Jo Shrum

(From Ulmer Funeral Home)

Eva “Jo” Shrum, 91, passed away Tuesday, November 29, 2022, in Carthage, Missouri. Jo was born March 4, 1931, in Elkins, Arkansas to Tom M. Harrison and Lela Eubanks. 

She was a longtime Carthage resident and had moved to Carthage from Northwest Arkansas at a young age. Jo was a member of Elm Road Church of Christ. 

She took great pride in her penmanship and wrote numerous handwritten letters to family and friends. Jo loved to cook for her family, enjoyed scrapbooking, and gardening. She and her husband (Jack)always kept a big garden and was a spotless housekeeper.

Jo was united in marriage to Jack H. Shrum on August 31, 1953, in Huntsville, Arkansas; he preceded her in death on June 4, 2011.

Jo is survived by two sons, Morris Shrum and wife, Libby, of Tulsa, Oklahoma, and Mark Shrum and wife, Terrie, of Carthage, Missouri; two daughters, Lori Ball and husband, Danny, of Jasper, Missouri, and Jacklyn Highfield of Mt. Pleasant, Tennessee; two sisters, Lois Austin of Lake Forest, California, and Betty Allison of Carthage, Missouri; eight grandchildren, Kelby, Randie, Keegan, Sasha, Leighton, McKenzie, Darryl and Carrie; and fourteen great grandchildren.

Jo is preceded in death by her husband, Jack Shrum; her parents, Tom and Lela Harrison; two brothers, William and James Earl Harrison; one sister, Marie Harrison; and a grandson, Mark Shrum, Jr. in June 2021.

Services will be held 10:00 a.m. on Monday, December 5, 2022, at Ulmer Funeral Home. Visitation will be held from 2:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. on Sunday, December 4, 2022. Burial will be at Oak Hill Cemetery in Carthage.

Contributions may be made to Fair Haven Children’s Home (Strafford, Missouri) in care of Ulmer Funeral Home.

Online condolences may be made at www.ulmerfh.com.

Arrangements are under the direction of Ulmer Funeral Home.

Joyce Dunk

(From Ozark Funeral Home)

Joyce Lynn Dunk, 59 of Lanagan, Missouri passed suddenly Tuesday, November 22, 2022 in Anderson, Missouri from injures sustained in an automobile accident.

Joyce entered this life on December 13, 1963 to James Moses and Barbara Boeh in St. Joseph, Missouri. Joyce worked as a cleaning lady for many years. She moved to the McDonald County Area 10 years ago, making her home in Lanagan. She was a member of the Splitlog Baptist Church. She enjoyed crocheting and playing computer games with her grandchildren.

Joyce was preceded in death by her mother; Barbara Boeh, a sister; Christina Boeh and a nephew Robert Gasper.

Joyce is survived by a daughter; Amber Kadra and husband Mike of Cameron, MO and a bonus daughter; Charlotte Myers of Colorado, two brothers; James Linley Moses and Daniel Leslie Moses both of Iowa, two sisters; Lisa Holloway and husband Gregg and Mary Patricia Moses all of Anderson, four grandchildren as well as many nieces, nephews, family and friends.

A memorial visitation for Mrs. Joyce Lynn Dunk will be held Friday, December 2, 2022 from 10:00 a.m. until noon at the Ozark Funeral Home in Anderson, Missouri.

Melanie Thomas

(From Mason-Woodard Mortuary)

Melanie Thomas, age 55, of Webb City, passed away on Thursday November 24, 2022, at Mercy Hospital in Joplin after a heroic fight against cancer for the past 2 years.

Melanie was born on December 10, 1966, in Carthage, MO, the daughter of David Danner (Joyce) and Linda Sue Macy (Poulson). 

She married Arolin Thomas on June 9, 2009, in Miami, OK. She was blessed with two children and two stepchildren. 

Melanie was a long-time owner of Dark Side Tanning Salon. Melanie loved owning a salon and made many lifelong friends. 

Melanie loved to spend time outside working in the yard and gardening. Her favorite time of year was spring when the flowers started to bloom. Melanie (Mimi) loved spending time with her grandchildren, there was nothing that made her happier then being with them.

Melanie was preceded in death by her father David Danner. She is survived by her mother Sue, husband Arolin of thirteen years. One Son, Mitchell Keeter (Becki), one daughter Kassie Ogle (Jeremy), One stepson, Benjamin Thomas (Katelynn), and one stepdaughter, Ashley Groutte (Josh). She is also survived by one Brother, Christopher Macy (Rhonda) and eight grandchildren: Maddyn Keeter, Erin Ogle, Rhys Groutte, Arianna Ogle, Amaya Ogle, Addyson Ogle, Trinity Thomas and Charlie Watson.

A Visitation will be held at Destiny Church in Webb City, MO from 6:30 – 8 P.M. Thursday, December 1, 2022 All flowers for the visitation should arrive after 4 P.M. on Thursday, December 1, 2022.

James Cornwell

(From Parker Mortuary)

James Michael Cornwell, age 42, Seneca, Missouri, passed away on Friday, November 18, 2022 at Mercy of Joplin.

James was born November 7, 1980 in Florida before moving to Weaverville, N.C. where he graduated from High School and excelled as a football player. 

 He worked for years in security in North Carolina before moving to Joplin where he worked for Allied Security. He was an avid outdoorsman who loved to fish, hunt, and go camping.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Angela Joan Carswell, and his uncle, Robert Ralph Dodd.

Survivors include his sister, Stacey Zemberi; son, Justin Goodell; good friend, Jessica Wing of Seneca, and her children, Kelsey Jordan and Tristan Wing also of Seneca; and a cousin, Charlsie Chandler.

Cremation arrangements are under the direction of Parker Mortuary with private memorial services to be held at a later date.

