Jackie Blevins

(From Ozark Memorial Park Crematory)

Jackie Dewayne Blevins of Stella, MO, passed away on Tuesday, August 25, 2026, at the age of 70, surrounded by family and loved ones. He was born on March 22, 1956, to Clovis and Vivian Blevins, and lived in the Stella area for most all his life. 

Jackie was truly a “Jack” of all trades. There wasn’t much he couldn’t do or fix and if he couldn’t he would find a way or figure it out. He was the guy that everyone could call when they needed something and he was always happy to help. He was a hard worker and spent his life working outdoors running a backhoe, dozer, or dump truck. He was proud of his work and enjoyed doing it. 

 But his greatest accomplishment he would tell you is his family whom he loved beyond measure and the many friends he made along the way. To know him was to love him and you always knew he loved you in return. He enjoyed spending his time with family, playing with the grandkids and great grandkids, fishing and hunting or just sitting on the porch drinking coffee.

Jackie leaves behind his wife Alica Blevins, of 40 years, who he called his “baby doll.” His fur babies, Maddie and Mae Mae; two daughters, Shawna Blevins, of Carterville, and Sheena (Tyler) Rogers, of Ritchey; one son, Brandon (Kaisha) Blevins, of Powell; one brother, Ronnie (Teresa) Blevins of Neosho; one sister, Beverly Anderson, of Fairview; nine grandchildren, 14 great grandchildren; along with treasured nephews, nieces, aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends he considered family. Jackie was preceded in death by his parents, Clovis and Vivian Blevins; brother, C.J. Blevins; and one granddaughter, Maycen Coberley.

Memorial services will be held on Saturday, August 29, 2026, at 10:00 AM at the Bethlehem Free Will Baptist Church, 20630 State Hwy 76, Rocky Comfort, MO 64861. Memorial contributions may be made to the family and entrusted to Ozark Memorial Park Cemetery and Crematory, Neosho.

Arrangements are under the care and direction of Ozark Memorial Park Cemetery and Crematory, Neosho.

Jack Cutbirth

(From Ulmer Funeral Home)

Jack Cutbirth, 84, of Reeds, Missouri, passed away peacefully on Sunday, August 23, 2026, at his home. 

Jack was born on February 28, 1942, in Oakland, California, to the late Frank and Alta Cutbirth. He lived a full life—one marked by hard work, a deep love for his family, a strong sense of adventure, a generous heart, and more than a little mischief. 

Before beginning a 26-year career with Atlas Powder Company, Jack worked as a truck driver, traveling through all 48 contiguous states. He knew the open road well, and that love of freedom and adventure stayed with him throughout his life. 

Few things captured Jack’s spirit quite like a Harley-Davidson. He began riding motorcycles at 18 and continued until he was 80. Riding was never simply a hobby for Jack. It was freedom, adventure, friendship, camaraderie, fun, and just enough rebellion to suit him perfectly. He loved riding motorcycles and the friendships that came with them. Jack also found peace in quieter places. He enjoyed fishing, deer hunting, and simply being outside, where he appreciated the beauty and stillness of nature. In earlier years, he was an active Shriner, and for many years he was also a strong supporter of Combat Vets. But more than anything, Jack loved his family. 

He married Toni Holbert on December 13, 1962, and for 63 years they did life together—the good times, the tough times, and everything in between. Through all the seasons of life, it was Jack and Toni, side by side. He loved her deeply, and the life and family they built together meant everything to him.
Jack was a wonderful dad who always knew how to make life fun. 

There wasn't always a lot to spare, but he made sure there was never a shortage of adventure for his family. Camping, fishing, hunting, days at the river and lake, and spur-of-the-moment road trips became lasting family memories. Jack might come home from work and simply announce, “Let’s load up and go to the river,” and off they would go. He fixed up a go-kart for his daughter, a mini-bike for his son, and later added a dune buggy to the family adventures. 

That was Jack. He knew how to make something out of an ordinary day. That same playful spirit carried into his years as a grandpa and great-grandpa. Jack was never too grown-up to play Barbies, cars, tractors, sit across the table for a game of checkers, or entertain the kids with one of his colorful stories. He gave them his time, his attention, his humor, and the kind of memories that will stay with them for a lifetime. 

