John "J.R." Russell Isgrig, Sr., 82, of Mexico, passed away on Thursday, April 23, 2026, at his home.

Funeral services will be at 12:00 P.M. on Friday, May 1, 2026, at Arnold Funeral Home. Burial will follow in Elmwood Cemetery.  Rev. Glenn Forman will be officiating the service.

Visitation will be from 10:00 A.M. until time of service on Friday, May 1, 2026, at the funeral home.

J.R. was born on January 24, 1944 in rural Audrain County, the son of Ralph and Minnis (Watts) Isgrig.

J.R. was known throughout his life as a hardworking, dedicated man. As a young man, he worked alongside his uncle, Melburn Isgrig, cutting hedge posts and building fences.  J.R. then went on to Telegraph School in Colorado at age 17 before returning and continuing to work alongside his uncle – early experiences that helped shape his strong work ethic. He later owned the Moonglow Bar at the intersection of State Highway E and Highway 22.  J.R. then went on to work at AB Chance before finding his calling in both farming and public service.

For over 30 years, J.R. raised hogs, taking pride in the land and the life he built.  In addition, he served as a rural mail carrier for 45 years, a role through which he formed countless friendships and connections.  J.R. received several awards for safe driving and for driving over a million miles, received during his 30th year.  His daily route was more than a job, it was a way of life, and he was a steady reliable presence for many.  Many have stated there will never be another mail carrier like J.R.

J.R. found great enjoyment in life's simple pleasures. He loved gardening, mowing, fishing, and hunting, and especially cherished time spent traveling.  One of his greatest joys was visiting casinos and gambling alongside the love of his life, Dixie, particularly on trips to the Rocky Mountains.  The last several years J.R. enjoyed his days spending time with two great grandsons, Jackson Wright and Levi Isgrig, who resided at the home.  He also enjoyed visits from great-granddaughters, Alani and Lakyn Isgrig.

Above all, J.R. will be remembered for his dedication to his family, his strong work ethic and the kindness he showed to those around him.  He leaves behind a legacy of hard work, love, and lasting friendships.

Survivors include five children, Reba (Kevin) Gentry of Mexico, Sheila Isgrig of Mexico, John Isgrig, Jr. of Union, Chad (Cindy) Isgrig of Centralia; one step-daughter, Amanda Isgrig of Mexico; 11 grandchildren, Crystal Kelly, Lisa Stone, Ashley Cross, Matthew Gentry, John Isgrig III, Jessica Isgrig, Austin Isgrig, Colton Isgrig, Carson Isgrig, Hunter Isgrig and Dalton Isgrig; three step-grandchildren, Stephanie Eickerman, Justin Gentry and Ryan Isgrig; several great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren; three sisters, Barbara Chambers of Oklahoma, Berniece Chambers of Oklahoma and Janice Kendall of Thompson; one aunt, Betty Matteson.

JR was preceded in death by his parents, Ralph and Minnis Isgrig; life partner, Dixie Isgrig; brother, Donald Isgrig; sister, Becky White and great-grandchild, Cradell Joseph Haynes.

The family requests memorial donations be made to American Heart Association. Memorials may be sent in care of Arnold Funeral Home, 425 S. Jefferson, Mexico, MO 65265.