Don Maples

(From Simpson Funeral Home)

Donald Leroy Maples was a dedicated and loyal individual who left this world on May 17, 2025 at his home in Alba. Born on July 6, 1927, in Huron, SD, Don spent his life embodying the words of Winston Churchill, "We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give." 

Don lived a life packed with accomplishment, service, and, most importantly, love. His journey began when he spent his 18th birthday serving as a Petty Officer 2nd Class during the WWII Pacific campaign in Lady Golf. His time in the Navy took him to Japan, China, and Hawaii, where he served alongside three of his brothers.

After the war, Don chose to make his home in California, where he met his beloved wife, Wanda. Together, they built a life and raised their family until 1969 when they relocated to Missouri. Don's dedication and loyalty were evident in his career as an ironworker and welder for the B&D Welding in Joplin, MO, before his retirement in 1987. His commitment to his craft was rivaled only by his devotion to his community. He served as Commander in American Legion Post 322 and VFW Post 7630, where he worked on and created the Chuck Barns Baseball field for Legion Baseball and Webb City High School Baseball. His dedication to public service also led him to serve as Mayor of Alba, where he contributed to several impactful projects.

Don is survived by his daughters, Nancy Stephenson of Alba, Debra Fetters of Joplin, Margaret "Margo" (Johnny) Byrd of Carthage, and Jennie (Bill) Lassiter of Oronogo; son, Roy (Tammy) Maples of Oronogo; siblings, Gene Maples, John Maples, Carl Maples, and Betty Priester; eleven grandchildren, thirteen great-grandchildren and four great-great grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his parents William and Juanita Maples; lovely wife, Wanda Maples; siblings Billy Maples, Jr., Shirley Jiles, Maxine Campbell, Tom Maples, Jim Maples, and Pat Busby; and one grandson Brandon Stephenson. His memory will forever be cherished by those who knew and loved him.

Visitation will take place on Thursday, 22 May 2025 at 10am at Simpson Funeral Home in Webb City. A graveside service will follow at Friends Cemetery in Purcell with Gene Maples officiating and full military honors immediately following. Those honoring Don's life by serving as pallbearers are Eric Stephenson, Brenton Byrd, Darris Lassiter, Keith Stephenson, Bryan Fetters, Nick Lassiter, Cody Maples and Gage Pierce. Honorary bearers are Carl, John, Gene and Pat.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests be made to one of the following organizations, all in care of the funeral home: VFW Post 7630, American Legion Post 322, or the Alba Christian Church.

Services are under the personal direction of Simpson Funeral Home, honoring a veteran who honorably served his country during World War II. The family encourages relatives and friends to visit www.simpsonfh.com to share photos and memories of their loved one, Don Maples, a man of resilience, dedication, and loyalty.