Jay Elmore

(From Ozark Memorial Park Crematory)

Jay Carrol Elmore, 67, of Carthage, Missouri, passed away on November 8, 2026.

Born on March 29, 1959, in Wichita, Kansas, on a military base, Jay lived a life marked by hard work, laughter, music, and the people he loved.

Jay spent much of his life working as a truck driver, putting in long hours and earning his living through hard work and determination.

But if you knew Jay, you knew there was a lot more to him than work. He was a funny man, a natural storyteller, and someone who loved to laugh. He had a way with words, never missed an opportunity to talk a little crap, and could keep family and friends entertained with his stories and quick wit. He loved giving people a hard time, but that was part of his charm.

As a dad, Jay was goofy, fun-loving, and never short on personality. He had a big heart and was the kind of man who would help anyone he could. Whether you needed a hand, a laugh, or someone to listen, Jay was someone who was willing to show up. He may have given you a hard time while helping you, but that was just Jay being Jay.

Music was another love of his. In his younger years, he enjoyed playing bass guitar, and music remained one of the things that brought him joy.

Jay was previously married to Claudia Elmore, with whom he shared 20 years of marriage and three children: Starlett Elmore Demery, Savella Elmore, and Wesley Elmore.

He was a proud grandfather to four grandchildren: Dylan Stafford, McKenzie Elmore, Aryan Thomas, and Aiden Thomas.

Jay was preceded in death by his parents, Nola Elmore and Jacob (JD) Elmore.

He is survived by his three children, Starlett Elmore Demery, Savella Elmore, and Wesley Elmore; his four grandchildren, Dylan Stafford, McKenzie Elmore, Aryan Thomas, and Aiden Thomas; his brothers, Dewayne Husted, Michael Elmore, and Ralph Elmore; and his sister, Donna Elmore Smith.

Jay leaves behind a family full of memories, stories, laughter, and probably a few stories that are better left untold.

He will be remembered for his hard work, generous heart, goofy sense of humor, love of music, and the unmistakable personality that made him who he was. His laughter, his stories, and his good-natured crap talking will be deeply missed by those who knew and loved him.

A private family gathering will be held to honor Jay’s life and celebrate the memories he leaves behind.

Rest easy, Dad. You worked hard, loved big, helped others, and never missed a chance to make somebody laugh. We’ll take it from here.

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

Roy Scribner

(From Campbell-Biddlecome Funeral Home)

Roy Scribner, 88, Seneca, Missouri passed into eternal rest November 9, 2026 at his daughters house surrounded by his family.

Roy Thomas Scribner was born August 1, 1938 in Ottawa County, OK, the son of Jerry Thomas Scribner and Pearl Opal (Keenan) Scribner. Roy had lived in the Seneca Area all of his life. He worked for Eagle Pitcher Industries for 42 years retiring in 2002. Roy loved his family and loved spending time with them. He enjoyed fishing, studying the Bible, the atlas, history and setting on the porch watching nature. He loved helping family, friends and neighbors. Roy was an ordained Pastor and and pastored several area churches close to 60 years. He was truly a man of God and lived as an example to all that knew him.

Roy Thomas Scribner married Doris Lorene Cummings May 26, 1958 in Miami, Oklahoma and she preceded him in death July 13, 2020. Also preceding him in death was his parents and one brother Harles Scribner.

Survivors include his children; Doug Scribner and wife Cathy, Tammy Sherwood and husband Virgil and Kim Friend and husband Lance, all of Seneca, Missouri; his siblings, Carl Scribner, and Geraldine Keller; Grandchildren, Adam Scribner and wife Lori, Krystal Sherwood, Tiffany Hobbs and husband Jason, Josh Sherwood and wife Chelsea, Blake Scribner and wife Alli, Brooklyn Cook and husband Alex and Brittian Friend; 15 Great-grandchildren; 1 great-great on the way and very special friend Clay Weldon.

The family will receive friends from 6:00pm to 7:00pm, Thursday, November 12, 2026 at the Campbell-Biddlecome Funeral Home, Seneca, MO.

Funeral services will be held at 10:00am, Friday, November 13, 2026 at the Seneca Assembly of God with Pastor Denny Sikes officiating. Burial will be in the Seneca Cemetery with. Adam Scribner, Blake Scribner, Josh Sherwood, Lane Scribner, Brodie Scribner, Drew Scribner, Brodee Scribner and Clay Weldon serving as pallbearers.

Steve Harter

(From Greenlawn Funeral Home)

Steven J Harter passed peacefully from this earth in the early morning of November 9, 2026.

