Kenny Sharp

(From Mason-Woodard Mortuary)

Kenneth “Kenny” Sharp, age 62, of Joplin, MO passed away at 1:52 a.m. Wednesday, December 30, 2015 following a two year illness. Kenny was born March 12, 1953 in Neosho, MO and had lived in Joplin most of his life. He was a U. S. Army veteran and served several years with the National Guard. He was of the Methodist faith. Kenny was the owner of Sharp’s Import Auto Centre in Joplin for over 30 years. Prior to beginning his auto service business he worked as a driver for the Anheuser-Busch Co. Kenny made many friends from his business and never met a stranger. His family remembers him as a great husband and Dad.

Survivors include his wife Linda, a son from his first marriage, Josh Ledbetter, Tulsa, OK, two sons from his current marriage, Mason Sharp, Monett, MO, and Casey Sharp, Joplin, his Mother, Virginia Sharp, Carthage, MO, and two grandchildren, Kellen and Grace Ledbetter.

Kenny’s wishes were to be cremated. A Celebration of Life Service will be held at 1:30 p.m. Saturday, January 9th. at Sharp’s Import Auto Centre, 3735 E. 20th St. in Joplin. Arrangements have been entrusted to Mason-Woodard Mortuary of Joplin, Mo.

Donnie Sturgeon

(From Clark Funeral Home)

Donnie Ray Sturgeon, 58, Neosho, died December 15, 2015 at Freeman West Hospital in Joplin, following failing health. 

Donnie was born December 30, 1956 in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, the son of Virgil and Edna (Stone) Sturgeon. He moved to the area as a small child and was a lifelong area resident. He served in the National Guard from 1975-1981 and had worked as a self employed heavy equipment operator and owned the Lazy S Mobile Home Park. He was an avid hunter and fisherman and enjoyed working outside. 

He is survived by two daughters, Christina Sturgeon of Neosho and Amanda Brattin of Joplin; two grandchildren, Vanessa Brattin and Morgan Brattin and a brother, Ronnie Sturgeon of Carthage. He is preceded in death by a grandson, Coby Brattin and his parents.

Memorial Service
Saturday January 9, 2016, 3:00 PM
Neosho Christian Church on Palm Road across from Lazy S Mobile Home Park

Barbara Gourley

(From Four State Cremation)

Barbara Ellen Gourley, 81 of Carthage passed away on December 29th, 2015 @ 12:29 pm at her home, after a courageous battle with cancer, with her family by her side.

She was born July 9th, 1934 in Carthage, MO. Barbara was the daughter of Elmer and Guyline Slack Frey, who preceded her in death.

Barbara loved her family and spent as much time with them as she could. She had a beautiful garden with lots of flowers especially roses. She loved her pets, Burney was her favorite. She enjoyed crocheting and facebook.

Barbara married Jesse Lee Gourley Sr on June 25th, 1950 in Bentonville, AR. They were married 45 years and from this union were five children. Kathy & William Smith of Carthage, MO, Jesse Jr & Gloria Gourley of Carthage, MO, Jimmy & Deb Gourley of Miller, MO, Pam & Jody Wolsey Sr of Carthage, MO and Jerry & Debbie Kay Gourley of Carthage, MO.

Barbara had nine Grandchildren – Jennifer Bates, Misty Eighmy and husband Mark, Stephanie Smith, Jesse Gourley III and wife Callie, Jody Wolsey Jr and wife Kati, Stacey Weaver and husband Michael, Heather Gourley and Amber Teel and husband Chandler. Six Great Grandchildren – Adrianna Bates, Samantha Eighmy, Dausen Gourley, Andrew Eighmy, Hunter Gourley and Sawyer Teel.

She is survived by 2 brothers Elmer and wife Theresa Frey of Joplin, MO and Roger and wife Janet Frey of San Felipe, TX and sister in law Joan Stocker of Carthage, MO and many nieces and nephews.

Barbara was preceded in death by her husband Jesse Sr, her son Jesse Jr and her sister Phyllis Cundiff.

Memorial service will be held Saturday, January 2nd, 2016 at 10 am at the Carthage Nazarene Church; Rev Jeff Martin will be conducting the service.

Memorial contributions can be made in honor of Barbara Gourley to the Breast Cancer Foundation of the Ozarks.

Harold Cornell

(From Daniel Funeral Home)

Harold James Cornell, of Lamar, MO was surrounded by family as he passed away on Sunday, December 27^th, 2015 at the age of 67.

He was born in Lamar, MO on February 26^th, 1948 to Melvin Art Cornell and Laura Nadine Embry. He attended school in Lamar, MO and Wichita, KS. He met the love of his life, Brenda Wampler in November 1968 on the Lamar Square and they married 3 months later on February 21, 1969. They celebrated 46 years of marriage this year. Harold and Brenda have two sons, Harold “Jamie” and Dustin who loved and admired their father very much.

In his early years, Harold enjoyed going to rodeos where he was a pick-up man. He and Brenda took many trips on his motorcycle. Harold enjoyed the simple pleasures and beauty of life outdoors where he spent much of his time. He was an avid fisherman and he spoke often and fondly of his wild boar and coon hunting trips. He was a self-taught musician and played the guitar, mandolin, fiddle and harmonica. He was of the generation who could fix anything and was always collecting cars and other equipment that needed some elbow grease.

Most of all, Harold was kind, generous and loved his family fiercely. He was the type of man who would go without to fill the need of another. Harold was a man of few words but never hesitated to tell his family how much he loved them. He made sure his family knew the love of God and took his family to worship with their church family at Hopewell Cumberland Presbyterian Church. He had a tremendous sense of humor which he kept until the very end.

Harold is survived by his wife Brenda Cornell of Lamar; sons Harold “Jamie” Cornell II of Lamar and Dustin Cornell of Oklahoma City; daughter-in-law, Sarah Adams-Cornell of Oklahoma City; grandchildren, Trinity Cornell, Harold “Jayce” Cornell III, Isabella Cornell and Gabrielle Cornell; sibling, Brenda Rhine; in-laws, Wayne Duncan and Dhea Cornell. He was preceded in death by his parents Melvin Art Cornell and Nadine Embry; siblings, Artie Cornell and Linda Duncan.

Services will be held at Daniel Funeral Home, 1201 Broadway, Lamar, MO on Wednesday, December 30^th, 2015 at 6:00 pm. Visitation to follow service. Donations can be made in honor of Harold to Hopewell Cumberland Presbyterian Church. The family would like to thank the doctors, nurses and staff at Barnes Jewish Hospital for their kindness during their 3 month stay.

Nelson Nichols

(From Ozark Funeral Home)

Mr. Carl Nelson Nichols, Jr., 87, of Anderson, Missouri, departed this life on Monday, December 28, 2015, at the Freeman Hospital in Neosho, Missouri, after a sudden illness.

Nelson entered this life on February 2, 1928, in El Paso, Texas, son of the late Carl Nichols, Sr. and Henrietta Louise (Oliver) Nichols. He was raised in Hollywood, California, and was a 1945 graduate of Hollywood High School. He resided in Lakeside, California, before moving to Moore, Oklahoma, in 1967. Nelson was a Minister of the Church of Christ, surrendering to the ministry at the age of seventeen. He also worked for a period of time in pharmaceutical sales and as a realtor. On February 16, 1970, he was united in marriage to Earlene Eaves and together they have shared the last forty-five years. In 1974, he and Earlene moved their family to Anderson, Missouri. Shortly after moving to Anderson, he decided to further his education by attending Crowder College and Missouri Southern State College, earning his Master’s Degree in Education at the age of fifty. He began employment with the McDonald County School District, first teaching art and eventually becoming principal and teacher at both White Rock and Rocky Comfort. In 2004, he retired as the Anderson Elementary School Counselor. In his spare time he enjoyed, reading, woodworking and art projects.

He was preceded in death by his first wife, Naoma Carlene Nichols, his parents; four brothers, Ray, Eddie, Charlie, and David Nichols; a sister, Louise King; and a great granddaughter, Carly Ann Nichols.

Nelson is survived by his wife, Earlene Nichols of the home; five sons, Carl N. “Nick” Nichols, III and wife, Sally, of Neosho, Missouri, Ed Rylan Nichols and wife, Joy, of Tulsa, Oklahoma, Brad N. Nichols of Anderson, Missouri, Barton J. Nichols and wife, Michelle, of Joplin, Missouri, and Paul R. Nichols and wife, Shaine, of Claremore, Oklahoma; three daughters, Machelle D. Nelson and husband, Roy, of Riverbank, California, Jessica D. Nelson and husband, Nate, of Wichita, Kansas, and Sandy J. Nichols also of Wichita; twenty-three grandchildren; four great grandchildren; two brothers, Paul O. Nichols of Overland Park, Kansas, and Richard F. Nichols of Birmingham, Alabama; a sister, Betty Jean Middick of Springfield, Missouri; several nieces and nephews; as well as a host of other family and friends.