Janie Nunn

(From Heuser Funeral Home)

Janie Droz Nunn, age 74, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, November 23, 2022.

Janie was born on October 5, 1948, in Rich Hill, MO to Glenn R. and Dorothy L. (Jennings) Droz.

Janie grew up in Rich Hill, where she enjoyed an active school life, including band and cheerleading.

She attended Central Missouri State University and University of Missouri Columbia, graduating in 1970. She later earned her master’s degree in Elementary Education.

Janie taught elementary school for 30 years, with the majority of her career spent teaching third grade at Belair Elementary School in Jefferson City, MO. She was a devoted educator who worked hard to create a classroom where all children felt supported.

In 1997, Janie married David, the great love of her life. She enjoyed reading, decorating her home, baking rum cakes, drinking drive-thru fountain sodas, and propagating houseplants – visitors to her home often left with a plant in hand. She had a lifelong fondness for cats, going back to her first pet Biscuit, which was the only animal ever allowed in her childhood home.

She was preceded in death by her parents and her brother, Lt. Donald G. Droz.

She is survived by: her husband, David; brother, Paul W. Droz and his wife Peggy Droz of Rich Hill, MO; sister-in-law, Judith Droz Keyes of Santa Monica, CA; son, Vince Palermo and his wife Tricia Palermo and daughter, Mila Palermo of Joplin, MO; daughter, Marti Palermo and her husband Jarrod Routh of Chicago, IL; and son, Andrew Palermo and his wife Milena Pastreich and son, Sasha Palermo of Los Angeles, CA.

A private celebration of her life will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are suggested to the Alzheimer's Association by mailing all donations to P.O. Box 95, Jefferson City, Mo. 65102.

Dorothea Wells

(From Bland-Hackleman Funeral Home)

Dorothea Nichols Wells passed away on November 28, 2022, at home in Schell City, Missouri at the age of 84. 

The daughter of Lewis Wayne and Athola Mae (Conway) Nichols, Dorothea was born September 3, 1938. She graduated from the Schell City Public Schools in May 1956. 

Shortly after graduation, she worked for the Methodist Publishing House (MPH) in Kansas City. After it closed and moved to Dallas, Texas, she worked for KMBC TV until April 1960. 

Dorothea married her sweetheart, Robert F. Wells, and lived in Japan and Washington state until Bob was honorably discharged from the U.S. Navy in December 1964. Throughout her life, she remained dedicated to her faith, her husband, and her family for over 62 years. She spent many long, happy years teaching Sunday School and worked as the church secretary.

Dorothea was preceded in death by her parents, Lewis Wayne and Athola Mae (Conway) Nichols, her granddaughter Caroline Wells, and her faithful dog Zoey.

She is survived by her husband, Bob; son, Kent and wife Linda of San Antonio, Texas; her brother, Larry and wife Anita Nichols of Schell City, Missouri; and their son, Larry and Amy Nichols of Golden City, Missouri; and her grandchildren, Stephen and Rebecca Wells. She is also survived by many extended family members and very close and dear friends.

Service
Saturday, December 3, 2022, 10:00 a.m.
Bland-Hackleman Funeral Home

El Dorado Springs, MO

Memorials/Donations
Hospice Memorial Fund 444N Summit Street Toledo, Ohio 43604
Wayside Waifs 3901 Martha Truman Road Kansas City, MO 64137

Sharon Edwards

(From Parker Mortuary)

Sharon Kay Edwards, age 59, passed away peacefully on November 21st, 2022 surrounded by family and friends at her home in Joplin, MO.

She was born on October 22nd, 1963 in Olathe, KS to Bonnie Edwards and her late father Dorsey Edwards. 

She graduated from Gardner High School in 1982 and married Tony Sheafer soon after. They had four children together, and though she and Tony parted ways later on, they continued to work together throughout the years to lovingly raise them, even having Christmas together when they could. 

In 2000, Sharon graduated with a Bachelors of Science in Nursing from Southwestern College in Winfield, KS. She did so with honors and maintained a 4.0 GPA while simultaneously raising four teenagers.

Sharon cared deeply about helping people and worked as a nurse throughout the years at Shawnee Mission Medical Center in Shawnee, KS, William Newton Hospital in Winfield, KS, and Kindred Hospital in Kansas City, MO and several others. 

It was at William Newton Hospital in Winfield, KS that she met Roy Wogoman in 2001. They were happily married from 2004 until his death in 2011. She loved taking her children camping at Pomona Lake and hiking at Ha Ha Tonka State Park. Sharon was an intensely spiritual, loving, and passionate person and she will be missed by all those who were lucky enough to know and love her.

She is survived by her children, Amy Pierce and husband Larry of Olathe KS, Alisha Case of Olathe, KS, Luke Sheafer and wife Kristen of Joplin, MO, and Rachel Kimbrough of Prairie Village, KS, her mother Bonnie Edwards of Ottawa, KS, her siblings Monica Fuss and husband Frank of Conroe, TX, David Edwards and Jody of Ottawa, KS, Leanne Adams and husband Dan of Gardner, KS, and Mike Edwards of Olathe, KS, and her best friend Fleta Williams and husband Mike of Gladstone, MO along with four grandchildren and countless family and friends.

Her funeral services will be held at 12:00pm on December 5th at First United Methodist Church in Joplin, MO with a visitation preceding starting at 10:00am. All are welcome to come and pay their respects.

Nancy Grigsby

(From Ozark Funeral Home)

Nancy Lou Grigsby, 74, of Anderson, Missouri passed away on Sunday, November 27, 2022 at the Freeman Hospital in Neosho, Missouri.

She was born on February 9, 1948 in Columbus, Indiana to the late Frank and Dorothy (Brooks) Burton. 

Nancy married the love of her life, Keith Grigsby on July 30, 1966 in Nebraska, Indiana and to this union four children were born. 

