Wednesday, December 31, 2014

Clayton Williams

(From Daniel Funeral Home)

Clayton Victor Williams, age 44, of Lamar, MO died unexpectedly Saturday, December 27, 2014 at Barton County Memorial Hospital.

Clayton was born October 7, 1970 at Springfield, MO to Ottis Victor Williams and Shirley (Jones) Williams. He attended Cassville High School and was currently employed at Gilster Mary Lee Corp., Jasper, MO. He loved fishing, Harley Davidson Motorcycles, and football, especially the Kansas City Chiefs.

Clayton leaves behind twin sons, Brayden Reid Williams and Sloan Douglas Williams, both of Republic, MO; his girlfriend, Tracy Colman, Lamar; a step-son, Trevor Colman; a step-daughter, Michaele Colman; an uncle, Bill and an aunt, Mary Lou Shaddox.

He was preceded in death by his parents, grandparents and a step-sister.

Memorial service will be 1:00 pm Saturday, January 3, 2015 at Daniel Funeral Home.

Lawrence Borland

(From Ulmer Funeral Home)

Lawrence V. Borland, 78, passed away December 29, 2014 at St. Luke’s Nursing Center of Carthage.

 Lawrence was born October 15, 1936 in Butler, Missouri to Virgil L. Borland and Constance Chitwood Borland, he was born in Butler and raised in Carthage and worked and traveled for Jim Martin construction for many years. He was a member of the former Eagles lodge, and the V.F.W. of Carthage and the Brick layers union.

 Lawrence is survived by one Sister Nadine Smith of Joplin, MO and three brothers Glen Borland and wife Barbara of Carthage, MO, Joe Borland and wife Melva of Carthage, and Gary Borland and wife Pam of Carthage, also survived by several nieces and nephews. Lawrence is preceded by his parents, one sister Lois Langevin and one brother Vance Borland. 

Memorial visitation will be from 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Friday January 2, 2015 at Ulmer Funeral Home. Contributions can be made to the charity of choice in Lawrence’s memory in care of Ulmer Funeral Home. Online condolences can be made at www.ulmerfh.com. Arrangements are under the direction of Ulmer Funeral Home.

Marilyn Cravens

(From Clark Funeral Home)

Marilyn Cravens, 80, Carthage, formerly of Diamond, died December 30, 2014 at the Carthage Health and Rehab in Carthage, following an extended illness.

 Marilyn was born Sept. 19, 1934 in Hartville, MO, the daughter of Luther and Chrissie (Coday) Cravens. She lived in Texas for many years where she worked as a bookkeeper for a trucking company and returned to the Diamond area in 2000. She was a member of the New Beginnings Nazarene Church in Sarcoxie.

 Marilyn is survived by a son, Carl Crumpley of Ft. Collins, CO; two sisters, Esta Lee Turner of Diamond and Sue Burlison of Southwest City; one brother, Don Cravens of Whitehouse, TX; two grandchildren; the father of her children, Rex Crumpley; and numerous other family members. She is preceded in death by her daughter, Lisa Crumpley in 2012 and her parents.

VISITATION
Monday January 5, 2015, 6:00 PM - 7:00 PM at Clark Chapel of Memories

FUNERAL SERVICE
Tuesday January 6, 2015, 10:00 AM at Clark Chapel of Memories

Lowell Long

(From Clark Funeral Home)

Pastor Lowell W. Long, 83, Granby, died December 30, 2014 at Freeman West Hospital in Joplin, following a sudden illness. 

Lowell was born July 21, 1931 in Beatrice, Nebraska. He served in the U.S. Army during the Korean Conflict. Lowell served as a minister beginning in 1956 and had pastored numerous churches in many states. He served as superintendent of the Apostolic Faith Bible College in Baxter Springs, Kansas for 2 years and taught there for 11 years. He moved to Granby in 1993 and pastored the Granby Gospel Tabernacle Church for many years and currently attended there.

 Lowell married Thelma L. Woodson on September 3, 1954 in Midway, Oklahoma and she survives. Other survivors include four children, Radonna Lynn Fiorini and husband, Phillip, of Lafayette, IN; Kurt Long and wife, Sunny of Laverne, OK; Clint E. Long of Edmond, OK and Jeremy D. Long of Norman, OK; one brother, Stanley B. Long of Wilmington, IL; one sister, Eloise Day of El Dorado, TX; 8 grandchildren; four great grandchildren and a great granddaughter on the way. He is preceded in death by a son, Michael W. Long, May 1, 2001.

Viewing
2:00 PM - 3:00 PM, Sunday, January 4, 2015
Clark Funeral Home Granby Chapel
12787 B. Hwy Granby, MO. 64844

Chapel Service
10:00 AM, Monday, January 5, 2015
Clark Funeral Home Granby Chapel
12787 B. Hwy Granby, MO. 64844

Shirley Foreman

(From Parker Mortuary)

Shirley V. Nutt Foreman, age 87 of Joplin, passed away at 10:15 p.m. on Friday, December 26, 2014 at Communities of Wildwood Ranch.

Born April 21, 1927 in Glasgow, MT, she was the daughter of the late Webster Phidileo Rogers and Lucina Emma Ryan Rogers. Shirley was a Licensed Practical Nurse. She was a member and Elder of Community of Christ, where she also served as organist and Pastor of a congregation.

Survivors include her daughter, Diana Martin of Joplin; two sons, Larry Nutt and wife Beverly of Edwards, MO, David Nutt of Edwards; a sister, Ada McDole of Independence, MO; a brother, Vern Rogers of Holden, MO; ten grandchildren; eleven great-grandchildren and eight great-great-grandchildren.

Shirley’s body has been donated to medical research under the direction of Parker Mortuary. Memorial services will be held at 4:00 p.m. Sunday, January 18th at Camdenton Community of Christ in Camdenton, MO.

Vivian Bowers

(From Clark Funeral Home)

Vivian Aubrey Schell Bowers ‘Vee’, 95 of Montgomery, Ohio, passed away on December 30, 2014.

 Vee was born May 28, 1919 to Joe Cephus and Deller May (Pattersonl) Schell and grew up in Powell, Missouri with her sisters, Roxie Schell, Goldie Brumley (Albert E.), Fern Brust (Carroll), Caroline Naramore (Price), Betty May Davis (Ned) and brother, Joe Patterson Schell (J.P.). She was known for her blues playing on the piano, her made from scratch biscuits and gravy and her feisty personality. 

She married Irvin Leroy Bowers (Roy or I.L.) on October 31, 1937 and they were married nearly 70 years until his death in February, 2007. They moved to California around 1944 and lived in the same house they built in Northridge, California for 55 years before moving to Montgomery, Ohio in 2004. She is survived by a son, Richard L. Bowers and wife, Terri of Cincinnati; a daughter, Shelley Bowers Schweitzer of Wheaton, Illinois; her five grandchildren, Blake Bowers and wife, Katherine; Evan Bowers and wife, Erin; Nolan Bowers, Meredith Aubrey Britt and husband, Jon and Andrew Schweitzer; five great grandchildren, Tyler, Quinn, Morgan, Julien and Cole Bowers and her faithful canine companion, Little Big. In addition to her husband, she is preceded in death by her parents and sisters.

Visitation
Friday January 2, 2015, 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM at Clark Chapel of Memories

Graveside Services
Saturday January 3, 2015, 1:00 PM at Union Cemetery

DONATIONS
Memorial donations may be made to:
A.S.P.C.A. c/o Clark Funeral Home, P.O. Box 66, Neosho, MO. 64850

Daniel Smith

(From Ulmer Funeral Home)

Daniel J. Smith, 58, of Carthage passed away December 31, 2014 in Springfield, Missouri.

 Daniel was born December 16, 1956 in Joplin, Missouri to Clarence Smith and Thelma Keller Smith. Daniel was a lifetime Carthage resident and worked for Uke’s Tire, Hunter Tire and Butterball Inc. He was of the Pentecostal Faith. 

Daniel was married to Kathleen Littrell December 31, 1998 in Miami, Oklahoma she survives. Daniel is survived by one daughter Jennifer Williamson of Carthage, MO and Jeff Littrell of Duenweg, MO, three sisters Lorene Hendricks and husband Buddy, Della Neel and Nancy Brooks and husband J.C. all of Carthage, two brothers Jay Smith of Sarcoxie and Russell Smith of Reeds, numerous nieces and nephews, great nieces and nephews, great great nieces and nephews. 

Services will be held 3:00 p.m. Saturday January 3, 2015 at Landmark Missionary Baptist Church of Carthage on Chestnut and Case. Visitation will be held from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. Saturday January 3, 2015 at Landmark Missionary Baptist Church of Carthage on Chestnut and Case. Memorial contributions can be made to the Daniel Smith memorial fund in care of Ulmer Funeral Home. 

Online condolences can be made at www.ulmerfh.com. Arrangements are under the direction of Ulmer Funeral Home.

Rich White

Richard Andrew White, age 56, passed away December 27th following a long battle with Multiple Sclerosis.

Richard is survived by his mother, Mary Lou White, of Kent. He is also survived by his son Alec White of Missouri, his sister Beverly Holden of Kent, and his brother Steve (Cindy) White of Columbus, as well as several nieces and nephews. Richard was preceded in death by his father Glendale White of Kent.

Richard graduated from Kent Roosevelt High School in 1976. He graduated from Kent State University with a degree in broadcast journalism. Rich went on to enjoy a long career in broadcasting. He began his career as a reporter at KHBS-TV in Fort Smith, Arkansas, and from there he joined KODE-TV in Joplin, Missouri, as main anchor. Then he moved west to KOB-TV in Albuquerque, New Mexico as a reporter and weekend anchor. His next position brought him closer to home as Akron bureau chief and weekend anchor for WEWS-TV in Cleveland, Ohio. He then returned to KODE-TV as the main anchor.

Highlights of Richard's career include conducting interviews with Bill Clinton, Dan Quayle, and Muhammed Ali. Richard also helped emcee the Jerry Lewis Telethon while in Missouri.

Richard was a loving and loyal son. He enjoyed golfing, fishing, and spending time with family and friends. Richard will be missed by many.

His family wishes to thank the staff of Harbor Lights Hospice Care for their attentive and supportive care during Richard's battle with illness.

A celebration of life for family and friends will be held in the near future. Donations in Rich's memory may be made to the Ohio Buckeye Chapter of the National MS Society, 6155 Rockside Rd., Suite 202, Independence, OH 44131.

