With heavy hearts, we share the passing of John Thompson Rissler of Sedalia, MO.
What you read below is one part of a life lived with quiet purpose.
A name is a small thing to hold a whole life.
John T. Rissler, 74, of Sedalia, MO, passed away peacefully on Sunday, May 3, 2026, at University of Missouri Hospital in Columbia, MO. He was born a cowboy on October 26, 1951, in Lynn, MO, the son of John W. Rissler and June Thompson Rissler, who preceded him in death.On August 14, 1971 in Sedalia, MO, he was united in marriage to Judith G. Rissler, who preceded him in death on March 12, 1984.John was a proud graduate of Smith-Cotton High School, Class of 1969. He continued his education at the University of Missouri-Columbia, where he received his Bachelor's degree in Agriculture and a Master's degree in Education.John began his teaching career at Lex Vo Tec School from 1975 to 1982, in Lexington, MO. In 1989, he and his daughter moved back home to Sedalia, to return to farming pigs and row crops alongside his father on their family farm. For many years, he was a seed sales representative for Cargill.John was a longtime member of First Christian Church in Sedalia, where he faithfully served as both an Elder and Deacon. He was also active in agriculture leadership and served as President of the Missouri Pork Producers, Ag CoOp, and Moniteau Saddle Club.John had a deep love for animals, especially dogs, horses, and mules. He enjoyed being outdoors, farming, and the all the simple joys of country life. He especially enjoyed trail riding on his mule, "George," raising horses and cattle with Trish, and spending time with his beloved dogs, "Bubba," "Bull," and "Deuce." One of his favorite pastimes was sitting around a camp fire, catching up with his many friends, sharing stories, and telling jokes.John was known for his sense of humor, kind heart, and willingness to help anyone in need. He never met a stranger, and those who knew him will remember him as a man who genuinely cared for others. In keeping with his thoughtful nature, John was an organ donor, continuing to help others even after his passing.John is survived by his partner of 31 years, Trish Gibbons of the home; one daughter, Courtney Blackston and her husband, Justin, of Omaha, NE; three grandchildren, Jonah Rissler, Dylan Joseph, and Macie June; one sister, Jyl Jones and her husband, Sam, of Sedalia, MO; one niece, Hillary West and her husband, Brandon; one nephew, Harper Jones and his wife, Heather; six great-nieces and great-nephews; and numerous beloved cousins and extended family members.In addition to his wife and parents, John was preceded in death by one brother, James Granville Rissler, in infancy.A celebration of life service will be held at 6:00 p.m. on Tuesday, May 12, 2026, at Rea Funeral Chapel, with Dr. Chad McMullin officiating.The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the chapel.Honorary bearers will be Jim Steffens, Benny and Tricia Hefley, Mike and Sylvia Gibbons, Fred and Megan Parks, Brent Hudson, Pete Greene, Pete and Maxine Wheeler, Matt Thompson, Mark Thompson, Dan Thompson, Doug Rundlet, Billy Jo Rissler, Jim Fairfax, Joe Fairfax, Judy Harrel, and Dana Fritz.Memorial contributions may be made to First Christian Church in the care of Rea Funeral Chapel.Arrangements are in the care of Rea Funeral Chapel.
