James T. Herfurth

James T. “Jim” Herfurth, former head of Central Bank of Lake of the Ozarks, community leader and highway advocate, died on November 1, 2023 at his home in Osage Beach. He was 86.

Jim was born on July 21, 1937 in Eldon, the son of Theodore and Mathilda Haldiman Herfurth. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his only sibling, Barbara Herfurth Moffitt.

He is survived by his wife, Marjorie M Herfurth and his two children, born of his marriage in 1961 to Barbara A Silvers: a daughter Kimberly Herfurth Ayscue, Franklinton, NC, and son, J. Matthew Herfurth, and his wife, Jeane, Madison, MS.

He has 4 grandchildren: Michael and Andrew Boyle, Abbey and Grace Herfurth.

He is also survived by his stepson Eric Maylee, his wife Rachel and their daughter Grace, of Monet, MO.

Jim was a 1955 graduate of Eldon High School where he played forward for the Mustangs state winning basketball team of 1954-55. He attended the University of Missouri graduating in 1959 receiving a BS in Banking and Finance and a earning a commission as a second lieutenant in the US Army Artillery. He then reported to Fort Sill, OK where he served as a Finance Officer and as adjutant for the Target Artillery Department. His original tour ended but he extended for one year due to the Berlin Crises.

After leaving active duty he joined IBM in Kansas City, and then in 1964 he began his banking career with Central Trust Bank in Jefferson City. At that time he also joined the 420th Civil Affairs National Guard Reserve Unit. During his 35 year career with the Central Bank organization Jim rose through the operations and loan divisions until in 1987, upon Central Bancompany’s acquisition of Bank of Lake of the Ozarks, he was named President and CEO of the newly named Central Bank of Lake of the Ozarks. During this time he rose to the rank of Colonel in the Missouri National Guard.

Jim’s commitment to community service left its mark wherever he lived. Jefferson City, Osage Beach and the lake area were his home and through his involvement in roads and bridges, economic development, public schools, YMCA, hospitals and the Dogwood Animal Shelter, his efforts impacted peoples lives in a positive way. He had a strong sense of community and worked hard to make it a better place for everyone.

Other personal interests included golf, snow skiing, and time in Palm Springs and Tucson with friends and family.

Funeral services will be held at Phillips Funeral Home in Eldon, MO on Monday, November 6, 2023 with a visitation from 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM and service at 2:00 PM with Rev. Sharon Taylor officiating. Private family graveside services will follow at Eldon Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial gifts may be made to the Dogwood Animal Shelter.

Arrangements are under the direction of Phillips Funeral Home 5 South Oak Street, Eldon, MO 65026 (573) 392-5621. Condolences may be left online for the family at www.pfheldon.com.

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