She enjoyed painting and sitting on her front porch in the warmth of spring and summer and by the fireplace in the cold weather. Nancy loved spending time with her family and her precious grandchildren. She attended the First Baptist Church in Anderson, Missouri.

She was preceded in death by her parents; infant daughter, Carol Ann Grigsby; a son, Brian Grigsby; brother, Larry Burton and a sister, Debbie Whitis.

Nancy is survived by her husband of 56 years, Keith Grigsby of the home; three children, Tammy Renner (Terry) of Anderson, Missouri, Steve Grigsby of Joplin, Missouri, Tim Grigsby (Missy) of Anderson, Missouri; four grandchildren, Heather, Vanessa, Brian and Caleb; a great grandson, Grayson; along with a host of other family and friends who will dearly miss Nancy.

A memorial visitation will be held from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, December 1, 2022 at the Anderson Chapel of the Ozark Funeral Home. The family will receive friends at this time.

Lou Sageser

(From Housh-Goodwin Funeral Home)

Mrs. Louise “Lou” Sageser, 91, of Sarcoxie, Missouri passed away on Saturday, November 26, 2022 at Mercy Hospital in Joplin, surrounded by her loving family.

Lou was born on Thursday, June 18, 1931 in Stigler, Oklahoma to the union of the late Bert and Thelma (Dunn) Latimer. She grew up in Stotts City, Missouri and was a lifelong area resident of Sarcoxie. 

On February 13, 1950 she was united in marriage to Harold Sageser. Together they shared thirty-three years of wonderful memories until his passing on May 13, 1983. To this union three children were born.

For several years she worked as a cook in area restaurants as well a caregiver for several Sarcoxie families. She loved those families as her own. She enjoyed spending time with family and friends, attending her church, Standing at the Cross, baking, cooking, sewing, ironing, her chickens and bingo. One year she and Kenny Neal were Chief and Squaw of Chief Sarcoxie Days.

She is preceded in death by her husband, Harold; son, Douglas Harold Sageser; grandson, Chad Holland; siblings, Imogene Nelson and Padon Latimer.

Lou is survived by her children, Terrie Burris (Tom) of Monett, Missouri and Trudie Holland of Freistatt, Missouri; daughter-in-law, Carol Sageser of Sarcoxie, Missouri, grandchildren, Brian Dapkiewicz (Sherrie), Heather Collard (Justin), Rusty Holland and Travis Sageser (Kristin); great-grandchildren, Brenen, Sarah, Taylor, Damion, Hayley, Kalyn, Hanna, Caleb, Hope, Kinsey, Katie, Chloe and Quinn; four great-great grandchildren; as well as a host of other family and friends. She will truly be missed by those who knew and loved her.

Graveside services for Lou are 2:00p.m. Thursday, December 1, 2022 at Cave Spring Cemetery with Pastor Eric Roach officiating. Those honoring her life by serving as pallbearers are Travis Sageser, Brian Dapkiewicz, Justin Collard, Brenen Dapkiewicz Damion Holland and Casey Christiansen. Honorary pallbearers are Tom Burris and Rusty Holland. Visitation will be Wednesday evening from 6-8:00 p.m. at the funeral home. In-lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be directed to the Standing at the Cross Church in care of the funeral home. On-line condolences may be sent to the family through our website www.housh-goodwinfuneralhome.com. Arrangements are under the personal care and direction of Housh-Goodwin Funeral Home in Sarcoxie, Missouri.

Teresa Lynch

(From Mason-Woodard Mortuary)

Teresa Lynn (Richardson/Bussey) Lynch, age 72, of Neosho, Mo, passed away on Saturday November 26, 2022, at her home, following an illness.

Teresa was born on August 19, 1950 in Omaha, NE, the daughter of the late John Benton Richardson and Norma Lee (Longman) Richardson. She received her Bachelor’s Degree in Education from MSSU. She earned her Master's Degree from SBU in Bolivar, MO. She taught reading for McDonald County School District, retiring in 2009.

She married William “Bill" Lynch on April 11, 2010 in Bella Vista, AR at the Glass Chapel, and he survives. Additional survivors include, two sons Nick Bussey and his sweetheart, Amy Chaney, Neosho, MO, and T.R. Bussey, Neosho, MO; two grandchildren, Dylan Bussey and Bentlee Farley; a devoted uncle, Max Longman, Joplin, and an aunt, Jimmie Lou McKellips, Tulsa, OK.

She enjoyed adventures and participating in flying across country in the airplane and the hot air balloon with her husband Bill. Teresa was a free spirit who will be missed by all who knew her.

A memorial visitation will be held from 3 to 4 p.m. Saturday, December 3, 2022 at Mason-Woodard Mortuary.

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

George Garza

(From Mason-Woodard Mortuary)

George Garza, 65 years of age, of Webb City, MO passed away at 10:05 a.m. on November 22nd, 2022 unexpectedly from a heart attack. George was born on December 9th, 1956 in Bryan, TX. George was retired.

George loved hiking, being active, music, and loved to go “for a cruise” in the car. He enjoyed having good food with family. He also enjoyed watching football with his sons, sons-in-law, and grandchildren, especially his favorite team, the Dallas Cowboys. He also loved spending time with his children and grandchildren.

George was survived by his brother, Lupe Garza and his sisters, Janie Ortiz and Susie Hernandez. His twin daughters and their spouses, Shanna and Emory Mitchell, Ariel Ryan Lewis and his sons, Derek Garza and Brandon Garza; nine grandchildren, one great-grandchild and other family and friends.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Nabor and Francis Garza, his niece Tina Ortiz and daughter Misty Dawn Garza.

