Stan Parkison

(From Hedge-Lewis Funeral Home)

Stanley Joe Parkison, age 79, of Webb City, Missouri, departed this life peacefully on Thursday morning, May 29, 2025, at the Solace House of the Ozarks in Joplin, Missouri, after a valiant struggle with Parkinson's Disease. He entered this life on November 16, 1945, in Decatur, Illinois, the youngest of five children born to the union of the late Harry Faye and Ella Carrie (VanGundy) Parkison.

Raised in Mattoon, Illinois, Stan was a 1963 graduate of Mattoon High School. His commitment to his faith led him to attend Ozark Bible College in Joplin, Missouri. On November 28, 1965, he was united in marriage to Arla Jean Effland and to this union one son was born. Arla was a constant source of love and support until her passing on May 13, 2024.

Stan's professional life was characterized by his 27-year tenure as Parts and Service Manager at the Toyota Dealership in Joplin. His work ethic and integrity left a lasting impression on both colleagues and customers. Beyond his career, Stan was a dedicated servant of God and was a longtime member of First Christian Church in Webb City, where he served as Pastor for over a decade.

Stan's personal interests were a reflection of his love for life's simple joys. An avid fisherman, he could often be found at the lake, reveling in the tranquility of nature. His talent for woodworking was evident in the beautiful pieces he created, each a testament to his patience and attention to detail. A master at the card table, Stan's competitive spirit and sharp mind made him a formidable opponent, and he seldom lost a game. Stan was a Veteran of the United States Army.

Stan's legacy is carried on by his son, Don Parkison and wife, Karen, of Springfield, Missouri; his three cherished grandchildren, Joshua, Kayla, and Chelsea Parkison; and his adored great-grandchildren, Cadence Thomson, Oliver Thomson, and Lucy Gomez. He also leaves behind his sister, Linda Dent of Mattoon, Illinois, and a host of other family and friends who will miss his gentle spirit and kind heart. He was preceded in death by his parents; his beloved wife of fifty-eight years, Arla Parkison; and three brothers, Donald Wayne Parkison, Richard Parkison and Arthur “Huck” Parkison.

Funeral services are 10:00 a.m. Saturday, June 14, 2025 at First Christian Church in Webb City with Pastors Lynn Ragsdale, Paul Stetler and Jeff White officiating. Burial will follow at Ozark Memorial Park Cemetery in Joplin. Those honoring his life by serving as pallbearers are David Dent, Ron Effland, Greg Effland, Michael Effland, Nigel Thomson and David Effland. 

Honorary pallbearers are as follows, Joshua Parkison, Wayne Baker, Ken Burge, Alan Parkison, Chris Dent, Jay Cruse, Tom Hodges and Dick Weber. The family will receive friends on Friday evening, June 13, 2025 from 5-7:00 p.m. at the First Christian Church in Webb City. In lieu of flowers memorials are being directed to either the First Christian Church or Solace House of the Ozarks c/o the funeral home. Arrangements are under the care of Hedge-Lewis-Goodwin Funeral Home in Webb City, Missouri.