James Edward “Jim” Pirtle, 82, of Crystal City died Aug. 18, 2019, at his home. Mr. Pirtle was the owner/operator of Pirtle Insurance Co. He was a member of Grace Presbyterian Church in Crystal City and was a Republican candidate for the Missouri Lieutenant Governor race in 1960. He loved Cardinal baseball, tennis, bowling, going to the casinos and spending time with his family and friends. Born Jan. 31, 1937, in Grand Tower, Ill., he was the son of the late Hazel “Pat” (McIntosh) Pirtle Swearingin and Norman Pirtle, and the stepson of the late Merlin Swearingin.
He is survived by his wife: Dawn (Raley) Pirtle; three sons: James “Jimmy” (Nancy) Pirtle of North Carolina, Kyle Pirtle of Louisville, Ky., and Matthew “Matt” Pirtle of Crystal City; three grandchildren: Jett (Kelly) Pirtle, Mason (Amanda) Pirtle and Cohen Pirtle; two great-grandchildren; and several half siblings.
Private family services were held. Burial will take place at a later date in the Presbyterian/Methodist Cemetery in Festus. Memorials may be made to Mercy Jefferson Hospice. Arrangements were under the direction of Vinyard Funeral Home in Festus.