Tuesday, December 30, 2014

Dixie Woodward

(From Campbell-Biddlecome Funeral Home)

Dixie Lee (Elliott) Woodward, 76, Seneca, MO passed away December 27, 2014 at Freeman West Hospital in Joplin, MO after a long illness.

Dixie Lee Elliott was born October 26, 1938 in Seneca, MO the daughter of Howard Clarence and Evadean (Golden) Elliott. Dixie graduate from Seneca High School in 1956 then attended NEO A&M College in Miami, OK, graduating in 1958 with an Associate's degree in business. Dixie formerly worked as a secretary for the Milnot Company in Seneca. Dixie then worked for Eagle Pitcher, in Seneca until retiring. Dixie was of the Christian faith.

Survivors include one daughter, Robin Woodward; one sister, Flordena (Shorty) Fowler and husband Rex, Broken Arrow, OK and a host of friends.

A Celebration of Life Memorial Visitation will be held at 2:00 PM, Wednesday, December 31, 2014 at the home of Patsy Meyer, 14145 Bethel Road, Seneca, MO.

The body has been taken for cremation under the direction of Campbell-Biddlecome Funeral Home, Seneca, MO. Following the cremation internment will be in the Seneca Cemetery.

Monday, December 29, 2014

Robert Tatum

(From Knell Mortuary)

Robert E. Tatum, 80, Carthage, passed away Saturday, December 27, 2014 at the Carthage Health & Rehab Center. Robert Eugene Tatum was born December 1, 1934 in Jasper County, MO; a son of the late Carl Tatum and Rachael Cooper Tatum. He married Barbara Cearnal on April 12, 1925 in Carthage; she survives. Mr. Tatum was a maintenance worker for McCune-Brooks Hospital and Missouri Southern State College before in retirement in 1989.

Additional survivors include four daughters; Becca Cornell, Joplin, Sonya Mix, Joplin, Lynn Tatum, Carthage and Jennifer (Mark) Comer, Joplin; two sons, Jeff Tatum, Sarcoxie and Michael (Michelle) Tatum, Carterville; a sister, Barbara (Stanley) Eden, Neosho; a brother, Richard Tatum, Carthage; twelve grandchildren and sixteen great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents and two brothers, Bill and Kenny Tatum.

Visitation will be held from 6:00 – 7:00 PM, Thursday, January 1 at Knell Mortuary, Carthage. Funeral services will be held at 1:30 PM, Friday, January 2 in the Knell Mortuary Chapel. Rev. James Lee will officiate. Interment will be in Park Cemetery, Carthage. Memorial gifts are suggested to the American Heart Association in care of Knell Mortuary, 308 W. Chestnut, Carthage, MO, 64836. Online condolences may be expressed through www.knellmortuary.com.

Allen Lane

(From Knell Mortuary)

Allen Paul Lane, 68, Carthage, passed away on Sunday morning, December 28, 2014 at Freeman West in Joplin, MO. Allen was a son of the late L.P. Lane and Lorene (Hale) Lane.  He was a graduate of the Carthage Senior High School, Class of 1965. He married Donna Rogers in 1967, she survives. Allen worked as a Senior Customer Service employee for Delta Airlines in Nashville, TN, retiring in 2001. He was a member of the Blackman Church of Christ, Murfreesboro, TN and active with the Smyrna girls’ softball league, Smyrna, TN.

Additional survivors include one daughter; Laura Lane, (Ray), Smyrna, TN, one son; Christopher Lane, Carthage, one sister; Charlotte Wilson, Joplin, three grandchildren, and numerous cousins, nieces, and nephews.
He is preceded in death by his parents and one brother, David Lane.

Memorial services will be held Wednesday, December 31, 2014 at 1:30 PM in the Knell Mortuary Chapel. Minister Bob Dart will officiate. Inurnment will take place at a later date. Online condolences may be expressed online at www.knellmortuary.com.

Sadie Johnston

(From Daniel Funeral Home)

Sadie Dean Johnston, age 82, of Lamar, MO passed Sunday, December 29, 2014 at Medicalodge Frontenac, KS.

Sadie was born August 29, 1932 at Lamar, MO to Clarence Wales Dermott and Ethel Jewell (Washburn) Dermott. She graduated Lamar High School 1950 and married Douglas Allen Johnston on October 29, 1950. Sadie was a homemaker and farm wife, where she garden and made sure all four of their daughters were out early working in the garden. She was a member of Lamar United Methodist Church, the Half Century Club, Fairview Sunshine Club, and was a 4H Leader and enjoyed playing cards in a Bridge Club.

Sadie is survived by four daughters, Susan (John) Kelsey, Martha (Kent) Gardner, Sara (Randy) Morey, and Nancy Robertson, all of Lamar; ten grandchildren, Brian Johnson, Beckie (Nathan) Maberry, Tessy (Donny) Beck, Tisha (Willie) Anderson, Amy Gardner, Mark (Chelle) Gardner, Beth (David) Guinn, Jerod (Elisha) Morey, Zachary (Heather) Morey and Melanie (Kent) Patrick; great-grandchildren, Addison, Dylan, and Grace Maberry, Chayton and Jake Beck, Lukas and Shelby Anderson, Jillian and Brody Gardner, Taylor, Mason, and Morgan Guinn, Elliston and Jagger Morey, and Keller Patrick.

Preceding her in death were her parents; her husband Douglas, in 2001; two brothers, Calvin Dermott and Loren Dermott and, and a son-in-law Stanley Robertson.

Funeral service will be 11:00 am Wednesday, December 31, 2014 at Lamar United Methodist Church. With burial to follow at Lake Cemetery.

The family will receive friends 10:00 am until service time Wednesday at the church.

Contributions are suggested to T.A.T.S. or Barton County Sr. Center in care of Daniel Funeral Home.

Katherine Lomas

(From Clark Funeral Home)

Katherine (Patterson) Lomas, 73, Pineville, died December 25, 2014 at her home.

 She was born November 15, 1940 in Neosho, the daughter of Stoney and Mary (Parker) Patterson. Katherine lived most of her life in Southwest Missouri and worked as a restaurant cook. She loved to cook and sew. 

Katherine is survived by four children, Lonnie Harris, Kimberly Ditmore, Rhoda Harris and Darrin Harris; four brothers, Alvin Patterson, Edward Patterson, George Patterson and Jerry Patterson; two sisters, Argie Mathis and Linda Patterson; nine grandchildren and numerous great grandchildren. She is preceded in death by her parents, a son, Michael Harris, and a sister, Laura Aldridge.

The visitation will be held prior to the service from Noon to 1 pmWednesday, December 31, 2014
Clark Chapel of Memories
312 S. Wood St. Neosho, Mo 64850

Funeral Service
1:00 PM, Wednesday, December 31, 2014
Clark Chapel of Memories
312 S. Wood St. Neosho, Mo 64850

Scooter Boyd

(From Hedge-Lewis Funeral Home)

Donald Lee (Scooter) Boyd, age 68, of Purcell, Mo., passed away on Tuesday December 23, 2014, at his home, surrounded by his family.

Donald was born on September 1, 1946 in Joplin, the son of the late Ernest and Ruth (Campbell) Boyd. He has been a lifetime area resident. He served in the United States Navy and was a veteran of the Viet Nam War. He worked for Cable Com, and later was a self-employed electronics repairman. He was a past member of the VFW Webb City Post #7630 and the American Legion. He was the founder of the Community Alert Patrol, a group of storm spotters and community volunteers.

He married Wendy Fry on November 1, 1996, and she survives. Additional survivors include one son, Michael Boyd and wife Donna, Joplin; three daughters, Michele Boyd, Joplin, Daphne Dust and husband John, Webb City, Mo., Terra Boyd, Joplin; two step-sons, Robert Bowers, Joplin, and William Bowers and wife Holly, Joplin; and one step-daughter, Jennifer Hudson and husband Jeremy, Webb City, Mo., 9 grandchildren, with one on the way, and 2 great-grandchildren with one on the way. He was preceded in death by one brother, William Boyd., and 2 grandchildren. Funeral services will be 1:00 p.m. Tuesday at Hedge-Lewis Funeral Home. Pastor Paul Smith will officiate. Burial will be in Mount Hope Cemetery.

The family will receive friends 6-7 p.m. Monday at Hedge-Lewis Funeral Home.

Arrangements are under the direction of Hedge-Lewis Funeral Home & Crematory.

Phyllis Stinnett

(From Parker Mortuary)

Phyllis R. Stinnett, age 88, Webb City, passed away at 1 A.M. Monday, December 29, 2014 at Freeman Hospital after an extended illness.

Phyllis was born September 20, 1926 on the family farm in Jasper, Mo. ninth of eleven children to George W. Probert and Della G. Harris Probert. She was a life long resident of Jasper County.

She worked as a bank teller at the former Merchants and Miners / Mercantile Bank in Webb City from 1965 until retiring in 1990. She enjoyed all her customers and co workers, who in turn enjoyed her quick wit and fun loving personality.

Phyllis always looked forward to spending time with her friends and family.

Survivors include: daughter, Jana Hatten, Rocklin, Ca.; son, David Stinnett, Webb City; grandson, Joel Stinnett, Joplin; sister, Winona Probert, Joplin and brother, Dale Probert, Carthage.

Cremation arrangements are under the direction of Parker Mortuary. Memorial services will be held 2:00 p.m. Saturday at Wildwood Baptist Church with Rev. Joe Morris officiating.

Helen Cates

(From Clark Funeral Home)

Helen H. Cates, 94, Neosho, died Dec. 28, 2014 at Medicalodge in Neosho.

 Helen was born Aug. 24, 1920 in Marshfield, Oregon and moved to the area in 1956 from California. She had worked at True Value for many years and was a homemaker. She was a member of the Diamond Methodist Church. 

Helen married Armel V. L. Cates on August 23, 1941 at Vancouver, Washington and he preceded her in death in September, 2004. She is survived by three children, Armel Cates and wife, Corine of Oregon; Kathy Berry and husband, Carl of Neosho and Cecelia Magoffin of Butler, MO.; four grandchildren, Sharon Cates, Patrick Cates, John Magoffin and Heather Magoffin; five great grandchildren and a brother, Ray Wood of Oregon. In addition to her husband and parents, she is preceded in death by siblings.

Visitation
9:00 AM - 10:00 AM, Friday, January 2, 2015
Clark Chapel of Memories
312 S. Wood St. Neosho, MO 64850

Funeral Service
10:00 AM, Friday, January 2, 2015
Clark Chapel of Memories
312 S. Wood St. Neosho, Mo 64850

Kenny Royer

(From Parker Mortuary)

Kenneth James Royer (Kenny) was born on 4-24-1939 in Carthage to Harold Aquilla Royer and Ella Faye (Baumann) Royer and was the eldest of 5 children. Kenny went to be with the Lord on December 27, 2014 at 10:01 am after a courageous battle with cancer. His family moved to Joplin at an early age. Kenny attended Joplin schools and was a proud member of the “Class of 57”.

