Barbara Cherry

(From Ulmer Funeral Home)

Barbara Lucille Cherry, 90, of Carthage, Missouri, passed away on Monday, July 6, 2026, at St. Luke’s Nursing Center in Carthage. Barbara was born in Joplin, Missouri on August 4, 1935, to the late Josiah and Helen Dickson. She graduated from Carl Junction High School with the class of 1953 and has lived in the Jasper County area most of her life. 

Barbara worked at Bob’s Shoe Warehouse in Carthage for about 10 years, but she loved being a stay-at-home mom. She liked to try her luck at the casino and playing cards and loved being with her family. 

Barbara was united in marriage to George Cherry on October 18, 1958, in Asbury, Missouri at the Pleasant Hill Methodist Church; he preceded her in death on April 13, 2020. 

She is survived by two sons, Stan Cherry (Sharron) of Carthage and Jim Cherry (Debbie) of Nixa; one daughter, Pattie Cherry of Carthage; nine grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; and two sisters, Martha Schriver and Joyce Sayler, both of Wichita, Kansas. 

Along with her husband George, and parents Josiah and Helen Dickson; she was preceded in death by two sisters, Marie Hurlbert and Alice Benintendi. 

A funeral service will be held at 10:00 AM on Monday, July 13, 2026, at Ulmer Funeral Home in Carthage, Missouri. A visitation will be held before the service at 9:00 AM on Monday, July 13, 2026, at Ulmer Funeral Home. The burial will take place at Park Cemetery in Carthage immediately following the service.

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

Arrangements under the care and direction of Ulmer Funeral Home.

Sandy Castlebury

(From Daniel Funeral Home)

Sandra Faye “Sandy” Castlebury, 71, passed away in July 2026.

Sandy was born on March 5, 1955, to Donna and Gaylord “GJ” Wallace. She grew up in Sheldon, Missouri, where she graduated from Sheldon High School. In the summer following her graduation in 1973, she married the love of her life, Sam Castlebury, beginning a marriage that would span 40 wonderful years until Sam’s passing.

She later earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree and dedicated her career to caring for others as a registered nurse. Throughout her nursing career, she served in several roles but found her true calling in psychiatric nursing.

Together, Sandy and Sam built a loving home and raised three children: Samantha (Tyler) Hammond of Northern Virginia; Rocky (Marissa) Castlebury of Greenfield, Missouri; and Shelly (Beau) Barwick of Neosho, Missouri. She was an adoring grandmother to Addilyn and Maisie Castlebury and Thaddeus Barwick, who brought immeasurable joy and pride to her life. Another Barwick grandson will be welcomed in the fall.

Sandy was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 40 years, Sam Castlebury, and by her parents, Donna and Gaylord “GJ” Wallace. She is survived by her three brothers, Jim Wallace, Gary David (Nancy) Wallace, and Lonnie (Lola) Wallace.

After retiring from nursing, Sandy embraced every opportunity to enjoy life. She frequently traveled to Northern Virginia to spend time with her eldest daughter, Samantha, and son-in-law, Tyler, delighting in the history of Virginia and exploring Washington, D.C. One of the greatest joys of her retirement was purchasing a vacation home in Fort Myers, Florida. There she loved exploring nature preserves, watching manatees, walking the beaches, and participating in activities within her community.

Sandy also cherished the adventures she shared with her dearest friends, Roberta Breaune and Toby Ellison. Whether traveling together, exploring new places, or simply enjoying each other’s company, their friendship was a source of laughter, encouragement, and countless treasured memories throughout the years.

A lifelong member of Sheldon Christian Church, Sandy treasured the friendships and fellowship she found through the church.

Always active, Sandy faithfully began each morning with a two-mile walk and eagerly participated in any local 5K fun run she could find.

An event she never missed was her grand kids ball games. Cheering and supporting and ever present. Sandy was always crafting or sewing. She loved sharing that passion with her grandchildren, and teaching Addilyn and Maisie to sew was something she cherished. Her children and grandchildren will forever treasure the gloves, hats, scarves, trivets, dog bandanas, aprons, and countless other handmade gifts she lovingly crafted for them.

