Wanda Tettenhorst

(From Peterson Funeral Chapel)

Wanda Mae Tettenhorst was a woman defined by her devotion to her family, her community, and her Lord. Her faith was the cornerstone of her life; she found great joy in interceding for others, motivated always by her love for her Savior, Jesus Christ. On April 15, 2026, she entered her final rest while in home hospice care in Buffalo, Missouri, at the loving home of Rick and Julie Tettenhorst.

Born on December 22, 1946, in Mt. Vernon, Missouri, to Leon and Esther Wormington, Wanda was a proud seventh-generation resident of Lawrence County, descending from one of the twelve pioneering families who settled Southwest Missouri in the 1830s. 

A 1964 graduate of Mt. Vernon High School, she always looked forward to reconnecting with friends at her class reunions. After attending Draughon’s Business College, she began a long and dedicated career in clerical and business administration. Her professional journey included roles at MWM Color Press in Aurora, various Lawrence County government offices, and the State of Missouri Circuit Clerk’s office.

Wanda was perhaps best known for her tireless advocacy for US Veterans. Through her work with the Disabled American Veterans (DAV), she helped veterans document their service for VA benefits and coordinated essential hospital transportation.

Wanda was preceded in death by her parents, Leon and Esther, whom she lovingly cared for in her home until her mother’s passing, and by her high school sweetheart and husband, John Paul Tettenhorst, who passed away on January 1, 1985.

She is survived by her two sons and their spouses: Mike (Renee) Tettenhorst of Mt. Vernon and Rick (Julie) Tettenhorst of Buffalo; her grandchildren, Jackson (Hailey) Tettenhorst and Blair (Jason) Obermann; and a growing legacy of great-grandchildren, her brothers Garold (Rebekah) Wormington, Lee (Gaylene) Wormington, and Gary (Teresa) Wormington, and a host of loved nieces, nephews, and cousins. She is also survived by her very dear friend of nearly 40 years, Bill Ballard and his children and grandchildren.

A visitation will be held on Saturday, April 18th from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM at Zion United Church of Christ (Intersection of Lawrence 2150 & 1080, Mt. Vernon, MO). A Graveside Memorial Service will follow at 2:00 PM at Zion Memorial Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Zion Memorial Cemetery. Donations can be sent in care of Peterson Funeral Home, 229 W. Church Street, Aurora, MO 65605.

Arrangements are under the care of Peterson Funeral Chapel.

John Stark

(From Ulmer Funeral Home)

Today, we gather to remember the life of John Martin Stark, who was born on September 11, 1938, in Jasper County, Missouri, and passed away on April 14, 2026, at the age of 87. John lived a long and meaningful life marked by devotion to his family, his work, and above all, his faith as one of Jehovah’s Witnesses. 

John was born to Everett and Flora Mae Stark and grew up in a large, close-knit family. He was preceded in death by his parents, as well as his brothers Wilbur, Lee, Ellis, Alva, and Billy, and his sister Alta Barker. 

Growing up in Jasper County shaped John into a hardworking, humble, and capable young man, qualities that remained with him throughout his life. He graduated in 1953 from Hawthorne Junior High School in Carthage, Missouri, beginning his adult life with determination and a strong work ethic. 

John spent 16 years employed at Leggett and Platt, where he built a reputation for reliability and skill. He later became self-employed, working as an auctioneer, in construction, and in investment properties. He was often described as “a jack of all trades, master of none,” though those who knew him would say he mastered far more than he claimed. 

The work he valued most was his 51 years of service as a minister of Jehovah’s Witnesses. His faith guided every part of his life, and he shared it with sincerity and compassion. John would want everyone to remember his favorite scripture, Revelation 21:3,4, a promise he treasured so deeply: that one day, pain and death will be no more. John’s family was his pride and joy. He supported them, guided them, and celebrated their milestones with gratitude and love. 

John is survived by his wife of 67 years, Carol Stark; his son, Marty (Roma) Stark, of Neosho, Missouri; his daughter, Kim Scharff of Carthage, Missouri; and his brother, Elvie Stark of Carthage, Missouri. 

He also leaves behind five grandchildren: Justin (Lindsay) Stark of Pittsburg, Kansas; Wendy (Gary) Lehman of Carthage, Missouri; and Kody (Stephani) Scharff of Eloy, Arizona, Rickey (Michelle) Kralicek of Carthage, Missouri and Melissa (Tristian) Strait of Shawnee Kansas. He is further survived by twelve great-grandchildren: Cody Leonard, Koby Stark, Landen Stark, Carter Lehman, and Makenna Lehman, Brooklyn Jaxson and Boston Cowan, Rhett and Rhyse Strait, Kaden and Kelsey Kralicek. One great-great-granddaughter, Ellie Leonard, and many nieces and nephews. 