He married Karen Lee Bagby on December 3, 1976 in Miami, Ok.

Kenny began working as a caddy and then progressed to the pro shop at Twin Hills where he learned to play and love the game of golf. He worked for Tamko, Medlin Tire, and G & H Bandag in Springdale until he and his wife Karen opened Royer Tire Service on April 1, 1977. He continued to work at Royer Tire until ill health forced him to retire in 2013. He was well respected as an honest and hardworking business man. From this he gained many friends that he considered family.

Kenny was an avid St. Louis Cardinals fan and he proudly supported the Missouri Southern Athletics as a Lionbacker for many years. Kenny and Karen especially followed the basketball team from Bobby Corn’s playing time until he retired as the coach. He was a charter member of the Sunrise Optimist Club until it disbanded.

He loved fishing and playing golf with his 3 brothers and sister. He loved his family and spent many hours watching wrestling matches, rodeos, music concerts, plays, and drumline performances.

He is survived by his wife Karen and sons David Royer and wife Linda Hand of Joplin, Dennis Royer and girlfriend Maria Peck of Independence Mo, and daughters Wednesday Arend and boyfriend Robert Horn, and Jennifer Crosswhite and husband Glenn all of Joplin. Seven Grandchildren Lyndsey Davidson (Matt) of Lamar, Justin Crosswhite (Mellissa) of Fargo, ND, Kendall Crosswhite of Joplin, Andrew Noel of Stillwater, Ronnie Crosswhite and fiancé Levi Henry of Joplin, Valerie Royer of Joplin, and Will Arend of Joplin. Two great grandchildren Gehrig Davidson and Mattingly Davidson of Lamar and a future “baby” Davidson due in February. Also surviving is his brother Chuck Royer and wife Vicki of Bartlesville, Ok. Sister-in laws Cheryl Royer of Bella Vista and Sharon Royer of Joplin a host of friends, aunts, cousins, nieces and nephews.

Kenny was preceded in death by his parents, sister Barbara Farmer Bryan, brothers Larry Royer of Bella Vista, and LeRoy Royer of Joplin.

Special thanks to Regional Hospice for all of their help and compassion especially Mark, Tonya, and Tasha.

Funeral services will be held 1:00 p.m. Saturday at First Baptist Church of Diamond with Pastor Ron Crow officiating. Interment will follow at Mount Hope Cemetery. Pallbearers include Wayne Moss, Grady Weston, James Zerkle Jr., Pat Fink, Cecil Brill, and Clyde Daniels. Honorary pallbearers are Larry Shepherd and James Glass. The family will receive friends from 6:00 to 7:00 p.m. Friday at Parker Mortuary.

Memorial contributions may be made at any SMB Bank location to the Kenny Royer Memorial Fund for MSSU Men's Basketball.

Sunday, December 28, 2014

Ancel Geurin

(From Ulmer Funeral Home)

Ancel Watson Geurin, 92, formerly of Carthage passed away Friday December 26, 2014 at Mercy Hospital in Aurora, MO.

 Ancel was born December 23, 1922 in Smithville, Ark. He was the son of Elija W. Geurin and Maude “Smith” Geurin. Ancel served in the United States Army. He was employed for 32 years as a Aviontoncis Aircraft Technician for Trans World Airlines. Ancel was a member of the First Baptist Church in Carthage. He was a member of the Masonic Lodge and the International Association of Machinest Union.

 Ancel married LeAnna J. Hilbish on March 13, 1948 in Gravette, Arkansas, they were united in marriage for 66 years. She survives. Other survivors include one son, Larry Geurin and his wife Vicki of Dallas, Texas, one daughter Sharolyn Geurin McCauley of Excelsior Springs, MO, three sisters; Hester Helms and her husband Charles of Batesville, Ark., Fay Campbell and Jean Griffith both of Pocahontas, Ark., one sister in law, Pauletta Geurin of Fayetteville, Ark, 6 Grandchildren, 5 great grandchildren and many Nieces, Nephews and Friends. Ancel was preceded in death by one son Lyle Geurin in September 2013, one brother, Ernest Geurin and two sisters, Hazel Cole and Onieda Tucker.

 Services will be 2:00 p.m. Tuesday, December 30, 2013 at the Ulmer Funeral Home with visitation from 1-2 pm Tuesday prior to Services. Burial will be in Park Cemetery. Contributions may be made to the First Baptist Church of Carthage or Missouri Veterans Home in Mt. Vernon in care of the Ulmer Funeral Home.

Thomas Parmley

(From Campbell-Biddlecome Funeral Home)

Thomas Joe Parmley, 89, Seneca, MO, passed into eternal rest at 5:30PM, December 26, 2014 at Freeman Neosho Hospital after an illness.

Thomas Joe Parmley was born September 14, 1925 in Newtonia, MO the son of Thomas and Nellie (Henery) Parmley. Joe lived in the Seneca area most of his life. He worked years for Schmidt Construction in Miami, OK. He was a carpenter and loved the outdoors. Thomas Joe Parmley married Lilly Alice Fritchey February 24, 1945 and she preceded him in death December 25, 1989.

Survivors include one daughter, Barbara Chester and husband Don, Seneca; two sons, Bill Parmley and wife Joan and Bob Parmley all of Seneca; 5 grandchildren; Duane Chester, Brenda Adams, Donna Françisco, Karrie Thiel, Karla Rickert; 13 great-grandchildren and 4 great-great grandchildren; one sister Juanita Williams, Neosho, MO and a host of nieces and nephews.

Joe was preceded in death by one son Burl Parmley; 3 brothers, Henery Parmley, Georgia Parmley and Johnny Parmley and 3 sisters, Ella Fulkerson, Ethel York and Ilene Butterfield.
Graveside services will be held at 2:00 PM, Tuesday, December 30, 2014 at the Seneca Cemetery with Truman Brady officiating.

The family will receive friends from 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM, Monday, December 29, 2014 at the Campbell-Biddlecome Funeral Home, Seneca, MO. The family will be at the home of Bill Parmley

Louis Fenske

(From Buchanan Funeral Home)

Louis Francis Fenske, age 87, of Pierce City, MO passed away at 1:35 p.m. on Saturday, December 27, 2014 at his home.

Louis was born August 27, 1927 to Joseph and Matilda (Gripka) Fenske in Pierce City. He spent his entire life in Pierce City, graduating from PCHS in 1947. Louis married Edana Murphy on April 2, 1951 at St. Mary’s Church. Louis managed Standard Gas Station in Pierce City when it opened in 1954. He obtained his real estate license in 1991 and was affiliated with Castle and Ranch Realtors. He was a part time farmer, raising hogs, while also working for REA Express in Monett, Aurora and Springfield. Later he became a city mail carrier at the Pierce City Post Office, where he retired in 1992 after 22 years of service.
Louis enjoyed fishing at Roaring River where he became a member of the Lunker Club in 1979 after catching a 7 lb 15 oz. rainbow trout. He enjoyed attending state Democratic conventions and was a Democratic committeeman for several terms for the Pierce City Precinct. Louis was an active member of St. Mary’s Parish where he served as a Eucharist Minister and was always volunteering his services until his health declined. He was a charter member of the Engemann-Curran Knights of Columbus Council 7130 and a member of the 4th degree Joplin-Springfield Council of the Knights of Columbus for over 50 years. He volunteered his time to be a 4-H swine leader for many years, while his children were members of the Pleasant Acres 4-H Club.

Surviving are the following: his wife, Edana, of 63 years; one son, Edward Fenske (Donna) of Wentworth; and seven daughters: Kathy Eck (Gary) of Sarcoxie, Peggy Miller (Don) of Export, PA, Carol Gripka (Harold) of Pierce City, Janet Hirsch (Jon) of Springfield, Joyce Hale (Joe) of Miami, OK, Mary Parrigon (Greg) of Neosho, and Angela Supplee (John) of Pierce City. He is also survived by 24 grandchildren and 22 great-grandchildren; two brothers, Edmund Fenske of Belton, MO, and Lawrence (Agnes) Fenske of Springfield; and one sister, Marie Heidlage of Pierce City.

Preceding him is death was a sister, Sr. Josephine Fenske; a brother, William Fenske; granddaughter, Rebecca Miller; and great-grandson, Isaac Streeter.

The Rosary will be at St. Mary’s Church in Pierce City on Tuesday, December 30, 2014 at 6:00 p.m. followed by visitation to 7:30 p.m. A Funeral Mass will be held at St. Mary’s Catholic Church on Wednesday, December 31, 2014 at 10:00 a.m. with Fr. Peter Morciniec officiating. Grandchildren will serve as pallbearers. Interment will follow at St. Mary’s Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Mary’s School in Pierce City or the American Diabetes Foundation. Arrangements are under the direction of Buchanan Funeral Home in Monett.

Joey Hemphill

(From Buchanan Funeral Home)

Joey D. Hemphill, age 60, of Columbia, MO, passed away at his home on Saturday, December 27, 2014.

Joey was born on November 26, 1954 in Monett, MO, son of Joe and Eva Nell (Stewart) Hemphill. He had attended the Day Program at ACT in Columbia.

Joey was preceded in death by his parents; as well as one brother, Jim Hemphill; and one sister, Judy Hembree.

He is survived by two nephews, Phillip Camerer, and wife Robin, of Neosho, MO and David Camerer, of Seneca, MO; and his niece, Heidi Derryberry, of the home, Columbia, MO.

Funeral services will be held at 3:00 p.m. on Wednesday, December 31, 2014 at Buchanan Funeral Home, Monett. Reverend Bert Ward will officiate. Interment will be in Arnhart Cemetery, Purdy, MO. Visitation will be held from 2-3:00 p.m. on Wednesday at the funeral home. Memorial contributions can be made to the Wounded Warrior Project in care of the funeral home. Arrangements have been entrusted to Buchanan Funeral Home, Monett, MO.

June Owen

(From Parker Mortuary)

Dorothy June Owen, age 83, Joplin, passed away at 6:30 p.m. on Thursday, December 25, 2014.

June was born August 19, 1931 in Joplin, daughter of the late Richard Alvey Palmer and Elizabeth Jane Palmer. She graduated from Joplin High School, and began a long career as a bookkeeper, first with A.Y. McDonald, then later with Joplin Public Schools, and the Sands Motel, and finally retired from the State of Missouri in 1998.