Above all else, Sandy loved her family.

She will be deeply loved, forever remembered, and profoundly missed by all who knew her.

Funeral services will be held at the Sheldon Christian Church 200 S. First St., Sheldon Mo. 64784 at 10am on Thursday July 9th.

Sandy VanStratten

(From Daniel Funeral Home)

Sandra Katherine (Weber) Coy VanStratten entered her heavenly home on July 5, 2026.

Sandra was born on January 7, 1950, in Cresco, Iowa, to George J. and Stella B. (Herman) Weber. She was the sixth of eight children. In December 1951, her family relocated to Lamar, Missouri.

Sandra graduated from Lamar High School with the Class of 1968. Following graduation, she attended Job Corps in Excelsior Springs before enrolling in cosmetology school in St. Joseph, Missouri. After earning her cosmetology license in 1969, she returned to Lamar and enjoyed a successful 25-year career as a hairstylist, owning and operating several beauty shops.

In August 1988, Sandra began a new chapter by attending Missouri Southern State University in Joplin. She graduated in June 1992 and accepted a position with the Missouri Department of Mental Health in Nevada, Missouri, where she faithfully served until her retirement in 2010.

Sandra married Frank W. Coy in September of 1987 and he passed on April 21, 2002. She then married Vernon VanStratten on November 28, 2003, he survives at the home.

Sandra's greatest joy was her faith and her family. She loved God above all else and treasured every opportunity to care for and encourage those around her. Known for her warm hugs, generous heart, and loving spirit, Sandra never missed a chance to show affection to family and friends. She was devoted to her church family and found great comfort in her faith throughout her life.

Sandra is survived by her husband of 23 years, Vernon VanStratten; her three children, Scott (Melinda) McAfee of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, Laurie McAfee (Teddy) of the home, and Lacy (Andy) Kalm of Nevada, Missouri; two brothers, John (Susan) Weber of Sheldon, Missouri, and Martin (Connie) Weber of Pittsburg, Kansas; twelve grandchildren, Becca West of Joplin, Missouri, Ethan McAfee, Alex McAfee, and Tre McAfee, all of Lamar, Missouri, Judith Transue of the home, Kaydenn Kalm of Nevada, Missouri, Ashley Householder of Milo, Missouri, Jorden Bartel of Joplin, Missouri, and Gavyn McAfee, Camdyn McAfee, and Brelynn McAfee, all of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma; five great-grandchildren, Oliver DeGonia and Lena Bartel, both of Joplin, Missouri, Hunter Householder and Bailer Householder, both of Nevada, Missouri, and Genesis Zamora-Kalm of Nevada, Missouri; as well as many beloved nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her first husband, Frank Coy; two brothers, Jerome Weber and Duane Weber; three sisters, Mary Weber, Caroline Weber, and Norma Jean Weber; her great-granddaughter, Emma Grace DeGonia; and two nephews, Travis LaBouve and Dennis Besse.

Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m. Thursday, July 9, 2026, at Daniel Funeral Home with burial to follow at Lake Cemetery in Lamar, Missouri.

The family will receive friends from 6:00 until 7:00 p.m. Wednesday, July 8, 2026, at the funeral home.

Memorial contributions are suggested to the American Cancer Society or the American Diabetes Association, in care of the funeral home.

Joanne Fehring

(From McQueen Funeral Home)

Joanne Eileen Fehring, age 90, of Rocky Comfort, Missouri passed away Saturday, July 4, 2026 at her home.

She was born October 14, 1935 in Conway, Massachusetts the daughter of John and Cora (Fairfield) Warger. She was united in marriage to Ralph Fehring, who preceded her in death January 16, 2008. 

Also preceding her in death were her parents; brothers, Kenneth and Barry, and sister, Muriel.

