Barbara Fleming

(From Daniel Funeral Home)

Barbara Louise Fleming, age 76, of Lamar, Missouri passed away February 25, 2023.

Barbara was born February 15, 1947 in Liberal, Missouri to Cecil Wayne Cassatt and Lila Mae (Swartz) Cassatt. She married Mark C. Fleming on December 5, 1969 at McGuire Air Force Base in Wrightstown, New Jersey.

After graduating Liberal High School in 1965, Barbara attended Cosmetology School at Kansas State College in Pittsburg, Kansas. Upon graduation of Kansas State College, she worked two years as a hair specialist in Coffeyville, Kansas. 

From there, she decided to enlist in the United States Air Force. After completing basic training, Barbara was trained to become an Air Passenger Service Specialist, assigned to McGuire Air Force Base from December 1968-1969. 

In December 1969, she married Mark and they were assigned to Clark Air Base, Philippines. In August 1970, Barbara was required to separate from the Air Force due to the impending birth of their first child, Heather, due in October. 

After being reassigned to Dover Air Force Base, Delaware for two years and the birth of their second daughter, Tracy, the family was moved to Yuma, Arizona to stay with her parents while Mark was overseas in Iran and Saudi Arabia. 

After Mark's tour was complete, they were moved to Altus Air Force Base, Oklahoma. They established their home in Tipton, Oklahoma and lived there after their 20 year retirement from the Air Force. Barbara was very involved with school, serving as home room mother, parent-teacher organization leader, along with coaching youth teams. 

Besides those activities, she worked in the base commissary, several grocery and department stores, U.S. Census Bureau, ASCOG, newspaper reporter, and owned and operated a trophy and plaque business. In 1996, upon moving to Lamar, Barbara worked in caring for the mentally and physically handicapped people for the next 16 years.

 

Survivors include her husband, Mark; two daughters, Heather Frances Fleming of Lamar, MO., and Tracy Lynn Candler of Greenfield, MO.; granddaughter, Morgan Paige Weimer and fiance, Brandon Hildebrand, and their young son, Hayden Michael Hildebrand, all of Lamar, MO., as well as many nieces and nephews.

Barbara was preceded in death by her parents; grandparents; two brothers, Donald Wayne Cassatt and his wife Janet and Gary Wayne Cassatt and his wife Roberta.

A private family ceremony will be held.

Arrangements are under the direction of Daniel Funeral Home.

Condolences may be shared at www.dfhlamar.com

Charles Speer

(From Hedge-Lewis-Goodwin Funeral Home)

Charles Henry Speer Jr., 77, of Carl Junction, Missouri, passed peacefully on February 26th, 2023 with his family by his side.

Charles was born to Faye Janice Cowan and Charles Henry Speer Sr. on April 19th 1945 in Springfield, Missouri. He met his beautiful wife Marian while he was stationed in Virginia. They married five weeks later on May 24th, 1963. Charles served in the US Navy for 9 years. 

Charles and Marian resided in Redfield, Kansas for many years before moving to Carl Junction, Missouri to be closer to their children and grandchildren.

Survivors include his loving wife, Marian; two sons, Tim and Brenda Speer of Diamond, Missouri and Dennis and Janea Speer of Charleston, Vermont; two daughters, Sharon and Joe Osborn of Sarcoxie, Missouri and Mary and David Mooney of Pittsburg, Kansas; fifteen grandchildren and many great grandchildren. Charles is preceded in death by his first born son Charles Blake Speer, grandson Lewis Clark, his parents Faye Janice Cowan, Raymond Cowan and Charles Speer Sr. and his brothers, James Speer, Mark Demas and George Demas.

Charles' memorial service will be held on Sunday March 5th, 2023 at 10:00am. Location will be at 5703 W. Wildwood Ranch Parkway Joplin, MO. 64804. 

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

Dorothy Sherwood

(From Campbell-Biddlecome Funeral Home)

Dorothy Lee Sherwood, 91, Richardson, TX, passed away peacefully on February 24, 2023 at Locardia Home Care Living in Plano, TX. She was a wonderful Christian wife, mother, mother-in-law and grandmother. We praise God that her suffering here on earth is finally over, but we will miss her here so much.

Dorothy Lee Lawson was born August 26, 1931 in Seneca, MO, the daughter of Lawton and Ola Leota (Golden) Lawson. Dorothy was a teacher and had taught school in Seneca, MO, Honolulu, HI, Wyandotte, OK, Socorro, NM and Richardson, TX. 

She loved children and loved to have a part in molding their lives through her passion of teaching. She was also an accomplished artist and musician and loved sharing those gifts as well. Dorothy was a member of First Baptist Church in Richardson, TX.

Dorothy Lee Lawson married Melvin Dean Sherwood in Seneca, MO December 23, 1952, and he preceded her in death March 27, 2017. Dorothy was also preceded in death by her parents, Lawton and Ola Lawson, one sister Isabel Culkin, one brother Vernon Lawson.








Dorothy and Mel had two sons, Mark and Curt. Mark is married to Rhonda Griffin Sherwood, and they have one child, Elizabeth. Elizabeth is married to Andrew Bigley and they have six children, Samantha, Laura, Mark, Ronnie, Natalie and Edwin. Curt married Brenda Johnson and they have two children, Jozsef and December. Other survivors include nieces, nephews, grandnieces and grandnephews, as well as numerous cousins.

Funeral services are under the personal direction of Campbell-Biddlecome Funeral Home, Seneca, MO and will be held Saturday, March 4, 2023. The family will receive visitors from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m., with the service to follow at 11:00 a.m. at Campbell-Biddlecome, with the Rev. Douglas Lawson officiating.

Shirley Kelly

(From Campbell-Biddlecome Funeral Home)

Shirley D. Kelly, 75, Seneca, MO, passed away February 27, 2023 at Mercy Hospital in Joplin, MO after a sudden illness.