It was at the Sands Motel that she met and married W. E. "Bill" Owen in 1962. After 45 years of marriage, he preceded her in death by seven years. In addition to her parents and husband, June was preceded in death by a great-grandson, Silas Connelly, and her seven siblings.

She was a member of St. Paul United Methodist Church. She and her family enjoyed many trips to the lake, and loved boating. She and Bill also enjoyed traveling, and took many trips to visit their multitude of friends around the country.

Surviving family members include her children, Charla Owen Connelly of Tulsa, Oklahoma, Jana Owen Brown of Joplin, David Owen and wife Kitty of Brooklyn, New York, and Steven Owen and wife Phyllis of Shawnee Mission, Kansas; grandchildren, M. Blake Connelly and wife Courtney of Tulsa, Amanda Connelly Dancler and husband Simon of Denver, Colorado, Katelyn Brown Haight and husband Travis of Albuquerque, New Mexico, and Robert Owen of Springfield, Missouri; great-grandchildren, Elliot Connelly, Talan Haight, and the forthcoming, Miles Dancler.

Funeral services will be Tuesday, December 30, 2014 at 10:00 a.m. in Parker Mortuary Chapel with Rev. Joe Crosthwait officiating. Interment will follow in Ozark Memorial Park Cemetery with family serving as pallbearers.

The family will receive friends at Parker Mortuary on Monday from 7:00 to 8:00 p.m.

The family would also like to encourage friends and family to fellowship after the committal service at St. Paul United Methodist Church Fellowship Hall..

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to the Silas Program (named after her great-grandson) at Hillcrest Hospital in Tulsa, Oklahoma care of Parker Mortuary in memory of June.

Saturday, December 27, 2014

Ruth Boehning

(From Parker Mortuary)

Ruth Eileen (Short) Boehning, age 73 of Joplin Mo., died Dec. 24, 2014, at the home of her daughter Julie Lynn Wilson after a sudden illness.

She was born on September 15th 1941 in Parma Mo. She was the daughter of John Ab Short and Norma Elwanda (Asher) Short, the youngest of two children.

Ruth moved to Joplin in 1998, after living in Edwards AFB, Calif., Aurora, Colo., Colorado Springs, Colo., Villa d’Orri, Cagliari, Sardinia, Italy, Springfield Mo., and Tahlequah, Okla. She received her associates from Freed Hardeman University. She worked at a family business for many years and at a Christian book store.

She married her husband John William Boehning in Blytheville, Ar. on Nov. 2, 1961. They remained married for 53 years. Ruth was an active member of the congregation of Mt. Hope Church of Christ in Webb City, Mo., until the day of her death. She was a charitable woman, who searched out the opportunity to serve and help others.

She was preceded in death by her brother Johnny Ray Short, her middle son Rob Christopher Boehning and her father and mother.

Ruth is survived by her husband John, her son Craig Boehning, her daughter Julie (Boehning) Wilson, four grandchildren; Christopher Boehning, Emmalee Smothers, Sarah Wilson, and Zachariah Wilson, four great-grandchildren, 3 sisters-in-law; Deborah Foltz, Jane Archer, and Julia Manca Di Villahermosa, and a brother-in-law Chelle Boehning and his wife Joyce, along with 11 nephews and nieces.

Funeral services will be held at Mt. Hope Church of Christ on the 28th of Dec. at 2 o’clock. The family will receive friends from 6:00 to 7:00 p.m. Saturday the 27th at Parker Mortuary. Private interment of cremated remains will be in Seneca Cemetery. Memorial contributions are encouraged to the mission efforts at Mt. Hope Church of Christ.

Roy Simmons

(From Clark Funeral Home)

Roy Calvin Simmons, 91, St. Charles, formerly of Neosho, died December 23, 2014 at St. Joseph Hospital.

 Roy was born August 14, 1923 in Dunlap, Kansas, the son of Guy and Mattie (Mirfield) Simmons. Roy served in the U.S. Army during World War II, where he spent time in the Philippines. After a career in Kansas City in TV sales, he moved to Neosho and was the owner and operator of Green Meadows Mobile Home Park. He enjoyed camping, traveling, bike riding and oil painting. He was a former Elder of the First Lutheran Church in Neosho.

 Roy married Marian Bailey on April 23, 1946 in Kansas City, Missouri and she preceded him in death on September 17, 2011. He is survived by two children, April Kruse and husband, Cameron of Neosho, and Shawn Simmons and wife, Robyn of St. Charles; one sister, Marie Shaffer of Laramie, Wyoming; three grandchildren, Daniel Simmons, Emily Simmons and Ashlen Kruse; one great grandchild, Connor Simmons; two sisters-in-law, Jean Smith and Virginia White, both of Norwalk, Ohio, and numerous nieces and nephews. In addition to his wife, Roy is preceded in death by his parents, two sisters, Ruth Williams and Betty Simmons, and a brother-in-law, Glenn Bailey.

Funeral services were held Saturday December 27, 2014, 2:00 PM at Clark Chapel of Memories

Delmar Haase

(From Parker Mortuary)

Delmar C. Haase, Sr., age 82 of Joplin, passed away at 1:25 p.m. on Friday, December 26, 2014 at Golden Living Center in Pittsburg, KS after a lengthy illness.

Born July 9, 1932 in Joplin, he was the son of the late Max and Minnie Studyvin Haase and was a lifelong Joplin resident. In his early life he served in the Navy Reserve and was a machinist. Delmar was an electrician and a 60-year member of I.B.E.W. Local No. 95.

On September 1, 1951 he married Shirley J. Smith in Huntsville, AR. She preceded him in death January 24, 1993. He was also preceded by a son, Donald Haase in 2008; a brother, Max; and a sister, Martha Daggett.

Survivors include two sons, Danny Haase and wife Gwenda, Delmar Haase and wife Leslie, all of Joplin; a brother, Marvin Haase and wife Billie of Joplin; two sisters, Darlene LaGasse and husband Louis, Annabelle Sill and husband Bob, all of Joplin; 12 grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; and three great-great-grandsons.

The family extends their gratitude to the staff of Golden Living Center for helping Delmar through the last few years of life.

Graveside services will be held 11:00 a.m. Wednesday at Ozark Memorial Park Cemetery with Rev. Bob Simon officiating and grandchildren serving as pallbearers. The family will receive friends from 6:00 to 7:00 p.m. Tuesday at Parker Mortuary. Memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association.

Dorothy Smith

(From Parker Mortuary)

Dorothy L. Abeln Smith, age 91 of Monett, MO, passed away Friday, December 26, 2014 at Lacoba Homes in Monett.

Born July 28, 1923 in Munjor, KS, she was the daughter of the late Raymond and Matilda Rupp Leiker. She moved to the Pierce City and Monett areas in 1972. Dorothy had worked as a medical transcriptionist and as a secretary-bookkeeper for several companies. She was a Roman Catholic.

On November 8, 1944, she married Leonard L. Abeln at Salisbury, MO. He preceded her in death January 1, 1983. She was also preceded by seven siblings and one granddaughter, Deborah Anne Conway.

Survivors include a daughter, Martha L. Abeln Wilkins of Neosho; a son, Robert E. Abeln and wife Jeannie of Monett; two sisters, Cecelia Schmidt of Hays, KS, Antoinette Haddock of Casper, WY; six grandchildren, Sandra Kay Conway Sava, Helen Kristine Conway Padilla, Rebecca Marie Abeln, Kathryn Diane Abeln and Laura Elizabeth Abeln Deering, along with Genevieve Shelton and 13 great-grandchildren.

Graveside services will be 3:00 p.m. Monday at St. Francis Cemetery in Munjor, KS with Fr. John Schmeidler officiating under the direction of Parker Mortuary, Joplin. Online condolences may be left atwww.parkermortuary.com .

Friday, December 26, 2014

Juanita Copple

(From Parker Mortuary)

Juanita Violet Damer Copple, age 94 of Carl Junction, MO, passed away at 8:11 a.m. on Tuesday, December 23, 2014 at her home.

Born June 11, 1920 in Newton County Missouri, she was the daughter of the late Mark F. Damer and Emma F. Buchanon Damer and lived in the Joplin area most of her lifetime. A homemaker, she was a member of Blendville Christian Church.

On October 1, 1939 she married Clyde Russell Copple in Columbus, KS. He preceded her in death February 3, 1993.

Survivors include two sons, Roy Copple and wife Doris of Joplin, Mike Copple and wife Elfriede of Golden, British Columbia, Canada; two daughters, Nancy Kysar of Highlands Ranch, CO, Joyce King and husband Jim of Newport News, VA; seven grandchildren, Terry Copple of Joplin, Angela Copple of Lexington, KY, James King of Newport, RI, David King of Alexandria, VA, Jeremy King of Baltimore, MD, Don Copple of Dillon, MT and Dan Copple of Whitefish, MT; five great-grandchildren; three great-great-grandchildren; former daughter-in-law, Vicky Copple of Carl Junction and Shirley Copple of Whitefish, MT.

Funeral services will be held 1:00 p.m. Tuesday at Parker Mortuary with Rev. Joe Fowler officiating. Interment will follow at Ozark Memorial Park Cemetery with Mike Copple, Terry Copple, Miles Copple, Brycen Miner, James King, Jr., and David King serving as pallbearers.

The family will receive friends from 6:00 to 7:00 p.m. Monday at the mortuary.

Memorial contributions may be made to Christian Missions in Many Lands, Inc. PO Box 13, Spring Lake, NJ 07762 or Samaritan’s Purse, PO Box 3000, Boone, NC 28607.

Avon Burnett

(From Daniel Funeral Home)

Raburn Avon Burnett, age 87, of Lamar, MO died Tuesday, December 23, 2014 at Barton County Memorial Hospital.

Avon was born June 16, 1927 at Jacket, MO to Chester Marvin Burnett and Ruth Ann Elizabeth Bosarde. After High School, he served his country in the United States Navy. He married Vivian Irene Williams and together they raised seven children. He worked 25 years as a Mail Carrier for the US Postal Service, retiring in 1985. He was a member of the Garden City, KS VFW and American Legion and he loved to fish. After his wife died in 2010, he moved from Frontenac, KS to Lamar, to be close to family.

