Andrew Winnegar

Andrew Jackson Winnegar, lovingly known as “Pops,” was a man of great strength, unwavering determination, and an unyielding spirit. Born on November 18, 1924, in Thomasville, Missouri, to James and Ellen Winnegar, he began his remarkable journey in a humble corner of Oregon County.

Pops enlisted in the U.S. Navy at the tender age of 17 in July 1942, answering his country’s call during a time of great need. As an airborne radioman and radar operator, he became a true hero, eventually earning his wings as a pilot. Flying the TBM Avenger in the Pacific during World War II, he completed 66 missions with unparalleled courage. Even after being injured by shrapnel, Pops refused to rest—insisting on being bandaged so he could return to the skies and continue the fight. His bravery reminds us all of the sacrifices made by the greatest generation.

Beyond his service, Pops was a man of vision and ingenuity. An entrepreneur at heart, he approached life with curiosity and creativity, always tinkering, inventing, and embracing new technologies. Whether it was writing, reading, or solving problems, Pops never stopped learning and teaching.

But perhaps his greatest legacy lies in the relationships he nurtured. Pops married the love of his life, Dolores, on September 10, 1976, and they shared nearly 50 beautiful years together. He cherished family above all else, creating a blended family that grew to include three children from his first marriage, five stepchildren, 17 grandchildren, 21 great-grandchildren, and two great-great-grandchildren.  He faced life’s challenges with courage and dignity, showing us how to overcome adversity with grace. Pops taught us not only to persevere but to thrive, to lead by example, and to extend a helping hand to others. He will forever be remembered as a leader, a provider, and a survivor.  Pops is preceded in death by his son Randy, granddaughter Valerie, and great-granddaughter Emelia, but their memory remains intertwined with his own. He leaves behind a legacy of love, strength, and unity—carried forward by his beloved wife Dolores and all of us privileged to have known him.  Let us not mourn his passing but celebrate a life well-lived—a life marked by service, love, and the unshakable will to make the most of every moment. Pops showed us what it means to live with purpose, and his memory will inspire us to do the same. May we honor him by carrying his spirit forward in our own lives. Thank you, Pops, for being our guiding light. You will forever be in our hearts.

A memorial service will be held at 2:00pm on Friday, December 13, 2024 at Guajardo Funeral Chapels.

The memorial service will be livestreamed. Please click here to view the Livestream