Bethany, MO: Max (Toot) Jennings passed away at home Monday, May 20, 2024 at the age of 81, with his wife by his side. He was born in a rural farmhouse to Virgil Francis Jennings and Helen Gyneth (Kerns) Jennings on March 25, 1943, in Bethany, Missouri. Max was a member of the Ridgeway Baptist Church.
Max married the love of his life, Kathy Collen Wright on October 21,1971. In addition to his wife Kathy, Max is survived by his children Barry (Heather) Jennings, and Troy (Kelly) Jennings, Virgil Todd (Terri) Jennings, Kelly (Jeff) Cook, Brian (Shelia) Jennings, Donald Hank (Becky) Jennings, Marina (Andre) Reimers, as well as his two sisters, Sharon Lee Jennings and Joyce Ann Hudson. He had a total of 21 grandchildren and 31 great grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews.
Over the span of many years, Max and Kathy built many businesses from the ground up. Max’s talents consisted of selling cars, produce, antiques, and trailer loads of horse-drawn buggies and wagons, gathering friends of every variety. Max truly enjoyed spending his time traveling, going to auctions, finding the most unique items to sell and trade. Over the years, Max made connections with people from all over the world, many of whom were considered family. He was a steadfast and loyal friend.
Nearly all of us came to know him affectionately as “Toot”. This was in reflection of one of his proudest achievements, the creation of the Toot-Toot Family Restaurant, founded in 1984. He was often heard saying “Everything is for sale but the COOK!” which always brought a smile to Kathy’s face. Toot was so proud that the restaurant has become a gathering place for so many of Bethany’s families, and is known far and wide for its welcoming atmosphere and home-cooked meals. Rather than a funeral service, Max’s wish was for a Celebration of Life, and a gathering of friends and family at his home at 505 S 28th St in Bethany in remembrance of him. Please join us in celebrating the life of Max Jennings from 5 PM to 8 PM on Tuesday, July 2nd. He will be greatly missed by all. Online condolences may be left at www.robersonfuneralhome.com