Funeral services for Mr. Nichols are 11:00 a.m. Monday, January 4, 2016, in the Anderson Chapel of the Ozark Funeral Homes with Ronny F. Wade and Carl M. Johnson officiating. Burial will follow in the Peace Valley Cemetery in Anderson, Missouri. Those honoring his life by serving as pallbearers are Jared, Etienne, Uriah, David and Josiah Nichols and Clay Nelson. Matthew, Cameron, Brock and Jason Nichols and Levi Nelson will be serving as honorary pallbearers. The family will receive friends on Monday morning at 10:00 a.m. in the funeral home chapel. A memorial has been established and contributions may be left at the funeral home. On-line condolences may be sent to the family through our website, www.ozarkfuneralhome.com. Arrangements are under the personal care and direction of the Ozark Funeral Home in Anderson, Missouri.

Grant Choate

(From Hedge-Lewis-Goodwin Funeral Home)

Grant E. Choate, age 87, of Carl Junction, Missouri passed away Tuesday, December 29, 2015 following a sudden illness.

He was born February 15, 1928 in Mt. Vernon, Missouri to Harrison and Letha (Gericke) Choate.

Grant served in the United States Navy and retired after twenty years of service. He worked at Rex Metallic Casket Company, and for the Missouri Department of Transportation for twenty years. He enjoyed photography and was never hesitant when asked for his opinion.

He married Ruth (Burkhart) Cunningham on February 10, 2007 in Webb City, Missouri and she survives of the home. He is also survived by four sons; Keith Warren, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, Randy Choate, Grove, Oklahoma, Ric Choate, Powell, Missouri, Chuck Choate and wife Kim, the state of Virginia, one daughter; Cindy Simpson and husband Ron, Joplin, Missouri, one sister; Freida Moore, Gunnerville, Alabama, eight grandchildren and numerous great grandchildren, two stepsons; Mikel Burkhart and wife Bobby, Webb City, Missouri, Darieus Patton and wife Ashlea, Joplin, Missouri, three step daughters; Sue Ann Forkner and husband Patrick, Joplin, Missouri, Rose and Ruth Burkhart Joplin, Missouri, twenty-one step grandchildren and two step great grandchildren.

Grant was preceded in death by his parents, two brothers, and three sisters.

Those gentlemen honoring his life by serving as pallbearers are; Randy Choate, Ric Choate, Chuck Choate, Mikel Burkhart, Darieus Patton, and Patrick Forkner.

Funeral services will be 11:00 a.m. Saturday, January 2, 2016 at the Hedge-Lewis-Goodwin Funeral Home with Pastor Bob Dart officiating. Burial with full military honors will follow at the Friends Cemetery in Purcell, Missouri. The family will receive friends on Friday January 1, 2016 from 4:00 pm to 5:00 pm at the funeral home.

Arrangements are under the personal care and direction of Hedge-Lewis-Goodwin Funeral Home Webb City, Missouri.

Gaylen Ewing

(From Mason-Woodard Mortuary)

Gaylen Ewing was born on June 11, 1929 and passed away on December 27, 2015 at his home after a short illness. He was a lifelong Joplin resident and graduated from Joplin High School in 1947. After high school he attended Joplin Junior College until joining the Air Force. After four years of service he returned to Joplin and married Mary Helen Smith on July 12, 1952. She survives.
Additional survivors include three daughters - Elsie Lynn Crume, Rebecca White and Scott and Tammy Perry and Jamie.

Gaylen had nine grandchildren - Mandy Merriman and Robbie, Matt White and Michelle, Angie White, Mary Beth White, Kyle Perry, Kurt Perry, Logan Perry, Kendra Headrick and Trevor, Kristin Davenport and Dustin. Twelve great-grandchildren, Gavin, Layni, Landon, Riley, Jackson, Maddie, Maslyn, Will, Ethan, Levi, Lexi and Hunter, and many more called him "Papa". His sister, Nancy LeMasters and Lonnie, also survives, as do many nieces and nephews. 

His parents, Maurice and Elsie Ewing, preceded him in death, as well as siblings Mercedes Potter, Harold Ewing, Bob Ewing and Richard Ewing. He adored his family and they all adored him.
After returning to the area, Gaylen worked for Vickers, North American Rockwell and retired from Teledyne in Neosho in 1991.

For his leisure time he was an avid golfer, spending most Wednesdays and Fridays at Schifferdecker golf course. He was the Patriarch of the yearly Dick Ewing Invitational. Gaylen loved St. Louis Cardinals baseball. He spent many Sundays with family and friends cheering on the Red Birds.
Services will be 11:00 A.M. Thursday December 31, 2015 at Fellowship Baptist Church. Reverend Rex Wakefield will officiate. Burial will be in Ozark Memorial Park Cemetery. The pallbearers will be Matthew White, Kyle Perry, Kurt Perry, Logan Perry, Gavin Merriman, and Rob Merriman.

In lieu of flowers, donations will be accepted to the Fellowship Baptist Church building fund.
Arrangements are under the direction of Mason-Woodard Mortuary & Crematory.

Fred Allen

(From Mason-Woodard Mortuary)

Fred J. Allen, 74 years old, died Sunday December 27th, at Medicalodge of Columbus after a long struggle with Pick’s Dementia.

Fred, a lifelong resident of Scammon, Ks, was born on March 31, 1941 to James C. and Helen Elizabeth (Hisle) Allen. Fred graduated from West Mineral High School in 1959 and joined the Army Reserves in which he served for seven years with an honorable discharge. 

In 1972 he married Molly M. Kieselbach in Jefferson City, MO. Molly survives at the home in Columbus. In the past Fred worked various jobs including Burgan’s Trucking and Excavating and the Gulf Chemical Plant. More recently Fred had owned and operated his own plumbing and electrical repair and supply business (Fred’s Plumbing & Electric) since 1975 and had a family-owned rental business, F&M Rental, from 1994-2006. He was a member of the Scammon Presbyterian Church.
Other survivors include one daughter, Elesha B. Draeger (Ben) of rural Columbus, one son Blake J. Allen of Norman, Ok, two grandchildren Cameron D. Draeger and Katelyn M. Draeger of Columbus, sisters Mary Lou Ross (Jim) of Cotter, AR, Alberta Flowers of Satellite Beach, FL., and Carole Thornton (Bennie) of Miami, OK, brothers Bill Allen of Trenton, Mo, Tom Allen (Mary) of Miami, OK and numerous nieces and nephews. 

He was preceded in death by his parents, brothers James, Walter, and Jack, sister Flora Lee Bowin, and brothers-in-law Rennie Bowin and Louis Flowers. 

His body has been cremated and services will be announced at a later date. 

Donations in honor of Fred may be mad to the Association for Frontotemporal Degeneration online at theaftd.org

Mike Denefrio

(From Clark Funeral Home)

Michael ‘Mike’ Ray Denefrio, 71, Neosho, died December 30, 2015 at Freeman West Hospital, following a short illness. 

Mike was born October 29, 1944 in Neosho, the son of Patsy Michael and DeWayne (Hopkins) Denefrio. He was a lifelong area resident and a real estate agent for Homefinder’s Real Estate. He loved to farm, hunt, fish and spend time with his grandchildren and was a member of the Rocketdyne Road Church of Christ. 

Mike married Euleda Lankford on June 6, 1965 at Neosho and she survives. Additional survivors include a son, Jeff Denefrio of Ardmore, OK; a daughter, Vicki Wargo and husband, Jason of McGuire Air Force Base, New Jersey; daughter in law, Shirl Denefrio of Ardmore, OK; three grandchildren, Ryan Denefrio, Logan McDowell and Lauren Denefrio; two brothers, Richard Denefrio and wife, Calleen of Neosho and David Denefrio of Overland Park, KS and a sister, Patricia Evans and husband, Earl of Gloucester, VA. In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by a sister, Carole Scribner.

Viewing

9:00 AM - 6:30 PM, Monday, January 4, 2016
Clark Chapel of Memories
312 S. Wood St. Neosho, Mo 64850

Visitation

5:00 PM - 6:30 PM, Monday, January 4, 2016
Clark Chapel of Memories
312 S. Wood St. Neosho, Mo 64850

Services

10:00 AM, Tuesday, January 5, 2016
Rocketdyne Rd. Church of Christ
Hwy 60 Neosho,, Mo

Roy Dowell

(From Clark Funeral Home)

Roy Lee Dowell, 68, Granby, died December 28, 2015 at his home in Granby, following an extended illness.

Roy was born Feb. 14, 1947 in Tulsa, Oklahoma. He served in the U.S. Army and was a truck driver and automobile dealer. 

He is survived by his companion of 24 years, Linda Mung; three sons, Mike Dowell, Brian Dowell and Rick Dowell; three brothers, Larry Dowell, Marvin Davis and Lloyd Davis, Sr.; five sisters, Patricia Clark, Teresa Snow, Donna Davis, Mary Kavanaugh and Cathy Bradley; ten grandchildren and six great grandchildren.