The family will receive friends during a time of visitation from 6:00 to 7:00 p.m. on Friday, December 2, 2022, at Mason-Woodard Mortuary. The family will conduct a memorial service at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, December 3, 2022, at Christ’s Church of Oronogo.

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

Patsy Box

(From Mason-Woodard Mortuary)

Patsy S. Box, age 84 of Joplin, MO., went to rest on Saturday, November 26, 2022 at 3:05 p.m. from short illness.

Patsy was born on September 30, 1938, to Frank and Isabella Cruse of Duenweg, MO. 

She married Melvin “Lefty” Box on June 3rd, 1955, with one son, Billy Box. Patsy retired from Modine.

She is survived by her grandson, Matthew Box and wife Peggy Box. Granddaughter, Erin Cornmen, great-grandsons, Austun Box and wife Taylor, Dakota Box and Tyler Smith, granddaughter Tiffany Dunn, great-granddaughter Leighton Scofield, all of Joplin, MO; Great-Great-Granddaughters: Remi and Raelynn Box. Several nieces and nephews and other loving family members. Honorary longtime friend/daughter Becky Wallace.

Patsy was preceded in death by her parents, Frank and Isabella Cruse, brother Ralph Cruse, husband, Melvin, and son, Billy Box.

Funeral services have been scheduled for 10:00 a.m. Wednesday, November 30th, 2022, at the Mason-Woodard Chapel. Burial will follow at Ozark Memorial Park Cemetery. The family will receive friends during a time of visitation on Tuesday, November 29th, 2022 from 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.at Mason-Woodard Mortuary. Pallbearers will be Austun and Dakota Box, Nick Kyger, Ryan Kyger, Todd Akins, Ethan McLaughin, Isaac McLaughlin, Robert Parsons, Nick Lawrence.

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

Maude Hamilton

(From Mason-Woodard Mortuary)

Mrs. Maude Marie (Finley) Hamilton of Carthage, Mo. passed away November 23rd, 2022 at Mercy Hospital in Joplin Mo.

Marie was born on December 10th, 1940 in Jasper County to the late Elbert and Stella (Hicks) Finley.

On September 26th, 1958 she was united in marriage to Dale Hamilton. Sharing sixty-eight years together.

Marie enjoyed taking care of her family and everyone around her, crocheting, cooking, and working in her yard with all her flowers. She retired from St Luke's Nursing home at the age of 77. She was devoted to God, and was a devoted Wife, Mother, Grandmother, Sister, Aunt, and Friend to many. She will be truly missed by all those who knew and loved her. She was a true Saint.

She was preceded in death by her parents, three children Mary Hamilton, Diane Cargile, and Fred Hamilton, one grandson Andre Milton, and by her one true love, her dog Obie.

Marie is survived by her husband Dale Hamilton, Siblings Bud Finley, Helen Brock, John Finley, and Mary Rucker. Her children Gayle McNear, Dayle Peterson and husband Michael, son-in-law Jerry Cargile, Debbie Delcour and husband Tim, Steven Hamilton and wife Donna. Grandchildren Jackie Owens, Angie Grossenbacher, Kathy Shryer, Stephanie Jewell, Chris Peterson, Eric Peterson, Arthon Milton, Maneka Milton, Amanda Treadway, Timmy Delcour, Josh Delcour, Emily Mosher, Nick Hamilton, Keisha Borland, Micaela Williams, Carrie Giroux, and Nathan Hamilton. She has 40 Great Grandchildren and 7 Great Great Grandchildren. several nieces and nephews, as well as a host of other family and friends.

There will be no services, The family is going to Celebrate her life at a later date.

Barbara Brown

(From Ozark Funeral Home)

Mrs. Barbara Brown, 82 of Anderson, Missouri departed this life on Thursday, November 24, 2022 at the McDonald County Living Center.

Barbara was born on September 18,1940 in Chattanooga, Tennessee, the daughter of Clint and Easter Marie Winnie. She grew up in Greysville, Tennessee then later moved to Chattanooga,where she became a cook . 

She worked at the Chattanooga Choo Choo where she got to cook for the mayor and one of her favorite country singers Conway Twitty. She also cooked for the Tennessee Vols. She enjoyed cooking, dancing, singing karaoke and playing pool.

Barbara is preceded in death by her Parents Clint and Easter Winnie, her better half Glen Small, her son Rickey Brown and sister Betty Blevins.

She is survived by 5 children Terry Hickey (Judy) of Riceville, Tennessee, David Sherrill of Chattanooga, Tennessee, Linda Mc Coil of Topeka, Kansas,Cary Wayne Brown (Mary) of Southwest City, Missouri, Melissa Brown of Topeka, Kansas. 9 Grandchildren Mandy Root, Kristina Brown (Matt), Andrew Root, Ronald Root (Luzelena), Nicole Brown, Christopher Brown (Corvette), Anthony Root, Kurtis Erdman Jr (Sarah), Kenneth Erdman (Emili) 14 Great-grandchildren Jayden, AJ, Serenity,Xavier, Anthony Jr , October, Lennox,Molly ,Ronnie, Phoenix, Avery , Eileen , Daniela, and Branden. 1 sister Joyce Blevins and many more Family and Friends.

Funeral services for Mrs. Barbara Brown will be held Thursday, December 1, 2022 at 12:00 p.m in the Memorial Park Cemetery in Lawrence, Kansas. 

Those honoring her life by serving as pallbearers are, Cary Wayne Brown, Matthew Brown, Christopher Brown, Kurtis Erdman Jr, Kenneth Erdman, Andrew Root, Ronald Root, Anthony Root. 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.

Irene Snyder

(From Fohn Funeral Home)

Lillian “Irene” Snyder, age 94, of Cassville, Missouri passed away Sunday, November 27, 2022 at Mercy Hospital Springfield in Springfield, Missouri.

