Oral "Lavaughn" Collyott

Oral "Lavaughn" Collyott (71) of Springfield, passed away at his home on Saturday, May 7th, 2011. He was born in January of 1940 in Jamestown, Missouri to Wm. Delbert and Opal Collyott. He graduated from the Tipton Missouri High School in 1957. After graduation, he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps where he served as a combat veteran in the Vietnam War. He was awarded several commendations and received three purple hearts. After proudly serving 15 years in the Corps, he then served in law enforcement until he retired from Missouri State University in 2001.

He was preceded in death by his parents, 2 brothers and 2 sisters, all from the Moniteau county area.

He is survived by his wife Deborah of 26 years, daughter Laurie (Jim) of Willard, sons Stephen (Mindy) of Blue Springs, and Joe (Sara) of Springfield. He was the proud grandfather of 7 grandchildren, Nikki (Erick), Lisa, Sharee, Justin, Issac, Gavin, and Arianna, 2 great grandchildren, Bella and Beck, and many nieces and nephews from both sides of the family, including "Devil Boy" Brandon. A host of friends, especially Sam and Leanda Bollinger.

He will be remembered by many for evenings spent playings cards, his joy of fishing, and his many many lessons on the history of the Marine Corps. Semper Fi

Visitation will be from 5:00 to 7:00 pm, on Wednesday May 11th in Herman Lohmeyer Funeral Home, 500 E. Walnut, Springfield. Funeral services will be held 11:00 am, on Thursday, May 12th, also in Herman Lohmeyer Funeral Home, with Pastor David Garrison officiating. Burial with military honors will be held in Resurrection Cemetery following the funeral.

Online condolences can be shared at www.hhlohmeyer.com.