John was known for his practicality, his humor, and his willingness to help anyone who needed a hand. Whether fixing something, building something, or offering spiritual encouragement, he was always ready to step in. His life reflected quiet strength and steady faith. He enjoyed working with his hands, learning new skills, and staying active in his ministry. 

Those who knew him will remember his honesty, his gentle spirit, and the comfort he brought to others. John leaves behind a life of faith, service, and love. His influence lives on in the family he cherished, the congregation he served, and the many people he encouraged over the years. His life was a testament to endurance, devotion, and hope. Though we feel the weight of his absence, we also remember the beautiful life he lived, a life that touched many and left the world better because he was here. 

A visitation will be held from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Friday, April 17, 2026, at Ulmer Funeral Home in Carthage, Missouri. A memorial service will be held at 2:00 p.m. Saturday, May 9, 2026, at Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses, 1608 Robert Ellis Young Dr., Carthage, Missouri. 

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

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

Lewis McGatha

(From Greenfield Funeral Chapel)

Lewis Glen McGatha, of Arcola, MO, departed this life on Tuesday, March 31, 2026, at Cox South Hospital in Springfield, MO at the age of 67.

The family will conduct a memorial graveside service at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, April 17, 2026, at Achord Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project. Cremation services are under the care of Greenfield Funeral Chapel.

Wes Harris

(From White Funeral Home)

Wes was born on July 21, 1974, in Kansas City, Missouri, to Homer and Linda (Doran) Harris. On September 22, 2001, he was united in marriage to Stacy Roy in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Wes was a dedicated cow farmer who took great pride in his work and the land he cared for. He had a deep love for animals and found joy in the simple, meaningful life he built around his farm. Above all, Wes cherished his family, they were the center of his world, and he devoted his life to providing for and spending time with them.

Wes will be remembered for his hardworking nature, his love of the outdoors, and his unwavering commitment to those he loved most.

Wes is survived by his wife, Stacy; his father, Homer, of Harrisonville, Missouri; his stepfather, Ron Darnell of Cassville, Missouri; his brother, Brad Harris, of Plattsmouth, Nebraska; one nephew; and two nieces.

Memorials may be made to Haven of the Ozarks and entrusted to White Funeral Home and Crematory.

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

Larry Six

(From Simpson Funeral Home)

Larry Clayton Six, age 85 of Joplin, passed away on Tuesday, April 14th, 2026 at Westgate by Wildwood in Joplin. He was born on January 19, 1941 in Joplin to Lawrence E. Sex and Dorothy M. Sex. Larry pastored many churches in the states, and was a missionary to Nigeria, West Africa, Papua, New Guinea and Hong Kong, for close to thirty years. Lamentations 3:22-23.

Larry was a devoted husband, dad, grandpa, and great grandpa. Those titles came to him from marriage to Jo Ann (Higgins) on September 14, 1962 in Joplin. He took great care of his wife and his family. His children recall his great communication with others, love for nature, early morning Bible studies, and family devotions after dinner. He always made sure to check out the latest editions of the Bible as they were published in various translations.

After college, Larry worked for a time in forestry in the Red Woods before answering his call to ministry. His passion for the great outdoors never left. He enjoyed fishing, St. Louis Cardinals baseball, Kansas City Chiefs football, tennis and chess. He was a member of the 1959 Joplin High School baseball team who were state champions in St. Louis.

The ministry of Larry was wide-reaching. He, Jo Ann and the family traveled far and wide, from churches in California, Missouri, Kansas and around the globe. Once they finally returned home, he pastored at Liberty Baptist Church in Webb City and worked at Thornhill-Dillon Mortuary with David Dillon. He admired the ministry of serving in the funeral industry, and made a great many of friends throughout his time there. He retired in 2009.

Larry was preceded in death by his parents, his brother Robert E. Sex; his daughter Kelly Richardson; and a granddaughter, Stephanie Six. He is survived by his wife, Jo Ann; his children Robert C., Daniel C., and Laura L. Six; grandchildren Aaron (Amanda) McBride and Andrew (Sarah) McBride, Sara McBride, Taylor (Candace) Six, Chris (Allison) Six; great grandchildren Olivia Ruhle, Charlee McBride, Emerson McBride, Skyler McBride, Dax McBride, Lincoln Six and Emelia Jo McBride; and a son in-law Steven Richardson.

A visitation will be held from 6-7pm on Friday, April 17, 2026 at Simpson Funeral Home in Webb City. Larry's funeral service will be held at 2pm on Saturday, April 18, 2026 at the same venue with Pastor Brian Jump officiating.

Services are under the personal care and direction of Simpson Funeral Home in Webb City. The family encourages relatives and friends to visit Larry's memorial page at www.simpsonfh.com to share photos and memories of Larry's ministry over the years.