She was born February 7, 1928 in Cassville, Missouri the daughter of Arthur Oren and Edith Bell (Writer) Dilbeck. 

On October 31, 1948 in Bentonville, Arkansas she was united in marriage to Wayne Snyder, Sr., who preceded her in death on October 22, 2007. Also preceding her in death were two brothers, Lloyd Dilbeck and Floyd Dilbeck and one sister, Arvilla Meador.

Surviving are two sons, Wayne Snyder, Jr. and his wife Barbara of Washburn, Missouri and Jerry Snyder and his wife Norma of Washburn, Missouri; four daughters, Brenda Spurlin and her husband Jack of Joplin, Missouri, Patty Day and her husband Greg of Cassville, Missouri, Sherry Scott of Cassville, Missouri and Jan Harter of Springfield, Missouri; one sister Norma Lea Williamson of Cassville, Missouri; eleven grandchildren, Cody, Ashlea, Glen, Nathan, Bobbie, Sheira, Megan, Staci, Matthew, Emily and Evan; nine great grandchildren with one on the way and three great great grandchildren.

Irene grew up and attended school in Cassville, Missouri graduating from Cassville High School. After graduating she worked at several places in the area before going to work for Jumping Jack’s Shoe Company and later Justin Boot Company from where she retired. 

She enjoyed working in the yard, making flower arrangements and going for car rides, but most of all she loved being with her family. She was a member of Merles Chapel in Cassville where she was saved and baptized.

Graveside services will be held at 10:00 A.M. Friday, December 2, 2022 at Oak Hill Cemetery in Cassville, Missouri, under direction of Fohn Funeral Home in Cassville. Tim Sapp will conduct the services.

Contributions may be made to Honor Flight of the Ozarks in memory of Irene.

Ray Lent

(From Brenner Mortuary)

Marion "Ray" Lent, 80, of Pittsburg, KS, passed away on Saturday, November 26, 2022 at Freeman Hospital in Joplin, MO.

Ray was born on December 4th, 1941 to Elwood and Lola (Clark) Lent, in Jamesport, MO. Ray, known to the trucking community as "Red Ryder'', was a truck driver for over 40 yrs. Thirty- eight of those years were, what was formerly known as Pitt Plastics. He took much pride in his job, and his trucks, before retiring in 2007.

Ray's interests included motorcycle rides, watching old westerns, and fast cars, from his Mo-Kan days to his last days in his Hellcat.

Ray is survived by a son, Terry (Karen) Lent of Oklahoma City, OK, 2 daughters, Shannon (Jim) Chastain, of Asbury, MO, and Stacy (Tim) Jameson of Overland Park, KS. He is also survived by 2 sisters, Charlotte Critten of Gallatin, MO, and Peggy Dawkins (Melvin) of Mooresville, MO. One brother, Jim Lent of Chillicothe, MO. 9 grandchildren, 6 great grandchildren, several nieces, nephews, and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his parents, 2 daughters, Tena Kay, and Shelly Jo, an infant great grandson, and a beloved sister-in-law.

At Ray's request he will be cremated. A small family celebration will be held in Chillicothe, MO.
Online condolences may be left at brennermortuary.com. Arrangements are under the direction of the Brenner Mortuary, 114 E. 4th St., Pittsburg, KS.

Randall Lipe

(From Clark Funeral Home)

James “Randall” Lipe, age 68, of Goodman, Missouri, surrounded by his family, passed away following an extended illness at 7:47 a.m. on Monday, November 28, 2022. He was born December 13, 1953, in Joplin, Missouri to Howard Doral “Cotton” and Irma May (Griffith) Lipe. 

Randall was a lifelong area resident and a 1972 graduate of Seneca High School. On November 5, 1976, he married Sondra Kay Woodward at the Hottel Springs Church of Christ in Newton County.

Randall previously worked for La-Z-Boy and, with a true entrepreneurial spirit, started Randall’s Body Shop and Lipe Logging Business which he operated for many years. He was a jack of all trades, could fix anything, and enjoyed doing it, especially when it was to help a friend or neighbor. He loved spending time with his family and going fishing.

He will be dearly missed and devotedly remembered by his wife, Sondra, of the home; one daughter, Lindsay Lipe of Goodman; his mother, Irma Lipe; one brother, Troy (Michelle) Lipe of Seneca; two sisters, Rebecca (Denny) Dennison of Neosho and Marsha (Joey) Welch of Seneca; his beloved dog, Pete; and a host of dear family and friends.

His father preceded him in death.

A memorial service will be held at 5:30 p.m. on Friday, December 2, 2022, at the Clark Funeral Home Chapel of Memories in Neosho, with Chaplin Barry Reed officiating. Visitation will be held from 4:30-5:30 p.m. in the funeral home.

Percy Blinzler

(From Mason-Woodard Mortuary)

Percy Edward Blinzler, Jr., age 82, of Joplin, passed away on Monday November 28, 2022, at his home surrounded by his family. He fought a courageous battle with cancer.

Percy was born on April 18, 1940 in Wentworth, MO, the son of the late Percy Edward Blinzler and Margaret (Mettlach) Blinzler. He graduated from Pierce City High School. 

He met and married his wife, Freda Rakoski on September 15, 1962, at St. Peter & Paul Catholic Church. Together they made their home in Joplin and were blessed with three children. They just recently celebrated sixty years together.

He was a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church. He worked for Ozark Engineering for twenty-five years and twenty-five years for Doing Steel. He retired in 2010. He served several years in the National Guard.

Percy dedicated many years of service to the Blinzler Softball Complex in Joplin. In 1979 Percy designed and spearheaded the building of the first softball fields dedicated to girls’ softball in the area. Percy wanted girls to have every opportunity that boys had to play sports. His efforts have made it one of the nicest Little League parks in the area. Throughout his years of service he has coached his daughters and granddaughters’ softball teams. For the last forty-seven years he has touched many lives across many states through multiple tournaments and many games played. He will be remembered by numerous families, for creating wonderful family memories to cherish for a lifetime.