Shirley Deanna Brock was born February 4, 1948 in Newton County the daughter of Nelson and Dorothy (Becknell) Brock. She was a lifelong area resident. Shirley was a 1966 graduate of Granby High School. She also graduated from Crowder College, Missouri Southern State University, and received her Master's degree from Missouri State University. 

Shirley was a teacher for 28 years. She taught at Granby Elementary and Westview. She loved teaching and after retiring she became a substitute teacher for a few years at area schools. Shirley took great joy in decorating her home, cooking, canning, sewing, gardening, and working in the yard. Shirley was of the Christian faith.

Shirley Deanna Brock married Phillip Jordan Kelly May 6, 1972 in Joplin, MO and he preceded her in death January 30, 2018. Also preceding her in death were her parents and two brothers, David Brock and Michael Brock.

Survivors include four children; Lisa McDonald, Granby, Tresha Tice, Joplin, Christopher J. Kelly and Thomas J. Kelly both of Seneca, one brother, Timothy Brock, Stark City, MO., one sister, Cynthia Woodroof, Texas, 7 grandchildren, and 11 great-grandchildren.

Visitation will be held from 6 to 7 pm, March 2, 2023 at the Campbell-Biddlecome Funeral Home.

Funeral services will be held at 10 am, March 3, 2023 at the Campbell-Biddlecome Funeral Home, Seneca, MO with Rev. Joseph Kelly officiating. Pallbearers are Craig Brock, Larry Beck, Nathan Brock, Seth Wilson, James Mahurin, and David Griffin. Burial will be in the St. Mary's Catholic Cemetery.

Dana Roller

(From Crafton-Cantrell Funeral Home)

Dana Jo Roller, age 56, of Oronogo, Missouri, passed away at 2:20 a.m. on Monday, February 27, 2023, at her home. She was born November 20, 1966, in Neosho, Missouri, the daughter of John and Nania (Norris) Conness.

Dana was a 1986 graduate of Cassville High School in Cassville, Missouri. She enjoyed volunteering for the local missions, riding motorcycles with her husband, Larry and spending time with her grandchildren. She was a member of the Forest Park Baptist Church in Joplin, Missouri.

On August 30, 1991, she married Larry Eugene Roller, in Cassville, Missouri.

Dana is survived by her husband of 31 years, Larry; two daughters, Kayla Hedrick and her husband, Josh and Shelby Johnson and her partner, Amber, all of Webb City, Missouri; her mother and daddy, Nania and Doyle Vance of Granby, Missouri; her father, John Conness of Seneca, Missouri; three step-brothers, Leon Conness and his wife, Deanna of Twin Bridges, Oklahoma, Steve Conness of Neosho, Missouri and Donny Conness and his wife, Shea of Carthage, Missouri; her special son, Patrick Johnson, of Webb City, Missouri; five grandchildren, Harper, Tinlee, Hollace, Titus and Harlyn and her parents-in-law, Russell and Mary Roller, of Washburn, Missouri.

Dana was preceded in death by her brother, Brian Cox, maternal grandmother, Honey Mahan and sister-in-law Andrea Mitchell.

A celebration of Dana’s life will be held from 5:00-6:30 p.m. on Sunday, March 5, 2023, at Forest Park Baptist Church North on Campus Dr. in Joplin, Missouri. Burial will be held at the Granby Memorial Cemetery in Granby, Missouri. Arrangements are under the direction of the Crafton-Cantrell Funeral Home in Aurora, Missouri.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Surviving Together.

Online condolences may be shard at www.CraftonCantrellFuneralHome.com.

Jimmy Summers

(From Mason-Woodard Mortuary)

Jimmy Dean Summers age 65, of Nevada, Missouri passed away February 22nd, 2023.

He was born May 5th, 1957, in Carthage, Missouri to Benjamin Summers and Rosemary Annis.

Jimmy attended Webb City High School. Jimmy never joined the work force as a result of the accident which disabled him.

Jimmy is survived by his mother, Rosemary Summers, four brothers: Benny Summers of Joplin, Missouri, Carl Summers of Sarcoxie, Missouri, Donald Summers of Joplin, Missouri and David Summers also of Joplin. He is also survived by one sister, Debbie Summers of Oswego, Kansas, as well as numerous friends, and extended family.

Jimmy was preceded in death by his dad Benjamin Summers.

The family will receive friends from 1:00 to 2:00 p.m. Thursday at Mason-Woodard Chapel. The service will immediately follow the visitation.

Burial will follow the service at Stone Cemetery in Diamond, MO.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Mason-Woodard Mortuary & Crematory.

Thetia Towry

(From Greenfield Funeral Chapel)

Thetia R. King Lowry, 92, of Everton, MO, passed away on Saturday, February 25, 2023, at the Ash Grove Healthcare Facility in Ash Grove, MO.

She was born at the family farm near Bona, MO to Orville and Lois Freeze. Following the death of her mother, Thetia and her sister, Marilyn, moved to their grandparents’ home where they lived for the rest of their childhood. Thetia was a member of the Bona Church of Christ and attended there until she moved to Ash Grove Healthcare in 2020. She missed her church family very much.

Thetia married Morris King in 1948. To this union, four children were born; Mike, Carol, Marsha, and David. She loved her children deeply, and the feeling was mutual. Morris preceded her in death in 1976.

In 1983, Thetia married Bob Lowry. Bob preceded her in death in 2013.

In addition to Morris and Bob, Thetia was preceded in death by her grandparents, parents, one sister, two brothers, and one son, Mike.

Thetia is survived by three children, Carol Burnum (Jack) of Brookline, MO, Marsha Roy (Mark) of Willard, MO, and David King (Tammy) of Everton, MO; one daughter-in-law, Kelley King of Liberal, KS; eleven grandchildren; twenty-one great-grandchildren; and twenty-four great-great grandchildren.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, March 4, 2023, at the Bona Church of Christ. Burial will follow in the Bona Cemetery. The family will receive friends on Saturday at 10:00 a.m. until service time at the church. 