VISITATION
Monday January 4, 2016, 6:00 PM - 7:00 PM at Clark Funeral Home Granby Chapel

SERVICES
Monday January 5, 2015, 1:00 PM at Clark Funeral Home Granby Chapel

Tom Gerken

(From Parker Mortuary)

Thomas (Tom) Lynn Gerken, 68, formerly of Chanute, Kansas, passed away Thursday, December 24, 2015 at Freeman Hospital following an extended illness.

Tom was born January 10, 1947 in Iola, Kansas to the late Lewis Gerken and Vera Hollrah Gerken Hays. He lived in the Chanute area until 1997 and was the General Manager of Chanute Grain and Seed. Tom received his Bachelor’s Degree from Valparaiso University in Valparaiso, Indiana. He was a member of Immanuel Lutheran Church in Joplin.

Tom is survived by a sister, Denise Geier and husband, Chris of Carl Junction; brothers, Barry Gerken and wife, Panny of Bolton, Massachusetts and Timothy Gerken and wife, Kathy of Columbia, Missouri; plus nieces, nephews and extended family.

A Memorial Service is planned for January 9, 2015 at 10:30 a.m. at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Joplin, Missouri. Pastor Gregory Mech will officiate.

Burial of ashes will take place the same day in Mt. Hope Cemetery, Humboldt, Kansas at 2:30 pm, weather permitting. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to Immanuel Lutheran Church in care of the mortuary.

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

Bill Beauvais

(From Clark Funeral Home)

William ‘Bill’ E. Beauvais, 63, Neosho, died Dec. 28, 2015 at Granby House Nursing Home, following an illness since August 2015. 

Bill was born March 14, 1952 and moved to the area in 1977. He served in the U.S. Army and worked as a truck driver for CFI and Conway Trucking. He enjoyed pre-history, geology and politics. 

Bill married Carolyn Marie Park on Feb. 27, 1983 and she preceded him in death on August 29, 2015. He is survived by three children, Jason (Mayra) Knapp of Neosho; Jared Beauvais of Neosho and Jaylee (Samuel) Beauvais-Kyser of Leavenworth, KS; his mother, Marjorie ‘Peg’ Beauvais of Springhill, FL; three grandchildren, Marissa Knapp, Andrew Knapp and Isaak Beauvais; two brothers, Robert Beauvais of Hidington, MI and James Beauvais of Ocean Shores, WA and a sister, Michelle Weston of White Hall, MI.

VIEWING
Saturday January 2, 2016, 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM at Clark Chapel of Memories

VIEWING
Sunday January 3, 2016, 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM at Clark Chapel of Memories

VISITATION
Sunday January 3, 2016, 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM at Clark Chapel of Memories

SERVICES
Monday January 4, 2016, 10:00 AM at Clark Chapel of Memories

Isabella Rogers

(From Parker Mortuary)

Isabella Marie Rogers, 19 months old of Centerton, Arkansas, passed away unexpectedly on December 25, 2015.

Isabella was born May 20, 2014 in Joplin to Zachery Lynn Rogers and Serynity Arianna Pietrzak. She was a beautiful little girl who was adored by everyone who knew her.

Surviving Isabella are her mother, Serynity A. Pietrzak of Joplin; father, Zachery L. Rogers of Centerton; paternal grandparents, Sam and Carrie Berg of Centerton, Robert and Cameron Rogers of Joplin; paternal great-grandparents, Christopher and Sherry Richards of Baxter Springs, Kansas and Saundra Richards of Anderson, Missouri; maternal grandparents, Lori Rose and Anthony Mann of Joplin, Jeremy Pietrzak and fiance' Vicki Hess of Joplin; maternal great-grandparents, David Pietrzak of Joplin and Cheri Michaud of Tulsa; many aunts, uncles, cousins and extended family that will always cherish Isabella forever in their hearts.

Services are planned for Thursday, December 31 at 2:00 p.m. at Parker Mortuary.

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

Pat Willard

(From Simpson Funeral Home)

Iri Dell (Pat) Willard, Jr. died December 28, 2015 at his Webb City home, where he was born February 21, 1922. Pat was preceded in death by his father, Iri Dell, Sr, and his mother, Mable (McMilian) Willard, a brother, Byron C. and sister-in-law, Bernice (Gladden) Willard and their son, Ralph Willard. Pat’s daughter, Elisa Willard died March 3, 2006. Pat was fond of his grandfather, William Willard, who marched to the sea with Sherman during the Civil War and for whom the city of Willard, Mo was named. 

Survivors include his wife, Laura (Wolfe) Willard of the home, having celebrated nearly 70 years of marriage together; a daughter, Sherry and her husband, Kenny Thomas of Carthage; a son, Dr. Ray Dell Willard of Galena, KS; a niece, Phylis and her husband Harold Hoofnagle and family; a grandson, John Thomas; a granddaughter, Angela and her husband Gerry Pierson; six great grandchildren and two great great grandchildren. 

Starting in 1942, Pat apprenticed with his father in the design and fabrication of water drill rigs at Keystone Drilling at Joplin. He joined the Missouri State Highway Department in 1952, retiring in 1978. He served as Carterville Volunteer Fireman for over 35 years and as a deacon for over 40 years at the Community of Christ, Webb City. 

A special thank you is extended to the staff of Hospice Campassus for their loving, professional care over the last 7 months. 

A memorial service will be held at the Community of Christ, 2nd and Oronogo Streets, Webb City, MO on Saturday, January 9th, 2016 at 2:00 PM, Evangelist Bob Casino, presiding. Interment in the Oronogo Cemetery. Services are under the direction of Simpson Funeral Home in Webb City. Please visit www.simpsonfh.com for online condolences.

Bill Stevens

(From Campbell-Biddlecome Funeral Home)

William Ray Stevens was born June 17, 1948 in Joplin, MO, the son of Virgil R. and Mary Lucille (Hill) Stevens. Bill loved to travel the highways and byways of life meeting new and interesting people along the way. He learned early in life the value of hard work, but also enjoyed life and the people you meet in it. Bill never meet a stranger. 

 
At age 14, Bill worked for the former Helm Grocery Store in Seneca. He loved to learn and loved to share knowledge with others. He attended Crowder College where he earned his associates degree. He received his Bachelor's Degree at Missouri Southern State College and went on to CMSU to receive his Masters in education. He received his Doctorate from the University of Arkansas.
His teaching career began in 1972 at the High School in Max Creek, MO; he went to teach in Rolla, MO and on to Independence, KS Junior College. Later, Bill moved to NEO in Miami, OK and to Pittsburg State University. Bill finished his career at Missouri Southern State University working there until he retired in 2011.

Bill was a life long member of the Seneca Christian Church where he taught a Sunday School Class for many years.

William Ray Stevens married Jeanie Beard, December 19, 1969 in Quapaw, OK and she survives.
Additional survivors include one daughter, Sally Luann Sarhan and husband Moh, New York, NY; one son, Craig William Stevens and wife, Sydel, St. Louis, MO; one sister, Joanne Needham and husband John, Seneca, MO; two grandchildren, Silas and Wyatt and four grandcats.
Bill was preceded in death by his parents.

The family will be holding a Celebration of Life Service at 2:00 PM, Wednesday, December 30, 2015 at the Seneca Christian Church located at 14200 Bethel Rd, Seneca, MO with Doug Lawson officiating. If you have a story about Bill’s life please come and share. There will be a reception following the services. 

The body has been taken for cremation.

Memorial contributions can be made to Cookson Hills – Christian haven for children, 60416 Highway 10, Kansas, OK 74347 or donate online atwww.cooksonhills.org.

Bill Griffith

(From Parker Mortuary)

If you were ever looking for a good story, you knew where to find one. Bill H. Griffith entered his eternal life around 6:30 pm on Saturday December 26 while in the comfort of his own home and surrounded by his family who loved him so much.

The youngest of 6 children, he was born in Eastern Kentucky in June of 1938 to Suell and Minnie Griffith. He spent his childhood in the "hollars" running around back hills and woods until his father relocated the family to Greenwich, a little town in Northern Ohio. Here is where he met his wife of 54 years, Nora, who survives him. He is also survived by 4 children and 5 grandchildren that he loved very much; Bryan Griffith and his daughter Emma, Jerry Griffith and his wife Diana, Gwyneth Griffith-Beaton and her son Luke, and Kimberley Griffith and her two sons Dakota, Wyatt and daughter Reese.

Bill is a military veteran, having served in the United States Navy and was proud to have been a part of commissioning the Naval Ship, the USS Independence. Anyone who knows Bill, knows he always had his blue Military hat on which proudly displayed the ship on front.

As a devout man of God and faithful servant to his Lord, Bill attended the Freewill Baptist Church on Hyacinth Rd in Carthage Missouri. He did whatever he could to help the church, if something needed fixed at the building he was on it. He would go over early and turn on the heat or air before anyone else so the building was comfortable. He served as a Trustee of the Church as well as a Deacon. If you were sick or in the hospital he would make the rounds with his Pastor and good friend, Jim Williams.

