Rodney Bishop

(From Simpson Funeral Home)

Rodney L. Bishop Sr, born December 6, 1937 died peacefully at home on October 21, 2026.

He leaves behind his wife, Audrey of the home. His daughter, Kelly Bishop of Flower Mound, Texas. His son Phillip Bishop and his wife Missie of Cherryvale, Kansas. His Daughter, Anne Thomas of Wentzville, Missouri. His four grandchildren and one great grandchild. His step daughter, Briana Markham and her husband Michael of Hilliard, Ohio. His four step grandchildren. His sister, Coleen Yocum and her husband Ron of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. 

He was a Webb City resident and graduated from Webb City High School in 1955. A memorial for the family will be held at their home. We wish to express appreciation to Compassus Hospice for their kindness and compassion.

Cremation will take place under the personal care and direction of Simpson Funeral Home. The family encourages relatives and friends to celebrate Rodney's life by visiting www.simpsonfh.com. There, you can share photos and memories that capture the essence of Rodney's life and the profound effect he had on those around him. As we remember Rodney, let us honor his life by cherishing the memories we have and the love he left behind.

Raymond Long

(From Ozark Memorial Park Crematory)

March 29, 1972 – October 21, 2026

Raymond M. Long, age 54, of Joplin, Missouri, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, October 21, 2026, at 3:59 AM at Landmark Hospital. He is now free from pain and at rest.

Ray dedicated many years of his life working as a security guard running the guard shack at Loma Linda, followed by his time at Car-Mart. Over the past 15 years, Ray’s greatest passion was his family and watching his beloved grandsons grow up. He cherished the simple joys in life—when he was able taking spontaneous car rides, going out for a bite to eat, watching the Kansas City Chiefs, and tuning into wrestling. Above all, he was a devoted father, a proud “Papa,” a loving son, a protective brother, and a cherished uncle.

He leaves behind a loving family who will miss him deeply: • Mother: Bertha Long • Daughter & Family: Bethany Long and her husband, Brandon, along with their three sons—Ray’s cherished grandsons—Brandon Jr., Brycen, and Bentley • Son: Jonathan Fleischmann • Daughter: Kristin Fleischmann • Sisters: Denise Wheeler and Linda LeMieux • Extended Family & Friends: An abundance of grandchildren, nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, and countless friends made throughout his journey.

Rest high, “Little Brother,” “Daddy,” “Papa,” and “Uncle Ray.” You are loved beyond words and will be missed so very much.

A celebration of Ray’s life will be held within the next couple of weeks. Additional details regarding the date, time, and location will be announced soon.

Arrangements are under the direction of Ozark Memorial Park of Joplin, MO.

Patty Nicholson

(From Campbell-Biddlecome Funeral Home)

June 17, 1959 — Oct 21, 2026

Patricia "Patty" Ann Nicholson (Mesker), of Joplin, MO, went to be with her Lord and Savior on Wednesday, October 21, 2026, at Mercy Hospital in Joplin, Missouri.

Our mama was a beautiful soul with a heart of gold, a woman whose love for others showed in everything she did. She loved being a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) and caring for people, always putting the needs of others before her own. Helping people wasn't just something she did; it was who she was.

The holidays were especially dear to her heart. She believed no one should ever have to be alone or go without a warm meal. If someone had nowhere to go, they could always come to her home. There was always room at her table, food to share, and love to give. She had a special gift for making people feel welcome, cared for, and like family. Her love was shown through her cooking, her kindness, and the way she opened her home to anyone who needed a place to belong.

Above all else, our mama loved her family. She was a devoted and loving mother who treasured every moment spent with the people she loved. Cooking for her family, gathering around the table, sharing stories, and making memories brought her so much happiness. Her family was her heart, and she loved them more than words could ever express.

She was born and raised Catholic, and her faith was an important part of her life. She faithfully read her Bible every night, finding comfort and strength in God's Word. Her faith, compassion, and generous spirit were a reflection of the love she carried in her heart.

She is preceded in death by her mother, Rose Mesker; Tom Mesker; her beloved son, Matt Cox; her sister, Dolly Kiefer; and her brother, Tom Mesker.

Those left to cherish her precious memory include her sister, Rose Mesker; her sister, Bridgett Christopher; her daughter, Jennifer Mcloud; Rosa Bolyard; and her ten great-grandchildren, along with other loving family members who will forever hold her close in their hearts.

Though our hearts are broken by her passing, the love she gave us will never disappear. We will remember her in the meals we prepare, the family gatherings we share, the kindness we show strangers, and the doors we open to those who need a place to go.

