Muriel Woody

(From Simpson Funeral Home)

Muriel Elaine Woody, born on February 24, 1948, in Fort Scott, KS, led a life characterized by love, compassion, and empathy. Known for her warm spirit, bright smile and infectious laugh, Muriel was a beacon of faith and familial dedication. Her radiant heart touched the lives of everyone she met, leaving an impact that will continue to echo through the years. Muriel passed away peacefully with her children by her side on May 19, 2026 in Joplin.

A devoted wife, mother, and grandmother, Muriel found her greatest joy within the walls of her home and the hearts of her family. As a lifelong member of the church and the wife of a pastor, she found solace and purpose in her faith. She served as a Sunday School Teacher, assisted with VBS, Celebrate Recovery and mission trips alongside her husband. As Proverbs 31:25-26 states, "She is clothed with strength and dignity, and she laughs without fear of the future. When she speaks, her words are wise, and she gives instructions with kindness." Muriel embodied these verses, living her life as a testament to her faith and family.

Muriel's professional life was marked by a successful career in Accounts Payable at St. Johns Hospital in Joplin, from where she retired in 2012 after working there for over 30 years. Some of her hobbies included crocheting and gardening, activities that further showcased her love for creating and nurturing.

Muriel was preceded in death by her husband Ron Woody; father, Donald Shoemaker; and mother, Alma Shoemaker. She is survived by her sons Shane (Jennifer) Woody and Jason Woody; grandchildren Alexandra, Jacob and Coleton (Roz) Woody; sisters Linda (David) Scharenberg and Becky (Scott) Simpson. She is also survived by numerous brothers and sisters in law as well as nieces and nephews.

A visitation will be held at the First Baptist Church in Webb City on Tuesday, May 26, 2026, from 6-7:30pm. The funeral service will take place the following day at the same venue on Wednesday, May 27, 2026, at 10:00 am.

Services are under the personal care and direction of Simpson Funeral Home.

The family invites relatives and friends to visit www.simpsonfh.com to share photos and memories of their loved one, Muriel Woody. Your stories and pictures will serve as a comforting reminder of the loving, compassionate, and empathetic woman Muriel was, and her enduring impact on all our lives.

Carol Capron

(From Mason-Woodard Mortuary)

Carol Maureen Capron, age 84 of Webb City, Missouri passed away surrounded by her family at 1:15am on Thursday, May 21, 2026 at The Wildwood Senior Living in Joplin, Missouri following a lengthy battle with Dementia.

Carol was born on March 29, 1942 in Joplin, Missouri. She is the daughter of Howard and Helen (Hulvey) Price. She grew up in Galena, Kansas where she was crowned football homecoming queen in 1957 and later graduated with the class of 1960. 

On August 7, 1960 Carol married Virgil “Jack” Capron in Galena, Kansas and he precedes her in passing. Carol is survived by two sons, Michael Jack Capron and wife Debbie of Leesport, PA, Patrick Daniel Capron and wife Leslie of Webb City, MO; nine grandchildren, Erica Durbin, Zachary (Allison) Martin, Chase Capron, Hannah (Kevin) Nally, Natalie (Seth) Harris, Tadd Capron, Quincie Capron, Elliett Capron, Holly Capron; one great-granddaughter Foster Harris and one great-grandson Jack Capron.

She is preceded in death by her parents, infant twin daughters Jennifer Ann and Penny Lorraine, daughter Ann L. Martin, grandson Seth Martin and brother Pat Price.

Carol was always a supporting light for her husband Jack and their children. She followed Jack through his time at Stewart Air Force base in Smyrna, Tennessee and after his discharge they made their way back to Webb City, MO where she helped him open his veterinary practice at Madison Animal Clinic.

She loved spending time with her children and grandchildren and watching them compete in their various sports and activities. Baking with her grandkids was one of the great joys of her life along with gardening and traveling. She was the life of a party and always enjoyed visiting with friends. Carol was also very involved with Wildwood and was a shining light for all of the nursing staff.

The family would like to send a heartfelt thank you to the staff at Wildwood in the memory care unit for all of the care and love they provided to Carol and the family throughout their many years there.

Graveside services will be held at 10:00am, Friday, May 22, 2026 at Mt. Hope Cemetery in Webb City, MO.
Services in care of Mason-Woodard Mortuary and Crematory.

Linda Proctor

(From Ozark Memorial Park Crematory)

Linda Kay Proctor, 78, of Carthage, MO, passed away on Saturday, May 16, 2026, at her residence.

Linda was born on July 6, 1947, in Wheaton, Missouri.

She received a bachelor’s degree in Hotel/Restaurant Management.

She worked for the former Sunbeam in Neosho for several years and she also worked at the former Captain D’s in Joplin for several years.