He worked as an electrician and retired early moving to Joplin after living a short time in Apache Junction, Arizona. He made Joplin his home and created powerful ties with his church family. A good friend, a loving husband, father and grandfather and favorite uncle to many nieces and nephews, he will leave a void in all lives he touched but he will also leave many touched hearts for he was a gift from God, whose soul has now gone on to rest peacefully and weep no more.

Memorial service will be 1:00 p.m. Wednesday at Freewill Baptist Church, 18715 Hyacinth Road in Carthage with Pastor Jim Williams officiating. Private interment will be in Osborne Memorial Cemetery under the direction of Parker Mortuary.

Elsie Korn

(From Ulmer Funeral Home)

Elsie M. Korn, 93, passed away December 27, 2015 in Carthage, MO. 

Elsie was born December 22, 1922 in Jasper, MO to Royden Seidner and Edna “Cochran” Seidner. Elsie was a lifetime Jasper County resident and a homemaker, she was a member of the Church of Christ of Carthage. 

Elsie was united in marriage to Dean Korn February 28, 1942 in Carterville MO. He preceded her in death September 2, 2007. Elsie is survived by one daughter Kathryn Korn of the home and two sons Stephen Korn and wife Karen of Carthage and Michael Korn and wife Lynn of Carthage, twelve grandchildren, twenty six great grandchildren and 3 great great grandchildren. Elsie is preceded in death by her parents, her husband, and one son Larry Korn, May 16, 1990. 

Services will be held at 2:00 p.m. Saturday January 2, 2016 at The Church of Christ South Grand Ave. Carthage, MO. Visitation will be from 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Friday, January 1, 2016 at Ulmer Funeral Home. Burial will be at Fasken Cemetery. Contributions can be made to Church of Christ, Carthage, in care of Ulmer Funeral Home. Online condolences can be made at www.ulmerfh.com. 

Arrangements are under the direction of Ulmer Funeral Home.

Jean Potter

(From Ulmer Funeral Home)

Jean Gay Potter, 94, passed away December 27, 2015 at Maple Tree Terrace in Carthage, MO. 

Jean was born November 11, 1921 in Quapaw, Oklahoma, to David Wiles and Ida “Gilmore” Wiles. Jean was a longtime Carthage resident, and taught 5th grade at Mark Twain in Carthage for 27 years. Jean formerly owned Potter’s locker and hatchery on Grant Street. She was a member of the First United Methodist Church of Carthage. 

Jean was united in marriage to Lawrence “Larry” Potter he preceded her in death. Jean is survived by one son Larry Potter, and one daughter Nancy Greenwood and husband Garry, two grandchildren Brian Mueller, and Sara Shepherd, six great grandchildren Kylie, Tyler and Ashton Mueller and London, Jace and Urban Shepherd. Jean is preceded in death by her parents and husband, one brother and three sisters. 

The body has been taken for cremation and a private family memorial service will be held at a later date. Contributions can be made at the charity of the donor’s choice in memory of Jean in care of Ulmer Funeral Home. Online condolences can be made at www.ulmerfh.com. 

Arrangements are under the direction of Ulmer Funeral Home.

Dorthy Rundle

(From Hedge-Lewis-Goodwin Funeral Home)

Dorthy G. Rundle, age 86, of Carterville, Missouri passed away on Christmas Day, December 25, 2015 following a lengthy illness.

She was born October 12, 1929 in Salem, Missouri to James and Sylvia Petty.

Dorthy worked for Elders Shirt Factory, Big Smith Manufacturing and was a homemaker.

She married Alonzo Rundle on July 22, 1949 in Bentonville, Arkansas and he survives of the home. She is also survived by two sons; Howard Rundle and Lenis Rundle, two daughters; Barbara Davenport and Beverly Proffit, 16 grandchildren, 32 great-grandchildren, 2 great-great-grandchildren, and 2 half-sisters; Sarah Coleman and Donna Edgil.

Dorthy was preceded in death by her parents, three sons; Alonzo Leo Rundle, Donnie Rundle and Ivan Rundle, two daughters; Debrah Rundle and Iva Rundle, two brothers; James Lee Petty and Johnny Petty, four sisters; Lorene Stroupe, Clara Sanders, Pauline Fox and Alice Vasquez and a half-sister, Mary Smith.

Graveside services will be 2:00 p.m. Wednesday, December 30, 2015 at the Webb City Cemetery with Pastor Morris Cleveland officiating. The family will receive friends Tuesday from 6:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Hedge-Lewis-Goodwin Funeral Home.

Those gentlemen honoring her life by serving as pallbearers are; Dakota Jeffery, Nathan Davenport, Dale Davenport, Mike Soard, Michael McQuade, and Brandon Proffit.

Arrangements are under the personal care and direction of Hedge-Lewis-Goodwin Funeral Home, Webb City, Missouri.

Cynthia LaMere

(From Simpson Funeral Home)

Cynthia Jo LaMere, age 62, of Webb City, passed away Sunday, Dec. 27 at CoxHealth South in Springfield. She had been treated for cancer for several years. 

Mrs. LaMere was born on Nov. 19, 1953, in Grand Rapids, Mich. to John and Delores Harris Stadler. She grew up in lower Michigan prior to graduating from high school in Champion, in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, where she met her husband. She was a nurse prior to starting a family and moving here in 1979 to join her parents in operating the accounting firm Stadler-LaMere and Associates. She and her husband became owners of the firm, and she managed the office. She was a member of Wellspring Church. 

Cindy married Ron “Smiley” LaMere on Dec. 7, 1974, in Champion. He preceded her in death on June 8, 2012. Survivors include two daughters, Carrie Mayes and her husband Shawn, Joplin, and Melodee Long and her husband Ben, Webb City; four grandchildren, Makayla and Eli Mayes and Kaylee and Trey Long; her mother, Dee Kamler; a brother, John Stadler and his wife Kathy, Olympia, Wash., and Robert Stadler and his wife Jill, Buffalo, Mo.; and several nieces and nephews. Cindy was preceded in death by her father, John Stadler. 

Funeral services will be held at 10 a.m. Thursday, Dec. 31 at Christ’s Church of Oronogo, with Pastor Scott Smith officiating. Visitation will be from 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday at Simpson Funeral Home. Burial will be at Mt. Hope Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the Ron and Cindy LaMere Memorial Scholarship Fund, in care of the Webb City R-7 Schools Foundation, or to Webb City CARES.

Kathleen Mode

(From Clark Funeral Home)

Kathleen Mode, 72, Springfield, died December 26, 2015 at her home, with family by her side.

She was born August 6, 1943 in Stella, Missouri, the daughter of Roland and Cleo (Bowman) Garrison. Kathleen graduated from Rocky Comfort High School in 1961. 

Following graduation, she moved to Kansas City where she met and married Ronald Mode. They lived there until moving to Springfield in 1992. Kathleen was a homemaker and a member of Rocky Comfort Baptist Church. She is survived by her husband, Ronald, and one daughter, Paula Mode. Kathleen is preceded in death by her parents.

Services

1:00 PM, Saturday, January 2, 2016
Clark Funeral Home Granby Chapel
12787 B. Hwy Granby, MO.

Laura Tillman

(From Clark Funeral Home)

Laura M. Tillman, 61, Neosho, died December 26, 2015 at Freeman West Hospital in Joplin, following a sudden illness. 

Laura was born December 2, 1954 in Oil Dale, CA and had moved to the Neosho area in 1994 from Cassville, MO and currently worked at Beimdiek Insurance in Neosho. She was an amazing vocalist, an avid reader, enjoyed cooking and sewing and was a member of the Fellowship Baptist Church in Neosho. 

Laura married James Tillman on November 19, 1994 at Exeter and he survives. Additional survivors include a daughter, Aundrea (Dennis) Petty of Neosho; two step sons, Adam (Dawn) Tillman of Neosho and Danny (Brandy) Tillman of Anderson; five grandchildren, Danielle Tillman, Alyssa Tillman, Madison Ditzler, Nathanial Gage Tillman and Kerman Reece Tillman and a brother, Jessie (Sandra) Millican of Greenfield, MO. She is preceded in death by her parents, Jessie C. and Marian G. (Wiley) Millican.

Viewing

9:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Wednesday, December 30, 2015
Clark Chapel of Memories
312 S. Wood St. Neosho, Mo 64850

Visitation 

Prior to the service from 9:00 am until service time

.Saturday, January 2, 2016
Clark Chapel of Memories
312 S. Wood St. Neosho, Mo 64850

Services

10:00 AM, Saturday, January 2, 2016
Clark Chapel of Memories

C. A. Lucas

(From Clark Funeral Home)

Charles ‘C.A.’ Lucas, 83, Neosho, died December 27, 2015 at Freeman Neosho Hospital, following failing health.

C. A. was born Feb. 12, 1932 in Newtonia, Missouri, the son of Firman and Ella (Parmley) Lucas. He served in the U.S. Air Force during the Korean Conflict and was a lifelong area resident. He retired from Sunbeam Leisure Products in 1997 and enjoyed hunting, fishing, watching western and war movies, he was an animal lover and an avid St. Louis Cardinals fan. He was a member of the Neosho United Methodist Church. 

