Maurice "Shorty" Wayne Highsmith, 84, of Mexico, passed away on Tuesday, October 17, 2023, with his family by his side at Missouri Veterans Home in Mexico.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date.

Mr. Highsmith was born on September 7, 1939 in Chicago, the son of Donald and Eva (Harvey) Highsmith.  He married Alice, the love of his life on October 2, 1979, who preceded him in death.

Maurice loved to buy and sell antiques.  He also loved spending time woodworking, making bird houses, whitling canes and fishing.  He was a lay minister, preaching in California, Kentucky and Oregon.  Maurice loved food, especially a big juicy steak.  He loved to tell jokes and make people laugh.  Maurice was a very proud veteran and had several close friends at the Veterans Home.

Survivors include five nieces, Carla (Butch) Haley of Auxvasse, Michelle Niemeyer of Columbia, Shawne (Crystal) Williams of Columbia, Shelly (Kevin) Leake of Columbia and Rachael (Paul) Baker of Centralia, nine step-children; and many nephews and nieces in Illinois.

Maurice was preceded in death by his parents, Donald and Eva Highsmith and six siblings.

The family requests memorial donations be made to Activities Department at Missouri Veterans Home – Mexico, 1 Veterans Drive, Mexico, MO 65265.