Obituary – James G. Little
James “Jim” Gilbert Little, of Licking, Missouri, passed away on December 14, 2025, surrounded by his loved ones. He was 77 years old.
Jim was born on November 21, 1948, to Gilbert “Doc” Little and Lucy Mae (Dutton) Little at home in Oscar, Missouri. A proud lifelong resident of the Licking area, he graduated from Licking High School in 1967. Shortly after, he was drafted into the United States Army and bravely served his country in Vietnam from 1969-1970.
Following his military service, Jim worked at Fort Leonard Wood before starting a long and dedicated career at Rawlings Sporting Goods, where he worked for 31 years until its closure. He then continued his hard working legacy at TAG, where he remained until his retirement.
Jim is preceded in death by his parents; his mother-in-law and father-in-law, Herbert and Gladys Cook; brothers-in-law, Leonard Layton, Herbert Ray Cook, and Charlie Cook; sisters-in-law, Fay Cook and Mabel Cook; niece, Debbie Stilley; and a very special nephew, Brent Shores.
Jim was a devoted husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather. He is survived by his loving wife of 48 years, Margaret (Cook) Little; his children, James “Matt” (Christie) Little and Ashli (Jason) Todaro; six cherished grandchildren, Briana James, Kaylee (Wyatt) Little, Austin (Makenna) James, Luci Todaro, Clare Todaro, and Kinlee Little; two adored great-grandchildren, Scout Lundy and Hallie James, with one more, Silas Lundy, due in March; sister, Genie Layton; brothers-in-law, Roy (Nancy) Cook and Bill (Wilma) Cook; sisters-in-law, Cheryl (Mike) Shores and Mary (Scott) Kimrey; and a host of nieces and nephews.
He was an avid coon hunter in his younger years. He took great pride in coaching his son’s Little League baseball team and was a constant presence at his children’s and grandchildren’s sporting events. When his son Matt played high school baseball, all the boys would choose to ride home with Jim after away games because he was such a fun presence. Jim frequently spent hours with his brother-in-law, Roy, at the local pawn shop owned by his son-in-law, Jason. Jim was known for his contagious smile, laughter, and love of joking around – he had a nickname for everything. He just loved being silly!
In August of 2022, Jim and his daughter, Ashli, went on the Honor Flight of the Ozarks to Washington D.C. Jim rarely talked about his time in Vietnam, as they were memories he wanted to forget. After the trip, he said it felt like he was finally home.
Jim will be remembered for his unwavering love for his family, his strong work ethic, and his deep ties to his community. His quiet strength and steady presence will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
A visitation for Jim will be held on Thursday, December 18, 2025, from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Licking Assembly of God. A funeral service will be held on Friday, December 19, 2025, at 11 a.m. at the Licking Assembly of God with Pastor Paul Richardson officiating. Pallbearers are Travis Cook, Jesse Sullins, Scotty Richards, Tony Cook, Cory Cook, and Skid Skidmore. Interment will follow at Craddock Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Jim Little Literacy Scholarship. Arrangements entrusted to Fox Funeral Home. Online condolences may be left at www.foxfh.net.