Avon leaves behind four sons, Kevin (Marjorie) Burnett, Reno, NV, Jerry (Wendy) Duvall, Lamar, MO, Gary (Barbara) Duvall, Foss, OK, Keith Duvall, Grove, OK; three daughters, Delores (Silver) Dater, Lenexa, KS, Beth King, Golden, CO, Patsy Williams, Corpus Christi, TX; three brothers, Ted Burnett, SC, Bill (Vicki) Burnett, Goshen, IN, Marvin (Barbara) Burnett, Pineville, MO; one sister, Patricia Anderson( John), Blue Springs, MO; many grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife, two brothers, Carl and Euel Burnett and three sisters, June Rose Burnett, Jean Scott and Helen Nabb.

Funeral service will be 10:00 am Saturday, December 27, 2014 at Daniel Funeral Home with Military Honors. Graveside service will be 10:00 am Monday, December 29, 2014 at Fairview Park Cemetery, St. John, KS.

Contributions are suggested to Barton County Memorial Hospital in care of Daniel Funeral Home.

George Flanigan

(From Knell Mortuary)

Judge George M. Flanigan, 89, Carthage, passed away Tuesday, December 23, 2014 at St. Luke’s Nursing Center, Carthage.  George Matthew Flanigan was born December 10, 1925 in Carthage; the fourth son of the late John Hagar Flanigan and Gladys Callaway Flanigan.  He was born and raised in Carthage and was a graduate of Carthage High School, Class of 1942 and received his LLB bachelor of law degree from the University of Missouri, Columbia in 1949. Judge Flanigan was a U.S. Navy veteran who served during World War II and was recalled to active duty during the Korean Conflict. His military service included assignments aboard both the USS Pittsburgh and the USS Columbus.  In 1974, Judge Flanigan was appointed by the Governor of Missouri to the Court of Appeals, Southern District located in Springfield, MO.  He retired from the bench in 1996.  He was a member of Grace Episcopal Church, Carthage.

He married Patricia Dooms on December 29, 1951 in Springfield, MO; she survives.  Additional survivors include three children; David Brennan Flanigan, wife, Betsy, Carthage, Elaine Flanigan Berry, husband, James, St. Louis, MO and Matthew C. Flanigan, wife, Tracy, Carthage; four grandchildren, Devin Callaway Flanigan, Kelly Ann Flanigan, James Brennan Flanigan and Anne Catherine Flanigan; one brother, Laurence Hamilton Flanigan, wife, Eleanor, Carthage.

Visitation will be held from 2:00 – 4:00 PM, Sunday, December 28, at Knell Mortuary, Carthage.  At the family’s request, please make your personal contacts at the visitation and not the family home. Funeral mass will be held at 1:30 PM, Monday, December 29 at Grace Episcopal Church, Carthage.  The Very Reverend Steve Wilson will officiate.  Interment will be in Park Cemetery, Carthage.  In lieu of flowers, the family respectfully requests that memorial gifts be directed to the Carthage Police Department for the benefit of the annual Children’s Christmas Party in care of Knell Mortuary, Carthage, MO.  Online condolences may be expressed through www.knellmortury.com. -

Jesse Teel

(From Parker Mortuary)

Jesse W. Teel, age 86, Joplin, passed away on Tuesday, December 23, 2014 at his home.

Jesse was born November 13, 1928 in Harper, Kansas, son of the late George Franklin Teel and Ruby Fern Williams Teel. He grew up in Tiff City, Missouri, and graduated from Wyandotte High School. He then attended the University of Oklahoma in Norman, Oklahoma before joining the United States Air Force where he served for four years.

After his service to his country, he moved to Pittsburg, Kansas, and attended Pittsburg State University where he finished his bachelor’s degree in education. He continued his education, and earned a Master’s Degree, among other graduate degrees from Pitt State.

He worked in education, mainly in administration, at several school districts, and retired from Rich Hill School District in 1989 after 23 years there. He was a member of the Rich Hill Masonic Lodge, the Rich Hill Lion’s Club, and worked with the Boy Scouts of America. He was also a member of St. Paul’s United Methodist Church of Joplin.

In addition to his parents, Jesse was preceded in death by his wife, Elma L. Teel who died May 9, 2013, and a sister, Billie Ruth Divine.

Survivors include his children, David Earl Teel of Martinsburg, West Virginia, Norville Paul Teel and Mary Woodhouse of Golden City, Missouri, Nancy Patricia Stanley and husband Randy of Parkville, Missouri, and Kathleen Erin Pinon-Hukriede of Independence, Missouri; grandchildren, Billy Gilkey and wife Alma, Manessa Mercer and husband Jason, Sarah Martinez and husband Bobby, Saline Crouch and husband Jeremy, Erin Battagler and husband Travis, Alex Pinon, Cris Pinon, and Kalea Teel; great-grandchildren, Bailey, Thaddeus, Ethan, Emma, Elliot, Evan, Taylor, Connor, Oliver, Luke, Olivia; one great-great-grandchild, Zaryn.

Memorial services will be Monday, December 29, 2014 at 1:00 p.m. at St. Paul United Methodist Church. The family will receive friends at the church following the service.

Private inurnment of his ashes will be in Osborne Memorial Cemetery.

The family requests that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions be made to the Rich Hill School District care of Parker Mortuary, to help in getting the new storm shelter built.

Wednesday, December 24, 2014

David Stone

(From Parker Mortuary)

David Earl Stone, age 60, Carl Junction, passed away at 2:35 p.m. Wednesday, December 10, 2014 at Mercy Hospital after an illness. 

David was born October 26, 1954 in Massachusetts to the late Joseph M. Stone, Jr. and Melinda Bekker Stone and had lived in the Joplin area for several years. 

He had owned and operated an auto upholstery business called ‘The Top Shop’ for several years. He had also worked in home health care and was a machinist. 

David is survived by his daughter, Crystal B. Stone, Carl Junction; three sons, Lance Owens, Texas, Ryan Owens, Missouri, Nathaniel Valenzuela, Missouri; one sister, Janice Manker, Kansas and four grandchildren, Dina Stone, Patricia Stone, Paige Knoll and Hayden Meyer.
In addition to his parents, David was preceded in death by a daughter, Dina Michelle Stone; one sister and one brother.
 
David has been taken for cremation. Memorial services are being planned for a future date.
Cremation arrangements are under the direction of Parker Mortuary.

Wanda Dill

(From Daniel Funeral Home)

Wanda Mae Dill, age 75, of Lamar, MO passed Monday, December 22, 2014 at Freeman Hospital West.

Wanda was born October 18, 1939 in Dade County MO to Doyle Dallas Jones and Effie Ester Cleo (Berry) McManis - Jones. She was united in marriage October 30, 1955 to Kenneth H. Dill at Lamar, MO and together they raised six daughters. She was a homemaker and had worked as a waitress at Tiger’s Den Café, Lockwood, MO, at Good Samaritan Nursing Home in Indianola, IA, and at Ruth’s Flowers. Wanda loved working with plants and flowers and tending to her garden. She enjoyed singing in gospel groups, and quilting with the ladies group at church. Wanda was a member of Full Gospel Tabernacle for over 15 years.

Survivors include six daughters, Terry Nix, Canon City, CO, Sherry (Jim) Stettler, Lamar, Janie Dunagan, Lamar, Mary (Dennis) Ripperger, Katie Dill, and Kenda (Tim) Miller, all of Indianola, IA; three brothers, Albert (Justine) McManis, Lamar and Derl (Barbara) Jones, Peculiar; 14 grandchildren and 23 great-grandchildren.

Wanda was preceded in death by her husband Kenneth Dill in 2004; her parents, one brother, Merl Jones and two sisters, Imogene McManis and Bonnie Decker, and two grandchildren.

Funeral service will be 2:00 pm Saturday, December 27, 2014 at Full Gospel Tabernacle with burial to follow at Greenfield Cemetery, Greenfield, MO.

The family will receive friends 6:00 to 7:00 pm Friday at the funeral home.

Contributions are suggested to Full Gospel Tabernacle Quilting Fund, in care of Daniel Funeral Home.

Leonard Manz

(From Clark Funeral Home)

Leonard Clem Manz departed from this life on Tuesday, December 23, 2014 after an extended illness.

He was born in Neosho, Missouri on September 6, 1934. Clem graduated from Diamond High School, Diamond, MO and continued to live in Diamond until his death. Clem was a devoted husband to Reda, the love of his life and an uncle to his nieces and nephews. He enjoyed tending to his cattle and farm as well as his car business. During family visits you would find Clem riding the tractor with the children. Clem was an active member of Diamond Christian Church as well as the Masonic Lodge. 

He was preceded in death by his wife, Reda, his sister Dorothy Bailey as well as his four brothers: Sherman, Paul, Bill and Glenn Manz. Clem is survived by his daughter, Jacquelyn O’Hara of Louisiana and his ten nieces and nephews: Chris Ann Kent, Springfield, MO ; Susan Marinick, Hot Springs, AR; Deborah Manz-Slaman, San Dimas, CA; Dr William Bailey, Tulsa, OK; Sharon Manz, Springfield, MO; Larry Manz, Fenton, MO; Melinda Linss, Bend OR; Michelle Gleason, Olalla, WA; Sandi Armstrong, Edmund, OK; and Michael Manz, Joplin, MO. His family and wonderful friends will dearly miss Clem.

Chapel Service
Monday December 29, 2014, 3:00 - P.M. at Clark Chapel of Memories

Tuesday, December 23, 2014

Donald Cornell

(From Mason-Woodard Mortuary)

Donald Cornell, age 75, of Neosho, Mo., passed away on Monday December 22, 2014, at his residence.

 Don was born on March 11, 1939 in Rocky Comfort, the son of Mose and Grace (Cash) Cornell. He has been a lifetime area resident. He worked for 27 years as a Manager of Product engineering for Missouri Steel Castings, he then worked 17 years at the Joplin School District as a carpenter. He enjoyed fishing, hunting and working in his yard. He hosted many “porch parties” with family and friends. Don accepted Jesus Christ as his Savior on December 8, 2014. 

Don married Sue Ann Stokes, December 30, 1959, in Joplin, she survives. Additional survivors include a daughter, Robin and husband John Mitchell, a daughter Rachelle and husband John Bramlett, both of Neosho, one son, Randy Cornell of Webb City. Eight grandchildren, Ben and wife Lorelei, Annie and husband Robbie, Laban, Logan, Raegan, Jadie Carson, Garrett, four great grandchildren, David, Sophia, Elena and Levi. Don was proceeded in death by his parents, five brothers and three sisters. 

The family will receive friends from 12:30 to 2:30 p.m. Friday at the mortuary. Graveside services will be 3:30 p.m. Friday December 26, 2014 at Union Cemetery, Powell, Mo. John Mitchell will officiate. Contributions may be made to the Fairview Baptist of Joplin, Spring City Baptist or Christ Church of Oronogo in care of the mortuary. 