Born in Springfield, MO, to Andrew and Mildred Harter on February 26, 1946, he spent his young life growing up in Rockaway Beach and Branson. He graduated from Branson High School and completed his college degree at Drury University. He married Barbara Aubin in 1968 and moved to Kansas City, MO where he started a family and his long career in the insurance industry.








Over the decades, his knowledge of insurance and his ethical approach to the industry led many to seek out his expertise, even asking him to testify in Congress. He was locally and nationally recognized in the Independent Insurance Agent world. He and Barb remained in Kansas City (except for a brief move to Hartford, CT) until 1988 when they moved to Carthage, MO. While in Carthage, Steve started his own Independent Insurance Agency and he and Barb then took a leap of faith on a business endeavor providing services to the developmentally disabled of SW Missouri. This moved them to Ava where they lived for about 10 years. Even after "retirement", Steve remained active on numerous boards and committees for all of his businesses.

Steve led an active church life. He was baptized into the Catholic Church by his uncle, Father Benedict Harter (his very first baptism!). He was a dedicated Parishioner of the church, serving in many rolls, including being a proud member of the Knights of Columbus. If you want to know about "casual" Steve, know that Steve was of humble character. Unassuming and respectful. A quick wit and exceptionally smart. A man of quiet faithfulness. A man who lived life. He was a helper to all who needed it whether it be financial, spiritual, a good meal or a place to stay. And speaking of a good meal, if you walked (or rolled) away from his table hungry….that was on you!

He was a man of the Ozarks. Born and raised in their heart, he knew the highways and byways and all the stories every turn in the road held. He had an eye for beauty and valued the history in things. Walking into an antique shop with him was a lesson-what to look for, why the object may or may not be of value.

He loved his children and grandchildren. He loved gardening and could grow just about anything. Daylilies were a favorite hobby.

Steve is preceded in death by his wife, Barbara Aubin Harter, his parents, and his youngest brother, Phillip. He is survived by his special lady friend Annette Smith; his middle brother Benjamin (Janie) Harter; daughter Chanin (Rick) Ropka; his son Chris Harter; grandchildren Jacob and Grace (Ropka), Ellie, Ben and Anna (Harter) along with many cherished nieces, nephews and friends.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, November 11, 2026, at Greenlawn Funeral Home in Branson, MO, from 5-7 pm.

A second visitation will be held on Thursday, November 12, 2026, at Our Lady of the Lake Catholic Church in Branson, MO, from 8-10 am, followed by mass and burial will follow in the Mountain Grove Cemetery on T Highway in Branson.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Coats for Kids through Knights of Columbus. Make checks to: K of C Council 6470, In Memo Coats for Kids. Our Lady of The Lake, 203 Vaughn Dr. Branson, Mo. 65616.

Carol Oxford

(From Simpson Funeral Home)

Carol Ann Oxford, affectionately known as Mom, Nana, and Caca, peacefully passed away in Springfield, Missouri on November 5, 2026. Born on October 5, 1948, in Long Branch, New Jersey, Carol's life was a testament to her loving and spirited nature. Her compassionate heart touched many, and her resilient spirit was a guiding light to her family and friends. A devoted follower of Jesus, Carol's faith was a cornerstone of her life, as reflected in the verse, "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me" (Philippians 4:13). She journeyed through life with grace and courage, leaving behind a legacy of love and warmth.

Carol's early days, as a daughter of a service man, took her from the shores of New Jersey to the vibrant cultures of Paris, Japan, Texas and. Georgia. Carol was lucky enough to have her senior prom in the Eiffel Tower and graduated from Paris American High-school in 1966 before returning to Neck City Missouri.

Carol later dedicated several years to her profession as a beautician, where her artistic talents shone brightly. Her real joy, however, was found in the laughter and love shared with her family. Whether she was swimming or engaging in spirited games with her grandchildren, Brittany, Alicia, Raynee, Justin, Alison, Levi, Mia, Skyler, Yvonne, and Jr., her heart was full. Her great-grandchildren, Aaron and Layla, further enriched her life, bringing her immense elation. Her heart was firmly rooted in her family.

Carol was preceded in death by her parents, Virgil and Marthann Weeks. She is survived by her loving husband of 56 years, Michael Oxford, her cherished son Lee Oxford and daughter-in-law Jacky Oxford, her treasured daughter Carie Booth, and her dear sister, Terri Spencer. Carol's legacy of love and resilience continues through her family.

A visitation will be held on Wednesday, November 11th at 10am followed by a funeral service at 11am. Internment will follow at Ozark Memorial Park Cemetery in Joplin.

Services are under the personal care and direction of Simpson Funeral Home. The family encourages relatives and friends to visit simpsonfh.com to share photos and memories of their loved one.