Jack was a character in the very best sense of the word. He had a quick wit, a twinkle in his eye, and a colorful vocabulary all his own. He had a phrase for nearly every situation—and often several versions of the same one. His family and friends knew that mischievous look that usually meant a joke, a teasing remark, or one of those unforgettable Jack sayings that were uniquely his. He called a spade a spade, told things as he saw them, and never had much use for pretense. You always knew where you stood with Jack. Yet beneath that plainspoken exterior was an extraordinarily generous man. He never met a stranger, made friends wherever he went, and would give the shirt off his back to someone who needed it. Jack was loved by those who knew him because he was simply, completely, and unapologetically himself. 

Along with his wife, Toni, Jack is survived by his son, Michael Cutbirth and wife Rileah of Carthage; daughter, Michelle Wood and husband Randall of Oronogo; grandchildren, Andrew Cutbirth and wife Mercedes, Kevin Cutbirth and wife Amanda, Alex Cutbirth and wife Natalie, Mikali Forst and husband Cameron, Jacob Jones, Megan Bayless and husband Seth, McKinley Harris, McKade Crockett, Madi Wittmaier and husband Logan, and Zach Jones and wife Brittney; and 15 great-grandchildren. 

He was preceded in death by his parents, Frank and Alta Cutbirth, and three sisters, Ruby Blevins, Carol Parker, and Linda Cochran. 

Jack leaves behind a family who loved him deeply, countless stories that will continue to be told, and memories filled with laughter, open roads, riverbanks, motorcycles, family adventures, and funny stories that always included a few colorful phrases that will forever make those who loved him smile.

Visitation will be held from 6:00 to 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, August 27, 2026, at Ulmer Funeral Home in Carthage. A graveside service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, August 28, 2026, at Park Cemetery in Carthage, Missouri.

Condolences may be made at www.ulmerfh.com.

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

Scott McCracken

(From Fohn Funeral Home)

Charles “Scott” McCracken, age 48 of Wheaton, Missouri went to be with Jesus Tuesday, August 25, 2026.

Scott was born January 8, 1978, in Springfield, Missouri to Carl and Janell (Ellis) McCracken. Throughout Scott’s life, he brought joy and happiness to everyone that knew him, Scott never met a stranger.

Scott’s life journey started earlier than planned, arriving ten weeks early. From day one, he was a fighter, fighting the good fight until the end. 

When Scott was nine months old, he attended Monett Development Center until he was five. He graduated from Wheaton High School in 1997. After graduation, he moved to Monett, Missouri where he lived in a group home and made numerous friends. He was employed by Monett Work Shop for several years. His job was very important to him, and he was a hard worker. He retired from the Work Shop due to declining health and was excited to move back home with his mom and Gary. Scott was saved at an early age and was a member of New Site Baptist Church in Monett, Missouri. He loved going to church and sang at many churches in the area.

Scott enjoyed watching St. Louis Cardinals baseball and Kansas City Chiefs football. He also loved his Pepsi, always telling everyone, especially his nieces and nephews, to stay out of his Pepsi!

Scott is survived by his precious momma, Janell; stepdad, Gary Brattin; sisters, Staci Shockley (Michael) of Washburn, Missouri, Nikki Allen (Rodney) of Wheaton, Missouri, and Shanna Banks (Bobby) of Fairview, Missouri; brothers, Landon Brattin (Karen) and Chad Brattin (Bridget), both of Wheaton, Missouri, and Chett Daniels (Melissa) of Neosho, Missouri, and many nieces, nephews, great nieces, and great nephews. Also surviving are many, many friends. 

Preceding him in death were his daddy, Carl “Spud” McCracken; paternal grandparents, Bill and Betty McCracken of Wheaton, Missouri, and maternal grandparents, Maurice and Doris Ellis of Rocky Comfort, Missouri.

Funeral services will be held at 10:00 A.M. Friday, August 28, 2026, at Ridgley Baptist Church in Ridgley, Missouri under direction of Fohn Funeral Home in Cassville. Pastor John Henry and Brother Danny Heupel will conduct the services. Bural will be at Muncie Chapel Cemetery in Wheaton, Missouri.

The family will receive friends from 5:00 until 7:00 P.M. Thursday at Ridgley Baptist Church in Ridgley.

In lieu of flowers the family requests contributions be made to Hospice Compassus of Monett in memory of Scott.