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Bona Cemetery, Fair Haven Children’s Home, or a charity of the donor’s choice. Services are under the care of Greenfield Funeral Chapel.

Charlene Kingsley

(From Greenfield Funeral Chapel)

Charlene K. Kingsley, of Miller, MO departed this life on Saturday, February 25, 2023, at the Good Shepherd Community Care and Rehabilitation Facility in Lockwood, MO at the age of 86.

She was born on January 20, 1937 in Richmond, IN to Milferd and Ethel (Denlinger) Eikenberry. Charlene graduated from Lanier High School in West Alexandria, OH. She graduated from Manchester College in Indiana with her LPN Degree. 

Charlene was united in marriage to J.W. Kingsley on May 29, 1965 in Mt. Vernon, MO. She was a member of the Church of the Brethren in Ohio, and attended the Highland Chapel Church in Miller, MO for many years. She enjoyed reading the bible. She also enjoyed reading, gardening, and eating ice cream.

Preceding her in death were her parents, Milferd and Ethel Eikenberry; her husband, J.W. Kingsley; one son, Kaleb Kingsley; two sisters, Evelyn Marshall and Doris Eikenberry; and one grandson, Kaleb Kingsley.

Survivors include three sons, Kiman Kingsley and Judy of Miller, MO, Kaland Kingsley and Kristen of Lockwood, MO, and Kevin Kingsley and Lisa of Lamar, MO; one daughter, Karen Melgard and Rick of Milford, OH; five grandchildren, Cheyenne Kingsley, Alicyn Kingsley, Luke Kingsley, Ethan Melgard, and Bryce Melgard; and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.


Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, March 2, 2023, at Highland Chapel Church. Burial will follow in Goss Cemetery. The family will receive friends on Wednesday evening from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at the church. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Highland Chapel Church. Services are under the care of Greenfield Funeral Chapel.

Rick Black

(From Simpson Funeral Home)

Rickey A Black, age 63 of Carterville, passed away on February 24, 2023. He was born on November 1, 1959 to Herbert (Bob) & Siglinde (Wagner) Black in Fort Ord, California.

Rick loved to travel the world and worked in the concrete business for most of this life. He was a bus driver for the past 4 years for the Carl Junction School District. 

He adored his family and was a loving husband and father. He dabbled in grilling and smoking meats in his free time, something the family enjoyed alongside him. As a 'jack-of-all-trades', Rick was treasured by those who loved him. His laughter, smile and warm personality will be missed by so many.

He married the love of his life, Martha (Rehne) Black, on November 9, 2013 and she survives him. 

He is also survived by his children, Barbie Cochran and husband Dave of Carl Junction, Melissa Cantrell and husband Mike of Carl Junction, Jillian Maifert and husband Jason of Frisco, Texas, Emily Cantrell of Richardson, Texas; a brother, Mike Black and wife Melanie of Rice, Texas; grandchildren, Landon, Kalee, Hunter, Hannah, Lucas, Quentin, Izabella, Zoe; and a great grandchild, Braylee. 

He was preceded in death by his parents, Bob & Jo Black and Siglinde Wagner.

Rick had requested to be cremated and a celebration of life will take place on March 25, 2023.




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

Dan Hankins

(From Clark Funeral Home)

Dennis Wayne “Dan” Hankins, age 75, passed away Saturday, February 25, 2023, at Mercy Hospital in Joplin, Missouri. He was born April 10, 1947, in Harligen, Texas, to the late Charles Pink Hankins and Mabel Corilla Ivy (Corbin) Hankins. 

Dan married Rosemary McCracken, and she preceded him in death. He worked as a truck driver for many years retiring from Leggett & Platt. Dan attended the Freewill Baptist Church in Stella, Missouri. 

He will be lovingly missed by his girlfriend, Tara Gail Powers, Children Michael Wayne Hankins, Deanne Hankins, and Daniel Hankins, and numerous grandchildren. 

In addition to his wife, he is preceded in death by his parents.

No services have been planned at this time.

Lester Lay

(From Parker Mortuary)

Lester E. Lay, age 89 of Joplin, Missouri made his journey to his heavenly home while surrounded by his sweet family on February 24, 2023. 

Lester was born in Delaware, Oklahoma to the late Marshall and Bessie Swayze Lay. Lester was a bivocational minister with the Community of Christ church. His ministry included serving as pastor in the Joplin church for several years. 

Later, being ordained to the office of Evangelist, his ministry expanded its reach throughout the region, and he developed a close relationship with the church in Tahiti. He has lived and worked throughout Joplin, eventually retiring as an Engineer from Empire District Electric Company after 38 years of service. 

Having retired from Empire, his availability allowed him and his wife to accept the ministry offer to serve as caregivers at the church campgrounds in Racine, MO where they and their family had attended numerous church camps throughout the years.

Lester loved the Lord, and his passion was to serve and tell others the good news of Jesus Christ. He taught and modeled the teachings of Christ in his everyday actions and words. His faith in God was one of his greatest strengths and was able to teach others to develop their own faith to help them through their trials. He never knew a stranger and had no enemies. Lester would be known by many as a ‘jack of all trades,’ being able to put about anything together with his hands. As an engineer, you could be ensured that everything was done meticulously and with the greatest precision, or he would start over until it was done right.

On August 24, 1952, Lester married his loving wife, Patsy Riley in Skiatook, Oklahoma. Lester is survived by Patsy at their home in Joplin. 

