David ‘Dave’ Richard Grizzle | 87 | Roodhouse

By Editor | October 14, 2025 |

David “Dave” Richard Grizzle, 87, of rural Roodhouse, passed away peacefully on Sunday, Sept. 21, 2025, at Memorial Hospital in Springfield, surrounded by loving family.
Dave was born on Jan. 29, 1938, in Linder Township, the youngest child of Charles L. and Ora (Lyles) Grizzle. He attended Union School and Lutheran School before graduating from Carrollton High School in 1955.
On March 31, 1956, he married Barbara Jean Williams at the First Christian Church in Carrollton. Together, they built a life filled with love and faith, raising four children: Richard (Joyce) Grizzle of Roodhouse; Russell (Debbie) Grizzle of rural Roodhouse; Patricia (Roger) Greenwood of Jacksonville; and Penny (Brian) White of Gillespie. Their family grew to include eight grandchildren -Nicole (Don) Frank of Cave Creek, AZ; Heather (James) Mayer of Carbondale; Alissa (Matt) Frank of Greenfield; Christine (B.J.) Symes of Carrollton; Kerry (companion, Melissa) Eller of Springfield; Amber (Quintin) Benz of Murrayville; Kasey Eller of Gillespie; and Zachary Grizzle of Murrayville. Dave also delighted in twelve great-grandchildren -Andrew, Erik, Leah, and Ian Frank; Braeden and Avery Mayer; Lainey and Presley Frank; Lillian and Landen Hazelwood; and Mason and Navaeh Benz, along with two honorary grandsons, Tayler and Tyler Holler. He is survived as well by many nieces and nephews, each of whom held a special place in his heart.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his five brothers, Charles (Bud), George (John), Joseph (Joe), Alvin, and Ralph; and his four sisters, Evelyn, Dorothy, Vera, and infant Ruby Mae.
Dave was a devoted member of the First Christian Church in Carrollton and a supporter of the National Rifle Association. His working years included employment at Parks Locker in Greenfield and Laclede Steel in Alton. In 1970, he realized his lifelong dream of farming, moving to Ceres to become a proud pork producer. Reflecting on his life’s work, he often said with pride, “I did that!”
Known for his kindness and generosity, Dave was a good neighbor who never hesitated to lend a helping hand. He cherished time with his family and friends, enjoyed classic country music, traveling, and staying connected with loved ones on Facebook. He especially treasured the companionship of his puppy, Molly.
In keeping with his wishes, cremation has been accorded. A private family graveside service will be held at Eldred Memorial Gardens at a later date. Family and friends are invited to celebrate his life on Oct. 11, 2025, at 1 p.m. at the Eldred Baptist Church Fellowship Hall.
Airsman-Hires Funeral Home in Carrollton is assisting the family. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or Shriner’s Hospitals for Children.