Linda Kinsch

(From Ozark Memorial Park Crematory)

Linda Lou Kinsch, 68, of Seneca, Missouri, passed away on December 11, 2025, after a battle with cancer. Born on May 12, 1957, in Miami, Oklahoma, Linda lived her life with unmistakable fire, strength, and a spirit that was entirely her own.

Linda spent many years working in local casinos, where her sharp wit, fierce independence, and bold personality, all packed into her small frame, made her unforgettable. She was never afraid to speak her mind, sometimes argumentative and always fiery, but those who knew her best understood that her stubborn streak came from loyalty, love, and a deep sense of what she believed was right.

At home, she adored her Yorkie companion, Buddy, and later Doodles, along with Gizmo the cat, who were her constant and cherished furry babies.

She is survived by her son, Shawn Kinsch, and wife Stephanie of Baxter Springs, Kansas; her grandchildren Nicholas and wife Shawna of Galena, Kansas, and Ember of East Troy, Wisconsin; and her great-grandson Nathan. She is also survived by her sister Brenda Spurgeon of Afton, Oklahoma, and her brother Tommy Crafton of Blue Jacket, Oklahoma.

Linda was preceded in death by her parents, Charles “Tom” Crafton and Juanita Crafton.

Linda will be remembered not only for her strong will and spirited nature but also for the love she held for her family, the laughter she sparked, and the unmistakable presence she carried everywhere she went. Her family and friends will miss her dearly and cherish the memories she leaves behind.

At Linda’s request, the family will not be holding a service. If you would like to make a donation in Linda’s memory, please donate to your local humane, society or animal rescue.

Arrangements are under the personal care of Ozark Memorial Park Crematory of Joplin, MO.

Daniel Ford

(From White Funeral Home)

Daniel Ford, 66, of Exeter, Missouri, passed away on December 11, 2025, at Mercy Hospital in Springfield, Missouri.

Daniel was born on January 11, 1959, in Inglewood, California, to Margaret Berlin. He was married to the love of his life, Joy, who preceded him in death. Their bond and devotion to one another remained a cornerstone of Daniel’s life.

A hardworking and independent man, Daniel was self-employed and operated his own kennel, where he raised bulldog a passion that brought him purpose and joy. He had a deep love for animals, especially his beloved dog, Squeakers, who was always by his side.

Daniel enjoyed the thrill of watching the Fast and Furious movies, and he never passed up the chance to sit down for a good game of poker. His adventurous spirit, sense of humor, and love for simple pleasures will be remembered by all who knew him.

Daniel’s memory will live on in the hearts of his family, friends, and all whose lives he touched.

Daniel is survived by his mother Margaret Delamora of Katy, Texas; one daughter Danielle Ford of Exeter, Missouri; two sons Dan Ford and his wife Rebecca of Modesto, California, and Daniel Thomas of Oklahoma; six grandchildren; two brothers, Bruce Richter of Beaumont, Texas and Peter Richter of Exeter, Missouri; eight sisters, Darlene Dodd of Katy, Texas, Desiree Ford and her significant other Jean Lafferty, Arthelda Richter of Katy, Texas, Catherine Richter of Katy, Texas, Michelle Richter-Thomas of Exeter, Missouri, Pamela Tennyson of Monett, Missouri, Carol Bland of Monett, Missouri, and Sandra Richter of Exeter, Missouri; one cousin, Susan Reddy of Exeter, Missouri; and several nieces and nephews. 

He is preceded in death by his stepfather Adelbert Richter, and one brother Damian Ford.

Memorials may be made to Haven of the Ozarks and entrusted to White Funeral Home and Crematory.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.

Cremation arrangements are under the direction of White Funeral Home and Crematory.

Carole Jennings

(From Crafton-Cantrell Funeral Home

Carole Ann Jennings, age 90, of Aurora, Missouri, passed away at 5:25 a.m. on Wednesday, December 10, 2025, at the Aurora Nursing Center. She was born April 19, 1935, in Cincinnati, Ohio, the daughter of Robert and Margaret (Beringer) McMurtrie Sr.

Carole was a 1953 high school graduate and worked for Modern Variety in Aurora for over 20 years. She enjoyed doing puzzles and was a member of the Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Aurora, Missouri.







On February 21, 1970, she married William Glenwood Jennings, in Reno, Nevada. He preceded her in death on January 2, 2016.

