James “Bud” Russell Fritts, 60, of Poplar Bluff, MO. went home to be with his Lord and Savior Tuesday, March 12, 2019 at Mercy Hospital in St. Louis.

Bud, the son of the late Harley Russell and Reidious L. “Jimmie” Fritts, was born Nov. 15, 1958 in Poplar Bluff. He was a graduate of Poplar Bluff High School Class of 1977 and Oakland City College, where he played baseball. Bud was a member and a Deacon at First Baptist Church. He was also a supporter of Midland Church and Paul White Ministries as well as a Charter member of Fellowship General Baptist Church. Bud worked for Mingo Job Corps and loved his students and co-workers. Bud loved telling people about Jesus. He enjoyed going to his children’s sporting events and activities, coaching all sports, fishing, hunting, drawing, painting, watching the St. Louis Cardinals and spending time with his friends. The times he treasured most were being with his family.

Bud married the love of his life Gayla Turner on June 10, 1989 in Poplar Bluff. She survives.

Other survivors include two children, Jamie (Collin) Edwards and Turner Fritts; his precious grandson Elijah Edwards; two sisters, Judy (Bill) Caputo and Lori (Jimbo) Tapp; mother-in-law Betty Turner; brother-in-law Brian Turner; four nieces, Tara (Kathy) Caputo, Shanna (Richard) Carr, Kaci (Brian) Garner and Kori Tapp; three great-nephews, Kyler Carr, Keaton Carr and Kannon Carr.

The visitation will be from 5 to 8 p.m. Friday at First Baptist Church. The funeral service will begin at 10:30 a.m. Saturday at First Baptist Church with Rev. Paul White officiating. Burial will take place at Poplar Bluff City Cemetery.

Memorial donations may be made to Poplar Bluff Baseball Boosters, in care of Julie Becker, 453 County Road 4222, Poplar Bluff, MO 63901; or to Alzheimer’s Association, 3645 South Avenue, Springfield, MO 65807-5220.

Cotrell Funeral Service is honored to serve the family of James “Bud” Russell Fritts.