Saturday, May 30, 2026

Clint Poor


(From Bath-Naylor Funeral Home)

Clint Douglas Poor, 59, of Faulkner, Kansas, passed away at 11:55 a.m., Wednesday, May 27, 2026, at Mercy Hospital in Joplin, Missouri.

He was born December 10, 1966, in Parsons, Kansas. He was the son of Clinton and Shirley (Davis) Poor. He graduated from Hallowell Christian Academy.

Clint worked as a farmer and mechanic, occupations that reflected his strong work ethic and ability to work with his hands. He took pride in what he did and was always willing to lend a helping hand when needed.








More than anything, Clint will be remembered for his love of family. He cherished time spent with those closest to him and valued the simple moments in life.

He is survived by his daughter, Shayla Stewart of Faulkner, Kansas; his parents, Clinton and Shirley Poor of Faulkner, Kansas; one brother, Chad Poor of Joplin, Missouri; one sister, Julie Linthicum of Parsons, Kansas; and one grandson, Leon Barker.








He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Ammon and Ellamae Poor, and Zelma Hinman.

A service to honor his life will be at a later date. Condolences may be left at https://www.bathnaylor.com

Cremation arrangements are under the direction of Bath-Naylor Funeral Home of Columbus.

Mary Wilson


(From Parker Mortuary)

Mary Elizabeth Wilson, age 83, of Osage Beach, Missouri, passed away on May 23, 2026, after an extended illness.

She was born on December 25, 1942, in Victoria, Texas, to the late August “Gus” and Elizabeth (Stanzel) Bastian. Mary lived a life marked by devotion to her family, her faith, and the many people whose lives she touched through her kindness and steady presence. She was known throughout her life as adventurous, faith-filled, and selfless, qualities that guided the way she loved others and met each season of life.








Mary pursued cosmetology schooling and went on to build a remarkable career as a cosmetologist for 50 years. Through her work, she served generations of clients with skill, warmth, and genuine care. Her profession was more than a livelihood to her, and it became a way for her to connect with people, encourage them, and brighten their days. She took pride in her work and in the relationships she formed over the years, many of which lasted far beyond the salon chair.

A Christian by faith, Mary lived with a deep trust in God and a sincere commitment to her church community. She was a former member of First Christian Church of Galena, Kansas, where she found fellowship and purpose. She was also a part of the Loyal Bereans ministry with the church, and her involvement reflected the importance she placed on worship, service, and spiritual growth. Her faith was not simply something she professed, but something she lived in the way she treated others and carried herself with grace.

Mary enjoyed crafting, working with flowers, and traveling with her granddaughter. These interests brought her joy and gave her opportunities to share meaningful time with those she loved. She especially treasured the moments spent with her granddaughter, Frances Hightower of Boston, Massachusetts, and the memories they created together.








She is survived by her daughters, Charlene Wilson of Lancaster, Pennsylvania, and Emilie Fitzwater and her husband Brent of Camdenton, Missouri; her granddaughter, Frances; and her brother, John Bastian and his wife Janice of Inez, Texas. She was preceded in death by her parents and by her brother, David Bastian.

Graveside services are planned for Monday, June 1, 2026 at 2:00 p.m. at Osborne Memorial Park Cemetery in Joplin, Missouri. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to St. Jude’s Hospital in care of the mortuary.

Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Parker Mortuary, Joplin, Missouri.


Adolfo Castillo


(From Nichols-Stephens Funeral Service)

Adolfo C. Castillo, aged 80, passed away on May 23, 2026, in Fairland, Oklahoma. Born on April 25, 1946, in McAllen, Texas, Adolfo's life was marked by a profound commitment to service, education, and community involvement.

Adolfo served in the United States Army for 21 years, retiring in 1990. His military career was distinguished, and he was deeply respected by his peers. Following his military service, he transitioned to a role that reflected his dedication to advocacy and justice, serving as a Human Rights Commissioner for the State of Missouri for eight years.








He earned his bachelor's degree in education and business from Wayland Baptist University in San Antonio, Texas. Adolfo's passion for education continued throughout his life, culminating in his role as a Spanish teacher at Missouri Southern State University in Joplin. Known for his eloquence and knowledge, he was not only a beloved figure in the classroom but also an active participant in political and community events. Notably, he recited the Pledge of Allegiance in Spanish for President George W. Bush and rode in a motorcade with Vice President Dick Cheney.

Adolfo was a man faith, active in the Foundation Freewill Baptist Church. His community activities extended to being recognized as one of the eight Men of Distinction in Joplin and participating in the Chamber of Commerce.