C. A. married Edna Rose Lucas on Nov. 2, 1956 in Neosho and she preceded him in death on Sept. 26, 2015. He is survived by a daughter, Melody Wilson and husband, Kevin and a son, Steven Lucas, all of Neosho; two grandsons, Sean Wilson and Patrick Wilson and wife, Crystal of Neosho and three great grandchildren, Lucas Wilson, Aria Wilson and Freya Wilson.

Memorial Service

10:00 AM, Saturday, January 9, 2016
Clark Chapel of Memories
312 S. Wood St. Neosho, Mo

Bill Molisak

(From Parker Mortuary)

William (Bill) Molisak, age 70 of Joplin, passed away at 9:04 a.m. on Saturday, December 26, 2015 at Mercy Hospital in Joplin after a sudden illness.

Bill was the son of the late William and Lucja Molisak Shelton and was raised by his step parents, James C. Shelton, Jr. and Elizabeth Shelton.

Born July 26, 1945 in Uffenheim, Germany, he had lived in Joplin since 2007 moving from Brandon, Mississippi, where he'd lived most of his lifetime. Bill retired from Levi Strauss & Co. He was a veteran of the U.S. Army and a member of St. Peter the Apostle Catholic Church.

On December 31, 1987, he married Elizabeth Ann (Libby). She survives.

Additional survivors include a son, William Molisak and Julie of Braxton, Mississippi; a sister, Bessie Trovato of Jackson, Mississippi and four grandchildren.

Cremation arrangements are under the direction of Parker Mortuary. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Peter the Apostle Catholic Church, 812 S. Pearl Ave., Joplin MO 64801

Rosetta Wheeler

(From Clark Funeral Home)

Rosetta C. Wheeler, 90, Granby, died December 26, 2015 at Mercy Hospital in Joplin, following a short illness. 

She was born November 5, 1925 in Granby, Missouri, the daughter of Perry and Cora (Youngblood) Whittaker. She was a lifelong resident of the Newtonia-Granby area and a member of the Nazarene Church. Rosetta had worked for Granby Manufacturing from 1954 until 1960 and following that she was a homemaker and loved to garden. She married Houston Wheeler and he preceded her in death in 1991. Rosetta is survived by one son, Ronnie Wheeler and wife, Karen of Granby; her twin brother, Perry Whittaker; one sister, Louella Williams; two grandchildren, Nathan Wheeler and Tia Wheeler and five great grandchildren. In addition to her husband, Rosetta is preceded in death by her parents.

VISITATION
Wednesday December 30, 2015, 6:00 PM - 7:00 PM at Clark Funeral Home Granby Chapel

SERVICES
Thursday December 31, 2015, 10:00 AM at Clark Funeral Home Granby Chapel

Mary Soles

(From Parker Mortuary

Mary Jane Soles, age 89 of Webb City, MO, passed away at 11:19 p.m. on Sunday, December 27, 2015 at her home.

Born September 5, 1926 in Arkansas, she was the daughter of the late Herbert and Lola McLean Comstock and had lived in the Joplin area the past 20 years. She was a homemaker and a Baptist.

Mary was preceded in death by her husband, Olean Leroy Soles and a daughter, Katrina Frossard.

Survivors include six children, Pat Mercer of Webb City, Lola Wyatt and husband Jack of Arkansas, Jim Soles and wife Diane of Fairview Heights, IL, Roger Soles and wife Lynn of Fort Worth, TX, Paul Soles and wife Becky of Galena, KS, Randy Soles and wife Diane of Newtonia, MO; 14 grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren and four great-great-grandchildren.

Graveside services will be 2:00 p.m. Wednesday in the Reiss Chapel of Lakeview Memorial Gardens in Fairview Heights, IL. Grandchildren will serve as pallbearers. Arrangements are under the direction of Parker Mortuary.

Monty McCall

(From Campbell-Biddlecome Funeral Home)

Montazuma "Monty" J. McCall, 70, Wyandotte, OK, passed away Dec. 24, 2015 at 11:50 pm at Freeman West Hospital in Joplin after a short illness. 

 Montazuma Jacob McCall was born Feb. 4, 1945 in Wyandotte, OK, the son of Morticai Montazuma and Marjorie Jane (McCombs) McCall. Monty lost his birth father and was raised by his adopted father Chester James. Monty loved the outdoors. He loved hunting and fishing and riding 4-wheelers with his family. Monty worked as the manager at the former Seneca Gas Company in Seneca, MO and served in the Army Reserves.

Survivors include three sons; Monty D. McCall and wife Marcy, Wyandotte, OK, Mark McCall, Carl Junction, MO and Chad W. McCall and wife Channon, Cleora, OK; three brothers, James McCall and wife Betty, Wyandotte, OK, Tom Crow and wife Pat, Cassville, MO and Leon Crow, Wyandotte, OK; 5 grandchildren and 5 great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephew. 

The family would like to thank niece Sheri McCall for her closeness to dad.

Monty was preceded in death by his mother, father and adopted father, one brother, Fuzz Crow and one sister, Mary Griner (Sis).

Private Family Graveside services under the personal direction of Campbell-Biddlecome Funeral Home, Seneca, MO will be held, December 30, 2015 at the Wyandotte Cemetery, Wyandotte, OK.
The family will receive friends from 6 pm to 7 pm December 29, 2015 at the Funeral Home.
Online condolences can by left for the family at www.campbell-biddlecomefh.com

Emory Melton

(From Fohn Funeral Home)

Former Republican State Senator Emory Melton, attorney, historian, author, father and friend passed away at the age of 92 in the early morning on Saturday, December 26, 2015 in his home.

A 24-year veteran of the Missouri State Senate, Emory was a well-known and respected member of the Barry County community who will be deeply missed. His wisdom, stories and legacy will live on for decades to come for the people who knew and loved him.

Emory Melton was born in McDowell, Barry County, on June 20, 1923. He was a life-long resident of Barry County and served his community in countless ways over the years. Emory had two siblings, Amy and Bill, and grew up with his father heavily involved in the political realm of Barry County. His father served on the county commission as well as being elected its presiding judge. By the time he was seven, Emory decided he wanted to be a politician, and after getting the advice that politicians are usually lawyers, he decided that was what he was going to be.

Emory attended school at a variety of one-room schoolhouses before going on to Verona High School where he graduated in 1940. Emory’s work ethic was seen through his drive to finish his education, first high school, and then he went on to college. He worked his way through college at Monett Jr. College and Southwest Missouri State in Springfield. During his college time in Springfield, he delivered newspapers daily, morning and evening editions. After college, Emory hitchhiked his way to Columbia where he was admitted into the University of Missouri’s law school. Sweeping floors, working the hospital’s kitchen and sleeping in boiler rooms were part of Emory’s journey to graduate with his law degree, which he did in December 1944. There were only two graduates that year, Emory Melton and Quentin Haden from Ava, Missouri. Then, in 1945, he was drafted into the United States Army. After completing basic training at Camp Robinson in Arkansas, he was sent to Texas where he went to the criminal investigation school. Emory took part in conducting investigations near Tokyo on everything from murder to espionage until he was discharged in 1946. After serving in the military, Emory moved back to Barry County where he married his wife, Jean Sanders Melton on June 19, 1949, in Shell Knob, Missouri. Together, Emory and Jean had two sons, Stanley and Russell. They also began two businesses: Litho Printers and the Barry County Advertiser, both of which are still in operation over fifty years later. Emory was also an ownership partner in the Barry County Abstract Company and former owner of the Cassville Republican newspaper. The Meltons were married for 60 years before her death in March 2010.

Emory practiced law in Barry County throughout his career. He became well-known and respected as an attorney, but also as a historian and friend to many. From 1947 to 1951 Emory served as the Barry County Prosecuting Attorney. From 1973 to January 1997, Emory served as the Missouri State Senator for the 29th District. During his time at the Capitol, he became known for his diligence to his position and the citizens he represented. While the pieces of legislation he sponsored during that time were few, he was well known for reading all bills considered by the Missouri Senate. The bills Emory did introduce were always for the public good and bypassed traditional partisan politics. While Emory was a well-respected attorney, politician and businessman, his love of history, particularly Barry County’s history, was evidenced through all of the years he spent researching and recording county history. His hand penned two books, “The First 150 Years in Cassville, Missouri” and “Hanged by the Neck Until Dead.” For decades, Emory was the go-to man for anything pertaining to the history of Barry County. It was a commonly accepted fact that Emory had forgotten more history than most of us would ever know. That love of history spilled over into his skill as a storyteller. Anyone having a meeting with Emory knew to plan to be there at least twice as long to sit and hear him tell stories full of facts, wit and humor. His stories would grace the ears of anyone willing to listen, being better for the experience and laughter shared.

Emory was a member of the First Baptist Church in Cassville, Lions Club of Cassville, a Masons member and many other civic and state organizations. He was a life long member and leader in the Repblican party of Barry County and the State of Missouri.