She is survived by two sons; Jason (Sandy) Proctor of Carthage, Missouri and Eric Proctor of Neosho, Missouri, six grandchildren; Ryan Bradshaw, Dakota Cory, Jason Proctor II, Dallen Proctor, Kellsie Proctor and Chase Proctor, 11 Great-Grandchildren; Delayza Proctor, Eliel Proctor, Emma Lynn Thompson, Hadley Proctor, Estella Proctor, Arabella Proctor, Hendrix Proctor, Grayson Shivar, Paisley Proctor, Mathew Proctor, and Reese Proctor.

She is also survived by one brother; Barry Ruark of Joplin, MO and two sisters; Barbara Kirkpatrick of Neosho and Wilma Collings of Pasco, Washington.

She was preceded in death by her parents Dillon and Vurl Fletcher Ruark and one grandson Devin Proctor.

A Celebration of Life will be held a later date with interment of cremains at Rocky Comfort Cemetery in Rocky Comfort, Missouri.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Ozark Memorial Park Cemetery & Crematory in Joplin, MO

Junior Hammons

(From Daniel Funeral Home)

Giles “Junior” Hammons, age 94, of Lamar, Missouri, passed away May 19, 2026, at the Missouri Veteran’s Home in Mt. Vernon, Missouri.

Junior was born June 3, 1931, in Plattsburg, Missouri, to Giles Jahue Hammons and Ethel Zeffie (Gannaway) Hammons. On October 3, 1954, he married Laura Faye Esry in El Dorado Springs, Missouri. Together they shared 69 wonderful years of marriage before her passing in 2023.

Junior proudly served his country in the United States Army during the Korean War. Following his military service, he worked for MODOT for 34 years before retiring in 1989.

Stephen Covey once wrote, “Every man has four great needs in life: to live, to love, to learn, and to leave a legacy.” Junior truly fulfilled each of those needs. He lived with remarkable strength and resilience, defying countless health challenges throughout his life, from his time serving in Korea to his final years. Doctors and nurses often described him as “one tough old bird,” always with a smile and a respectful shake of the head.

To love was second nature to Junior. His devotion to his family, especially to Laura, his wife of more than 68 years, was evident to all who knew them. They were inseparable until the very end.

Junior also never stopped learning, and his legacy is one that will continue for generations. He set an enduring example as a husband, father, grandfather, uncle, and mentor. Some of his most treasured memories were the countless hours spent teaching young men and women how to hunt and fish. He enjoyed woodworking in his shop, cranking the White Mountain ice cream freezer on Sunday afternoons, and driving the old green pickup with Laura in the Lamar Fair and Stockton Walnut Festival parades. He never missed a ballgame, including away games, and cherished every opportunity to support his family.

Nearly 30 years ago, Junior started the Hammons family fish fry, an annual Memorial Day weekend tradition that continues to bring together 40 to 50 family members and friends. This year’s gathering will serve as a special celebration of a life truly well lived. Those who knew Junior understand how deeply he will be missed.

Survivors include one son, Jamie Hammons of Lamar, Missouri; one daughter, Judy Crockett of Carthage, Missouri; five grandchildren, Sarah Hammons, Allison Hammons, Nicole Hammons, Blake (Lori) Crockett, and Brad (Jeni) Crockett; five great-grandchildren, Emersyn, Brenton, Caleb, Gentry, and Ensley; one sister, Pauline Crane of Stockton, Missouri and two sisters-in-law, Barbara Wallen and Anna Ruth (Ed) Fields.

Junior was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Laura; three sisters and brothers-in-law, Lois and Jim Brandom, Francis and Oral Yancey, and Dorothy and Ernie Verrue; and one brother-in-law, Pat Crane.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, May 23, 2026, at Daniel Funeral Home with burial to follow in Stockton City Cemetery.

The family will receive friends from 9:30 a.m. until 11:00 a.m., Saturday, May 23, 2026, prior to the service at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, contributions are suggested and may be made payable to the Missouri Veteran’s Home Assistance League in care of Daniel Funeral Home.

Condolences may be shared at Daniel Funeral Home

Cheryl Barnes

(From Derfelt Funeral Home)

Cheryl C. (Smith) Barnes, passed away Monday morning, May 18, 2026 at her home following an illness.

She was born July 13, 1956 in Oswego, KS to Homer and Virginia (Barker) Smith. She attended Oswego schools and Labette Community College.

She married Gregory Barnes on April 18, 1975 in Oswego, KS. Cheryl worked at Dillons Electric, Labette County Treasurer Office, United Telephone Co., Labette Community College, USD 506, USD 504, Labette County Correctional Camps, and Stables Casino. She went blind in 2012 and remained at the home the rest of her life. She loved music, helping others, just laughing and most of all spending time with her grandchildren.

She is survived by her husband, Gregory of the home; two daughters, Amanda Hucke, Oswego, and Ashley Lucas, Joplin, MO; two best ever son-in-laws, Justin Hucke, Oswego, and Rick Lucas, Joplin; three grandchildren, Jonathan Hucke, Avery Hucke, and Sydney Lucas.

She was preceded in death by her parents, one sister, Kathy Breckencamp, one brother, Phillip Smith, and the best sister-in-law and best friend, Kathy Barnes.

