Jeffery Scott Eickhorst, known to many as Jeff, was born on September 27, 1965, in Rolla, Missouri, and passed away on September 18, 2026, at his brother’s house at Lake Lotawana, Missouri. He will be remembered as a man who knew how to work hard, laugh easily, and lend his hands to whatever needed fixing.

Jeff grew up in the family business, the gas station and mechanic shop, where he learned the kind of practical skill that stayed with him throughout his life. He was a very good mechanic and was never afraid to take on a big job. Over the years, he also owned his own insulation company and completed work on many homes and businesses. Beyond that, he found real joy in farm life—caring for cattle, working on tractors, and tending fence. As long as there were cattle around to break things, Jeff was there to fix them. He also bought and sold tractors, often purchasing them, renovating them, and sending them on to farmers who could put them to good use. Horses were another lasting love in his life, and he had several through the years.

Jeff was a happy-go-lucky person whose presence could brighten a room. When his health was good, he especially loved visiting with people, joking and cutting up, and talking about old memories from his younger days. Even as life brought struggles and changes, he remained loved and respected for who he was.

Those who knew Jeff will also remember the stories that made him so unforgettable. One family memory stands out with particular humor: while at the gas station with an upset stomach, Jeff asked his mother, Shirley, for some Pepto-Bismol. She told him there was some on a shelf in the back, and Jeff went to find a pink bottle and drank from it—only to discover it was Calamine Lotion. Needless to say, it did not help his stomach, but it became the kind of story that could still bring laughter years later.

Jeff is survived by his son, Ethan Eickhorst, and Ethan’s wife, Alisha, of Kansas City, Missouri. He is also survived by his brother, Gary Eichhorst of Lake Lotawana, Missouri, along with nieces, nephews, and cousins who will carry his memory forward with affection.

He was preceded in death by his beloved parents, William Franklin “Willie” Eickhorst and Shirley Mae Sorrell Eickhorst, and by his brothers, Larry Eickhorst and Bill Eickhorst.

A private graveside service for family and friends will be held at 11:00 a.m. on September 22, 2026, at Oak Forest Cemetery near Bland, Missouri.

Jeff’s life was marked by hard work, humor, and the kind of know-how that cannot be taught from a book. He leaves behind memories of laughter, stories worth retelling, and the enduring image of a man who was always ready to fix what was broken. He will be deeply missed and warmly remembered.

Online condolences and floral offerings may be entered at www.jonesfunerals.com

All arrangements are under the direction of the Jones Funeral Home of St. James, Missouri