Donald Eimer

(From Lakin Funeral Home)

Donald Edward Eimer, 84, of Pierce City passed away on Wednesday, Nov. 13, 2024, in Lane, Kan. He was born in Pierce City on Wednesday, Feb. 28, 1940; the son of William and Nora (Clapper) Eimer.
He attended St. Mary’s Catholic School.

He married Phyllis (Bernard) Jones in 1960 and they moved their family briefly to California. He moved his family back to the Pierce City area in 1969, where he worked at Wells Aluminum in Monett and the Special Road District in Pierce City. In the mid 70’s, he moved the family to Lane, Kan. where he worked for the Franklin County Public Works Department in Ottawa, Kan. for 30 years as a motor grader operator before retiring in 2005.

He is survived by four sons: Cole “Morgan” (Jill) Jones of Ft. Scott, Kan., Donald Eimer of Leawood, Kan. Guy (Kim) Eimer of Webb City and John (Shannon) Eimer of Manhatten, Kan.; two daughters, Donna (Ed) Fenske of Wentworth and Vickie (Danny) Chaney of Pittsburg; 19 grandchildren; 25 great-grandchildren; nine great-great-grandchildren; one brother, Fred Eimer; two sisters, Louise Abramovitz and Loanna Carder; and many nieces, nephews and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Phyllis; his daughter, Karen Johnson; and five siblings: William Eimer, Raymond Eimer, Lawrence Eimer, Marie Ortwein and Dorothy Lewis.

Services were held on Tuesday, Nov. 19, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Pierce City with Father Matt Rehrauer officiating. Burial followed at St. Mary’s Catholic Cemetery in Pierce City.

Arrangements are under the personal care and direction of Lakin Funeral Home in Pierce City.

Carol Woodward

(From Ozark Memorial Park Crematory)

Carol Lynn Woodward, 64, passed away on November 13, 2024, in Seneca, Missouri. Born on May 13, 1960, Carol was known for her loving and family-oriented nature, which touched the lives of everyone around her.

Carol’s life was marked by her dedication to her family and her passions. She cherished gardening, bird watching, and spending time outdoors. Her love for family gatherings was evident, as these occasions brought her immense joy and satisfaction.

She is survived by her husband Brad Woodward, children Willa Hildreth and Derek (Katie) Woodward, grandchildren Jonathon Hildreth, Trenton Woodward, and Tanner Woodward, parents Rosa (Al) Gipson, and siblings Jerry (Tina) Taylor and was preceded in death by her father Jerry Taylor and brother Dale Taylor. Carol’s memory will be honored in a memorial service, details of which will be announced at a later date.

In remembrance of Carol’s kind spirit, contributions may be made to any cancer research foundation or a charity of personal choice in lieu of flowers. Her legacy of love and devotion will forever be cherished by those who knew her. Arrangements are under the direction of Ozark Memorial Park of Joplin, MO.

Ronnie McCoy

(From Ozark Memorial Park Crematory)

Ronnie Keith McCoy Sr., of Joplin, Missouri passed away surrounded by his loving family on November 15, 2024, at his home following a lengthy illness.

Ronnie was born on September 12, 1954 in Los Angeles, California. He was the son of Delbert “Buck” McCoy and Wanda McCoy (Davis). He grew up in Joplin, Missouri. Ronnie had two brothers, Dale McCoy and Ricky McCoy.

Ronnie graduated from McAuley Catholic School in 1973. After graduation, Ronnie met the love of his life, Deborah Brown. Together they shared 49 years of love and devotion. With love comes great
sacrifice, and Debbie was able to care for Ronnie at home for the last three years while he was receiving hospice care.

Ronnie was always known as a hard worker. During his life, he sacrificed his body to provide for his
family. Ronnie worked at LaBarge Inc. from 1984-1993. After retirement, he and Debbie decided to
share their love of animals with the world. In 2002, they opened Reptile World Zoo. In 2009, they
expanded their dreams by establishing Safari Café. Ronnie and Debbie worked side-by-side, in good times and bad, sickness and health, until both businesses closed.

Ronnie was best known for the love he held for his family. During their marriage, Ronnie and Debbie
had two children, Shavonne Francis (McCoy) and Ron “Keith” McCoy. Ronnie taught his children the meaning of love and hard work. Today, both children are able to think outside of the box and fix
anything with duct tape, zippy ties, and a glue gun.

Ronnie also loved his son-in-law, Shawn Francis (Shavonne) and daughter-in-law, Stacy McCoy (Ron “Keith”). He considered them his children and knew he could count on them, just like he did his own. Ronnie knew he could pick up the phone day or night and someone would answer to bring him his remote control, tell him what time it was, put his dog (Wee-Wee) up on the bed, or bring him a pizza or burger.

Ronnie was an amazing husband and dad, but he truly excelled at being a one-of-a-kind papa. His
grandchildren, Madison, Riley, Evan, and Jesse loved him. They were his world and there was
nothing he wouldn’t do for them. Ronnie’s heart was broken when Riley left this world too soon. He
looked forward to seeing him again in Heaven.