Mama taught us that family is everything, that kindness costs nothing, and that there is always room for one more at the table. Her hands cared for so many, her kitchen brought people together, and her heart made everyone feel welcome.

Heaven has gained a beautiful angel, but our hearts will forever hold the woman who made this world a little warmer, a little kinder, and a whole lot more loving.

We love you, Mama. Thank you for every meal, every hug, every prayer, every sacrifice, and every memory. You will forever be missed, forever be loved, and forever be a part of us.

The body has been taken for cremation under the personal direction of Campbell-Biddlecome Funeral Home, Seneca, MO.

The family will receive friends from 6:00 to 7:00 PM, Wednesday, October 28th at Campbell-Biddlecome Funeral Home in Seneca, Missouri.

Wanda Stewart

(From Clark Funeral Home)

Wanda Fay (Harley) Stewart, age 83, of Neosho, Missouri, entered into rest on Monday, October 19, 2026, in Neosho.

Wanda was born on July 2, 1943, in Ozark County, Missouri, the daughter of Everett and Artie (Pippin) Harley. She dedicated many years of service to Hallmark, where she worked until her retirement.

Known for her kind, compassionate nature and gentle, overly sweet spirit, Wanda found true joy in the simple pleasures of life. She had a deep love for nature and birdwatching, and she cherished time spent outdoors camping, fishing, and hunting. Wanda looked forward to traveling, listening to lively bluegrass music, and making trips to Silver Dollar City. She was also an avid shopper—a pastime she enjoyed thoroughly, always taking her time to browse every aisle.

Wanda was united in marriage to Murray Stewart, who preceded her in death.

Wanda is survived by her granddaughter, Crystal Pettit; her great-grandson, Michael; her brother, Danny Hogan; her sister, Evelena Braun; along with extended family and friends.

In addition to her beloved husband, Murray, Wanda was preceded in death by two sons, Jeff Pettit and Brian Pettit, two sisters, Ruby Loftis and Madean Broxterman, and her parents, Everett and Artie Harley..

Private family services will be held at a later date.

Michael Avicola

(From Parker Mortuary)

Michael “Avi” Paul Avicola, 46, of Joplin, Missouri, peacefully passed away in his home surrounded by his wife, family and loved ones after a courageous battle of cancer for the last 7 years. He has beaten all odds on multiple occasions and has won his battle into the hands of Jesus.

Michael was born on December 10, 1979, to Daniel and Kathy Avicola in Joplin, Missouri, and lived in many places, including Germany for 10 years of his childhood. Michael graduated from Abilene High School in Abilene, Kansas with the class of ‘97, and served in the United States Air Force from 2001-2006. Michael lived a life filled with love for his family, devotion to his faith, and a deep appreciation for the little things that made life meaningful.

Michael was a man with many interests and a heart for the people he loved. He enjoyed online gaming with family and friends, playing slow-pitch softball, hunting, spending time outdoors, and appreciating the beauty of nature. He loved plants, music, and singing karaoke. Most importantly, his love for his wife, children, and family was a special part of who he was, and the memories they made together will forever be treasured.

Michael enjoyed the simple comforts of home, including spending time playing his XBOX, especially ESO chatting it up with his family and online friends, talking sports and looking for the next winning sports bet with his kids. Whether he was enjoying the outdoors, laughing with friends, spending time with family, or singing a favorite song, Michael found joy in the things that made life uniquely his own.

Above all, Michael will be remembered as a beloved husband, father, son, brother, uncle, and friend. His life touched others in ways that cannot be measured, and the love he shared will remain long after his passing. While his family and friends grieve the loss of his presence, they will carry his memory forward in the stories they tell, the songs they sing, the traditions they continue, and the love they share with one another.

Michael is survived by his beloved wife, Lara Avicola; his children, Lane Dunham, Taylor Avicola, Lillyan Dunham (Garret Babbitt), Landen Dunham (Morgan Compton), Alexandria Spurgeon-Avicola; his parents, Daniel and Kathy Avicola; his siblings, Rebecca Davis (Charles Davis), Ted Houlton (Jandi Houlton); his nieces and nephews, River, Lilly, Bella, and Chance, Tyler, Katelyn (Noah), Kort, LJ, Trinity, Ivan, Buddy, and great niece Kambriegh, and great nephew Theodore; and many other loving family members and dear friends.

Michael’s life was a gift to those who knew and loved him. Though he will be deeply missed, his love, laughter, and faith will live on through his family, in the kindness they show, the love they share, and the way they cherish one another.

