Joe Porter, 88, of Branson, Missouri, passed away on October 25, 2026.
Born Joseph Richard Porter on August 14, 1938 in Kansas City, MO, he was the beloved son of Joseph C. & Beulah Porter. He graduated from Raytown High School and attended college at both Southwest Baptist College in Bolivar and Washington University in St. Louis.
On October 3, 1958, Joe married his loving wife Shirley in Raytown. He worked many years as a plant manager for a paper products manufacturer.
After retiring, Joe and Shirley, made their home in Branson, Missouri, where they lived for the past 24 years. Joe was a member of First Baptist Church of Branson. He enjoyed traveling with Shirley, attending shows in Branson, and buying and selling at local flea markets and auctions.
Joe is survived by his wife, Shirley Porter; his daughter, Audrey Tidwell, and her husband, Jeff; his son, Matthew Porter, and his wife, Belinda; his daughter, Crystal Franks, and her husband, Hunter; his son-in-law, Joe Tomley; his sister, Sharon Swartwood, and her husband, Noel; 19 grandchildren; and 19 great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his daughter, Sherry Tomley; his brother, Paul Porter; and his parents, Joe and Beulah Porter.
His family is grateful for the years they shared with Joe and finds comfort in God’s love and promises.
A celebration of Joe’s life will be Thursday, October 29, 2026 in Snapp-Bearden Funeral Home & Crematory, Branson. Visitation will begin at 10:30 am with the celebration service beginning at 11:00 am. Brad Dolloff will officiate with Jeff Wilcox leading music.
In Joe’s memory, donations are suggested to Bridge of Faith, 296 Lake St., Rockaway Beach, MO 65740.