During his illness, Ronnie found out he was going to have his first great grandchild. We believe this gave Ronnie the extra fight to keep going. He wanted to meet his precious “Nuggy,” A’Vonni Marie.
Ronnie loved watching, talking, and playing with her. A’Vonni made his last days peaceful and
created so many precious memories that will be treasured forever.

Ronnie knew his body was weary, therefore, he was prepared and ready for his place in Heaven. He was looking forward to reconnecting with the loved ones that proceeded him in death, Delbert “Buck” McCoy, Wanda McCoy, Dale McCoy, and Riley McCoy.

The family will hold a private memorial service at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Joplin Humane Society. Arrangements are under the direction of Ozark Memorial Park of Joplin, MO.

Peggy Morris

(From Konantz Warden Funeral Home)

Peggy Joyce Morris, aged 93, of Lamar, Missouri, peacefully passed away at her home on November 12, 2024. Born in 1931 in Sioux City, Iowa, Peggy was the cherished daughter of Pearl (Turner) and Charles Welch. Her life was a testament to warmth, resilience, and a deep commitment to her family and community.

Peggy married the love of her life, Robert Elbert Morris, on November 13, 1949, in Reno, Nevada. Together, they raised their family in Ojai, California, before relocating to Grass Valley, CA in 1977. They retired to Lamar, Missouri, in 1984. 

Peggy devoted her life to raising her children and caring for the elderly through her work as a home cleaner. She found joy in bowling and gardening, taking special pride in tending to her roses, which she loved to trim and admire. Peggy's nurturing spirit and dedication made her a wonderful and devoted mother.

Peggy was preceded in death by her husband Robert, her parents Pearl and Charles, her daughter Sharon Morris, her son Terry Morris, her grandson Jonny Souza, and her sister Deloris Gooch.

She leaves behind her loving daughter, Patty Morris of Lamar, MO; grandsons Michael (Heather) Morris of Grass Valley, CA, and Skyler (Kyla) Hockett of Lamar, MO; and four great-grandchildren. Peggy is also survived by her sister, Betty Mangus of Talent, OR.

Peggy’s legacy is one of unconditional love, kindness, and treasured memories. Her presence will be deeply missed, yet her spirit will forever be woven into the fabric of her family's story.

A private family service will be held in her honor.

Karen Rouse

(From Knell Mortuary)

Karen Yankie Rouse, 75, passed away peacefully on November 18, 2024, at St. Luke's Nursing Center, after a valiant battle with Glioblastoma.

Karen, a fourth-generation Carthaginian, was born on February 18, 1949, to Donald Eugene Yankie, Sr. and Erma Lee (Kussman) Yankie. Her life was steeped in local charm. Milking cows on the family dairy farm alongside her siblings became a cherished memory, and a source of pride in delivering 'Buena Vista,' Jasper County's finest milk.

Karen's charisma was evident from a young age. She easily connected with everyone, a quality that eventually earned her the coveted title of Carthage High School Homecoming Queen in 1967. Graduating that same year, she embarked on a busy life fueled by her friendly disposition, having been employed in milk (Buena Vista Dairy), at Big Smith, insurance (State Farm Insurance), cheese (Safeway), donuts (Daylight Donuts), real estate, and eventually law enforcement (Jasper County Sheriff’s Department). Every role became not just a job but a series of opportunities to touch lives and make a difference.

Beyond her professional pursuits, Karen was involved in her community. She served on numerous committees and boards, reflecting her commitment to civic engagement and her desire to contribute to the greater good. Not only a Charter Member of the Women's Service League, she served artCentral, the HH Chapter of PEO, the Dogwood Garden Club, and numerous class reunions: 67 forever. Karen's service was a testament to her belief in the power of unity, collective effort, and having a reason to celebrate.

Karen's hobbies and interests were a mirror to her vibrant social personality. An avid Kansas City Chiefs fan, she shared her passion for the game with friends and family, her cheers a familiar sound during the season. Her competitive spirit found a playful outlet through shuffleboard, cards, dominoes, “wahoo”, and recently, with gusto and joy, pickleball. Karen cherished her moments of tranquility at the family's lake retreat, where she created countless memories involving fried chicken, potato salad, bushwackers, black licorice, and cold beer, all while surrounded by nature's beauty. She couldn’t be torn away from crackling campfires with fellow horse enthusiasts, or with lake friends. Karen’s life was frequently spent on a beach, a dock, a pontoon boat on Table Rock Lake, or exploring intercoastal waters with "Butch."

Above all, Karen's heart belonged to her family and her legacy lives on through them. She is survived by her loving husband, Norman Earl Rouse, celebrating 45 years of marriage in August. Her children, Jason Thomas Shelfer (Meg) and Ashley Ann Rouse; her grandchildren, Miles Edwin Shelfer (Sydney) and Flannery Maeve Shelfer; her brother, Alan Neil Yankie (Lynn), her brother-in-law, Allen Duckett; her nieces and nephews; Sheri Reidhead, Dawn Marie Mihlfeld, Kirsten Hall, Laura Hall, Robin Duiker, Leslie Guilian, and Lee Yankie; her numerous great nieces and nephews including Chad Hammond and Jaime Logan; as well as many extended family and friends. Karen was preceded in death by her parents, Donald Eugene Yankie, Sr. and Erma Lee (Kussman) Yankie; her brother, Donald Eugene "Gene" Yankie, Jr.; her sister, Donna Lee Duckett; and her grandson Greyson Thomas Shelfer. Their reunion is a comforting thought for those who loved Karen, as they envision her embraced by the love that preceded her.