He also served as the McAuley Booster Club President. He served on the Saginaw Board of Trustees for over forty years. He was a member of the Joplin Lion’s Club for over forty years. He also was President of Joplin Little League, Inc.

Percy is survived by his wife; Freda Blinzler, Joplin; two daughters; Donna Blinzler, Joplin, and Diane Blinzler, Diamond, MO; his son; James Blinzler and wife Jan of Webb City, MO.; and four grandchildren; Lindsey Reynolds, Ian Blinzler, Reanna Blinzler and Hunter Heikkila.

A Funeral Mass will be 10:00 a.m. Saturday at St. Mary’s Catholic Church. Reverend Joe Weidenbenner will officiate. There will be a private family burial in St. Peter & Paul Catholic Cemetery in Pulaski Field, near Pierce City, MO.

A Rosary will be held at 6:00 p.m. Friday with a visitation following until 8:00 p.m. at Mason-Woodard Mortuary.

Memorial contributions may be given to the Blinzler Sports Complex in care of the mortuary.

Alfred Keller

(From Mason-Woodard Mortuary)

Alfred James Keller, Jr., age 75, of Joplin, passed away on Monday November 28,2022, at Mercy Hospital, following an illness.

Alfred was born on July 14, 1947, in Joplin, the son of the late Alfred Keller, Sr. and Verna (Culp) Keller. He has been a lifetime area resident. 

He married the love of his life Connie Waggoner on June 20, 1967, in Joplin. Together they were blessed with three children. 

He was owner/operator of Al Keller Plumbing, until retiring in 2015. Al never really retired, he always stayed busy working on many different projects. He was a past member of Christ’s Church of Oronogo and he attended Hope City.

He is survived by his wife of fifty-five years, Connie Keller, Joplin; two sons, James Keller, Joplin and Bryon Keller and wife Tina, Joplin; one daughter, Erin Garman and husband Aaron, Joplin; two grandchildren, Colby Garman and Madison Garman. He was preceded in death by a brother, Gary Keller, and a sister, Pat Willard.

A family held Celebration of Life will be Saturday from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at Hope City, Joplin.

Joe Sewell

(From Ozark Funeral Home)

Joe Bill Sewell, age 74, of Purdy, Missouri, passed away at his home on Saturday, November 26, 2022. Son of James Robert and Lillie (Hill) Sewell, Joe was born on April 8, 1948, in Manilla, Arkansas. 

A veteran of the Vietnam War, Joe served proudly and honorably in the United States Navy. 

On August 23, 1972, he married the love of his life Charlet Eutsler; she preceded him in death in 2018. 

Joe enjoyed farming, tinkering, and just about anything that required him to be outside. Joe loved the outdoors, even cleaning up yards in his spare time.

Joe is survived by three children, Kevin Sewell, of Alma, Arkansas, Tammye Buckley, of Stella, Missouri, Teresa Fields, of Cassville, Missouri; five grandchildren, five great-grandchildren; three sisters and three brothers.

In addition to his parents and wife, Joe was preceded in death by one sister and four brothers.

Memorial contributions in honor of Joe Bill Sewell may be made to the family and entrusted to White Funeral home & Crematory, P.O. Box 890, Cassville, MO 65625.

Cremation arrangements are under the direction of White Funeral home & Crematory of Cassville.

Ronnie Eichelberger

(From Parker Mortuary)

Ronnie Ray Eichelberger, age 63, Riverton, KS, passed away suddenly on Monday, November 28th, 2022.

Ronnie was born on June 15th, 1959 in Joplin, MO to the late union Frankie and Annie (Cass) Eichelberger. He graduated in 1978 from Memorial High School in Joplin. 

He worked at Consumers Market for a number of years and met the love of his life, Debbie Hartshorn. He married Debbie on August 22nd, 1981 at Tennessee Prairie Church in Galena, KS. 

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In 1983 he started truck driving for J.B. Hunt and then worked for Standard Transportation for 23 years. He loved his family and friends more than anything. If he wasn’t trucking, then he was traveling all around the U.S. with his beloved wife. Together they visited 48 states. Ronnie enjoyed watching movies with his son, Grant, listening to music with his son, Miles, and golfing with his brother, Terry. He loved his grandchildren and they knew how to work Ronnie. He could quote just about any and every tv show or movie anytime. Ronnie will be deeply missed by his friends and family.

Ronnie is survived by his wife of the home, Debbie Eichelberger; two sons, Miles and Grant Eichelberger; four brothers and sisters, Christina Crosby, Terry Eichelberger, Donnie Eichelberger, and Mary Sue Jones; mother, Mary Eichelberger; and two grandchildren, Adaline and Jensen.

Memorial visitation will be held on Wednesday, November 30th, 2022 at Thornhill-Dillon Mortuary Chapel from 5:00 – 7:00 p.m.

Memorial service will be held Thursday, December 1st, 2022 at House of Prayer with time to be announced soon.

Cremation arrangements are under the personal care and direction of Parker Mortuary.

Wilma Clark

(From Ozark Funeral Home)

Mrs. Wilma Dean “Bug” Clark, 87, of Jay, Oklahoma, departed this life on Monday, November 28, 2022, in the comfort of her home, after a recent decline in health.

Wilma entered this life on August 28, 1935, in rural Delaware County, Oklahoma, daughter of the late Henry and Sylvia (Rockwood) Gann. She was raised near Southwest City and was a 1953, graduate of Southwest City High School. 

On June 24, 1953, she was united in marriage to William Lee “Bill” Clark and to this union four sons were born. They resided in Wichita, Kansas for fifteen years where Wilma drove a school bus for the Wichita School District and Bill worked for Boeing. 