Carole is survived by her two daughters, Debbie Cullen and her husband, Jack, of Aurora, Missouri and Donna Webster of West Texas; four grandchildren, April (David) Presley, Michael (Tammie) Webster, Tony (Kelli) Jennings and Bill Jennings and several great and great-great grandchildren.

Carole was preceded in death by her parents, Robert, and Margaret; two daughters, Glennis Jennings and her husband, Jerry, and Nancy Wilson; two sisters-in-law, Martha Schweitzer and Maydean Werdein and her husband, Edward; brother-in-law, Paul Jennings and grandson, Kenny Cullen.

A visitation will be held from 1:00–2:00 p.m. on Monday, December 15, 2025, at Crafton-Cantrell Funeral Home in Aurora with a funeral service to follow at 2:00 p.m. in the funeral home chapel. Burial will follow at Orange Cemetery north of Aurora.

Russ Stewart

(From Whitt Funeral Home)

Russell Dean Stewart changed his address from this world to his heavenly home on Tuesday, December 9, 2025. Russ was born on March 9, 1965, in Duncan, Oklahoma.

Russ was the beloved son of Ernest Ray and Charlotte Ann (Rutledge) Stewart, who preceded him in death. As a child, Russ attended numerous schools before graduating with the Class of 1983 from Marlow High School in Marlow, Oklahoma. His childhood was shaped by ministry, as his family pastored churches in Corum, Terrell, Geronimo, and Marlow, Oklahoma, as well as Sunset and Montague, Texas. From an early age, Russ learned the value of service, faith, and obedience to God's call.

Russ was united in marriage to Sandy Amaya on September 26, 1998, in San Juan Capistrano, California. She survives at the family home. Through the miracle of adoption, Russ and Sandy were blessed with two precious children, Joseph Remington and Sofia Annali, who also survive. Russ was quick to tell anyone who would listen how proud he was to be "Daddy" to Joey and Sofia.
He is also survived by his siblings: Dennis (Helen) Stewart of Comanche, Oklahoma; Roger Stewart of Empire, Oklahoma; and Donna (Larry) Lawson of Webb City, Missouri; one aunt, Joy Kerley of Duncan, Oklahoma; along with numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and Sandy's family, who loved Russ as their own.

As a young adult, Russ had a special heart for senior adults and even made working with them his vocation for a time after relocating to California. When he transitioned into full-time church ministry, he continued that passion as Senior Adult Pastor at Elsinore First Assembly of God in Lake Elsinore, California. He also served as Executive Assistant to Senior Pastor Fred Rodriquez, who mentored Russ faithfully for more than 20 years.

Before marrying Sandy, Russ traveled throughout the South, Midwest, and Western United States, singing and ministering in churches. His ministry left a lasting impression, and many congregations invited him back again and again. Throughout his ministry, Russ also shared his love for worship and music through recording. He recorded three albums, using his voice to minister, encourage, and point others toward Christ.

Russ was creative by nature and had a deep love for musical theater. During his years at Elsinore First Assembly, he was an integral part of the worship team and numerous large theatrical productions produced by the church each year. He was often entrusted with lead roles, a reflection of the spirit of excellence he brought to everything he did.

In February of 2007, Russ and Sandy relocated from California to Duncan, Oklahoma, to begin a new work, now known as Stephens County Worship Center. Even in the face of debilitating illness, Russ never wavered in his calling to grow the Kingdom of God. He preached and sang even when confined to a chair, when his body could no longer stand. His faith remained unwavering; he believed wholeheartedly that God is good and that God still works miracles. No matter where he found himself, at church, in the community, or during one of his many hospital stays, Russ looked for God's purpose and sought to shine the light of Christ. His deepest desire was for all to come to a saving knowledge of his Savior and to spend eternity with those he loved.

Russ was often heard saying, "relationship gives you access," a phrase that reflected the way he lived his life. He genuinely loved people and believed deeply in serving his community wherever he was planted. Through the relationships he built, Russ worked tirelessly to bring people together for a greater purpose. He was instrumental in initiating annual Mayor's Prayer Breakfasts in both Lake Elsinore, California, and Duncan, Oklahoma. These efforts were rooted not in recognition, but in unity, faith, and fellowship. Over the years, his servant heart was graciously acknowledged through honors such as the 2003 Lake Elsinore Chamber of Commerce Citizen of the Year and the 2012 Duncan Chamber of Commerce Man of the Year, among other meaningful recognitions. Russ accepted these honors humbly, always redirecting praise to his Heavenly Father and others while remaining focused on what mattered most, people, relationships, and service.