Arrangements are under the direction of Mason-Woodard Mortuary & Crematory.

Jaunita Bastion

(From Parker Mortuary)

Jaunita M. Herron Bastian, age 95 of Joplin, passed away at 8:00 p.m. on Saturday, December 20, 2014 at Seneca House in Seneca, MO.

Born July 29, 1919 in Colorado Springs, CO, she was the daughter of the late Albert Joseph Herron and Mable Stelts Herron and lived in Joplin area most of her lifetime. She was a graduate of Neosho High School Class of 1936 and was an accountant and co-owner of the former Bastian Wholesale Grocery. She was a member of First Community Church.

On December 25, 1949 she married Arthur J. Bastian in Joplin. He preceded her in death September 30, 1976. Also preceding her were a sister, Nellie Austin; two brothers, Edward and Bill Herron; a niece, Tana Herron and a nephew, Terry Herron.

Survivors include nieces and nephews, Lynda Mills and husband Steven of Warrensburg, MO, Chris Logan and husband Dan of Palo Alto, CA, Tom Austin and wife Laura of Neosho, Larry Herron and wife Linda of Joplin; grandnieces, Mendy Peel, Sarah Linback, Cheryl Logan-Jorgensen, Amanda Austin, Launie Dalton, Susan Wallace and Kim Gingrich; grand nephews, James Austin, Elliot Logan, Michael Lambert, Seth Houston, William, Steve and Tim Herron; 29 great-grand nieces and nephews; six great-great-grand nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be held 1:00 p.m. Friday, Dec. 26th at Parker Chapel with Dr. Craig Tally officiating. Interment will follow at Ozark Memorial Park with Brock Herron, Ethan Herron, Ben Gingrich, Tim Gingrich, William (Bill) Herron and Rick Wallace serving as pallbearers. Memorial contributions may be made to a Nursing Scholarship established at M.S.S.U. or Gideons International, in care of the mortuary.

Paul Paquette

(From Parker Mortuary)

Paul A. Paquette, age 54, Joplin, passed away on Monday, December 22, 2014 at his residence after a sudden illness.

Paul was born January 19, 1960 in Portland, Maine, son of the late Napoleon Paul Paquette and Ann Dearman Paquette. He worked for S.W. Bell, now AT&T, as an operator for several years.

Survivors include his children, Elizabeth Paquette of Bethel Heights, Ohio, Patrick Ivlow-Paquette of Independence, Missouri, Angela Renee Paquette of Sedalia, Missouri, and Robert Paquette; brother, Mike Paquette of Joplin.

Cremation arrangements are under the direction of Parker Mortuary.

Private family services will be held at a later date.

Charles Marshall

(From Buchanan Funeral Home)

Charles Edwin Marshall, age 82, of Purdy, MO, went home to be with his Lord and Savior on Monday morning, December 22, 2014, while at Cox South Medical Center in Springfield, MO.

Charles was born on September 12, 1932 in Purdy, the only son of the late Jesse S. and Effie E. (Smith) Marshall. Charles graduated from Purdy High School with the class of 1950. As a young man, Charles was a great baseball player. He was spotted and drew interest from the St. Louis Browns as a Pitcher. He decided to serve his country instead, enlisting in the United States Air Force. Charles was stationed at Andrews Air Force Base, where he was Crew Chief. His military experience led him to Rocketdyne in Neosho, where he tested jet engines that were used in the Saturn Rocket Program. For many years, Charles worked for RM Industries as a Salesman, retiring in 1997. He was also a hunting and fishing guide and had a close affiliation with the Catch-A-Dream Foundation. He thoroughly enjoyed singing gospel music and was a longtime member of Gunter Methodist Church.

On September 19, 1959, in Anderson, MO, Charles and Alecia Baldwin were united in marriage. Charles is survived by his wife of fifty-five years, Alecia, of the home; his son, Jay Marshall, and wife Cathy, of Purdy; two daughters; , Susan Jackson, and husband Jim, of Neosho, MO and Jan Mahurin, and husband Tim, of Purdy; five grandchildren, Heather Stafford, Amanda Owenby, Chelsea Marshall, Tanner Marshall and Audra Mahurin; two very special great-granddaughters, Lauren and Charlotte Stafford; one nephew, Gary McNeill, and wife Dianne; and three great-nephews. Charles was preceded in death by one son at birth, Jeffrey S. Marshall; and his sister and brother-in-law, Jessalyn and Thomas McNeill.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, December 26, 2014 at Buchanan Funeral Home. Reverend Jerry Nickle and Reverend Russ Neill will be officiating. Interment will be in the Bethel Cemetery. Visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. until service time on Friday at the funeral home. In memory of Charles, memorial contributions can be made to the Catch-A-Dream Foundation in care of the funeral home. Arrangements have been entrusted to Buchanan Funeral Home, Monett, MO.

Monday, December 22, 2014

Martha McDonald

(From Clark Funeral Home)

Martha E. McDonald, 81, Granby, formerly of Neosho, died Dec. 21, 2014 at Granby House Nursing Home, following a lengthy illness.

 Martha was born Aug. 7, 1933 in Sullivan, IN and moved to the area in 1983 and had worked as a payroll clerk in the trucking industry before retirement. She was a member of the Catholic Church and enjoyed traveling and playing bingo.

 Martha and Gerald ‘Bill’ McDonald were married in April, 1966 at Indianapolis, IN and he preceded her in death on Nov. 8, 1985. She is survived by a stepson, James McDonald and wife, Donna of Brazil, IN; three grandchildren, Lisa McDonald, Connie Barron and husband, Kenny and James McDonald, II and wife, Michelle and five great grandchildren, Jaylene Kehrt, Austin Barron, Baylee Barron, James McDonald, III and Jackson McDonald. In addition to her husband, she is preceded in death by her parents, Karl F. and Marguerite (Owens) Heidenreich and two brothers, Robert Heidenreich and Carl Heidenreich.

Private family service will be held at a later date.

Herbert Ross

(From Clark Funeral Home)

Herbert Ross, 90, Independence, Missouri, formerly of Granby, died December 21, 2014 at Centerpoint Medical Center in Independence, following a short illness.

 Herbert was born September 11, 1924 in Granby, the son of Ed and Naomi (Brown) Ross. He lived in the Kansas City area for the last 58 years. Herbert served in the U.S. Army during World War II and worked as a machinist for an insulation manufacturer. He was a member of the Assembly of God church. Herbert loved fishing, reminiscing about military experiences and going to church. 

He married Hopie Hood on November 6, 1959 in Miami, Oklahoma and she survives. Also surviving are one brother, Kenny Ross of Purdy; one sister, Norma Jean Grissom of Miami, OK and numerous nieces and nephews. Herbert was preceded in death by his parents, three brothers and two sisters.

THE VISITATION WILL BE PRIOR TO THE SERVICE FROM 10:00 TO 11:00 AM
Saturday December 27, 2014 at Clark Funeral Home Granby Chapel

CHAPEL SERVICES
Saturday December 27, 2014, 11:00 AM at Clark Funeral Home Granby Chapel

Angelia VanWinkle

(From Clark Funeral Home)

Angelia Marie Coleman VanWinkle was born July 21, 1964 to Rosalie Gammill in Carthage, Missouri, as her one and only daughter with three older brothers.

 She resided and went to Carthage High School during her teenage years. Angelia’s career in dental hygiene for 31 years was her passion, working up until her illness. Angelia fought a gallant battle for over two years with cancer. She never met anyone she didn't love. Angelia’s family meant so much to her. Her love for her mom and her three brothers was immense. She was actively involved with Teen Challenge, a ministry she loved and believed in. 

She is survived by her husband, Todd VanWinkle; her sons, Ethan and Austin Coleman; her beloved mom, Rosalie Gammill; her father, Kenneth Blotter; her brothers and their wives, Tony and Kathy Lambeth, Les and Karla Lambeth, and Greg and Lana Lambeth; and many uncles, aunts, nieces, nephews and cousins that loved her very much. Angelia is preceded in death by her grandparents, Ralph and Nellie Millard. 

Memorial Service

1:30 PM, Monday, December 29, 2014
Abundant Life Assembly of God
700 Spencer Dr Neosho, MO 64850

Wendy Goad

(From Mason-Woodard Mortuary)

Wendy Goodman Goad, age 49, of Joplin, Mo. passed away at 2:40 a.m. Sunday, December 21, 2014 at her home. Wendy was born August 24, 1965 in Joplin and was a lifetime area resident. She was a graduate of College Heights Christian School and attended the Nashville, Mo. Christian Church.

Survivors include a daughter, Amber Montgomery and husband Jesse, Joplin, a son, Ariah Runnells and wife Nina, Joplin, her parents, John and Linda Goodman, rural Oronogo, Mo., two brothers, Trace Goodman and wife Jennifer, Placentia, Ca., and Danny Goodman, Irvine, Ca. and four grandchildren; Rowan, Aliyah, Gabriel, and Raegan Montgomery.

Services will be at 10:00 a.m. Wednesday at the Nashville Christian Church with Carolyn Litz and Marjorie Taylor officiating. Burial will follow at the Nashville Cemetery. Visitation will be at 9:00 a.m. Wednesday at the Church. Memorial contributions are requested to American Rehabilitation Ministry in care of the Mortuary. Arrangements have been entrusted to the Mason-Woodard Mortuary of Joplin, Mo.

Emmet Poindexter

(From Ulmer Funeral Home)

Emmet L. Poindexter age 74 of Carthage passed away Saturday at his home.

 Emmet was born July 17, 1940 to Ernest and Ella (Hottinger) Poindexter. Emmet was a lifetime Carthage resident and had worked as a Tele-Communications Officer for the Highway Patrol for several years; he had also worked as a carpenter and woodworker in and around the Carthage area. He had retired from the Missouri National Guard. He was a member of the First Baptist Church in Carthage MO. 

Emmet married Sandra Benson May 11, 2002 in Clayton New Mexico. She survives. Other survivors would also include three sons, Jeff Poindexter The Colony, Texas, Anthony Alred Carthage Mo. , and Christopher Alred Joplin MO, two daughters Nicole Alred Houston Texas, and Tina Hatfield Carthage, one sister Mary L. “Susie” Sanders Carthage MO, and Nine grandchildren. Emmet was preceded in death by one daughter Jennifer Kauffman on October 25, 2005 and one brother Robert “Bob” Poindexter April 25, 2013. 