In 1970, they moved their family back home to Jay, Oklahoma. For several years Wilma worked as a bookkeeper and tax preparer. In her retirement years she worked at the Ozark Funeral Home in Southwest City assisting with visitations. She enjoyed working the polls for area elections and collecting money on Memorial weekend at Southwest City Cemetery. She was a talented seamstress and loved to crochet.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband Bill Clark on July 14, 1994; two sons, Kevin and Theron Clark; three brothers, Austin, Nathan and John Gann; and two sisters, Pauleen Kissire and Stella Schoonover.

Wilma is survived by two sons, Rick Clark and wife, Lisa, of Rogers, Arkansas and Shane Clark and wife, Annetta, of Jay, Oklahoma; a daughter in-law, Debbie Clark of Southwest City; two former daughter in-laws, Angela Cockrill and husband, Brian, of Bella Vista and Adela Clark Evans of Jay; fourteen grandchildren, Jared, Janae, Colby, Cody, Dustin, Megan, Lauren, Nathan, Katelynn, Keisha, Brittany, Alyssa, Taylor and Brandon; twenty eight great grandchildren, Krystal, William, Dakota, Jordan, Jewellia, Beckham, Brooks, Solomon, Steffen, Theron, Raylan, Aarilynn, Caleb, Eden, Natalyn, Whitney, Leslie, Taylor, Heath, Mikaela, Alaina, Kale, Rose, Marshall, Logan, EmmaGayle, Judson and Evelyn; four great-great grandchildren, Rylin, Briar, Haidyn and Gabriel; as well as a host of other family and friends.

Funeral services are 10:00 a.m. Thursday morning, December 1, 2022 at First Baptist Church in Southwest City with Bro. Bob Cartwright and Bro. Ricky Williams officiating. Burial will follow at Southwest City Cemetery. 

Those honoring her life by serving as pallbearers are Dustin Clark, Jared Clark, Nathan Clark, Colby Clark, Cody Clark and Brandon Cockrill with Megan, Lauren, Katelynn, Alyssa, Taylor, Janae, Keisha and Brittany serving as honorary pallbearers. 

The family will receive friends on Wednesday evening from 5-7:00 p.m. in the Southwest City Chapel of the Ozark Funeral Homes. Memorials are being directed to the Southwest City Care Fund c/o 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 Southwest City, Missouri.    

Ann Wilson

(From Housh-Goodwin Funeral Home)

Elizabeth Ann Wilson passed peacefully early Thanksgiving morning with her children at her side. “Ann” was taken from this world due to complications from heart surgery.

She was born in Joplin on September 5, 1949 and grew up on a farm in Sarcoxie, MO with her loving brothers Keith and Stanley. A graduate of Sarcoxie High School and Missouri Southern, family and friends will remember her kind heart, her tough spirit, and her motherly love. She was often looked to for solving problems and giving advice. 

Ann was always up for an adventure, whether it was tackling traffic on her drives into Chicago to visit her daughter Tiffany, camping in national parks where her daughter Tara worked as a ranger, or traveling to music festivals to listen to her son-in-law Jon perform. She spent every day this past year entertaining her first grandson, Thain, making him laugh like only a grandma could. 

Ann loved a good thrift store and garage sale, collecting interesting & rare objects as a hobby. She also had a love for live music and dancing. An educator in local school districts for over 30 years, Ann taught grades pre-K to 12. Everywhere she went in town she would run into former students.

Ann is survived by daughters Tiffany Wilson (Jonathan) and Tara Wilson-Kurz (Seth); grandson Thain; brother Keith Garber (Katrina); aunt Laura Kaylor; cousins Pam Barngrover (Brian) and Alan Kaylor (Gail); nieces Karen Golding (Mikel) and Dr. Sarah Beers (Geoffrey), along with many close friends who she considered family.

Embracing Ann on the other side are her mother & father, Kathleen and George Garber, brother Stanley Garber, Granny Edna Garber, uncle Loren Kaylor and many other close family, friends, and pets.

Per Ann’s wishes, no visitation or funeral will be held. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to Bluegrass Ambassadors, continuing Ann’s passion for music and educating children. https://bluegrassambassadors.org/donate.

Cremation arrangements are under the personal care and direction of Housh-Goodwin Funeral Home in Sarcoxie, Missouri.

Freda Van

(From Simpson Funeral Home)

Freda “Nams” Van was born on August 28, 1940 in Joplin, Missouri to Harry and Wilma Thompson. She passed away on November 25, 2022 at the age of 82 in Joplin, Missouri.

Freda was a member of the Waco Christian Church and served in Sunday school and the nursery for over 50 years. She enjoyed reading and always baked the best sugar cookies for Easter that she decorated herself. 

Freda was always on the go. She recently went to the Pumpkin Nights at Silver Dollar City. She had a lunch group she ate with monthly and attended an exercise group at the Carl Junction Community Center.








Freda was an only child. She was known as "Nams" to those who loved her.

Freda adored her grandchildren and great grandchildren, who she always enjoyed spoiling. She was very involved in their lives and loved attending their sporting events. She was their biggest fan.

Freda was preceded in death by her parents, Harry and Wilma "Vera" Thompson.

Freda is survived by her daughter, Joanna Howard & husband Dennis of Carl Junction; grandchildren, Bradley Kirk Howard of West Virginia and Nicholas Ryan Howard & wife Brianna, Ashley Nicole Cloven & husband Dalton, all of Carl Junction; great grandchildren, Liam Ryan Howard, Bennett Michael Pern Cloven, and Silas Brinnick Howard.

A visitation will be held on November 30, 2022 from 6:00-7:30 PM at Simpson Funeral Home in Carl Junction, Missouri. There will be a private family graveside service at Mt Hope Cemetery.