He leaves behind his loving wife, Della (Collins) Castillo; sons, Junior Castillo of Corpus Christi, TX, Adrian Castillo (Destiny) of Broken Arrow, OK, Joseph Castillo of McAllen, TX; stepson, Glen Black (Rebecca) of Fairland, OK; three grandchildren, one step-grandchild, and two great-grandchildren. Adolfo was preceded in death by his parents, Jose and Hillare Castillo, brothers Fred and Vetch Castillo, and sisters Janie and Yolanda Castillo, and Aurlia Diez.

Nichols-Stephens Funeral & Cremation Services in Grove, Oklahoma, is assisting the family during this time. Adolfo's life will be celebrated and remembered for his remarkable contributions to his community and country.


Friday, May 29, 2026

Donna Soard


(From Ozark Memorial Park Crematory)

Mrs. Donna Dean Soard, 78, of Carthage, Missouri, departed this life on Monday, May 25, 2026, following a sudden illness.

Donna was born on January 12, 1948, in Ava, Missouri, to the late Luther and Dorothy (McDonald) Lee. She was raised in Red Oak, Missouri, and throughout her life lived in several local communities, including Reeds, Sarcoxie, La Russell, and Carthage. Donna worked for many years with the Carthage R-9 School District and at McDonald’s in Carthage. Even up until the last few months of her life, she continued working through DoorDash.








Donna enjoyed crocheting, doing word searches, visiting the casino, spending time outdoors in her yard, and most of all, being with her family. She also had a playful spirit and was known for “burning anything she could,” a memory her loved ones will always smile about.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Luther and Dorothy Lee; her husband, Kenneth Dale Soard; her sons, Kent Soard (Cynthia) and Darin Soard (Mary Jo); and one daughter, Shawn Soard.

She was also preceded in death by five siblings: Kenneth Lee (Marie), Ralph Lee, Gary Lee, Phyllis Shields (Evert), and Rick Lee.
Donna is survived by her three children: Kendra Soard (Richard), Dickie Soard (Cody), and Daleann.

She is also survived by her thirteen grandchildren: Kipp Soard; Dakota “Bear” Soard (Sky); Jaden Green; Sasha Evans (Jake); Krista Soard (Jeff); Kyle Shelton (Emily); Kalebb Soard (Ebb); Devin Soard (Tailyn); Chloe Soard (Steven); Lacie Hibbs (Blake); Brittany Rissman; Dylan Rissman (Kaylee); and LJ Parker.








She also leaves behind nineteen great-grandchildren.

Donna is further survived by six siblings: Beverly Williamson; Jerry Lee (Barbara); Sherri Ritchie (Stanley); Dan Lee (Sheila); Dickie Lee (Patty); and Carolyn Sloniker (Richard); as well as two sisters-in-law, Judy Lee and Bea Lee. She also leaves behind several nieces, nephews, extended family members, and many dear friends.

Donna will be deeply and dearly missed by her surviving family and friends. She never missed an opportunity to help anyone she could and had the most caring heart. Her family and loved ones will always treasure the moments they shared with her throughout this lifetime.

Arrangements are under the personal care and direction of Ozark Memorial Park Crematory of Joplin, Missouri.


Darice Kimball


(From Ulmer Funeral Home)

Darice Kristine Kimball, 58, passed away Sunday, May 24, 2026, in Lee's Summit, Missouri. Darice was born on July 8, 1967, in Joplin, Missouri. She was preceded in death by her parents, Dennis and Dixie Peck; and one brother, Dennis Peck, Jr. 

Darice is survived by three children, Spencer Kimball (Amie) of California, Missouri; Joe Dyke (Karli) of Raytown, Missouri; and Maddie Dyke (Drake) of Lee’s Summit, Missouri; two sisters, Danielle Horton of Willard, Missouri and Dara Peck of Flemington, Missouri; nine grandchildren, Jack, Alex, Zach, Maddie, Kai, Kelsey, Laila, Kammie, and one soon to arrive; two nieces, Victoria and Gwen; and four nephews, Steven, Danny, Dawson, and Gabe. 







Darice lived a life rooted in faith, family, compassion, and conviction. She believed deeply in the importance of family and devoted herself wholeheartedly to those she loved. Her strong faith as a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints guided her life and shaped the kindness, grace, and strength she shared with others every day. 

Darice had a remarkable ability to see the good in every person, no matter who they were or where they came from. She was passionately vocal about what was right and true and was never afraid to stand firmly for her beliefs. 

Darice also found great joy in nature and in the animals she loved so dearly. But above all, Darice lived to be "Goddie" to her beloved grandchildren. 








Services will be held at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Carthage, Missouri, on Saturday, June 6, 2026, at 11 a.m. Burial will be at Diamond Cemetery in Diamond, Missouri. 

Online condolences may be made at www.ulmerfh.com

Arrangements are under the care and direction of Ulmer Funeral Home.