Surviving are her sons, R.L. Fehring and wife Teri of Neosho, Missouri, Steve Fehring of Aurora, Missouri and David Fehring and wife Julia of Neosho, Missouri; sisters, Joyce Hume and husband Robert of Norcross, Georgia and Corinne Laskey and husband David of South Deerfield, Massachusetts; nine grandchildren and six great grandchildren.

Joanne grew up in Conway, Massachusetts, where she attended school and graduated from Conway High School. In 1957, she moved to Rocky Comfort from Arkansas. She and her husband, Ralph, owned and operated Fehring Farms, as a dairy farm, until 2008.

Joanne enjoyed mowing the lawn, taking walks, and volunteering at the local food pantry. Above all, she loved spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren and great grandchildren. She was a member of Prosperity Southern Baptist Church.

Graveside services will be held at 10:00 A.M. Friday, July 10, 2026 at Maple Park Cemetery in Aurora, Missouri, under direction of Fohn Funeral Home in Cassville. Pastor Jerry Yarnall will conduct the services.

The family will receive friends from 6:00 until 8:00 P.M. Thursday at McQueen Funeral Home in Wheaton.

Contributions may be made to American Cancer Society in memory of Joanne.

Jim McGaugh

(From Mason-Woodard Mortuary)

James Arnold McGaugh, lovingly known as Jim, passed away on June 23, 2026, at the age of 79.

Jim was born on November 2, 1946, in Anderson, Missouri, to Joseph and Ruth McGaugh. He built a life centered around hard work, family, laughter, and lending a helping hand whenever someone needed it.

For 61 wonderful years, Jim shared his life with the love of his life, Valorie. Together they built a family that remained the center of his world. He is survived by his devoted wife, Valorie; his son, Ron McGaugh and wife Jennifer, and their daughter, Taylor; and his daughter, Angie Gibson and husband Jeff Gibson, along with their sons, Chase and Brett.

Jim also loved all of his siblings dearly—Pat, Claudia, Rick, Ray, Delma, and David. They were never just brothers and sisters to him; they were lifelong friends and an important part of his everyday life. He also leaves behind many cherished nieces and nephews whom he loved very much.

Jim retired from Atlas Powder Company after 41 years of dedicated service. He believed in working hard, took pride in every job he did, and was never one to sit still. Whether it was washing dishes after a family meal, fixing something that was broken, or helping wherever he was needed, he was always willing to pitch in without being asked.

A devoted father, Jim coached his son’s soccer and baseball teams and later continued his love of the game by playing in a men’s soccer league well into adulthood.

Jim found happiness in the simple things. He loved the outdoors, working in his yard, caring for plants, tinkering in his garage, and bringing old cars back to life. It was a familiar sight to see him out in the driveway with an old radio playing beside him while he worked. He had a special place in his heart for animals and quietly helped countless animals over the years.

Anyone who knew Jim also knew his mischievous side. He was ornery in the very best way, always ready with a prank, a teasing remark, or a joke that often pushed the boundaries of what was considered appropriate. His sense of humor was unforgettable, and he delighted in making people laugh—even if they rolled their eyes first.

His kindness was just as memorable as his humor. If he saw someone stranded alongside the road or anyone in need, he never hesitated to stop and help. He believed in doing the right thing and giving whatever he could, whether it was his time, his knowledge, or simply his willingness to lend a hand.

Jim leaves behind a lifetime of memories, laughter, lessons, and love. His family will forever remember the sound of his old radio playing from the driveway, his hands busy fixing something, his quick wit, his generous heart, and the unwavering love he had for those closest to him.

Though his presence will be deeply missed, the example he set—of hard work, compassion, loyalty, generosity, and finding humor in everyday life—will continue to live on in all who knew and loved him.

“In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to the Parkinson’s Foundation. Donations can be made securely online at Parkinson’s Foundation Donation Page.