Emory was preceded in death by his wife, Jean, brother, Bill, sister, Amy, and son, Russell. He is survived by his son, Stanley Melton, and Stan’s wife, Cindy, of Fremont Hills, south of Springfield, and step-grandsons, Taylor and Nelson Paul Sparks.

Visitation will be held on Monday, December 28, from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the First Baptist Church in Cassville. Services will be held on Tuesday, December 29, at 2 p.m. at the First Baptist Church of Cassville under the direction of Fohn Funeral Home with Rev. Leland May presiding. The Bob Cantwell Gospel group will provide music and eulogies will be presented by Don Cupps and Judge Robert S. Wiley.

Contributions may be made to Barry County Museum, The Historical Society or Russ Melton Scholarship Fund in memory of Emory.

Wilma Davis

(From Simpson Funeral Home)

Wilma J. Davis, age 80, of Galena, Kansas passed away on Thursday, December 24, 2015 at her residence. 

She was born on July 17, 1935 to William T. Smith and Edith M. (Wiley) Smith. Wilma was a homemaker.

She married Carl F. Davis and he preceded her in death on November 27, 1994. Wilma is survived by her daughters, Rebecca Porter and husband Kenneth of Galena, Kansas, Betty Davis of Pittsburg, Kansas, David Davis of Mindenmines, Missouri; siblings, Carl Smith and wife Shirley of Fairland, Oklahoma, Millie Dickerson of Joplin, Linda Gibson and husband Ronnie of Webb City; Sonnie Dooley of Joplin; 10 grandchildren and numerous great grandchildren and great great grandchildren. 

A funeral service will be held on Tuesday, December 29, 2015 at 2:00 PM in the chapel of Simpson Funeral Home in Webb City. A visitation will be held on Monday from 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM at the funeral home. Burial will be in Nashville Cemetery. In lieu of flowers the family suggests memorial contributions to the Southern Care Hospice in her memory. 

Services are under the direction of Simpson Funeral Home in Webb City. Visit www.simpsonfh.com for online condolences.

Bob Armstrong

(From Parker Mortuary)

Robert Wesley (Bob) Armstrong, age 87 of Joplin, passed away at 2:43 p.m. Wednesday, December 23, 2015 at Freeman Hospital Emergency Room.

Born January 13, 1928 in Ritchey, MO, he was the only child of the late Caure J. Armstrong and Hazel Marie Beck Armstrong and had lived in Joplin since 1968. A truck driver all of his working life, he drove produce for Brooks Supply and Messick, operated his own truck delivering cars and retired from Yellow Freight in 1985. He was a Baptist.

Survivors include his wife, Sally of the home; six children, Jahala Joe Kinser of Lee's Summit, MO, Michael Joe Armstrong of Joplin, Kenneth Caure Armstrong of Anderson, MO, Rob Armstrong of Joplin, Shelli Hayslip of Rock Springs, WY, Lana Horton of Glenrock, WY; seven grandchildren, R.W. (Shane) Long, J.B. (Tylor) Long, Shona Armstrong, Jamie Armstrong, Caure Armstrong, Jeramy Dixon and Landon Horton; several great-grandchildren.

Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m. Monday at Parker Mortuary. Interment will follow at Van Buren Union Cemetery, west of Wentworth, MO. The family will receive friends from 6:00 to 7:00 p.m. Sunday at the mortuary.

Karen White

(From Clark Funeral Home)

Karen Jane White, 70 of Granby, Mo. died at 6:33 P.M. Wednesday, December 23, 2015 at her home surrounded by family and loved ones. 

Karen was born on April 16, 1945 in Hutchison, Kansas to Warren and Katie (Woodward) Barratt. She had lived most of her life in Granby, Mo., and worked as a Lab Technician for the former Sale Memorial Hospital and then Freeman Neosho for 18 years.

Karen was a member of the Silver Moon Full Gospel Church was an avid reader, cat lover, loved playing scrabble and going antiquing. She loved spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren.

Karen was united in marriage to Bobby White on July 19, 1963 and he survives.

Other survivors include Three Children, Brian White and wife Susan, David White and wife Tammy, and Kay White, Six Grandchildren, Elizabeth Schilling, Emily White, Brandon White, Jordan White, Delanie Dickens and Connor Cathers, one Great Grandchild, Chandler White and dear friend Terri Schaack.

MEMORIAL VISITATION
Wednesday December 30, 2015, 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM at Clark Funeral Home Granby Chapel

Buddy Greene

(From Wages Funeral Home)

Larry AJ “Buddy” Greene age 87 of Alpharetta, GA, formerly of Snellville, GA, passed away Monday, December 14, 2015. He was preceded in death by his parents, Hoyt Thomas and O’Bena (Moon) Greene; his loving wife of 57 years, Ruth Key Greene; and beloved son-in-law, Dr. Alan D. Clark. Buddy is survived by his daughter, Lujene G. Clark of Alpharetta; grandson, Devon Clark of Alpharetta; sisters and brothers, Euthemia Juhan (Leon) of Braselton, Jean Tanner of Grayson, Rex M. Greene of Grayson and William P. Greene of Grayson; numerous nieces and nephews as well as other beloved family members.

Born in Loganville, Walton County, Georgia, Buddy was the son of Hoyt Thomas and O’Bena (Moon) Greene. He served in the U. S. Army in Germany from 1953 to 1955. On May 18, 1956 he married Ruth Key in Snellville. He began his career as a welder and metal fabricator at Southern Cross Industries prior to his military service, and continued with that company, which was later acquired by Leggett and Platt, Inc., until his retirement. He was an avid NASCAR fan, recalling his pastime as a racecar driver in his early years.

The Funeral Service to Celebrate and Honor the Life of Larry AJ “Buddy” Greene will be held on Saturday, December 19, 2015 at 2:00 PM at Tom M. Wages, Snellville Chapel. Minister Harold Savage will officiate the service. Entombment will follow at Eternal Hill Memory Gardens, Snellville, GA. The family will receive friends on Friday, December 18, 2015 from 6:30 PM until 8:00 PM at the funeral home. While in the care of Peachtree Christian Hospice, Lujene was so touched by the wonderful care and concern that she is asking that those who chose to make memorial donations in lieu of flowers to please make donations to Peachtree Christian Hospice, http://peachtreechristianhospice.com/ or Legacy Garden Memorial Pavers @ http://peachtreechristianhospice.com/legacy-garden-pavers/ Your custom inscription on paver placed in their beautiful garden for $50 donation. "Legacy Garden Pavers" can be handled online or via form/envelope available at funeral home.

Condolences may be viewed or sent to www.wagesfuneralhome.com Tom M. Wages Funeral Service, LLC, “A Family Company” Snellville Chapel, 770-979-3200, has been entrusted with the funeral arrangements.

Franklin Darra

(From Ozark Funeral Home)

Mr. Franklin Darra, 48, of Rogers, Arkansas, departed this life on Wednesday, December 16, 2015, at Mercy Hospital in Rogers, Arkansas.

Franklin entered this life on November 9, 1967, in Pingelap, Micronesia, son of the late Melo Darra and Melihna (Yens) Manasa. He was raised and attended school in Micronesia. In 1986 he moved to Hawaii, where he worked as a commercial fisherman and chef. After moving to Missouri, he was employed by La-Z-Boy in Neosho.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Sihada Darra on August 22, 2011; a sister, Iohne Kenneth; and a brother, Pelson Charley.

Franklin is survived by one daughter, Franica Darra of the state of Texas; five siblings, Melson Darra of Omaha, Nebraska, Nahzer Yens of Pohnpei, Micronesia, Esi Obed, Dahwa Manuel of Neosho, Missouri and Mely Hendy of Rogers, Arkansas; and several nieces and nephews.

Graveside funeral services are 2:00 p.m. Saturday, December 26, 2015, at the Howard Cemetery in Goodman, Missouri. Under the direction of the Ozark Funeral Home in Anderson, Missouri.

Jeff Hackett

(From Ozark Funeral Home)

Jeffrey William Hackett age 49 was born to John and Sharon Hackett on August 8, 1966, in Phoenix Arizona. He passed away on December 22nd, 2015 after and ATV accident near his home.

He is preceded in death by his mother Sharon Ann Hackett.

His family moved from Arizona to Missouri in 1978. He attended and graduated from McDonald County High School in 1985. He worked construction alongside his Father and brothers in the family business. Jeff was well known for his talent as a drummer and his love for music. He was known to his family and friends as the life of the party with his ability to make those around him laugh. He was sure to greet you with a big smile and a hug. He once tried to set the world record for putting the most marshmallows in your mouth. He was also known for his beautiful face, hard work, quick wit and kind heart.

Survivors include his father, John and wife Leisa Hackett of Seligman, Missouri; sister Jodi Danhof Hackett of West Valley, Utah; brother Johnny Hackett of Bentonville, Arkansas, brother Joel and wife Kristy Hackett of Lubbock Texas, brother Jason and wife Pam Hackett of Anderson, Missouri, brother Jarod Hackett; sister Jill and husband Justin Wiltse of Bentonville Arkansas; as well as a host of nieces, nephews, family and friends.
He will be laid to rest at the Antioch Cemetery in Jacket, Missouri.