Russ was deeply grateful for the many individuals who supported him and Sandy through the years. Countless friends, family members, and loved ones offered acts of kindness, words of encouragement, generous gifts, and countless prayers. He never took those who stepped up and went above and beyond for granted. He was especially thankful for his Stephens County Worship Center family, who served with them and walked alongside them. He was also profoundly grateful for the many healthcare professionals God placed in his path to care for him.

We celebrate Russ's life knowing it has not ended. It has simply taken on a new and glorious form. His earthly body could no longer serve him, but he is now enjoying the reward laid up for him in Heaven, whole and restored in a brand-new body.

"Well done, good and faithful servant; you were faithful over a few things, I will make you ruler over many things. Enter into the joy of your Lord."
- Matthew 25:21

A Celebration of Life Service for Russ will be held at 10 a.m., Tuesday, December 16, 2025, at Bethel Church located at 700 W Plato Rd., Duncan.

Arrangements are under the care of Whitt Funeral Home of Duncan, Oklahoma.

Randy Thompson

(From Hutton and McElwain Funeral Home)

Randy Dean Thompson, Sr., 74, of Moberly, MO passed away on Friday, December 12, 2025, at the Clarence Care Center in Clarence, MO.

Randy was born on October 16, 1951, in Brookfield, MO, the son of Dean Edward and Marjori Eugene (Fox) Thompson.

Randy served in the United States Army during the Vietnam War and with Missouri National Guard for most of his life. He enjoyed hunting, fishing and visiting with friends and family.

Randy is survived by his three children, Randy Dean Thompson, Jr. and his wife Nicole of Macon, MO, Lilias Marie Sikes and her husband Josh of Neosho, MO, and James Edward Thompson and his wife B.J. of Moberly, MO; ten grandchildren, Nathan (Sarah) Snyder, Andrew Snyder, Jacob (Hayley) Snyder, Jordan Deskin, Mercedes Deskin, Payne Sikes, Chloe (Garett) Hembree, Corbin Smith, Brodey Thompson, and Marley Thompson; multiple great-grandchildren; and other extended family members.
He was preceded in death by his parents; and sister, Roberta "Birdie" Hulett.

Funeral service will be 11:30 am, Monday 15, 2025 at the Hutton & McElwain Funeral Home in Macon, MO, with Rev. Denny Sikes officiating. Burial, with full military honors, will be in the Missouri State Veterans Cemetery in Jacksonville, MO. Visitation will be 10:00 am, Monday morning, until the time of the service, at the funeral home. The family suggests memorials to the Macon Police Department.

Dorothy Green

(From Parker Mortuary)

Dorothy Marie (nee Maier) Green left this world to enter her heavenly home on December 12, 2025 after gracing this earth as its sweetest angel for 100 years with love, kindness and service. She was born in Kansas City, Missouri on Sunday August 2, 1925, to her parents Michael Maier and Anna Salzinger Maier, lovingly known to her as Papa and Mama. They were immigrants from Germany. 

Dorothy often proudly reminisced about her father as a master carpenter and her mother as a seamstress. Sewing was a skill passed on to her and a hobby that she shared with many through hand adorned tea towels and tablecloths.

Dorothy graduated from Guardian Angel Catholic School in Kansas City and then from Loretta Academy and Huff Business College. She went to work for General Electric in KC and that’s where she met the love of her life – Robert Lawrence Green (preceded in death December 9, 2003). They married on May 13, 1950 and were an incredible example of God’s plan for marriage, friendship and hospitality toward each and every one they encountered. They moved to Joplin in 1966 where Bob began the business of Green-Yates Appliances which served Joplin for 51 years.

Bob said he wanted a big family and that’s what they had. Their union brought six children, 17 grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren. Family were like friends and hundreds of friends were more like family. Like Jay and Joanne Sams with whom they shared life and travel going to the horses races, the lake and other destinations along with Bob and Libby Jennings who owned the local McDonald’s. Through their friendship, Dorothy worked at McDonald’s as the first STAR, store activities representative, hosting parties and greeting customers. She retired in 1984 but she was the consummate hostess for decades more.

A lifelong Catholic, Dorothy was an active member of St. Mary Catholic Church serving more than 40 years on the bereavement committee, holding leadership positions including President of the Altar Society and Region 1 Council of Catholic Women and as a library aid and cafeteria helper at St. Mary’s Elementary where she became an honorary grandmother to several generations of students.