Memorial Graveside Service
Saturday, August 15, 2026
11:00AM
Osborne Memorial Cemetery
32nd and McClelland
Joplin, MO 64804
Officiant: Tim Louderback

Interment
Saturday, August 15, 2026
11:00AM
Osborne Memorial Cemetery
3400 McClelland Blvd
Joplin, MO 64804

Frank Webb

(From Mason-Woodard Mortuary)

Franklin J. Webb of Diamond MO passed away June 30th, 2026, at the age of 79. Frank was a gifted mechanic for the majority of his life. He loved fishing, spending time with his family and watching his great-granddaughters play sports and other activities. 

Frank was born in Kansas City, KS to Ancil F. Webb & Stella V. Webb (Tate). Frank married Judith A. Mosley in 1968, and they were together until Judy’s passing in 2023.

Frank & Judy had two children, Tim (Bobbett) of Diamond and Tammy (Randy) of Springfield MO, two granddaughters, Kayla (Corey) of Neosho and Keasha (Brandon) of Joplin. Frank had 8 beautiful great-granddaughters that he adored and one great-grandson on the way. Frank had four brothers, Bill (Leona), Jess (Millie), Larry (Debbie) & Vint. He had four sisters, Wanda Webb, Violet Farmer (David), Patsy Perry (James) and Shelley McCarty. Frank had a close cousin James Tate and several nephews, nieces and friends.

Frank was preceded in death by his loving wife Judy, his parents, infant sister Wanda, his brother Bill, sister-in-law Leona and brother-in-law James Perry.

A celebration of Frank’s life will be announced at a later date.

  

Ronnie Rice

(From Countryside Funeral Home)

Ronald N. Rice Sr. 73, of rural Fredonia, passed away Sunday, July 5, 2026, at his home. Ronnie was born on December 10, 1952, in Poplar Bluff, MO., the son of Chester Rice Sr., and Ruth Marie (Smiley) Wright.

Ronnie was a graduate of Pacific High School, class of 1971, in Pacific, Mo. On June 10, 1972, in Gray Summit, MO., Ronnie married Maggie Williams, and a 54-year adventure began. Ronnie started working for Layton Oil Company, which he did for 18 years, he then worked for Cessna Aircraft for the next 23 ½ years until his retirement.

Ronnie stayed active with the Fredonia Hospital Auxiliary and the Relay 4 Life, Independence Chapter. He had a immense love for his wife, children, grandchildren, great grandchildren, he will be greatly missed by his family and friends.

In Ronnie’s honor, the family request on the day of his service to wear bright and colorful clothing, with Hawaiian shirts being his favorite.

Including his wife Maggie, Ronnie is survived by:

Children:
Theresa Faileaso (Samoa) of Fredonia, KS
Stephanee Schiding (Bryan) of Carl Junction, MO
Ronald Rice Jr. (Amber) of Neodesha, KS

Siblings:
Chester Rice Jr. (Shirley) of St. Clair, MO
Betty Cochran (Dartan) of Caseyville, IL
Anita Clonts (Harold) of Leesburg, MO
Patricia Allen (Phil) of Wickliffe, KY

9 Grandchildren and 13 Great Grandchildren: Travis Shay; Dakota (Danya) Shay, Stefan, Daxen, Adeleigh, Tamsyn; Drake (Laikyn) Shay, Emma, Kanyon, Dextyn, Rylynn; Shelby (Wyatt) Robinson, Alice, Alena, Weslee, Braylynn, Skylynn; Lilyan, William Schiding; Camron, Tommy, Luna Rice.

Mother-in-law Carolyn Williams of Fredonia, KS, Sister-in-laws Mary Parker (Steve) of Gardner, KS and Anna Laforte (Alan) of Avant, OK

Ronnie was preceded in death by his parents, stepfather Charles Wright and father-in-law Sgt. Earnest Williams.

The family will receive friends on Friday, July 10, 2026, from 6-8 pm at the funeral home. A Celebration of Life service will be held on Saturday, July 11, 2026, at 2:00 pm at Countryside Funeral Home in Fredonia. Memorials in his memory have been suggested to the Fredonia Hospital Auxiliary and may be left with or mailed to the funeral home. Services entrusted to Countryside Funeral Home 420 S. 20th St., P.O. Box 247, Fredonia, KS 66736