Those who knew Karen will remember her as the embodiment of love, friendliness, and humor. She had the rare ability to light up a room with her laughter and to make everyone feel like they were the most important person in the world. Her legacy is not just in the lives she touched, but in the warmth and joy that will continue to resonate in the hearts of her family and friends.

Heartfelt thanks go out to many friends that pitched in these past several years, sent cards, called and visited…your support meant the world to Karen and her family.

Karen and Norman are most grateful to her team of physicians that literally gave them…more time.

Memorial services will be held at 3 pm, Tuesday, December 3, 2024, at Grace Episcopal Church, Carthage. The internment will follow at the Grace Church Columbarium. The family will receive friends at the church after the service. Memorial gifts are suggested to Glioblastoma Research Organization 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.

Nellie Higgins

(From Daniel Funeral Home)

Nellie Mae Higgins, age 100, a lifelong resident of Barton and Dade counties, passed away Saturday, November 16th, 2024 surrounded by family.

Born to Johnny and Mary Cones on June 19, 1924 in Boston, Missouri, Nellie attended Lamar High School and was part of the gymnastics team.

Nellie married Clarence Gale Higgins on Christmas Day, 1941 in Webb City, Missouri. They welcomed one son, Lary Gale. 

Nellie spent her life on the farm helping her husband raise cattle and garden. Nellie adored her grandchildren and spent every day caring for them after school and during the summers. She was a member of the Lamar Gardening Club, the Quilting Club at Newport and the Polled Hereford Association Hall of Fame.

Survivors include one daughter-in-law, Mary Higgins; two grandchildren, Mark Alan (Patty) Higgins of Miami, Oklahoma and Jalyn (Jimmy) Lair of Lynn Haven, Florida; four great-grandchildren, Blake (Paige) Higgins, Briel (Kory) Higgins, Christopher (Madelynn) Lair and Martina Blessant; two great-great grandchildren, Zander Higgins and Marcus Higgins due in February 2025.

Nellie was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Clarence; her son, Lary; two brothers and four sisters.

A funeral service will be held at 12:00 p.m. (noon), Wednesday, November 20, 2024 at Daniel Funeral Home with burial to follow in Greenfield Cemetery in Jerico Springs, Missouri.

The family will receive friends from 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m., Wednesday, November 20, 2024 prior to the service at the funeral home.

Contributions are suggested and made payable to Cornerstone Baptist Church in care of Daniel Funeral Home.

Condolences may be shared at www.dfhlamar.com

Jan Lashmet

(From Hedge-Lewis-Goodwin Funeral Home)

Janice Naomi “Jan” Lashmet, age 88, of Neck City, Missouri, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, November 19, 2024, in the comfort of her home with the love of her family surrounding her. She entered this life on March 8, 1936, in Joplin, Missouri, daughter of the late Donald and Selma Pauline (Shupp) Johnston.

Jan spent the majority of her life in the close-knit community of Neck City, Missouri. On March 14, 1952, she married, Robert L. Lashmet, and together they welcomed two children.

Jan's professional life was marked by her dedication to her role as Post Master of the Neck City Post Office, where she served for over twenty years. She retired with the respect and admiration of all those who had the pleasure of working with her.

Family was the cornerstone of Jan's world. She is survived by her two children, Connie Carpenter and her husband, Cliff, of Joplin, Missouri, and Chuck Lashmet of Springfield, Missouri. Additional survivors include, four grandchildren; ten great grandchildren; six great-great grandchildren; a sister, Sue Dorris and husband, Joey, of Neck City, Missouri; several nieces and nephews; as well as a host of other family and friends.







Jan's zest for life was evident in her everyday interactions. She had an innate ability to make people laugh, and her front porch was a hub of conversation and camaraderie. Her friends and family will forever cherish the memories of time spent in her company, sharing stories and enjoying the simple pleasure of her presence.

Funeral services are 2:00 p.m. Thursday, November 21, 2024 in the chapel of Hedge-Lewis-Goodwin Funeral Home with Cliff Carpenter officiating. Burial will follow the service at Friends Cemetery in Purcell, Missouri. Those honoring her life by serving as pallbearers are Chuck Lashmet, Shawn Lashmet, Johnathan Lashmet, Kaidon Streight, Joey Dorris, Shawn Johnstron, Tony Jolly and Steve McCluney. Honorary pallbearers are Cliff Carpenter and Alex Budd. The family will receive friends beginning at 1:00 p.m. on Thursday in the funeral home chapel. Arrangements have been entrusted to the care of Hedge-Lewis-Goodwin Funeral Home in Webb City, Missouri.