Delbert Lee Avery, age 94, of Columbia, Missouri, passed away June 8, 2026, in Columbia, surrounded by family throughout his final weeks. Delbert was born on February 8, 1932, in Thompson, Missouri, the only child of Chester Lee and Pearl Aline (Groves) Avery, and lived a life that reflected the strength and character of his generation.

Delbert graduated from Laddonia High School in 1950 and served in the United States Army from 1950 to 1953, including nine months in Korea with Company D, 2nd Infantry Division, during the Korean War. He was honorably discharged at the rank of Sergeant.

In May 1953, shortly before his Army discharge, Delbert married Margaret Fairburn in Laddonia, and they had three children: Robert, Janet, and Gary. Delbert's second marriage was on Christmas Eve 1962 to Barbara Tindall, who brought with her three daughters: Deborah, Linda, and Elsa.

Delbert worked skidding brick for more than 20 years at Kaiser Refractories in Mexico, during which time he graduated from the Missouri School of Auctioneering in Kansas City. A self-taught and successful entrepreneur, he conducted auctions and estate sales before entering the furniture and carpet business in Laddonia and Paris, Missouri. In 1986, he and Barbara founded Avery's Floor Mat Co., growing it from 2 to 27 employees. He exhibited at trade shows in Las Vegas and Chicago and was the original maker of the U-shaped rear mat for Chrysler minivans. They sold the company in 1996 and retired the following year.

After retiring, Delbert and Barbara built a large home in Mexico, Missouri, where family frequently gathered for holidays and created many fun memories. Following Barbara's passing in 2014, he moved to Columbia, where he remained active and independent. Delbert loved country music and traveled with Barbara to Fan Fair in Nashville, Tennessee, for many years. He enjoyed playing pool and even created the "Cut Shot King" tool to help others improve their game. He found joy collecting antiques and woodworking—crafting clocks and other items for sale at craft shows. He will be remembered for his sharp wit, fun banter, strong opinions, unmistakable personality, and for always being well-dressed.

Delbert is survived by his children, Robert "Bob" Lee Avery [Elena], Janet Sue (Avery) Brower  [George], Gary Wayne Avery [Rosie]; grandchildren Jackie Wayne Brower [Debbie], Jared Michael Brower [Ashley], Amanda Kathryn (Avery) Hayes [John], Rebecca Susan (Avery) Brajner [John]; great-grandchildren Jackson Day Brower, Jacer Avery Brower, Tyler Michael Brower, Jeanette "Nettie" Lee Brower, John Sydney Hayes IV, Emily Kathryn Hayes, Chase Everett Brajner, Grace Catherine Brajner; cousins Connie (Avery) Tapley and Kenny Avery; and other close family and friends. He was preceded in death by his wife Barbara and his parents.

Visitation will be held on Monday, June 15, from 4-7 PM at Schlanker Funeral Home in Montgomery City, Missouri. The funeral service will be at 11 AM on Tuesday, June 16, 2026, at the same location. Lunch will immediately follow the service at the United Methodist Presbyterian Church in Montgomery City. Burial with military honors will follow at Laddonia Cemetery, where he will be laid to rest alongside his parents, Chester and Aline Avery. His grandsons and great-grandsons are honored to serve as pallbearers.

Memorial contributions may be made to Missouri Veterans Home Mexico Assistance League, c/o Schlanker Funeral Home, 207 Danville Road, Montgomery City, Missouri 63361