Emmitt Cooper

(From Parker Mortuary)

Emmitt S. Cooper, II, born September 22, 1964, passed away in the early morning hours of Friday, August 21, 2026. Emmitt's passing followed an intense battle with cancer. Emmitt was an absolutely devoted father and grandfather.

He was preceded in death by his son, David Cooper (10/17/1990-12/10/1990).

He is survived by his son, Curtis Cooper, daughter-in-law, Frances Cooper, daughter, Reba Cooper, and his grandchildren; Hayden, Jasper, Cambria, Atticus, and Lochlan.

Emmitt leaves behind a legacy of hard work and family devotion. His loss is deeply felt.

Cremation arrangements are under the direct care of Parker Mortuary in Joplin, Missouri.

Tony Havelka

(From Crafton-Cantrell Funeral Home)

Anthony “Tony” Robert Havelka passed away August 24, 2026, at his home in Verona, Missouri, with family by his side. He was born in Dodge, Nebraska, on September 10,1939, the son of Anton and Mary (Uher) Havelka.

The family moved to Missouri in September 1950. Tony attended Sacred Heart Catholic School and graduated from Verona High School in 1957. He married the love of his life, Barbara Fenske, on October 3, 1964, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Pierce City, Missouri. Tony worked for Huellhorst Construction Company for ten years. He then joined the Gas Service Company (now Spire) where he worked for 32 years, retiring in 2001. He and Barbara also owned and operated a seed company and a farming operation.

As a teenager Tony went on the wheat harvest which took him through Texas, Kansas, and Montana. He was an active member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church, in Verona, Missouri, where he served on the Parish Council, was a lector, and sang in the choir. Tony was a member of the Knights of Columbus Council #2265. He served as secretary for many years and participated in various council activities. During the Lenten fish fries, Tony and Barbara served as cashiers and welcomed all who were in attendance.

Tony enjoyed spending time with his family, especially Barbara, his wife of 61 years, and grandchildren. His hobbies included going to farm auctions and visiting with friends and neighbors. Tony never knew a stranger; he always had a story to tell and a smile to share. On Thursday mornings, Tony could be found at Braum’s, having coffee and swapping stories and jokes with friends. He will be greatly missed by all those who knew and loved him.

Surviving are his wife, Barbara; daughter, Sandy and her husband, Tim, of Verona, Missouri; son Mark and his wife, Jennifer, of Liberty, Missouri; granddaughters, Hannah Brolsma and her husband, Luke, Ashley Freiburger and her fiancé, Reed Shimkus; grandsons, Jonathan Freiburger, Cole Havelka, Evan Freiburger, and Trenton Freiburger.

Tony was preceded in death by his parents, Anton, and Mary Havelka; sisters, Helen Chudomelka and Elizabeth Havelka (infant) and brothers, Edward Havelka and Albert Havelka.

A rosary will be held from 6:00-6:30 p.m. on Thursday, August 27, 2026, with visitation to follow until 8:00 p.m. at Crafton-Cantrell Funeral Home in Aurora, Missouri. A funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, August 28, 2026, at the Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Aurora with burial to follow at the Mt. Calvary Cemetery in Aurora.

Garry Kirk

(From Derfelt Funeral Home)

Garry Paul Kirk, age 86 of Lowell, KS, passed away on August 25, 2026 at Quaker Hill Skilled Nursing Facility, rural Baxter Springs, KS.

Garry was born in Joplin, MO on October 4, 1939 to the union of Wade Franklin Kirk and Mae "LaVon" (Hohler) Kirk. He graduated from Riverton High School in the late 1950's and had lived in the four-state area all of his life. He worked as a store manager for Top Line Auto Supply in Miami, OK for several years before his retirement. He enjoyed bowling, and was an avid St. Louis Cardinals fan.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Wade and LaVon Kirk; his daughter, Martha Richelle (Kirk) Forbis; his son, Randy Kirk; and one sister, Lorna Buckmaster.

Survivors include one sister, Linda McCorkle (husband, Gary "Butch") of Riverton, KS; one uncle, Bill Kirk of Joplin, MO; two nephews, Daymon McCorkle (wife, Missy), and Bart Dugan (wife, Angie) both of Riverton; four nieces, Lori Clouse (husband, David) of Riverton, Paula Parker (husband, Butch) of Oronogo, MO, Deb Porter (husband, Scott) of Riverton, and Pam Qualls (husband, Mike) of Joplin; as well as five grandchildren, Talon Forbis, William Forbis, Jr., Kalie Forbis, Sarah Forbis and Randi Forbis.