Additional survivors include two sons, Joseph Lay and wife, Tammie of Independence, Missouri, Patrick Lay and wife, Tricia of New York, New York; daughter, Julie Lay of Joplin; brothers, Jerry Lay and wife, Phyllis of Southern Oklahoma, Jimmy Lay and wife, Tammy of Bartlesville, Oklahoma and Bobby Lay and wife Debra of Rockport, Texas; 10 grandchildren, numerous great grandchildren, nieces, and nephews.

Cremation arrangements are under the direction of Parker Mortuary, Joplin, Missouri. A memorial service is scheduled for Saturday, March 4, 2023 at 2:00pm at the Ozark Camp & Retreat Center, 10355 Eland Rd, Neosho, MO 64850.

Virginia Stephens

(From Ozark Funeral Home)

Mrs. Virginia Ann McMurry Stephens, 89 of Stella, Missouri departed this life on Tuesday, February 14, 2023, at Windcrest Health and Rehab in Springdale, AR.

Virginia was born June 23, 1933, in Kansas City, Missouri to the late James and Helen (Boehm) McMurry. Virginia grew up in Kansas City, Missouri. 

On January 30, 1953, she was united in marriage to Bill L. Stephens. Virginia enjoyed taking care of her family and gardening.

 

Virginia was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Bill L. Stephens in 2000, her oldest son; Bill R. Stephens in 2014, three brothers; James, Tom and Ralph, and a sister; Agnes.

Virginia is survived by a son; David Stephens and wife Kathleen of Arizona, two daughters; Linda Land and husband James of Arkansas, and Tina Hulen and husband Mike of Kansas, ten grandchildren, several great grandchildren and many nieces and nephews, four sisters; Mary Helen, Pat, Kathleen, and Beverly. Rachel Stephens who has always been there, as well as host of other family and friends.

MEMORIAL SERVICE

Ozark Funeral Homes - Anderson Friday, March 10, 2023
10:00 AM
100 Spring Street - P.O. Box 520
Anderson, Missouri 64831

Terry Oxford

(From Parker Mortuary)

Terry Lea Oxford, age 66, Joplin, passed away on Friday, February 23, 2023 at Mercy of Springfield, Missouri after a sudden illness.

Terry was born March 9, 1956 in Webb City, Missouri, one of eleven children born to the late Albert Lanta Oxford and Edith Marcella (Long) Oxford. 

She grew up in Joplin where she graduated from Parkwood High School. She became a Certified Nurse’s Assistant and worked at several local nursing homes in the area including Greenbriar, Joplin Health Care, and the Meadowview Nursing Center. She loved taking care of her patients, and had a very patient and loving attitude while helping those she cared for during her career. She was an avid bowler which she enjoyed for years, and was known to be a big collector of certain items, purses for sure. She was a loving soul who loved being with family and having fun.

In addition to her parents, Terry was preceded in death by two brothers, Randy A. Oxford and Mark A. Oxford.

Survivors include her son, Austin Oxford of Joplin; six sisters, Beverly Sadler, Pam McReynolds, Paula Kay Esterline, Kathy Esterline, Marcia Stephens, and Tracy Foster; two brothers, Brian Oxford and Michael Shane Oxford all of Joplin; several nieces and nephews.

Cremation arrangements are under the direction of Parker Mortuary with a private family graveside service at a later date in Osborne Memorial Cemetery next to his parents.

Meredith Yenzer

(From Parker Mortuary)

Meredith Jane Yenzer, age 56, of Joplin, passed away on Friday, February 24, 2023, in Joplin.

Meredith, daughter of Allen “Jack” Hooker and Nancy (Reynolds) Windle, was born on December 31, 1966, in Joplin. She was a graduate of Southern Illinois University Carbondale and a mother of three surviving children, Jared Yenzer, and his wife, Hailey, of Joplin, Cael Yenzer, of Colorado, and Keira Yenzer, of Joplin. 

Also surviving, her mother, Nancy Windle, of Joplin, her stepbrother, Brett Windle, of Kansas and stepsister Caren Pearson, and her husband Charles, of Kansas, as well as several extended family members and friends. Meredith was preceded in death by her father, Allen “Jack” Hooker; and her stepfather, Jim Windle.

Private family services were held in Joplin.

Arrangements are under the personal care and direction of Parker Mortuary, Joplin.

Carter Williamson

(From Lawson's Funeral Home)

Carter Reed Williamson, age 19, passed away on Sunday, February 26, 2023 at his home.

Carter’s family visitation to greet friends will be held on Saturday, March 4, 2023 from 12:00 - 2:00pm at Mt. Hermon Church, 18035 E 420 Road Jay, Oklahoma. Followed by Carter’s Celebration of Life private Graveside Service at Southwest City Cemetery, Southwest City, Missouri.

Arrangements are entrusted to Lawson’s Funeral Homes & Cremation Services, 311 W. Gray St., Jay, OK 74346 with Shaunda J. Lawson, 3rd Generation Owner/Funeral Director and Staff.

Liz Loyd

(From Mason-Woodard Mortuary)

Elizabeth “Liz” Loyd, age 87, of Rogers, Arkansas formerly of Joplin, Missouri passed away Friday February 24, 2023.

She was born July 24, 1935, in Joplin, Missouri to Edwin and Gwen (Tabor) Kerley.

Elizabeth worked as an office manager for Jim Talbot DDS. She enjoyed being a member of the Red Hats Society Club. She attended the Cowboy Church and Diamond First Baptist Church.

She married Charles “Slick” Loyd, and he preceded her in death on June 11, 2018. Elizabeth was also preceded in death by her parents and her daughter, Vicki Reinhart Loyd.

Elizabeth is survived by three sons, Mike Loyd and wife Laura, John Loyd and wife Shelley, and Phillip Loyd; one brother Buddy Kerley and wife Patricia, as well as numerous beloved grandchildren, great grandchildren, and great great grandchildren, and many extended family and friends.

Funeral services will be 2:00 pm Friday March 3, 2023, at Diamond First Baptist Church. Burial will follow at Diamond Cemetery. The family will receive friends at 1:00 pm prior to the service.