Until we meet again, may you rest in God’s eternal peace. You are loved beyond words and missed beyond measure.

In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that donations be made out to Michael Avicola’s Memorial Fund at https://mdanderson.donordrive.com/campaign/Michael-Avicola-s-Memorial-.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, October 22, 2026, from 5:00 – 7:00 p.m. at Parker Mortuary Chapel.

Graveside Services will be held on Friday, October 23, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. at Mt. Hope Cemetery with full military honors.

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

Bob Furry

(From Bennett-Wormington Funeral Home)

Robert “Bob” Farrell Furry, 71, of Monett, Missouri, passed away on October 20, 2026, following a long battle with cancer.

Bob was born on July 9, 1955, to Everett Bert Furry and Virginia Day Birkes Furry. He graduated from Webb City High School in 1973 and later attended and graduated from Kansas City Auctioneer School.

A lifelong farmer at heart, Bob owned and operated Hilltop Dairy alongside his brother and longtime business partner, David, beginning in 1973. The two spent more than five decades working side by side, sharing not only the demands of farm life but also a bond that went far beyond being brothers.

Bob also enjoyed hauling cattle and baling hay with his best friend of many years, Robert Balmas. Whether working on the farm, hauling cattle, or putting up hay, Bob was happiest doing the things he loved alongside the people who meant the most to him.

One of Bob's greatest joys was driving a school bus for the Monett School District, especially transporting the preschool and kindergarten children. He had a special way with the little ones, and the affection was mutual. The children adored "Mr. Bob," often bringing him little gifts and treasures that he received with genuine delight. What might have seemed like a simple job to others was something truly special to Bob. He loved those children, looked forward to seeing their smiling faces, and took great pleasure in being a small part of their lives. In return, they brought him countless moments of happiness. It was a role that meant far more to him than simply driving a bus.

Above all, Bob loved his family, especially his nephews, Jacob and Jared, who held a special place in his heart. His love for them was evident, and he treasured the time they spent together.

Bob attended Bethel Baptist Church in Monett, Missouri.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Everett Bert Furry and Virginia Day Birkes Furry.

Bob is survived by his brother and sister-in-law, David and Michele Furry; his nephews, Jacob Furry and Jared Furry, and Jared's wife, Jaline; his niece, Ashley Pruett, and her husband, Ben, and their children, Ellis and Nora; and his dear friend of many years, Robert Balmas.

Bob will be remembered for his hard working spirit, his devotion to family, his lasting friendships, and the special kindness he showed the youngest members of his community. His life was filled with the simple things that mattered most - family, friendship, farming, and the joy of making others smile. The lives he touched and the memories he created will be cherished by those who knew and loved him.

A celebration of Bob's life will be held at a later date. Arrangements are under the care of Bennett-Wormington Funeral Home in Monett, Missouri.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to the American Cancer Society in Bob's memory. Donations may be made at www.cancer.org/donate/memorial-giving.html

Arrangements have been entrusted to the care of the Bennett-Wormington Funeral Home in Monett, Missouri.

Tom James

(From Ozark Memorial Park Crematory)

Thomas “Tom” James, age 79, of Joplin, Missouri, passed away on October 18, 2026. He was born on August 24, 1947, in St. Louis, Missouri, to Clarence James and Mary Rector James.

Tom is survived by his daughters, Adrian Aguilar and her husband, Jaime, Nadine James, Patricia Hall, and Jennifer Zdunkiewcz and her husband, Mike; and his seven grandchildren, Chelsea, Diego, Mateo, Karsen, Mikey, Lauren, and Megan. He was preceded in death by his parents and his siblings, Jim James and Patricia Savoia.

Tom graduated from Missouri Southern State University with a Bachelor of Science in Accounting. He enjoyed his accounting career, but what he really loved was working with his hands. He was truly a “jack of all trades.” There wasn’t much he couldn’t build or fix, and if he didn’t know how, he would figure it out. He was the guy everyone could call when they needed something, and he was always happy to lend a hand.

He built his own home and enjoyed spending time working in his yard and garden. A lifelong St. Louis Cardinals fan, Tom loved listening to baseball games on his back deck while grilling for his family, another one of his favorite pastimes. He was also a Harley-Davidson enthusiast who enjoyed the open road and took several cross-country trips on his motorcycle. One of his favorite adventures was a road trip with his lifelong friend, Skip Konst.

Tom was known to many simply as “Papa,” a name he will always be remembered by. His family will cherish their memories of him.

The family will hold a private celebration of life. Arrangements under the care and direction of Ozark Memorial Park Crematory, Neosho, Missouri.