Funeral Services will be at 10:00 a.m. Wednesday December 24, 2014 at the Ulmer Funeral Home Chapel. Visitation will be held Tuesday evening at Ulmer Funeral Home December 23, 2014 from 6:00 to 7: 00 p.m. Burial will be at Fasken Cemetery northeast of Carthage. Contributions may be made to the American Diabetes Foundation c/o Ulmer Funeral Home. 

Arrangements are under the direction of The Ulmer Funeral Home Carthage Mo. Online condolences may be made at www.ulmerfh.com.

Saturday, December 20, 2014

Janice Galloway

(From Parker Mortuary)

Janice Kay Galloway, age 77 of Joplin, passed away Friday, December 19, 2014 at Mercy Hospital in Joplin.

Janice was born on the family farm on November 12, 1937 to the late Earl Dawes and Maxine Lewellen Dawes in Brewster, Kansas.

Janice worked as an R.N. and also taught nursing classes in Colby, Kansas. She received her Master's Degree from Texas Christian University in Fort. Worth, TX. She was a member of Peace Lutheran Church.

On July 03, 1976, Janice married Bill Galloway in Wichita, Kansas. He survives of the home.

Additional survivors include a son, Randy Brown of Joplin; grandchildren, Erynn, Emylee, Shaun and Christopher Brown; great-grandchildren, Mason and Lylee; brother, Don Dawes and wife Phyillis of Brewster, KS; sisters, Sonja Briggman and husband Terry of Hutchison, Kansas and Judy Dunlap of Highland, Kansas.

She is preceded in death by one daughter, Larinda Brown and a son, Richard Brown.

A memorial service will be planned for a later date.

Cremation arrangements are under the direction of Parker Mortuary, Joplin, Missouri.

Matthew Cook

(From Brenner Mortuary)

Matthew Aaron Cook, 19, of Pittsburg, passed away Friday, December 19, 2014, at his home. 

He was born December 31, 1994, at Joplin, MO, the son of James Arris and Tabbi Dawn (Span) Cook. He attended Pittsburg schools and graduated from Pittsburg High School in 2013.He worked for Miller’s Professional Imaging and had also worked at McDonald's. There are not enough words to describe how kind of a person Matthew was. As a child he loved planting flowers with his late grandmother Sherry. Matthew was honest, loving and could sometimes be a handful, but we loved him. Matt loved country music, fishing and hanging with his best friend Mike Vaughn. He was always the life of the party and always a hard worker. Matthew will be missed dearly, and will never be forgotten.

 Survivors include his parents, Tabbi Dawn Cook and James Arris Cook of Pittsburg, KS; four brothers, James Arris Cook, Jr. of Pittsburg, KS, Keagan Burdick of Pittsburg, KS, Chance Vandorn of Pittsburg, KS, and Arris Cook of Galena, KS; his grandfather Kenneth Vandorn of the home, his grandfather James J. Cook of Neosho, MO, and his grandmother Nancy Cook of Columbus, KS; his uncle, Clay Cook of Wisconsin, two aunts, Honi Dawn Camp of Arma, KS, and Jamie Ball of Scammon, KS. He is also survived by a close friend, Michael Vaughn of Pittsburg, KS, and many Aunts, Uncles and Cousins. He was preceded in death by his grandmother, Sherry Vandorn, and his great-grandparents, Harry and Noma Vandorn. 

Services will be 1:30 p.m. Tuesday (Dec. 23) at Brenner Mortuary with Pastor Mike Wilkins and Pastor Jim Sukraw officiating. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the start of the service on Tuesday at the Brenner Mortuary. Burial will follow in the Crocker Cemetery. Friends may also leave condolences online at www.brennermortuary.com. 

Arrangements are under the direction of the Brenner Mortuary, 114 East 4th Street, Pittsburg, KS 66762.

Cheryl Haworth

(From Daniel Funeral Home)

Cheryl Marie Hayworth, age 63, of Oakton, Missouri, passed away Thursday, December 18, 2014 at Freeman West Hospital in Joplin.

Cheryl was born June 23, 1951 at Burbank, California to Floyed and Alma Marie (Perkins) Eaves. On October 8, 1980, at Riverside, California, she married Larry Hayworth and they made their home in California until 2009 when they moved to Lamar to be near family. Cheryl earned an associates degree from Bakersfield Junior College where she was a member of Phi Beta Kappa. She worked for Aegis Medical in Bakersfield for three years before becoming a drug counselor for the California Prison System. Cheryl enjoyed motorcycle riding, crafts, and spending time with family, especially her grandchildren. She was a member of Oakton United Methodist Church.

Survivors include her husband, Larry, of the home; her father and step-mother, Floyed & Norma Eaves, Lamar; two sons, Dan (Tiffany) Hayworth, Lamar and Scott Hayworth, Mission Viejo, California; a sister, Carol Lynn Boren, Lamar; a brother, Dave (Pam) Eaves, Lamar; three step-brothers, Steve (Priscilla) Sweet and Kent Sweet all of Lamar, and Charles (Autumn) Sweet, Granby, Missouri; three grandchildren, Cody Ryan, Ashlyn Marie and Bailey Grace; numerous nephews, nieces, and a large extended family. She was preceded in death by her mother and grandparents.

Honoring Cheryl’s wishes, cremation has taken place. 

Michael Faul

(From Mason-Woodard Mortuary)

Michael Gregory Faul, Sr., age 69, of Joplin, Mo., passed away on Wednesday December 17, 2014, at Freeman Hospital. 

Michael was born on March 25, 1945 in Webb City, the son of Emery Faul and Helen Chester. He has been a lifetime area resident. He served in the United States Navy and was a veteran of the Viet Nam War. He worked for twenty years as a machinist for Vicker’s. He was a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Webb City, Mo. He loved the outdoors, trapping, fishing and hunting were his passion. 

Michael is survived by five sons, Michael G. Faul, Jr, and his wife Erica, Carterville, Mo., James Faul, Miami, Ok., Charles Faul, Joplin, Jason Faul, and his wife Heather, Fairland, Ok., and Nathan Faul and his wife Jennifer, Joplin; his mother, Helen Chester, Joplin; one sister, Karen Long, Joplin; ten grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.

 Funeral services will be 2:00 p.m. Monday at Mason-Woodard Chapel. Pastor Heath Mooneyham and Pastor Tim Talley will officiate. Burial will be in Osborne Memorial Cemetery. The family will receive friends and family 4-5 p.m. Sunday at the mortuary. 

Arrangements are under the direction of Mason-Woodard Mortuary & Crematory.

Friday, December 19, 2014

Rex Jaggars

(From Mason Woodard Mortuary)

Joplin, Mo. Rex C. Jaggars, age 79, of Joplin, Mo. passed away at 2:35 p.m. Thursday, December 18, 2014 at Freeman Hospital West following a sudden illness. Rex was born October 6, 1935 in Joplin and was a lifetime Joplin resident. Rex was employed with the Joplin Globe for 35 years, retiring in 1997. He was a member of the Intl. Typographical Union, and served his country in the Mo. National Guard. He was also a member of the Joplin Lodge 335 A.F.& A.M.

Rex married Frances Cassidy July 1, 1957 in Miami, Ok. She preceded him in death on October 12, 2012. Survivors include a daughter, Kathy Price and husband Gary, Quapaw, Ok., one son, Michael Jaggars and wife Patty, Joplin, one brother, Charles Jaggars, Orrick, Mo., five grandchildren; Michael, Zachary, Timothy, Matthew, and Garrett, and two great grandchildren; Kalib, and Jaxson. He was preceded in death by his parents, Charles and Marie (Wilson) Jaggars, and a sister, Leota Kinslow.

Graveside services will be at 11:00 a.m. Tuesday at Ozark Memorial Park Cemetery with Randy L. Wilson, officiating. Visitation will be from 6-7 p.m. Monday at the Mortuary. Arrangements have been entrusted to the Mason-Woodard Mortuary of Joplin, Mo.

Margaret Huff

(From Brenner Mortuary)

Margaret Helen (Bowin) Huff, 95, of McCune, KS, passed away at 8:00 p.m., Thursday, December 18, 2014.

 She was born January 17, 1919, at Roseland, KS, the daughter of Elmer and May (Welcher) Bowin. She attended local schools, graduating from West Mineral High School in 1936. She then attended Pittsburg Teacher's College and graduated in normal training. On September 7, 1940, she was united in marriage to Paul Kenneth Huff at Bentonville, AR. He preceded her in death on July 6, 2014. Mrs. Huff was a homemaker and teacher. She taught for the Cherokee County Rural Schools and Baseline School in Crawford County. Membership was held in the Osage Church of the Brethren, where she was a Sunday School Teacher, Clerk and Deaconess. She was also a member of the Farm Bureau Extension Unit, former President of the YWCA and member of the Lady of the Lions, McCune. Mrs. Huff was also an excellent seamstress, gardener and cook.

 She is survived by one son, James Huff and his wife, Colleen of rural McCune, KS, two daughters, Sharon Leonard and her husband, Amos of rural Girard, KS, and Carolyn S. Barr and her husband, Darrell of rural Girard, KS, two brothers, Charles Bowin of Scammon, KS, and Donald Albert Bowin of Park Hill, OK, one sister, Beatrice Rippel of Weir, KS, six grandchildren, James Leonard, Dr. C.J. Huff and his wife, Jennifer, Ryan Huff and his wife, Teresa, Raymond Huff and his wife, Ashka, Margaret (Ann) Lee and her husband, Jason, and Darrell (Wayne) Barr, twelve great-grandchildren, Cody Leonard, Camden Leonard, Nolan Leonard, Savannah Huff, Keaton Huff, Julianne Huff, Lauren Huff, Layton Huff, Maximus Huff, Kaja Huff, Adam Lee, and Kelsey Lee and several nieces and nephews. In addition to her husband, she is preceded in death by her parents and four brothers, Ephner, Everett, Thomas and Reneford Bowin.

 A service for Mrs. Huff is set for 10:30 a.m., Monday, December 22, 2014, at the Osage Church of the Brethren, with Pastor Mike Huffaker officiating. Burial will follow in the McCune City Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 2:00 p.m., until 4:00 p.m., Sunday, at the Brenner Mortuary. The family suggests memorials to the Osage Church of the Brethren. These may be left at or mailed to the Brenner Mortuary, 114 East 4th St., Pittsburg, KS 66762. Friends may leave condolences online at www.brennermortuary.com.

 Arrangements are under the direction of the Brenner Mortuary, Pittsburg, KS.

Diane Masters

(From Hedge-Lewis Funeral Home)

Diane Masters, age 67, of Carthage, Mo. passed away early Thursday December 18, 2014 at her home following an illness.