Services to honor his life will be held at the Ozark Funeral Home Chapel in Anderson, Missouri on Tuesday, December 29th, 2015 at 10 a.m. and officiated by Bishop James Martin from the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. On-line condolences may be sent to the family through our website www.ozarkfuneralhome.com. Arrangements are under the personal care and direction of the Ozark Funeral Home in Anderson, Missouri.

George Bunch

(From Ozark Funeral Home)

Mr. George H Bunch, 87, of Noel, Missouri, departed this life on Tuesday afternoon, December 22, 2015, at the Freeman Hospital in Joplin, Missouri, as a result of a heart attack.

George entered this life on October 20, 1928, in Jane, Missouri, son of the late Price Bunch and Ethel (Underwood) Bunch. He was a graduate of Southwest City High School. He was united in marriage to Reita (Browning) Bunch on May 23, 1951, in Bentonville, Arkansas, and to this union two sons and a daughter were born. In 1951, they moved their family to Wichita, Kansas. They resided in Wichita for forty years, an employee at The Boeing Company, before returning home to Noel in 1991 to assume ownership of the family business, Bluff Dwellers Cavern. He enjoyed traveling, garage sales, repairing things, and tending to the needs of the business. George was a longtime member of the Noel United Methodist Church.

He was preceded in death by his wife Reita, his parents, and his brother Martin Bunch.

George is survived by his two sons, Michael Bunch and wife, Carolyn, of Wichita, Kansas and Ray Bunch and wife, Ann, of Duncan, Oklahoma; a daughter, Mary Barnes and husband, Tom, of Wichita, Kansas; four grandchildren, Taylor Bunch, Lacy Barnes Wulfers, Collin Bunch and Casey Bunch; two great grandchildren, Ellcie and Ender Bunch; as well as a host of other family and friends.

Funeral services for Mr. Bunch are 11:00 a.m. Tuesday, December 29, 2015, in the Noel Chapel of the Ozark Funeral Homes with Pastor Mark Kailbourn officiating. Burial will follow in the Butler Creek Cemetery in Sulphur Springs, Arkansas. Those honoring his life by serving as pallbearers are Collin Bunch, Lisa Bunch, Casey Bunch, Laura Bunch, Lacy Barnes Wulfer and Matt Wulfer. In lieu of flowers, memorials are being directed to the Noel Betterment Club and contributions may be left at the funeral home. Online condolences may be sent to the family through our website www.ozarkfuneralhome.com. Arrangements are under the personal care and direction of the Ozark Funeral Home in Noel, Missouri.

Evelyn Funk

(From Mason-Woodard Mortuary)

Evelyn Funk, Age 88, of Joplin, MO. passed away at 1:37 p.m. Wednesday at her home in Joplin. 

Evelyn was born January 12, 2015 in Denver, Mo. She had lived in Joplin since 1952. She was employed with the former Pacific-Mercury Co. She was a member of the New Harmony Baptist Church near Denver, Mo. 

She married Clifford Funk December 13, 1945 in Troy, MO. He preceded her in death on August 21, 2014. She was also preceded in death by a granddaughter, Angel Kelso. Survivors include a son, Charles Funk, Joplin, four daughters, Janette Funk and Tina Hall, both of Joplin, Jeanette Trent and husband Gary, Broken Arrow, OK, and Cheryl McCully, Miami, OK, 8 grandchildren, 12 great grandchildren, and 3 great great grandchildren. 

Evelyn’s wishes were to be cremated. A celebration of life service will be held in January at her home. Her cremains will be buried at the Foster Cemetery in New Hampton, MO. Cremation arrangements were entrusted to the Mason-Woodard Mortuary of Joplin, MO.

Betty Eads

(From Mason-Woodard Mortuary)

Betty J. Eads, age 81 of Seneca, Mo. passed away early Wednesday December 23, 2015 at Mercy Hospital in Joplin.

Betty was born on December 25, 1933 in Picher, Ok., the daughter of Leslie “Tub” and Bonnie (Scott) Tanner. She has been a lifetime area resident, moving to Seneca in 1956. Betty worked at Kraft Foods, she also worked at Tanner's IGA as a general manager, Gene’s Cardinal Food Store and Eagle Picher. She was a member of Seneca Christian Church and of Cherokee Nation West.

She married Roy Eads, Jr. on January 11, 1952, he preceded her in death in 2006. Betty was also preceded by her parents and 2 brothers, Leslie Tanner, Jr. and L.T. Tanner Jr. She is survived by 4 sons, L.V. Eads, Sr. and wife Nancy of Seneca, Ernie Eads and wife Debra of Seneca., Dennis Eads and wife Stacy of Seneca, and Donald Eads of Seneca; 1 daughter, Deborah Eads of Seneca; 12 grandchildren and 21 great-grandchildren.

Funeral services have been scheduled for 2:00 p.m. Monday, December 28, 2015 at the Seneca Christian Church. Burial will follow at Seneca Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 3 to 4 p.m. Sunday afternoon at Seneca Christian Church during a time of visitation.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Mason-Woodard Mortuary & Crematory.

Rellas Boydston

(From Mason-Woodard Mortuary)

Rellas M. Boydston, age 83, of Joplin, passed away on Tuesday December 22, 2015, at his home, following an illness.

Rellas was born on June 13, 1932 in Ottawa, Ks., the son of the late Teddy L. and Maude (Holt) Boydston. He had been a lifetime area resident. He served in the United States Navy as a Sea Bee and was a veteran of the Korean War. He worked as a boilermaker for Local 83 of Kansas City for twenty-seven years.

He married Jerelene Reynolds in 1978 in Omaha, Ne. She preceded him in death on August 19, 1998. He was also preceded in death by one son, Rellas M. Boydston; two brothers, Dale Boydston and Harold Boydston; and three sisters, Helen Jackson, Virginia Harrison, and Betty Lee Beatty.

Rellas is survived by two sons, Mark Boydston, Independence, Mo., and Kurt Boydston and wife Elizabeth, Overland Park, Ks.; one daughter, Eleanor Boydston, Kansas City, Mo.; a nephew, Neal Boydston, Joplin; seventeen grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

Funeral services will be 11:00 a.m. Monday at Mason-Woodard Chapel. The family will receive friends at 10:00 a.m. Monday prior to the service. Burial will be in Burkhart Cemetery.

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

Mary Quade

(From Knell Mortuary)

Mary Helen Quade, 76, Carthage, MO, passed away Monday afternoon, December 21, 2015 at her home after a lengthy illness. Mary Helen Wooten was born December 28, 1938 in New Hope, MO to the late James Milton Wooten and Rosie Jewel Lauderdale. Helen was a graduate of Wheaton High School Class of 1956. She worked for Oxford Healthcare and was a member of Center Point Christian Church. She married Art Quade on November 17, 1999; he preceded her in death.

Survivors include four sisters; Ann Henson (husband Don), Shell Knob, MO, Pat Thomas, Carthage, MO, Janice Bagby, Carthage, MO, and Irene Day (husband Dewayne), Exeter, MO; three brothers; Dale Wooten, Hillsboro, MO, Glen Wooten (wife Sherrie), Carthage, MO, and Kenny Wooten (wife Sue), Ironton, MO; and her special friends; Karla Kahl, Lacey and Lane, Avilla, MO.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, one son, Loren Dean Sanders, one sister, Azlea Levy, and three brothers, James Lee Wooten, Don Wooten, and Carroll Wooten.

Visitation will be held from 2:00 – 3:00 PM Sunday, December 27, 2015 in the Knell Mortuary Chapel. Service will be held 11:00 AM Monday, December 28, 2015 in the Knell Mortuary Chapel. Rev. Bob Teegarden will officiate. Interment will follow in Fasken Cemetery, northeast of Carthage. In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts are suggested to the American Cancer Society or Arthritis Foundation in care of Knell Mortuary, 308 W. Chestnut, Carthage, MO 64836. Online condolences may be expressed through www.knellmortuary.com. Arrangements are under the direction and personal care of Knell Mortuary.

Gary Hicks

(From Knell Mortuary)

Gary Wayne Hicks, 63, Carthage, MO, passed away Monday evening, December 21, 2015 at his home after a lengthy illness. Gary Wayne Hicks was born February 24, 1952 in Carthage, MO to Melvin and Josephine (Wilber) Hicks. He was a graduate of Carthage Senior High School, Class of 1970, and later attended MSSC for two years. Gary married Brenda Fosdick on June 2, 1978 in Miami, OK; she survives. He worked 41 years in maintenance for Dyno Nobel, Carthage, MO. Gary was a member of the Carthage Shrine Club, the Masonic Lodge, the Shriner Train Crew, and the VFW Men’s Auxiliary.

