Raymond Shanks

(From Ulmer Funeral Home)

Raymond Dale Shanks, 91, of Carthage, Missouri, passed away Friday, August 1, 2025, in Joplin, Missouri. 

Raymond was born on November 24, 1933, in Dearborn, Missouri. After high school, he joined the U.S. Army. Raymond did tours during both the Korean and Vietnam eras.

After retiring as a 1st Sergeant from the U.S. Army, he attended Missouri Southern State College and graduated with a bachelor’s in business. Once Raymond received his bachelor’s degree, he went on to work for Safeway Bakery in Joplin, Missouri. Raymond was able to retire at the age of 55. He was involved in the VFW (Veterans of Foreign Wars) and the American Legion.

Raymond enjoyed woodworking, fishing, and was an avid reader. He was a very involved and entertaining father. Raymond spent many hours at the ballpark coaching his children’s baseball teams. He and Madge hosted the Dennis Shanks Memorial Softball Tournament for several years raising scholarship money for deserving Carthage High School baseball players.

Raymond was united in marriage to Madge Frey on January 27, 1953, in Kansas City, Missouri; she passed away April 29, 2008.

Raymond is survived by two daughters, “Debby” Chittenden of Ames, Iowa, and Donna Shanks of Carthage, Missouri; two sons, Dale Shanks of Carthage, Missouri, and David Shanks of Hardy, Arkansas; one sister, Lucille Hendrickson (Buddy) of Belton, Missouri; eight grandchildren, twenty-one great grandchildren; and 7 great great grandchildren.

Raymond is preceded in death by his wife, Madge Shanks; a son, Dennis Shanks (June 25, 1989); a daughter, De Melton (April 11, 2015); his in-laws, whom he considered parents, Frank and Blanche Frey; one sister, Beverly Shanks; two brothers, Patrick Shanks and Clifford Shanks; three grandchildren, Aaron and Dustin Alton and Chelsey Beavers; two great grandchildren, Adrianna and Mazie Ann Shanks; and a bonus son (son-in-law), Jim Chittenden.

A graveside service will be held at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, August 9, 2025, at Park Cemetery, 801 S. Baker St., Carthage, Missouri. Military Honors will be held following his service.

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