Dorothy gave a lifetime of service to the community as a volunteer and member of St. John’s Auxiliary, Women’s Club of Joplin, Home Medical Equipment for Arthritis Association and as a Girl Scout, Brownie and Boy Scout Leader. She coordinated Thanksgiving meal deliveries for St. John’s Hospital, volunteered at Crosslines Churches, Meals on Wheels and St. Peter’s Outreach House.

Dorothy led by example and put others before herself. Her lifestyle of gratitude, sense of humor and quick wit endeared her to all who knew her. She demonstrated resilience and strength while at the same time grace and gentleness. A follower of Christ and humble servant, her life of 100 years touched many others who are better for having known her.

She is survived by four daughters and two sons: Nancy (Green) McGrew and husband Charlie, Laurie Green and husband James Kurtz; Robert L. (Larry) Green, Jr and wife Nancy Clifford, Debbie (Green) Peterson and husband Andrew (Pete), Greg Green and wife Lisa; and Bobbi (Green) Gassel and husband Dan.

Dorothy had 17 grandchildren many of whom she cared for after school treating them with Oreos and participated in all of their fundraisers. They are: Chris McGrew, Kelli Lesley and husband Nathan, Katie Wieberg and husband Derek, Elizabeth Kurtz and husband Juan Antonio Alonso, Laura Kurtz and

husband Aaron Smith, Mike Kurtz, Robert L. Green III and wife Melissa, Alexandra Green, Andrew Green, Phillip Peterson and wife Caroline, Stephanie Lynch and husband Adam, Miranda Green, David Green, Mike Gassel, Amy Gassel, Claire Gassel and Hank Gassel.

She is also survived by 15 great-grandchildren: Jackson, Audrey, Andrew, Landry, Jimmy, Daniel, Corey, Laurita, Lucy, Robert L. Green IV (Ren), Maggie, James, Henry, Isaac and Isabelle.

The family greatly appreciates the love, concern and special care given by the staff at Foxberry Terrace Assisted Living. And also is grateful for the support and care from Good Shepherd Hospice.

Visitation is scheduled for Monday December 15 from 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. Funeral mass will be at St. Peter the Apostle Catholic Church at 10:00 a.m. Tuesday, December 16.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Joplin Area Catholic School System (JACS) or St. Peter’s Outreach House.

Funeral arrangements are under the direct care of Parker Mortuary in Joplin, MO.

Justin Dudinsky

Justin Frederick Dudinsky, 49, died Wednesday, December 10, surrounded by his family in Rogers, Minnesota after a long illness.
Justin was born on October 14, 1976, to Joe Dudinsky and Cindy (Dudinsky) Mason in Golden Valley, Minnesota. Justin was a spunky kid who was full of energy and enjoyed playing all sports. He loved growing up in Minnesota and enjoyed visiting family there.

In 1995, Justin was named Minnesota Player of the Year for baseball. He was drafted by the Minnesota Twins as a left-handed pitcher but opted to attend college at Missouri Southern State University in Joplin, Missouri, on a baseball scholarship. He graduated from college in 2001 with a degree in Communications and lived in various cities until he settled in the Kansas City area in early 2006. Justin married Andrea Smith on July 28, 2015, in Playa Del Carmen, Mexico. The two were so grateful to have found their lifelong companion and best friend in one another.

He was very competitive and enjoyed working out and playing softball and golf. He was an avid Minnesota sports fan and despite his perpetual disappointment, his commitment to his teams was unwavering. He also enjoyed craft beers and checking out new breweries every chance he got.

Justin will be especially remembered for his infectious smile, positive spirit, quick wit, endless recollection of movie quotes, Seinfeld references and his kind, joyful heart.

He is survived by his wife, Andrea Dudinsky of Kansas City, Missouri, mother, Cindy Mason (Larry) of Rogers, Minnesota, sister Jill Motter of Maple Grove, Minnesota, brother Grant Dudinsky (Jessica) of Andover, Minnesota, as well as nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins, many, many friends and his daughter Keira.

Justin was preceded in death by his father.

Services will be held in Kansas City on December 20, at 12 p.m. at Church of the Resurrection Downtown, 1601 Grand, Kansas City, MO 64108. In addition, a Celebration of Life will be held January 17, at 2 p.m. at Willy McCoy's, 12450 Business Park Blvd N, Champlin, MN 55301.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Missouri Southern Baseball Program at: http://www.mssu.edu/advancement/giving/baseball-giving.php