Diane was born on November 8, 1947 in Neosho, Mo., the daughter of Jack and Marybelle (Bowling) Flynn. She has been a lifetime area resident where she spent her days as a homemaker, caring for and loving her family. Diane was a member of the Kingdom Hall in Carterville, Mo.

She married Vernon Masters on June 24, 1966 in Webb City, Mo., he survives. Additional survivors include, 3 daughters, Kathy Cruze of Carthage, Mo., Tammy Jeffers and her husband Brock of Carthage, Wendy Masters of Neosho, Mo.; 5 sons, Roy Masters of Carthage, Kevin Masters and his wife Toni of Joplin, Mo., John Masters of Carthage, Kenny Masters and his wife Kristi of Russellville, Ar., Larry Masters and his wife Narissa of Carthage; 1 sister, Della Taylor and her husband Tom of Cana, W.V.; and 18 grandchildren. Diane was preceded in death by her parents and a son, Billy Masters.

Funeral services have been scheduled for 10 a.m. Monday, December 22, 2014, at the Hedge-Lewis Funeral Home Chapel, Webb City, MO. Burial will follow at Bellfast Cemetery west of Neosho. The family will receive friends at the funeral home during a time of visitation on Sunday from 1 to 2 p.m.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Hedge-Lewis Funeral Home & Crematory.

Thursday, December 18, 2014

Evelyn Dorris

(From Parker Mortuary)

Billie ‘Evelyn’ Belk Dorris, age 71, Joplin, passed away at 9:22 p.m. Tuesday, December 16, 2014 at her residence after a short illness.

Evelyn was born July 6, 1943 in Paris, Kentucky to the late Raymond Belk and Elsie E. Bennett.

She worked at the old Freeman Hospital in Webb City as an RN for several years. She then moved to Hunstville, Texas and worked for 12 years as a corrections officer for the State of Texas Department of Criminal Justice at the Texas State Penitentiary. Evelyn moved to Dallas and worked in several security positions until she moved to Joplin in 2010 and continued her security position until forced to retire due to health.

She loved her family and enjoyed spending time with them. She was an exceptional singer and even twirled at a young age. Evelyn attended Saginaw Baptist Church.

Evelyn was married to Gary Dorris, Sr. on May 25, 1961. They enjoyed 25 years together. He survives in Miami, Oklahoma.

Additional survivors include her children, Debbie Balestrin and her husband, Gregg, Joplin, Gary Dorris, Jr. and his wife, Leeann, Carl Junction, Randy Dorris and his wife, Cheryl, Carthage, Jeff Dorris and his wife, Kim, Carthage, Denise Brisco and her husband, Dennis, Joplin, and April Sidenstricker of Bend, Oregan; siblings, Jim Belk and his wife, Kathy, Urich, Missouri, Gene Puckett, Webb City, Adrian Puckett and his wife, Barbara, Joplin, Patsy Bandy, Bend, Oregon, Barbara Games, Bend, Oregon; grandchildren, Travis, Amber, Ashley, Autumn, Ashton, Lacy, Colten, Dustin, Dylan, Brittany; great grandchildren, Brianna, Aiyana, Amariella, Addisyon, Tanner, Raquel, Dade, Nicholas, Gracyn, Emily, Larrissa, Laney, Whyatt, Haydon; and several extended family members, including nieces, nephews and cousins.

Services are planned for Tuesday at 10:00 a.m. at Saginaw Baptist Church. Rev. Glenn Stark will officiate. Interment will follow at Ozark Memorial Park Cemetery. Pallbearers will be Dustin Dorris, Dylan Dorris, Travis Delzell, Colten Balestrin, Gregg Balestrin, Gary Dorris, Jr. and Randy Dorris. The family will receive friends Monday from 7-8:00 p.m. at Parker Mortuary Chapel.

Special thank you to her sisters, Barbara and Patsy plus Dr. Matt Miller and staff of Freeman Cancer Institue.

Arrangements are under the direction of Parker Mortuary.

Wednesday, December 17, 2014

Nina Deslatte

(From Mason-Woodard Mortuary)

Nina Ruth Deslatte, age 84, of Joplin, went Home to the Lord on Tuesday December 16, 2014, at Freeman Hospital. 

Nina was born on April 20, 1930 in Exeter, Mo., the daughter of the A.B. Wright and Burt & Rachel (Brown) Coile. Nina graduated from Joplin High School in 1948. She married Henry Deslatte in Galveston, Tx. While in Galveston she worked for the telephone company, transferring with them when she moved to Joplin. She opened and became the owner operator of Nina’s Guest House. She was a longtime member of Central Christian Center. She enjoyed traveling across the country in the motor home and she especially enjoyed traveling abroad.

 She was preceded in death by her parents, Burt and Rachel Coile; a grandson, Brent Deslatte, and a brother Cecil Wright. Nina was survived by a son, Pastor Hank Deslatte and his wife Pam, Joplin; a daughter, Linda Deslatte, Joplin; a grandson, Aaron Deslatte, Tallahassee, Fl ; two sisters, Jan Nigles, and Bonnie Jacobs, both of Joplin; and several nieces and nephews. 

A graveside memorial service will be held at 2:00 p.m. Saturday at Ozark Memorial Park Cemetery. Reverend Doug Wilkerson will officiate. The family will receive friends at 1:00 pm. Saturday at Mason-Woodard Chapel, prior to service time. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be given to Central Christian Center in care of the mortuary.

 Arrangements are under the direction of Mason-Woodard Mortuary & Crematory.

Ruthie Fullerton

(From Mason-Woodard Mortuary)

Florence “Ruthie” Fullerton One of God’s creations is now home to be with Him.

 Ruthie was born March 19, 1959 to Marguerite and Clyde Fullerton. She worked at For-All Bible Center and the shelter workshop. She lived through the Joplin tornado at Greenbrier Nursing Home and has spent the last three years at Webb City Heath and Rehab. She always had a smile, a kiss and a hug for everyone. She loved and was so deeply loved. The family is so very thankful for all of the Webb City Health and Rhab Staff. 

She is survived by a sister Carla Leiter and husband Chris, a brother Dale Fullerton and wife Lavina and family, nieces and nephews, great nieces, and nephews- Ashley, Andrew and Annie Snyder; Joel and Elisabeth Gillquist; Leah, John and Shiloh Mallett; Katie, Kyle and Jude Penn; Noah, Stephanie and Aeralyn Leiter; and Jordan, Jordan and Max Leiter.

 Graveside services will be held at 9:30 am Friday December 19, 2014 at the Ozark Memorial Park Cemetery with Dave Ernst and Danny Mullins officiating. The family suggests contributions to the Gideons Bible society in care of the mortuary. Arrangements have been entrusted to the Mason-Woodard Mortuary & Crematory.

Martha Crandall

(From Parker Mortuary)

Martha Rose Crandall, age 70, Joplin, passed away at 8:50 p.m. Friday, December 13, 2014 at Mercy Hospital after an illness.

Martha was born October 25, 1944 in Joplin to the late L.G. Crandall and Edith Cox Crandall.

She worked as an LPN at the former St. John’s Hospital for 17 years. She attended Eagle Picher Elementary; North Junior High and Joplin High School. Martha enjoyed singing and playing the piano and fishing. She met and married Darrell Lowry on August 17, 1959. They were separated and divorced in 1976, but remained friends.

Martha was the mother of two children, Laura Rose Lowry Eudy, age 53 of Joplin and Curtis Lowry, age 52 of Joplin. Martha became the proud grandmother in 1981 to grandson Richard Shaffer, age 33 of Joplin; in 1985 to granddaughter Crystal R. Black, age 29, and her husband, Kenneth, of Joplin; and in 1989 to second granddaughter, Martha Romero, age 25, and her husband, Al, of Joplin.

Martha cherished her great grandchildren very much. Morgan Reed, age 14, Malicka Crandall, age 11, Cheyenne Shaffer, age 11, Chakotae Shaffer, age 9, Zachariah Black, age 6, Malachi Shaffer, age 6, Zyleigha Black, age 5, Achillies Pritchette, age 5, Hannah Shaffer, age 4 and Keaton Williams, age 4.

Martha also leaves behind many nieces; nephews and cousins. She is also survived by her brother, Ronnie Crandall and his wife, Judy.

She was preceded in death by her sister, Mary Martin, and four brothers, Bob Martin, Leon Crandall, Bill Crandall and Jesse Crandall.

Martha has been taken for cremation.

Cremation arrangements are under the direction of Parker Mortuary.

John Brennan, Jr.

(From Daniel Funeral Home)

John Ritchey Brennan, Jr., age 52, of Lamar, passed away Sunday evening, December 14, 2014 at Barton County Memorial Hospital.

John was born November 22, 1962 in Kansas City, Missouri to John Sr. and Mary (Howarthon) Brennan. Growing up in the country, his natural ability to care for livestock and break horses prepared him well for his long-time career as a ranch manager. He worked for Owen-Good Ranch, first near Belton and later in the Jerico Springs area.

On May 23, 1998, at Arcola, Missouri, John married Sherri Wilson and she survives, of the home. Additional survivors include his son, Travis (Blair) Brennan, Grain Valley, Missouri; a step-son, Courten Eador of Texas; a sister, Patti Brennan, Caddo Mills, Texas; a niece, Megan (Nathan) Dawson, Caddo Mills; several cousins and a large extended family.

A service to celebrate John’s life will be held at 11:00 a.m. Friday, December 19that Daniel Funeral Home where the family will receive friends from 10:00 until 11:00 a.m. Friday. Honoring John’s wishes, cremation will take place after the service.

Memorial contributions are suggested to Barton County Memorial Hospital in care of the funeral home.

Burton Rea

(From Daniel Funeral Home)

Burton Dean Rea, age 50, of Liberal, MO passed unexpectedly at his home, Friday December 12, 2014.

Burton was born February 18, 1964 at Yuma, Arizona to Jackie Gene Rae, Sr. and Patricia Sue (Riley) Rea. He graduated Liberal High School in 1983 and had previously worked at the Parsons Ammunition Plant. Burton was employed at Liberal Seed and Farm Supply for the past 18 years where he was a multi-talented and highly valued employee who will be missed.

Burton leaves behind his mother, Patricia Rea; one brother, Jackie Rea, Jr.; and a sister, Anna Marie Morris, all of Liberal; two great nieces; one great nephew; and many family and friends.

Preceding him in death were his father, Jackie Rea, Sr. in June of 1983, and his grandparents.

Graveside service was held 1:00 pm Tuesday, December 16, 2014 at Liberal City Cemetery.

Contributions are suggested to the Rea family in care of Daniel Funeral Home