Stephen Wampler

(From Knell Mortuary)

Stephen Paul Wampler, 77, Joplin, Missouri, passed away on Thursday, September 25, 2025, at Freeman West Hospital, Joplin, Missouri. He was born on August 31, 1948, in Carthage, Missouri, the son of the late Paul and Violet (Moss) Wampler. Stephen's life was a testament to the values of kindness, love, and friendship that he held dear.

Stephen graduated from Carthage High School in 1966. His passion for service and care for others led him to pursue a mortuary science degree from the Dallas Institute of Funeral Service in Dallas, Texas. This education paved the way for a meaningful career as a funeral director and embalmer at Parker Mortuary and Ulmer Funeral Home. Later, Stephen continued his professional journey at Dyno Nobel, working in nitration until his well-deserved retirement.

He was a man who found joy in the simple pleasures of life. An avid reader, Stephen could often be found with a book in hand, lost in stories and knowledge. His intellectual curiosity was also evident in his daily ritual of solving crossword puzzles, a challenge he eagerly embraced. 

Stephen's love for the outdoors was unmistakable. He cherished the times he could cast a line into the water and bask in the tranquility of nature while fishing. These moments of solitude among the beauty of the natural world provided him with a profound sense of peace.

Survivors include his daughters, Lindsey Hettinger (Jason), Carthage, and Brooke Gavino (Tobby), Pleasanton, California; his grandchildren, Wyatt Hettinger (fiancée Alicia), Carthage, and Bella, Isaac, and Samuel Gavino, all of Pleasanton, California; his brother, John Wampler (Margaret), Carthage; his cousin, John Runge (Mona), Hideaway, Texas; along with many extended family members and a host of friends who were touched by his kindness. Stephen was also preceded in death by his sisters, Polly Runge and Cary Jenkins.

Memorial graveside services will be held at 10 am, Friday, October 3, 2025, at Park Cemetery, Carthage. Memorial gifts are suggested to the Carthage Humane Society in care of Knell Mortuary. Online condolences may be expressed through www.knellmortuary.com. Arrangements are under the direction and personal care of Knell Mortuary.