The family wishes to express their sincere gratitude to the staff and residents of Quaker Hill Skilled Nursing Facility for their friendship, care, and family-like presence at their facility.

Mr. Kirk has been entrusted to Derfelt Funeral Home of Galena for cremation, followed by inurnment at Pleasant View Cemetery, rural Baxter Springs, KS. The family will host a private memorial service at a later date.

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

Jane Ashley

(From Parker Mortuary)

Rebecca Jane Ashley, known lovingly as Jane, passed from this life on August 24, 2026, in Duenweg, Missouri, at the age of 86. She was the daughter of the late Robert Treece and Virgie Treece "Smith" leaving behind a legacy of love, faith, generosity, and joy that will continue to inspire all who knew her.

Jane was born on October 18, 1939, in Webb City, Missouri, and she carried the spirit of her hometown with her throughout her life. She was a 1957 graduate of Webb City High School where she carried the same spirit of encouragement and loyalty that followed her through every season of her life, and she lived with a heart that lifted others wherever she went.

She devoted several years of her life to working as a home healthcare provider, where she helped care for and comfort her patients with kindness and compassion. Her work was more than a job. It was a calling. She understood the power of presence, the value of a gentle hand, and the importance of making people feel seen, safe, and cared for. In every home she entered and every life she touched, she brought warmth, dignity, and reassurance.

Jane was a Christian whose faith was the foundation of her life. She loved her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ deeply, and she often said, "I can't wait for that first hug from Jesus." That statement reflected the hope that guided her, the peace that sustained her, and the joy that filled her heart. She lived with the kind of faith that was not only spoken, but seen in the way she loved others, served others, and forgave freely. Her life was a testimony to what it means to walk with purpose and trust in God's promises.

She was a mother and grandmother to all of her grandchildren and all of their friends throughout their lives and her love reached far beyond titles and boundaries. She never met a stranger, and her stories of the people she encountered and the fellowship they shared were endless. She had a gift for making others feel welcome, valued, and included. Her home, her heart, and her conversation were open to everyone, and many were blessed by her laughter, her wisdom, and her unmistakable warmth.

Jane is survived by her daughter, Melissa Kingery and Jeff of Duenweg, MO. She adored her six grandchildren, Greg Kingery and Holly, Elizabeth Mitchell and Joesph, Isaiah Kingery and Adalyn, Emily Kingery, Savannah Kingery, and Malaya Branch, all of Duenweg, MO. She also leaves behind her four great-grandchildren, Noah Kingery, Scarlett Kingery, Agnes Mitchell, and Amelia Mitchell, all of Duenweg, MO and her second daughter, Linda Connell and Randy of Seneca, MO. Her family was the center of her world, and her love for them was unmatched. She loved to laugh, and nobody ever had a conversation with her that did not end with a hug.

Jane also gave herself to her community in meaningful ways. Each year she volunteered with the Salvation Army, helping to prepare meals and deliver them while also assisting in a number of community roles. Through her faithful service, she received the Volunteer of the Year award, a fitting recognition for a woman who lived to help others. She did not seek attention or praise, but her impact was impossible to miss.

Those who knew Jane will remember her as loving, generous, and faith filled. She lived by the words, "It's not about the storm, it's about dancing in the rain," and she truly embodied that message. She faced life with courage, grace, and a joyful determination to keep moving forward no matter what came her way. She taught others that strength is not found in avoiding hardship, but in meeting it with faith, love, and a grateful heart.

Rebecca Jane Ashley lived a life that mattered. She loved deeply, served faithfully, and encouraged others simply by being herself. Her presence was a blessing, her laughter was a gift, and her memory will remain a source of comfort and inspiration. Though she has left this earthly life, the love she gave, the faith she shared, and the lives she touched will continue to speak for her.

A celebration of life service will take place on Thursday, September 3rd at 6 p.m. at the Calvary Chapel of Joplin located at 4899 E 7th St, Joplin, MO 64801

The arrangements are being handled under the personal care and direction of Parker Mortuary.