Cecil Settle

Cecil Settle, age 84, was born in rural Mt. Vernon, Missouri, in the family home.  His parents, Charles and Grace Settle came to Missouri in 1930 leaving Kansas after the dust bowl with three sons, James, Ellis and Charles.
After graduating from Mt. Vernon High School, he obtained his Bachelor’s degree at the University of Houston and a Master’s degree in library science at Sam Houston State University.
He joined the Army after high school following in the steps of his father and three brothers.  Cecil served honorably for three years during the Korean War.
Cecil’s careers started with being a roughneck both onshore and offshore until he was severely burned in a rig blowout.  After this he finished his education, became a librarian at Alvin High School from 1976-2002.  He was a major influence on design of the new library.
Cecil’s life was defined by his quest for the importance of education.  He was an encourager, a non-judgmental listener, a mentor with enthusiasm for what a person was doing.
He was an accomplished author, has donated several taxidermy items he assembled to museums, set up libraries in West Texas and Mexico and touched the lives of many through his humanitarian efforts with scholarships.  Most recently he donated an orchard to Mt. Vernon High School.  Everyone who knew Cecil knew he was an avid supporter of the tall grass prairie and wildlife.  He dedicated his family farm to reintroduce indigenous flora.
Cecil’s distinguishing legacy has undoubtedly been etched into the hearts and minds of those around him.  He will be missed greatly as he has created and left a grand legacy that will continue to affect the lives of those he touched to new heights.
Cecil is survived by his wife of 48 years, Gloria Settle and Enrique Abarca, his student and best friend of 34 years.
A celebration of Cecil’s life will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, September 21, 2019, at the Ozark Prairie Presbyterian Church in Mt. Vernon, Missouri.
In lieu of flowers, you may make a contribution to a scholarship in memory of Cecil.  Send to, Mt. Vernon FFA Scholarship Fund, 510 E. Cherry St., Mt. Vernon, Missouri, 65712.
Online condolences may be shared at www.FossettMosherFuneralHome.com