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

Johnnie Maffei

(From Forbes-Hoffman Funeral Home)

John E. “Johnnie” Maffei, 81, of McCune, loving husband and father, went to be with his heavenly Father, on Monday, February 27, 2023. He passed away at his home following a brief illness.

He was born on July 21, 1941, to Arthur Edward and Bertha Gertrude (Bergmann) Maffei in St. Paul, Kansas. As a young boy, he grew up and attended school in the McCune areas, graduating from McCune High School in 1959.

Following high school, Johnnie spent his life farming and raising livestock with his younger brother, Kenny, in the McCune area. He retired at the age of 78.

His family was the center of Johnnie’s life. Johnnie and Kenny farmed, fished, hunted and team penned together for many years. What one didn’t think of, the other one did. The two could often be found together at the local restaurant visiting with friends, drinking coffee and eating breakfast. Johnnie’s family, especially his grandchildren, brought him the greatest joy in his life.

On November 22, 1980, Johnnie and Dorothy “Dot” Kluber were united in marriage at the Methodist Church in McCune. She survives of the home.

Other survivors include:

Two sons – John Maffei of Joplin, Missouri

Joe Maffei of Kansas City, Missouri

One daughter – Stephanie Kuye (Abimbola) of Wichita, Kansas

Seven grandchildren – Jakob Maffei, Jaxson Maffei, Aiden Maffei, Sophia Maffei, Angeline Mercado, Jeremy Mercado, and Layla Berry

One brother – Kenneth Maffei of McCune, Kansas

Two sisters – Betty Jean Van Leeuwen of St. Paul, Kansas

Coleen Defreese of Pittsburg, Kansas

Brother-in-law – Jim Kluber (Sherri) of Grove, Oklahoma

Sister-in-law – Carol Woods of Jackson, Missouri

Numerous nieces and nephews and other family

He was preceded in death by his parents; one brother Arthur Maffei; mother-in-law, Anna Kluber; three brothers-in-law, Larry VanLeeuwen, John Defreese, and Larry Woods; and one niece, Misty Maffei.

The funeral service will be at 10:00 a.m., Monday, March 6, 2023, at the Forbes-Hoffman Funeral Home of Parsons. Burial will follow at the McCune Cemetery in McCune. The family will receive friends from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., Sunday at the funeral home.

Memorials are suggested to help defray funeral expenses. These may be left at or mailed to Forbes-Hoffman Funeral Home, P.O. Box 374, Parsons, KS 67357.

Doug Hodges

(From Parker Mortuary)

Mr. Douglas Alan “Doug” Hodges, 51, of Joplin, Missouri, departed this life suddenly on Sunday, February 19, 2023, in the comfort of his home after suffering a massive heart attack.

Doug entered this life on February 15, 1972, in Joplin, Missouri, the youngest of two sons born to the union of the late Kenneth and Judith (Burk) Hodges. He was a lifelong resident of Joplin and a 1990 graduate of Joplin High School. He furthered his education by attending MSSC in Joplin. 

He worked for a period of time at the Book Barn, the Joplin Post Office, was a delivery driver for FedEx and was former co-owner of Play It Again Sports. Doug centered his life around his two children, Eli and Chloe, who he loved deeply. He enjoyed traveling and was an avid sports enthusiast.

His parents and a niece, Nicole Lynn Hodges, preceded him in death.

 
Doug is survived by his twin children, Eli and Chloe Hodges; a brother, David Hodges and wife, Lynn, of Joplin; as well as a host of other family and numerous friends.

A memorial service will be held on Friday, March 3, 2023 at 2:00 p.m. in the Chapel of Parker Mortuary with Barry Sanborn officiating. Burial will follow at Forest Park Cemetery in Joplin. Arrangements have been entrusted to Parker Mortuary in Joplin, Missouri.

 

John Defreese

(From Brenner Mortuary)

John Robert Defreese, 74, of Pittsburg, KS, passed away on February 27, 2023, at Freeman Hospital in Joplin, MO.

John was born on August 24, 1948, to Carl Robert and Evaun Virginia (Hutchison) Defreese in Lamar, MO.

On March, 21, 1987 he was united in marriage to Coleen Maffei at Sheldon, MO. She survives of the home. John worked for AZZ Incorporated and Avail Enclosure Systems for 15 years. He also enjoyed golfing and fishing.

In addition to his wife Coleen, he is survived by a son, Colten Defreese of Pittsburg, KS; three stepbrothers, Danny Chapman of Sheldon, MO, Darrell Chapman and his wife, Debra of Nevada, MO, and Don Chapman and his wife Geri of Webb City, MO.

He was preceded in death by his parents, and his stepmom Dorothy Lee Defreese.

A parish rosary will be prayed at 5:30 p.m. Thursday, March 2, at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church. Mass of Christian burial will be at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, March 3, at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church with Fr. Andrew Labenz as celebrant. Burial will follow at the McCune City Cemetery.

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

Nancy Burris

(From Ferry Funeral Home)

Nancy Mae Burris, 70, Liberal, MO passed away on Monday, February 27, 2023 at Cox Barton County Hospital in Lamar following a lengthy illness. 

Nancy was born June 27, 1952 in Ft. Morgan, CO to Dick L. and Etna M. (Thornley) Stone. She married Walter D. Burris on October 16, 1975 in Nevada, MO and he preceded her in death on December 29, 2009.

Nancy was raised in rural Vernon County near Milo, MO and was a Nevada High School graduate. She worked as an LPN at Nevada State Hospital and Habilitation Center for 25 years until her retirement. Her hobbies included crocheting, watching crime shows on TV, and she especially loved spending time with her “grandkids."

