John Waymon “J.W.” Denton, 71, of Columbia passed away Monday, June 16, 2025 at Tristar Centennial Medical Center in Nashville, TN. He was born on August 20, 1953 in Adair County to the late James Russell and Josephine Burton Denton.
Mr. Denton attended Free Union Separate Baptist Church. He enjoyed working with mules, making everyone laugh with his wit and spending time with his family and friends, especially his granddaughters.
Survivors include his wife, Mitchelene Kell Denton of Columbia; a daughter, Robin Foley (Tim) of Columbia; two granddaughters Kenna Grace and Tinlee Faith Foley; four siblings Jimmy Denton (Juanita), Sandra Denton Bryant, Marty Ellis (Jimmy), and Minnie Smith (Barry) all of Columbia; two sisters-in-law Sharlet Denton and Fayrene Denton both of Columbia, and several nieces and nephews.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a son David Wayne Denton; three brothers Freddie Ray, William Robert, and Leonard “Jeff” Denton; and a brother-in-law Willard Bryant.
Funeral services will be 11:00am Friday, June 20, 2025 at Free Union Separate Baptist Church with burial in the Free Union Cemetery. Visitation will be on Thursday from 4:00-8:00pm at Free Union Separate Baptist Church and will continue Friday morning from 8:00-11:00am at the church.
Stotts-Phelps-McQueary Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.