Stevie Meredith


(From Parker Mortuary)

Stevie Marie Meredith, age 42, Joplin, MO was born on June 3, 1983, in Iowa City, Iowa, to Steven and Allison (Lake) Smith. Stevie passed away on May 25, 2026, in Kansas City, Kansas.

Stevie lived a life marked by care, hospitality, and sincere devotion to the people around her. She had a natural gift for making others feel welcome, comfortable, and valued, and she carried that gift into every part of her life. Whether she was opening her home, preparing a meal, or offering thoughtful words, she did so with a gracious spirit that reflected the best of who she was. Her presence had a way of making ordinary moments feel special, and her absence will be felt profoundly by all who knew her.








Among the many things Stevie loved, caring for babies held a special place in her heart. She was gentle, attentive, and deeply nurturing, and she found joy in the simple and meaningful work of tending to little ones. She also loved cooking. Meals prepared by Stevie were more than food. They were expressions of love, comfort, and togetherness, often shared in the company of family and friends.

Stevie was also known for her love of entertaining and hosting. She took great pride in bringing people together and creating gatherings that felt warm, joyful, and memorable. Holidays were especially dear to her, and she loved hosting them for everyone. She understood the importance of tradition, celebration, and shared time, and she made those occasions feel full of life and meaning. Her home was often a place where laughter, conversation, and good food came together, and many cherished memories were made under her care.

She was a thoughtful gift giver, always remembering the small details that made a person feel seen and appreciated. Stevie had a remarkable ability to choose gifts that reflected genuine understanding and affection.








Stevie also had a love for plants, and she appreciated the beauty and calm they brought into a home. She enjoyed tending to them and watching them grow, finding satisfaction in their quiet resilience and natural grace. In many ways, her care for plants reflected the way she lived her life, with patience, attention, and a deep appreciation for growth and beauty in everyday things.

Along with her parents, Stevie is survived by her beloved husband, Kyle Meredith; children, Aurora Ellington, Jaxson Ellington (Sophia), and EvieLynne Meredith; grandchildren, Bea Ellington; siblings, Ben McCarty and Mia Wireman; and best friend, Geoff Crowder.

A funeral service is planned for Wednesday, June 3, 2026, at 3:00 p.m. at Parker Mortuary Chapel in Joplin, MO. The family invites friends for a time of visitation on Tuesday, June 2, 2026, from 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. at the mortuary.

Arrangements are under the direct care of Parker Mortuary in Joplin, MO.

 

Johann Schleisman


(From Parker Mortuary)

Johann Delores Schleisman, age 90, passed away on May 23rd, 2026 comfortably in her home that she loved, surrounded by family, neighbors, and loved ones.

Johann was born April 30th,1936 in Pulaski County, Missouri, the daughter of George Baldrow McCann and Christina Sophia Schaap. Johann was the youngest of thirteen children. She grew up in Richland, Missouri and graduated from Richland High in 1954. She was a certified cosmetologist and graduate of the Springfield Beauty Academy. 






Johann’s pride and joy was her family, who looked to her as a steady, kind, and honest presence in their lives. Her determination and unstoppable work ethic was matched by her boundless generosity and loving support towards her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchild. Johann loved tending to her perfectly manicured yard – her home, garden, flowers, and the local birds brought her endless entertainment and peace. The deer and squirrels loved her yard as much as she did–they will miss her, but the feeling probably would not be mutual.

Johann always kept in touch, and her thoughtful check-in calls with friends and family will be greatly missed. She was the backbone of her family, she kept her friends always in her heart, and she cherished the neighbors who were her community.

Johann was preceded in death by her husband Robert, with whom she shared 58 wonderful years of marriage. It will be a blessing to have them united again at Springfield Veterans Cemetery.








Those carrying on her memory include her daughter, Joyce Schleisman of Kansas City, Missouri; son, Randy Schleisman and wife Ann of Protem, Missouri; grandchildren, Allison Schleisman of New York City, Matthew Schleisman and Katherine Parker of Portland, Oregon; Ivey and Ian Zoellers, and great-granddaughter River Zoellers of Sugar Creek, Missouri; sister Barbara Phillips; sisters-in-law Verleen Schleisman, Marian Schachtner, Donna Schreier, Dorothy Hall; and many nephews and nieces.

Memorial service will be Saturday, May 30th, 2026.

Visitation will take place at Thornhill-Dillon Mortuary from 11-12 pm. Services will follow, delivered by Pastor Shane Munn. Following services, the family will be gathering at Wilder’s Steakhouse. All family and friends are invited.

Cremation arrangements are under the direction of Parker Mortuary.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that loved ones consider a donation to the Joplin Humane Society. All are encouraged to spend time in their gardens and to call a friend or loved one to catch up and talk about the weather.