Nancy is survived by two daughters, Liz Hedges (Brian), Stockton, and Cassandra Wallace (Robert), Liberal; two sons, Roy Lee Anderson, Nevada, and Richard Burris, Nevada; numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren; one sister, Barbara Lawson, Liberal; one brother, Les Stone (Linda), Nevada; and a son-in-law, Paul Garren, Sheldon; numerous nieces and nephews. In addition to her husband, Walter, she was preceded in death by her parents; daughter, Bettrinae Garren; and three brothers, Dave Stone, Harry Stone, and Terry Stone.

Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, March 2, 2023 at Ferry Funeral Home in Nevada. Interment will follow in Olive Branch Cemetery in Milo. The family will receive friends from 5-7:00 p.m. on Wednesday evening at the funeral home.

Memorials are suggested in her name to Breast Cancer Awareness, or MS Association c/o Ferry Funeral Home.

Jamie Delozier

(From Ozark Memorial Park Crematory)

Born December 13, 1971, Jamie Wayne Delozier, 51, of Joplin, Missouri, departed peacefully from this earth. Surrounded by family, loved ones, and the sound of Son Volt, he let go at 10:20 am on Thursday, February 23, 2023.

Jamie is survived by his wife Staci Damm Delozier. Staci was Jamie’s best friend, soul mate, and guardian angel for the last 25 years of his life.

Jamie is survived by his parents Jan Delozier and Chuck Catt; siblings Jarod [Courtney] Delozier and Jennifer [Marshall] Smith; brother-in-law Shawn [Kelly] Damm; 7 nieces and nephews and countless friends.

He is preceded in death by his dad Bill Delozier and stepmother Lynnd Catt.

He was known by one name: Delo. Delo had an unbreakable spirit. He once said, “If I decide I’m done,
then I’m done.” Never a truer word has been spoken. He was also strangely certain of most things: he
knew his favorite bands, football teams, people, and ways to spend his time. He oddly made you feel that he was correct about these things. Jeff Tweedy and Jay Farrar, OU over everybody, ‘Shutup Chris
Collinsworth,’ ‘that guy is a D,’ ‘I like her,’ and that you need to call whomever it is he was worried about.

Delo had his own way of speaking. He pulled long on the ‘o’ in ‘no’; pulled long on the ‘u’ in
‘shuuutuuup’; he liked the ‘n’ in the ing form of the f word. He gave great hugs. He would get mad about how much he loved you. He felt completely at home in a totally empty bar. He would play darts at midnight when it was quiet, make the most of it, and then ask ‘where we goin?’

Delo loved his wife. He knew he was screwed without her. He was never happier in his life than with Staci.

In the 8th grade he could be found in a shiny sweatsuit, laps in the gym at 7 am. His indomitable spirit
found a home in athletics. He won state championships in the most self-denying sport: wrestling. It is
rumored he continues to hold the Wardog record for the longest punt return. I was never in his presence
when I didn’t think about the gladiator delo inside him.

His body was small and agile. Staci loved to watch him do flips off a diving board; he could fly off the
end of a boat or a dock. He hated feet; he loved pictures of his knees.

 
He had a way with coining nicknames: Bruiser, Jugheae, D-Dub, Hillbuh, Hud, Beardo.

He was a brother to two people he adored. As an older brother Delo was his irascible self. He and
Jennifer competed for the front seat; Jarod was the goalie in attic hockey. Known as the Big Dawa, he
wrestled Jarod and Jennifer, protected them from the outside. Having Delo for a big brother was, as they say, “a badge of honor.”

Delo had a disposition for the downtrodden. He gravitated toward easing suffering, especially with
animals and people. He tirelessly supported the Joplin Humane Society. He bought sleeping bags for the
homeless when it was cold. He passed them out in his usual deadpan way. He did these things quietly.
One would miss Delo’s kindness and generous spirit as it was never ostentatious.

The life force was strong with this one. We all knew. A strange mix of sweetness and steadfast defiance. Even in his last days, he held on until he was ready, not to be told what to do. We will miss you Delo.

A Celebration of Life will be held Thursday March 2, 2023 from 5-7 p.m. at The Joplin Elks Lodge #501 1802 w 26th St, in Joplin, Mo. Arrangements are under the direction of Ozark Memorial Park Crematory of Joplin, Mo.

Judy Matson

(From Cheney-Witt Funeral Chapel)

September 2, 1942 to February 24, 2023

Judith A. Matson, a former resident of Ft. Scott, Kansas and more recently of Pittsburg, Kansas, passed away Friday, February 24, 2023, at the Via Christi Hospital in Pittsburg. 

Judy married Roger G. Matson on January 20, 1962; he preceded her in death in 2018.

Survivors include a son, Quinton R. Matson of Kansas City, Missouri; two daughters, Quita Coffman (Donald) of Ft. Scott, Kansas and Dana Noe of Peculiar, Missouri and six grandchildren, Amber Sheehy (Joe), Tylar Montgomery (Justin) and Erin Coffman, all of Ft. Scott, Devon Hudspeth (Taylor) of Overland Park, Kansas, Austin Noe of Cleveland, Missouri and Arie Noe of Webb City, Missouri; and six great-grandchildren, Brooklyn Sheehy, Madison Sheehy, Joseph G. Sheehy and Madelynne Montgomery all of Ft. Scott, Jackson Montgomery of Nevada, Missouri and Easton Hudspeth of Overland Park, Kansas. Also surviving is an aunt, Kathryn Bennett of Girard, Kansas.

Mrs. Matson donated her body to science for the study of SCA6 and other medical research at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota. Following completion of their studies, Judy will be laid to rest with her husband, at in the U. S. National Cemetery #1 in Ft. Scott, Kansas. 

Memorials are suggested to St. Jude’s Hospital, the Shriner’s Children’s Hospital, Oltjen Orthodontics or Operation Smile and may be left in care of the Cheney Witt Chapel, 201 S. Main, P.O. Box 347, Ft. Scott, KS 66701. Words of remembrance may be submitted to the online guestbook at cheneyiwtt.com.

