Donnie Jay Sloss, 67, of De Soto died Aug. 23, 2026, at his home. Mr. Sloss was a member of De Soto Elks Lodge 689 and the owner and operator of Hillbilly Garage in De Soto. Cars were one of his greatest passions. He loved working on cars, talking about them and sharing that passion with others. Through Hillbilly Garage, he not only built engines and repaired vehicles but also created friendships and memories with those who shared his love of cars. Most of all, he loved spending time with friends and family, as he was happiest when surrounded by the people he loved. He will be remembered for his love of cars, his hard work and his love for family. Born Feb. 1, 1959, in De Soto, he was the son of the late Harry Edward Sloss and Opal Fern (Griggs) Sloss.
He is survived by his wife: Melissa J. (Kitchell) Sloss of De Soto; his mother-in-law: Joyce (the late Alvin) Kitchell of De Soto; a daughter: Trisha (Travis Burton) Sloss Ruma of De Soto; a bonus daughter: Jodi (the late Jud) Ray of De Soto; an ex-son-in-law: James (Jessica D.) Ruma of Lake Ozark; a sister: Carol A. (Rick) Dalton of De Soto; three grandchildren: Alexander Ruma of De Soto, Peyton Burton of Desloge and Sophia Ruma of Lake Ozark; and the entire Kitchell and Sloss families, as well as many friends.
He was preceded in death by two brothers: Harry L. Sloss and Gary L. (the late Michelle) Sloss; three sisters: Sharon F. (the late Eddie) Whaley, Patricia J. Sloss and Betty J. (the late Scott) Sloss; and three grandchildren: Jesse Ruma, Amelia Ruma and Avery Ruma.
Services will be private. Memorials may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105-9959. Arrangements are under the direction of Mahn Funeral Home in De Soto.