Survivors include his wife; two daughters; Heather Fullerton (husband Justin), Carthage, MO, and Haley Hicks, Carthage, MO; one sister; Melva Peters (husband Darrell), Mansfield, TX; one uncle; Marion (wife Nell) Hicks, Spokane, WA; and four grandchildren; Ava Fullerton, Leah Fullerton, Brody Fullerton, and Preston Hicks.

He was preceded in death by one sister, Merabeth Carnes, and two brothers, David Hicks and Roger Suskey.

Visitation will be held from 10:00 – 11:00 AM on Tuesday, December 29, 2015 at Fairview Christian Church, Carthage, MO, with a memorial service following at 11:00 AM. Minister Tony Allmoslecher will officiate. Inurnment will follow at Park Cemetery, Carthage, MO. Memorial gifts are suggested to the American Cancer Society or the Carthage Shrine Club in care of Knell Mortuary, 308 W. Chestnut, Carthage, MO 64836. Online condolences may be expressed through www.knellmortuary.com. Arrangements are under the direction and personal care of Knell Mortuary.

Katherine Clutts

(From Mason-Woodard Mortuary)

Katherine L. Clutts, age 72, of Joplin, passed away on Tuesday December 22, 1943, at the Communities of Wildwood, following an illness.

Katherine was born on December 12, 1943 in Joplin, the daughter of the late George and Letha (Willoughby) Dalton. She has been a lifelong area resident. She was a member of Christ’s Church of Oronogo. She was the manager of the Riviera Motel until retiring in 2011.

She is survived by one son, Steven Clutts and wife Susan, Pierce City, Mo.; two brothers, George Dalton, Arkansas City, Ks, and David Dalton, Joplin; one sister, Linda Candelaria, Joplin; three grandchildren, Brittney Bull, Joplin, Lacy Christian, Bella Vista, AR., and Stephanie Clutts, Kansas City, Mo.; and four great-grandchildren Damon Christian, Dylan Christian, Desteny Christian, and Brennen Kropp. She was preceded in death by two sons, Ricky Wayne Clutts in 1990, and Denny Clutts in 1989; one brother, Kenneth Wayne Dalton; and two sisters, Sue Florentine and Margaret Erskin. 

Funeral services will be 2:00 p.m. Tuesday at Mason-Woodard Chapel. Len Clevenger, Minister will officiate. Burial will be in Forest Park Cemetery.

Jim Kirby

(From Bath-Naylor Funeral Home)

James A. (Jim) Kirby, 91 of Pittsburg died at 4:10 p.m. Saturday
December 19th, 2015 at the Via Christi Hospital in Pittsburg.

He was born December 11, 1924 in Carthage, MO the son of Earl
and Goldie (Allsman) Kirby. He was a 1942 graduate of Mindenmines
High School.

Jim was a veteran of WWII serving his country in the United States
Army Air Corps. Entering the service in 1943 he served as flight
engineer on B24’s, B17’s and C54’s. He was honorably discharged from
active duty in 1952.

He married Anni Reibenwein in 1946; she preceded him in death
in 1963. He then married Patricia McAtee in 1971 at Greenbush, KS
and she preceded him in death in July of 2008.

Jim started farming in 1952 and continued throughout his life.
Additionally, he was a flight instructor at the Pittsburg Kansas Airport
and gave flight instructions to the Pittsburg State University ROTC.

Survivors include three sons-Al Kirby and wife Carrie of Wichita,
Brian Kirby and wife Elizabeth of Damascus, MD, Kevin Kirby and wife
Becca of Bentonville, AR; grandchildren-Alan Kirby and wife Suzanne,
Lisa Lammey, Brooke Belcher and husband Steve, Alison Mewhinney
and husband Will Maria and James Kirby, Blair, Kennedy, and Macy
Kirby; 5 Great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents,
wives Anni and Patricia; a brother Ivan Kirby, three sisters Mildred Kirby,
Audrey Burnside and Marjorie Etcheson and a grandson Jesse Kirby.

Funeral services will be 10:30 a.m. Wednesday December 30th at
the Zion Lutheran Church in Pittsburg with Pastor Lynn Spencer
officiating. Burial will follow in the Nashville Cemetery, Nashville, MO.
The family will receive friends from 6-7 p.m. Tuesday the 29th at the
Bath-Naylor Funeral Home in Pittsburg where friends may call after 3 p.
m. Tuesday. Condolences can be sent to www.bathnaylor.com
Memorial contributions can be made to the St. Jude’s Children’s
Research. Memorials may be brought by or mailed to the Bath-Naylor
Funeral Home 522 S. Broadway Pittsburg, KS 66762.

Gayle Daniels

Gayle Daniels, 63, of Joplin, Mo. passed away on December 21, 2015.

She was born on Sept. 7, 1952, in Greenville, Miss.


Gayle married Dale Daniels on March 17, 1979. She was a loving wife, the best Mom, Grandma, GiGi, and friend.

Gayle recently retired from the Joplin R-8 School District. She taught school for 36 years; to include three years in Southhaven, Miss., and 33 years in Joplin. In addition to teaching, she also coached girls' basketball and volleyball in school, as well as in church.

Throughout Gayle's life, she loved to serve the Lord by being his hands and feet to everyone she came in contact with. She was a gentle soul and had a kind and loving spirit. During her years as a member of Harmony Heights Baptist Church, in Joplin, she coordinated the Upward Basketball program for six years. While at Harmony, her love for music was displayed by singing with the ladies group, AGAPE, for over a decade. Later, Gayle became a member of Southside Baptist Church and continued sharing her passion for music with her brothers and sisters in Christ.

She is survived by her husband, Dale Daniels, of 36 years and nine months; son and daughter-in-law, Matthew and Sarah Daniels; daugher and son-in-law, Rebecca and Wayne Nugent; four grandchildren, Stetcyn, Weston, Joey, and Trey. She is also survived by her mother, Dorothy Buford; four siblings, Lynn Buford, and wife, Sandra, David Buford, and wife, Susan, Linda Kirkpatrick, and husband, Donald, and Karen Mollahan, and husband, Joe. Gayle is preceded in death by her father, Sonny Buford.

Visitation will be held at Southside Baptist Church on Sunday, December 27, from 4 to 6 p.m. Funeral services will also be held at Southside Baptist Church the following morning on Monday, December 28, at 10 a.m. with the burial following at 2 p.m. at the National Cemetery, in Fayetteville, Ark.

Carol Brock

(From Mason-Woodard Mortuary)

Carol Sue King Haddock Brock, age 58 of Joplin, Mo. passed away early Wednesday, December 16, 2015 at her home following a short illness.

Carol was born on September 11, 1957 in Aurora, Co., the daughter of William and Margaret (Courtney) King. She has been a long time area resident. Carol was a bus driver for North Head Start in Joplin. She also drove for several years for Joplin R-8 and also worked for USA Print. Carol didn’t have children of her own, but considered every child she drove her kids. She was a member of Freedom Fellowship Church in Neosho, Mo.

She married Ivan Brock on August 29, 2009 in Joplin, he survives. Additional survivors include her mother, Margaret of Joplin; her sister, Billie Patterson of Joplin; and many loving nieces and nephews. Carol was preceded in death by her father, William King; and her brother, David R. King.

Funeral services were held Monday, December 21, 2015 at the Mason-Woodard Chapel. Pastor Rocky Tash officiated.. Burial followed at Ozark Memorial Park Cemetery. .

Arrangements have been entrusted to Mason-Woodard Mortuary & Crematory.

Elizabeth Moore

(From Clark Funeral Home)

Elizabeth Ann Moore, 66, Joplin, died December 21, 2015. 

Elizabeth was born October 21, 1949 in Neosho, MO and lived most of her life in Neosho and Joplin area with the exception of living 20 years in Des Moines, IA. She had worked as a surgical tech at St. John’s Hospital from 1988-2011. 

She is survived by four children: Penny (James) Cooper, Joplin; Jamond (Charla) Hall, New Albany, IN; Monique Peoples, Kansas City, MO and Donny Moore, Philadelphia, PA; five brothers: James (Jackie) Clark, Neosho; Tommy (Patty) Clark, Urbandale, IA; Garry (Kathy) Clark, Deming, NM; Larry (Cynthia) Clark, Neosho; David (Shaneika) Clark, Joplin; one sister, Clemmy (Eric) Colbert, Joplin; eight grandchildren and four great grandchildren. She is preceded in death by her parents, James and Estella (Kingcade) Clark; husband Steve; daughter, Diedra Fitts; four sisters Terry Hooks, Pat Clark, Donna Clark and Sharon Clark and two brothers, Chris Clark and Charles Clark. Elizabeth was a member of the Saints Memorial Church of God In Christ in Galena, KS where she served on the Mothers Board and Ushers Board, she was a volunteer at Mercy Hospital and was an avid reader.

Viewing

9:00 AM - 7:00 PM, Monday, December 28, 2015
Clark Chapel of Memories
312 S. Wood St. Neosho, Mo 64850

Visitation

6:00 PM - 7:00 PM, Monday, December 28, 2015
Clark Chapel of Memories

Services

10:00 AM, Tuesday, December 29, 2015
Clark Chapel of Memories