Cheryl has been entrusted to Derfelt Funeral Home, Oswego, KS for cremation. The family will celebrate her life with a graveside memorial service at 2:00 pm on Saturday, May 30, 2026 at Oswego Cemetery.

Online condolences may be expressed at www.derfeltfuneralhomes.com.

Donald Peak

(From White Funeral Home)

Donald Cleveland Peak, age 86, of Seligman, Missouri, passed away peacefully on Monday, May 18, 2026, at Northwest Medical Center in Springdale, Arkansas.

Donald was born on August 22, 1939, in Ventura, California, to Donald Clark and Anetta (Gilbert) Peak. He proudly served his country in the National Guard.

On June 25, 1960, Donald married the love of his life and best friend, Mary Ruth Varnell, in Ventura, California. Their marriage was a true example of lifelong love, devotion, and partnership. Together they built a beautiful life and were blessed with three sons, who became one of Donald’s greatest joys and proudest accomplishments.

Donald found great joy in the outdoors and in the time he shared with those he loved most. He enjoyed riding ATVs, fishing with his family, and camping under the stars, creating memories that will forever live on in the hearts of those who shared them. Whether sitting around a campfire, casting a fishing line, or simply enjoying the company of loved ones, Donald treasured life’s simple blessings. He also shared a special bond with his faithful companion, Sadie, his beloved puppy dog, who brought him comfort, companionship, and countless joyful moments throughout the years.

Though his family’s hearts are heavy with loss, they find comfort in knowing that the love, guidance, and memories Donald shared will remain with them always. He will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever treasured by all who were blessed to know him.

Donald is survived by his beloved wife of nearly 66 years, Mary Ruth Peak; three sons, Richard Alan Peak and his wife Joanna of Springdale, Arkansas, Michael C. Peak and his wife Lisa of Mountain Home, Arkansas, and Donald Jeffrey Peak and his wife Linda of Springdale, Arkansas; five grandchildren; and eight great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents; one sister; and one grandson.

Arrangements are under the direction of White Funeral Home and Crematory in Cassville, Missouri.

 

Nancy England

(From White Funeral Home)

“She was one of the rare ones, so effortlessly herself, and the world loved her for it.” -Atticus

Nancy Lou Joslin England, 95, of Cassville, Missouri, passed away May 19, 2026. She was born February 27, 1931, in Cassville, the daughter of George Morton Joslin and Hazel Irwin Joslin. Cassville was the only home she ever knew, and she gave it a lifetime in return.

Nancy first met Charles England in the seventh grade through the Cassville Methodist Youth Group. They married on January 27, 1951, in an ice storm, and spent the next 60 years building a life together. Their home was filled with faith, laughter, and their two daughters, Lynn and Tracy.

Nancy had a genuine love of work and a gift for learning whatever a job required of her. Over the years she worked at Miller’s Drug Store, the Cassville Republican, the Missouri Division of Welfare, and Standard Mutual Insurance. Her longest and most cherished chapter came when she joined the University of Missouri Extension, heading the Barry County 4-H program for over 30 years. She retired in 2005 to care for her husband, Charles, which also gave them both more time with family and the chance to attend the many sporting and music events of their four grandchildren.

Nancy was a lifetime learner. While working for the University of Missouri Extension, she pursued college courses through in-person and correspondence classes at the University of Missouri in Columbia, Missouri Southern State University, and Crowder College. She was curious, deliberate, and never in a hurry to fit a mold.

She was a member of the Cassville United Methodist Church for so long that she earned the distinction of being its longest-tenured living member. She served 77 years in the Order of Eastern Star and was Mother Advisor for the Cassville Assembly of the International Order of Rainbow for Girls. Nancy also gave her time freely to the Garden Club and numerous other organizations and youth activities, many of them the same ones Lynn and Tracy were part of growing up.

Nancy is survived by her daughters, Lynn England Hempen (Kenny) of Joplin, Missouri, and Tracy England Rampy (Steve) of Lenexa, Kansas; grandchildren Tyler Hempen (Cassie) of Oronogo, Missouri; Zach Rampy (Hope) of Stilwell, Kansas; Kaylee Hempen Viers (Cole) of St. Peters, Missouri; and Luke Rampy (Crystal) of Kansas City, Missouri. Her great-grandchildren include Rhyan Hempen, Sawyer Viers, Brooks Hempen, Emma Rampy, Charlie Rampy, Tate Rampy, and Hazel Rampy. She is also survived by England nieces and nephews and many dear friends.

She was preceded in death by her husband Charles; her parents, George and Hazel Joslin; and her sister, Patricia “Tony” Joslin Henbest.

Services will be held May 30, 2026, at Cassville United Methodist Church, 601 Gravel Street. Visitation at 10:00 a.m., service at 11:00 a.m. Pastor Jeff Fugitt officiating. Burial at Oak Hill Cemetery, 401 East 7th Street, Cassville, Missouri.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to Cassville United Methodist Church or the Barry County Museum.

Arrangements are under the direction of White Funeral Home and Crematory.