Vivien Eckert, age 85, of Mountain Grove, passed away on January 21, 2026, surrounded by her loving family after a courageous battle with cancer. She was born on May 27, 1940, in Honolulu, Hawaii, to Joseph and Estelle (Downing) McCollum.

Vivien’s life took a turn worthy of a good story when she met Henry Eckert as the result of a mix-up on a blind date—an accident that turned into a lifetime of love. The two were married on October 13, 1956, and together built a family and a life full of memories. Henry preceded her in death, as did her parents; her brother, Joseph McCollum Jr.; and her son-in-law, David Oaks.

Vivien was the proud mother of two daughters, Barbara Wade of Graff, Missouri, and Claudette Oaks of Cabool, Missouri. She was a devoted grandmother to Betsy (Ronnie) Sandbothe of Marshfield, Missouri; Amy (Daniel) Morgan of Cabool, Missouri; John (Sandy) Wade of Graff, Missouri; Mary (Al) Dowden of Mountain Grove, Missouri; and Elizabeth (Chance) Williams of Mountain Grove, Missouri. She is also survived by her nephew, Craig (Darlene) McCollum of Graff, Missouri, along with many cherished great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews.

A true fashion trendsetter, Vivien had a keen eye for style and always knew how to put herself together just right. She worked for many years at Richard Brothers Feed and later at Tindle Mills, retiring in 2005. Vivien truly enjoyed her time at work—not just the job itself, but the friendships she formed with her coworkers and the relationships she built with customers along the way.

Outside of work, Vivien found joy in life on the farm, camping trips, and music, and she especially loved her time spent playing Bingo at the Senior Center, where laughter and friendly competition were always part of the fun. Family time meant everything to her, and those who knew her will remember her warmth, her sense of style, and the love she shared.

Vivien will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who knew and loved her.