Floyd Cox

(From Paul Thomas Funeral Home)

Floyd Ray Cox of Quapaw, OK passed from this life Thursday, February 23, 2023 at his home. He was 89.

Floyd was born October 1, 1933 in Tulsa, OK to William Earl and Lula Edith (Martin) Cox. He had lived in the Quapaw area for 30 years moving from Joplin, MO. 

He had worked for Tulsa Paper Company in Tulsa, OK and Joe Harding Restaurant Supplies in Joplin, MO. 

Floyd was a member of Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses in Baxter Springs, KS. Floyd was a minister and Elder for many decades. For the past 30 years he served in the Baxter Springs Congregation of Jehovah’s Witnesses

Floyd was preceded in death by his parents, 1 brother, Jim Cox and 1 sister, Lorene Nelson.

Survivors include his wife Nancy Jane (Weatherington) Cox of the home, 2 sons, Stephen Cox and wife Denise of Joplin, MO and David Cox of Springfield, MO, 2 daughters, Kathy Degollado and husband Juan of Quapaw, OK and Staci Edwards and husband David of Joplin, MO, 13 grandchildren and 11 great grandchildren.

Memorial Services will be 2:00 p.m. Saturday, March 4, 2023 at the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses in Baxter Springs, KS with Wesley Makela officiating. Arrangements have been placed in the care of Paul Thomas Funeral Home and Cremation Service of Miami, OK. Online condolences may be made at www.paulthomasfuneralhomes.com.

Kenny Couch

(From Parker Mortuary)

Kenneth L. Couch, age 74, of Grove, formerly of Joplin, passed away on Thursday, February 23, 2023, at Landmark Hospital in Joplin.

“Kenny”, son of the late Gordon and Evelyn (Mayo) Couch, was born on August 2, 1948, in Joplin. He attended Memorial High School. 

While in high school, Kenny began working at Meekers Leather Company. Soon after graduating high school, he was drafted into the United States Navy where he honorably served his country. After returning from the Navy, Kenny also returned to Meekers until their closing. From there he began a career in sales and opened Ken Couch Motors in Joplin which he operated until his retirement.

Survivors include his children, Camille “Camie” Schultz, and her husband, Jeff, of Webb City, and Farrah Howard, St. Louis; grandchildren, Nathan Schultz, and his wife, Kelsey, of Joplin, Jacob Schultz, of Webb City, and Andrew Knapp, of St. Louis; siblings, Gail Smallwood, and her husband, Jerry, of Joplin, Carol “Joanie” Carlton, and her husband, Dwain, of Carthage, and Ken Reed, and his wife, Cindy, of Salem, OR; and numerous nieces and nephews. 

 In addition to his parents, Kenny was preceded in death by one sister, Patricia “Pat” Koelzer, and one brother, Willard “Bud” Couch.

Graveside committal of ashes with full Military Honors will be announced. Please call Parker Mortuary or refer to our website for further details.

Arrangements are under the personal care and direction of Parker Mortuary, Joplin.

Barbara Stock

(From Holden Cremation and Funeral Service)

Barbara Marie Stock, age 87, of Chestnutridge, Missouri, went to be with the Lord February 21, 2023 in her home with family at her side. She was born October 8, 1935 in Kansas City, Missouri to George and Isabell (Twenter) Kamps. 

 Barbara was a baptized Catholic and kept her strong faith throughout the years. She was married to Dean “Pat” Stock who preceded her in death. 

Barbara was a very caring person and worked for many years as a Registered Nurse. During her retirement years, she enjoyed working within the community serving as president of AARP for Greene County and worked with the Greene County SALT (Seniors And Law Enforcement Together). Barbara also was also on the Internal Review Board with Mercy for many years. In her free time, she could be found going to the casino and any family reunion she could attend. Barbara loved her family dearly and they will miss her deeply.

Preceding her in death is her husband, Dean “Pat” Stock; her parents; a son, James Edward Stock; three sisters: Teresa Kramps, Adelma Stock and Dorothy Aggeler; four brothers: Tom Kramps, Joe Kramps, Donny Kramps and Henry Kramps.

Barbara is survived by her son Dennis Shock and wife Sherry of Chestnutridge, MO; two grandchildren, Ethan Stock and wife Whitney of Ozark, and Megan Grimes and husband, Adam of Carl Junction, MO; a sister, Amelia Lee of Lawrence, Kansas; six great grandchildren; many nieces and nephews, other relatives and friends.

A funeral mass will be held 11:00 a.m. Tuesday, February 28, 2023 at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church (407 Harris Street, Clifton City, MO) with Father Ray Smith officiating. Interment to follow the mass at St. Joseph’s Cemetery in Clifton City, MO. Visitation will be 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Monday, February 27, 2023 at Holden Cremation and Funeral Service, Sparta, Missouri. Arrangements are under the direction of Holden Cremation and Funeral Service, Sparta.

David Jones

(From Parker Mortuary)

David Lee Jones, age 66, of Joplin, passed away on Sunday, February 19, 2023 at his home.

David, son of the late Mose and Sylvia (Pequignot) Jones, was born on December 28, 1956, in Joplin. He grew up and attended school in Carl Junction graduating from Carl Junction High School with the Class of 1975. He then completed the Missouri Southern Police Academy program. 

David was then employed with the Jasper County Juvenile Center for 18 years and with the Newton County Sheriff’s Department as a weekend Juvenile Officer.

Survivors include his son, Jeff Jones, of Joplin; siblings, Alfred Jones, and his wife, Linda, of Joplin, Larry Jones, of Carl Junction, Ruth Crockett, of Joplin, Janice Marquardt, of Joplin, Norma Koon, of Joplin, Alice Ellis, and her husband, Herman, of Joplin, Helen Landes, and husband, Carl, of Carl Junction, Delores Jackson, and her husband, Ralph, of Springdale, Linda Jones, of Hampton, VA, and Marilyn Whitker, of Lawton, OK; five grandchildren; one great grandchild; and numerous nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, David was preceded in death by three siblings, Robert Jones, Richard Jones, and Margaret Jones.