Services are under the personal care and direction of Simpson Funeral Home in Carl Junction. The family encourages relatives and friends to visit www.simpsonfh.com to share photos and memories of Freda.

Evelyn Schroter

(From Parker Mortuary)

Evelyn Jean Hilliard Schroter, age 79, Joplin, passed away on Friday, November 25, 2022 at Mercy of Joplin.

Evelyn was born April 10, 1943 in West Hartford, CT, daughter of the late Douglas Parker Hilliard and Doris Isabell (Anderson) Hilliard. She graduated from Conard High School in West Harford before attending SUNY University in Albany, NY. She moved to Joplin 34 years ago. She had many interests. She belonged to the Orchid Society of the Ozarks, The Springfield orchid society and at one time the Tulsa orchid society. She was also a member of the Friendly Neighbors club and the Social Order of the Beauceant. She loved spending time with family, and friends and will be greatly missed by many.

In addition to her parents, Evelyn was preceded in death by a sister, Margaret “Maggie” Thurston.

Survivors include her children, Jean Schroter of Joplin, Donna Schroter of Ballston Spa, NY, and Scott Schroter of Riverview, FL; grandchildren, Brenna Kay Schroter, Alec Charles Schroter, Damon Charles Schroter ; sisters, Beth Fontana of Tampa, FL and Lois Thompson of West Hartford, CT; brother, Russell Hilliard of Lake George, NY; several nieces and nephews.

Memorial service will be Friday, December 2, 2022 at 2:00 p.m. in the Parker Mortuary Chapel with Rev. Alan McCamey officiating.

Cremation arrangements are under the direction of Parker Mortuary.

Ed Sneed

(From Ulmer Funeral Home)

Edward Montee Sneed, 90, of Carthage, MO, passed away on Wednesday, November 23, 2022, at Mercy Hospital in Joplin, MO.

Ed was born near Girard KS on April 29, 1932, to Everett Sneed and Anna Myrtle Stevens Sneed

Ed was the next to youngest of five boys and three girls: James Sneed, Clarence Sneed, Louise Sneed Granneman, Everett Sneed, Wilma Sneed Ragonese, Earl Sneed, and Edith Sneed Long. All of his siblings preceded him in death.

He attended school at Girard, KS, and Mindenmines, MO then transferred to Jasper, MO to finish high school

Ed worked during high school at the IGA grocery store in Jasper. A clerk at the store, Ruth, said she was attracted to his “sparkling” brown eyes and admired him for standing up for what was right and not going along with the crowd.

Following graduation, he served two years in the army at Fort Sill, OK, as a Physical Training Instructor, Staff Sergeant.

Ed married his high school sweetheart, Winifred Ruth Scott, on May 2, 1954, at the Jasper Methodist Church after he served in the army. They had four children: Montee, Vicki, Michael, and Steven.

He developed a strong work ethic as a young boy with jobs ranging from working in a grocery store, to delivering milk and to selling Saturday Evening Posts.

His jobs included heavy construction with Snyder Construction, sales with Thomas Fruit company, a sales manager with Leggett & Platt, owner and operator of Ed’s Skelly Station, and ended his career as a furniture manufacturer representative for several companies including Schneider Furniture, Sunline Furniture and Coolbrooke.

Good customer service and sales were major skills Ed practiced in several of his jobs. As a furniture sales representative, it was common practice for him to sell Ruth’s sofas out of their family room and living room. His children were taught those values during lengthy dinner conversations.

He retired in 1994, but his selling techniques didn’t as dinner guests were often offered the “freshest or best” dishes prepared from his garden produce. A meal was generally followed by an offer of a toothpick and chewing gum.

He filled his retirement with a big garden which fed the neighborhood, woodworking, penmaking, and knife collecting.

Ed had a passion for hunting doves, quail, and ducks. He also liked trap shooting, skeet shooting and sporting clays. He shared his enthusiasm and knowledge as a hunter education instructor for Missouri Department of Conservation for more than 30 years.

Ed had a beautiful voice, developed throughout his life. He had a great capacity to remember words and melodies of songs. It was not uncommon to launch into a love ballad for Ruth, which always brought a smile. Later in life he sang with the Tri-County Statesmen barbershop chorus.

Ed was a 32nd Degree – Scottish Rite. He was a 50-year Mason and a Pastmaster.

He was a member of the American Legion.

He was preceded in death by his wife Winifred Ruth Scott Sneed. He is survived by his children and their spouses, Montee and Anne Sneed of Columbia, TN; Brent and Vicki Hillsman of Schell City, MO; Michael Sneed of Carthage, Steven and Karen Sneed of Norman, OK; his grandchildren and their spouses, Alice and Andrew Miller of Hoover, AL, Tyler and Lori Hillsman of Kansas City, MO, Thomas and Courtney Sneed, Columbia, TN, Matthew Hillsman of Kansas City, MO, Cameron Thompson of Moore, OK and Cayton Thompson of Moore, OK; Ed’s great grandchildren, Ellie and Arlo Hillsman of Kansas City, MO, Sadie Ruth, Molly, and Eliza Miller of Hoover, AL and Patrick and Dorothy Sneed of Columbia, TN.

Services for Edward Montee Sneed will be 2 p.m. Saturday, December 3, 2022, at Ulmer Funeral Home in Carthage, Missouri. A visitation will be held Friday evening, December 2, 2022, from 6:00 to 7:00 p.m. Burial will follow the service at Park Cemetery in Carthage, Missouri.

Ed’s family wish to recognize and thank the staff of Oak Pointe Assisted Living in Carthage for their care and thoughtfulness.

Memorials may be sent to Mt. Moriah United Methodist Church in care of Ulmer Funeral Home.

Arrangements are under the care and direction of Ulmer Funeral Home.