John Alley

(From Parker Mortuary)

John Lee Alley, age 73, of Joplin, Missouri, passed away on April 14, 2026, in Joplin, Missouri, leaving behind a legacy of kindness, faith, and friendship that touched many lives.

Born on December 17, 1952, in Ottawa, Kansas, to Betty (Dodson) Alley and the late Alfred Alley, he carried the values of hard work, humility, and generosity throughout his life. He was known for his steady presence, his warm smile, and the way he made others feel welcome and cared for.

John married Cathy Jenkins on October 12, 1974. Their marriage was blessed with 5 wonderful children and numerous grandchildren who have been the joy of his life! John worked as a meat cutter, was employed by G&W Foods for 28 years, later for Wal-Mart in Joplin and Webb City, after retirement part-time at Braum’s in Joplin. He valued the friendships acquired over these years.

Beyond his work, he was deeply involved in his church and in the lives of those around him. He was so thankful for the change Jesus made in his life early on and was blessed to be part of House of Prayer in Noel, Landmark Faith in Baxter Springs, Book of Acts Church in Neosho and at his passing was a joyful member of Calvary Apostolic Church in Joplin, Mo. He was a faithful example, friend and mentor for so many! He loved his life and thoroughly enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren, and being surrounded by family and friends.

John is survived by his beloved wife, Cathy (Jenkins) Alley; mother, Betty Alley; children, Amaris Beasley (Michael), Elizabeth Blackburn (Michael), Christina Varner (Danny),Michael Alley (Robin), and Rebecca Call (Jesse); grandchildren, Adrian Beasley, Wyatt Beasley, Sharai Beasley, Cassie Black, Mckayle Teal, Maddie Loneman, Rayden Blackburn, Elijah Blackburn, Hailey Penn, Abigail Penn, Grant Penn, Damara Alley, Jonathan Alley, Ariana Alley, Kaelina Alley, Moriah Call, Ben Call, Charity Call, Josh Call, and Rachel Call; great-grandchildren, Violet Black, Truett Black, Owen Penny, Charity Penny, and Baby William Lavers who is on the way! He is also survived by his siblings, Debbie Soper, Carol Coffman, Janet Huskey, Shirley Boman, Laura Alley, Billie Alley, Doug Alley, Jimmy Alley, Jeff Alley, and Carrie Connelly; and uncle, Norman Dodson.

Along with his father, Alfred, he is preceded in death by his beloved brother, David Alley.

A funeral service will be held on Friday, April 17, 2026, at 12:00 p.m. at Calvary Apostolic Church in Joplin, MO. Burial to follow at Ozark Memorial Park Cemetery. The family invites friends out for a time of visitation prior to the service at 11:00 a.m. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Calvary Apostolic Church of Joplin or Restoration Life Center of Neosho.

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

Shawnte Jeffery

(From Parker Mortuary)

Shawnté Ladon Jeffery, age 40, of Joplin, Missouri, passed away after a courageous battle with cancer at Mercy Hospital in Joplin.

Shawnté was born on October 18, 1985, in Dallas, TX, to the late union of Donald Lee and Diana Sue (Spencer) Jeffery. After graduating high school, she obtained her CNA license and worked at several surrounding nursing homes, including Wildwood and Joplin Gardens. 

For 18 years, she poured her heart and soul into taking care of each patient. She loved working in healthcare, and she approached her work with patience, dignity, and respect. 

She enjoyed BBQing with family and friends, creating memories filled with laughter and good food. These gatherings reflected what mattered most to her, which was the love and connection she shared with the people in her life. She enjoyed spending time with her animals. What Shawnté loved most of all though, was spending time with her children. She loved to go camping and sit by the riverside, where she could enjoy the peace of nature and the beauty of the outdoors with her family. She made several donations to the Salvation Army over the years. 

Those who knew Shawnté will remember her for the love she gave, the care she provided, and the thoughtfulness she brought into every relationship. She leaves behind a legacy of compassion and dedication that will continue to live on in the hearts of all who were blessed to know her.

In addition to her parents, Shawnté was preceded in death by two brothers, Jacob Jeffery and Doon Games.

Shawnté is survived by her three children, Jordon Jeffery, Colton James, and McKenzie James; two brothers, John Jeffery and wife, Jenny, and Joshua Jeffery; five cousins, Terry Spencer II and wife Michelle, Kassie Burch and husband, Josh, Bobby Jeffery and wife, Tiffani, Shelbi Jeffery, and Ben Jeffery; one aunt and uncle, Barbara Jeffery and Bob Jeffery; three nieces, Mariah Jeffery, Jonniekay Jeffery, and Hailey Clark; two nephews, Dakota Jeffery and Landon Maggard.

Cremation arrangements are under the special care and direction of Parker Mortuary.