’s generous and compassionate spirit.
JB McGinnis will be remembered as a man of integrity, wisdom, and boundless love for his family and friends. His legacy lives on in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing him.
