Douglas McArthur Baysinger, 78, of Baxter Springs, died Monday, November 14, 2022, at Freeman Hospital in Joplin, Mo. Born August 21, 1944 in Elmtree, Doug was the son of Clifford and Lona (Sweeten) Baysinger. They preceded him in death. Doug was also preceded in death by his wife, Laura; brothers, Junior Baysinger, Charlie Baysinger, Raymond Baysinger; sisters, Grace Price, Velma Shetley, Ethel Baysinger, Betty Ernst, Juanita Hershey and Mary Marshall; and grandsons, Chris (Baysinger) Young, and Jon Estridge.
A graduate of Riverton High School with the class of 1963, Doug was involved in many different clubs and activities. Following graduation Doug enlisted in the United States Marine Corps. During his four years of service, Doug was stationed in San Diego, California. He served 13 months in Vietnam and earned the rank of sergeant E5.
Doug and Laura E. Gonyer were united in marriage in 1967 after having met in the marine corps and to this union three children were born. Following his service in the corps Doug returned to Baxter Springs and worked at BF Goodrich for 18 years until the company closed. He worked for Wal-Mart for 26 years until he retired. When his children were younger Doug enjoyed cat fishing on Spring River, watching his kids’ ball games and coaching softball. In later life he liked to take day trips with friends. He was happiest when he was able to spend time with his grandchildren.
Doug is survived by his son, Stephen Baysinger of Webb City, Mo.; daughter Karrie Cobb and son-in-law John Cobb of Lamar, Mo. and son Jon Baysinger and daughter-in-law Tonya Baysinger of Rush Springs, Okla. His sister, Alice Gooden of Springfield, Mo; grandchildren, Zach Baysinger, Todd Pruitt, Kahlie Mitchell, Jerry Cobb, Taya Coffman, Kevin Baysinger, Scott Baysinger, Brandon Shepherd, Marilynne Breedlove and many great grandchildren also survive.
Memorial services will be held at 2:30 p.m., Monday, November 21 at the Derfelt Funeral Home, Baxter Chapel. Pastor Audie Tash will officiate. Burial will follow in the Lowell Cemetery.
Flowers are appreciated by the family and can be delivered to Derfelt Funeral Home.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Derfelt Funeral Home in Baxter Springs.