Memorial services will be held on Tuesday, February 28, 2023 at 6:00 PM at Parker Mortuary in Joplin with visitation to follow.

Arrangements are under the personal care and direction of Parker Mortuary, Joplin.

Joan Rose

(From Weng Funeral Chapel)

Joan Bea Rose, 76, of Jasper, Missouri passed away on Thursday, February 23, 2023 at Solace house in Joplin, MO. Joan was born on Thursday, June 6 , 1946 in Athens, Alabama to Armand and Vada (Rice) Phillips. 

She was a homemaker and loved her trips to the casino. She had worked as a key punch operator and at a donut shop for many years. Joan was a member of the Jasper Christian Church.

 

Joan was united in marriage to Jimmie Rose. He preceded her in death on December 18, 2015. 

Joan is survived by her daughter, Leanna Sue Shumard (Frank) of Jasper, two grandchildren, Jessicca Shumard and Jeremey Shumard, one brother, Milton Phillips, two sisters, her twin June Ballard, and Rose Pettit, many nieces and nephews, and great nieces and nephews, and special friends, Nick and Sharon Eves. 

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband Jimmie, brother, Glenn Phillips, sister, Esther Cole, and granddaughter, Sabrina Shumard.

Arrangements are pending at Weng Funeral Chapel. Memorial contributions can be made to the Humane Society of choice or Pet Rescue.

Arrangements are under the care and direction of Weng Funeral Chapel. Online condolences can be made at Weng Funeral Chapel.com.

Ruth Johnston

(From Knell Mortuary)

Ruth M. Johnston, of rural Newton County, passed away Thursday, February 23, 2023. She was born in Carthage, MO, on February 14, 1929, the daughter of the late Ernest S. Evans, Sr., and Sarah Hardean Hunton Evans.

She graduated from Carthage High School in 1947 and attended Joplin Junior College where she took liberal arts and business classes.

She worked as a secretary for the Boeing Company in Wichita, KS, from 1949 to 1952 and worked at Beneficial Finance in Joplin for two years. She then worked for the Missouri Highway Department in Joplin for 16 years, the last 15 as the secretary for the district engineer, the highest-ranking administrator in the region. Among her duties was using shorthand to make a transcript of all comments and actions at public hearings of the highway department. She had outstanding shorthand and typing skills. Before the era of personal computers, she was the only secretary in the office who used an electric typewriter.

She married William E. Johnston at Carthage on May 4, 1952. Her brother, Bob, who worked for Bill in the logging business, had introduced the couple. Bill was known as an outstanding businessman in several areas of interest. Ruth often said of Bill: “He was one of the most honest people I’ve ever known”. Bill Johnston passed away on February 10, 1999.

She and her husband first lived at Fidelity Corner and later moved to Joplin and Anderson before building their last home in 1982 in rural Newton County.

She loved animals, both dogs and cats, and had cats as personal companions during her recent years. Collecting and recycling cat food cans, she told her cat Snow Ball: “I’ll bet you’ve bought 50 pairs of eyeglasses for the elderly.” She was known for her quick wit and lively sense of humor.

Ruth enjoyed reading, watching television and going out to eat. “Any kind of chocolate is good!”

She was an active member of First Baptist Church of Anderson, MO. Keeping a set of Bible commentaries with her Bible on the stand beside her couch, she used them for many years in studying her Sunday School lessons. “I liked the interesting comments and various translations, but I have read the Bible through so many times, I don’t need the commentaries that much anymore”, she recently explained.

She was preceded in death by one sister, Elizabeth Jane Plew; and five brothers, Ernest S. Evans, Jr., Robert E. Evans, Charles William “Bill” Evans, Donald Dean Evans, and Ronald Hunton Evans.

She is survived by several nieces and nephews.

Per Ruth’s wishes, there was cremation. No formal services will be held. Online condolences may be expressed through www.knellmortuary.com.

Patricia Headlee

(From Brown-Winters Funeral Home)

Patricia Headlee, 72, a longtime Miami resident passed away at her home on Friday, February 24, 2023 surrounded by family. Mrs. Headlee was born on September 16, 1951 in Miami to Emery Paul and Bertha Pauline (Frickenschmidt) Crockett. 

She worked as a public-school teacher and even taught at Mount Olive Lutheran School for a couple years. Mrs. Headlee enjoyed fishing, pool time with her family and friends. She enjoyed her lunch dates with her teacher friends and playing games at the casinos. Patricia was preceded in passing by her parents Emery and Bertha Crockett, her husband Gary “Mike” Headlee and her brother Gene Crockett.

Survivors include her sons Justin Headlee and his wife Kelly of Miami and Damon Austin Headlee and his wife Chrissy of Miami, her grandchildren Austin Wayne Headlee of Joplin, Molly Breanne Headlee of Joplin, Andrew Micheal Headlee of Miami and Tyler James Headlee along with two great grandchildren Lyrik Nemiah Goodson and Juniper Eloise Conway.

Visitation will be on Monday, February 27, 2023 from 6:00 PM until 8:00 PM at Brown-Winters Funeral Home and Cremation Service in Miami.

Services are Tuesday, February 28, 2023 at 11:00 AM at Mount Olive Lutheran Church in Miami with Reverend Dwight Moeller officiating. Interment will follow at the Grand Army of the Republic Cemetery.

The family has asked that memorial contributions be made to the Mount Olive Lutheran School, 2337 North Main Street, Miami, OK 74354.

Friends and family may send the family notes of encouragement by viewing Patricia's Tribute Page at www.brown-winters.com.