Velmer Eugene "Gomer" Hancock

Velmer Eugene “Gomer” Hancock of St. James, Missouri passed away at his home on Tuesday, August 29, 2023. He was  75 years of age.

Gomer as he was known by his family and friend was born June 28, 1948 to Clyde “Ted”  and Irene Gray Hancock in Vichy, Missouri. He was united in marriage to Barbara Pearson on August 1, 1970 in St. James, Missouri.

He is survived by his wife, Barbara of St. James, Missouri; sons: Brent Hancock of St. James, Missouri; Ted Hancock and wife, Hayley of St. James, Missouri; and Josh Hancock of St. James, Missouri; brothers, Vernon Hancock of Rolla Missouri and Venton Hancock of Lake Ozark, Missouri; sisters: Jenny Wehmeyer of St. James, Missouri; Vernita Morris of St. James, Missouri; and Vera Smith and husband, Phil of Gonzales, Louisiana; and ten grandchildren: Maddie, Rylee, Mallory, Macy, Bryer, Emma, Bristol, Boone, Quinn, and Rhett.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Ted and Irene; brothers-in-law, Kenny Morris and Bernard Wehmeyer; aunts and uncles.  A very special uncle in Gomer’s life, Doyle Gray, passed away earlier this month. Gomer loved visiting with Doyle, and he had a great respect for Doyle’s farming knowledge and his work ethic.

Gomer was a person who was full of life. In his younger years, his mother was hard pressed to keep up with him; his curiosity and his endless energy kept him on the go from morning to dark. His childhood experiences grew into life long interests that he shared with his family and friends, especially his grandchildren. He loved working with wood which led him to a career in building houses; he was a skilled finish carpenter. His sons later began their own businesses using the knowledge and skills that had been passed on to them as they worked along side their dad. He also enjoyed crafting pieces with wood or leather in his workshop. Many of his wood projects are on display in his home or around the  farm, and many of his leather projects were crafted specially for his grandchildren. He made leather saddle bags for them. He helped design buggies for his grandchildren’s ponies and traveled hundreds of miles to purchase special leather harnesses from the Amish. As well as passing along his love for horses to his children and grandchildren, one of his greatest joys was team penning cattle. Gomer would go full-tilt through a head of cattle using strategies to put cattle where they need to be.

Many things interested Gomer, and as many of his friends know when something sparked his interest, he would spend hours researching it to find the best technique and the most tried and true ingredients or materials. One of these interests was collecting John Deere miniature tractors in the 30 series collection as well as restoring John Deere tractors whether it  be a pedal tractor or a Poppin’ Johnny. He also claimed to be the best pie maker around, and he often shared his pies when he made apple butter with friends and neighbors. Though, through all his loves of life and hobbies, his greatest love was his grandchildren. He thought his grandchildren could do no wrong.

In his later years, he struggled with Multiple Sclerosis, but he tried not to let it bother him. With a determined spirit, he would find a way. He successfully altered his technique or designed equipment to help him keep active in the things that he loved for many years. Gomer will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him.

Velmer Hancock will lie in state from 4-8 PM Friday, September 1, 2023 at Jones Funeral Home in St. James, Missouri.

Funeral services will be conducted at 11:00 AM Saturday, September 2, 2023 at  Jones Funeral Home with Pastor Blake Brewer officiating. Pallbearers will be Drake Laney, Mike Terrill, Chris Hancock, Trevor Forness, Larry Lorts, and Greg Dillon. Honorary pallbearer will be Dale Chilton. Burial will be in the family cemetery, the Hancock Cemetery.

Memorials may be given to the Hancock Cemetery.

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

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