John Giger

(From Nichols-Stephens Funeral Home)

John R. Giger, age 87, of Grove, Oklahoma, passed away at his home on November 5, 2026.

John was born on April 2, 1939, in Joplin, Missouri, raised by Robert and Helen Baird. After graduating from Joplin High School, he went on to serve his country in the United States Marine Corps for 20 years, retiring in 1977. During his years of service, he traveled to 39 countries around the world.

In his work as an accountant, John owned and operated several H&R Block tax services.

On April 13, 1990, John married Bendy Burke, the love of his life, in Neosho, Missouri.

John's easygoing nature, kindness, and friendly manner were part of who he was. An Eagles fan, avid golfer, and pet lover, he enjoyed watching Jeopardy and putting his wide-ranging knowledge to the test. His intelligence and knowledge of many subjects were matched by his warm personality.

John is preceded in death by his parents.

Left to cherish his memory, wife of 36 years, Bendy Giger; children, Jeffrey Giger, John Giger and Stacy Unger, all of Fountain Hills, Arizona and Justin Giger and wife, Kristen, of Westerville, Ohio; brother, Bob Baird and wife, Josie, of Tulsa, OK, step daughter, Randi Andrews and husband, Travis of Afton, 13 grandchildren and several great grandchildren.

Family memorial services are planned at a later date.

John Heid

(From Mason-Woodard Mortuary)

Some people leave their mark in ways that can’t always be measured, and John Albert Heid III was one of those people.

Born December 21, 1964, in Schiller Park, Illinois, John eventually made his home in Joplin, Missouri, where he spent years building a life, a business, and a legacy of his own.

John was a man who knew what he liked and wasn’t particularly interested in changing his mind. He was an old soul who believed some things just didn’t need improving. He enjoyed the classics. He had his favorites and saw no reason to change what he liked. He loved history, sports, birdwatching, old cars, and Westerns, especially when John Wayne was on the screen.

He had a special love for spring. There was something about watching the grass turn green and knowing it was time to get outside that made him happy. When the weather warmed up, his Hawaiian shirts came out, and before long, he was finding something outside that needed tending to.

For years, John owned and operated his own lawn and landscaping company, doing work he genuinely loved. He took pride in making Joplin a more beautiful place, one yard and flower bed at a time. He didn’t just see a lawn that needed mowing or a flower bed that needed attention. He saw another opportunity to leave something a little better than he found it.

John was never one to keep his opinions to himself. He was stubborn, outspoken, rough around the edges, and always ready with advice, whether anyone had asked for it or not. He had a comeback for just about everything life could throw his way. He wasn’t perfect, and he never pretended to be. But beneath those rough edges was a man who would give you the shirt off his back if you needed it.

He loved sharing stories about family members who had passed before him, making sure their memories continued to live on. And when it came to making memories of his own, some of his happiest moments were found around the family dinner table, having his grandchildren over, and simply enjoying the family he helped create. He took pride in watching that family grow and knowing the legacy he was leaving behind would continue through them.

John was preceded in death by his parents, John and Bobbe Heid, his grandparents John and Elizabeth Heid, Robert and Velma Christmam. And numerous family members and friends.

He leaves behind his children, Hank Heid, John Heid IV, Georgia Heid, and Savanna Devena and her husband, Josh, along with four grandchildren. Ophelia, Chance, Starla, and Delilah.

John’s life was made up of the things he loved the people he cared about, the stories he told, and the places he helped make a little more beautiful. He may have been hardheaded, set in his ways, and not always the easiest person to agree with, but he was unmistakably John. His stories will continue to be told, his favorite things will be remembered, and the family he loved will carry his memories forward.

There will never be another quite like him.

A Celebration of Life will be held on November 22nd from 6:15 PM to 9:00 PM at The Main Event, located at 611 S. Main Street, Joplin, MO 64801. Family and friends are welcome to join us as we gather to share memories, stories, and celebrate John’s life.

 

Bill Smith

(From Parker Mortuary)

William Bradley "Bill" Smith, born April 1, 1949, in Reeds, Missouri, passed away on November 4, 2026, in Joplin, Missouri, following a sudden illness.

Bill lived a life marked by hard work, humor, and a spirit of adventure that touched everyone who knew him. He was the son of the late Clifford and LaVerne (Mills) Smith and grew up with strong family values that stayed with him throughout his life. Those who knew Bill will remember him as a man who was adventurous, funny, ornery, and handy, always ready to lend a hand, share a laugh, or figure out how to make something work.

Bill spent more than 25 years working at Leggett and Platt in Carthage, Missouri, where he was respected for his dedication and steady work ethic. He took pride in doing a job well and was known as someone others could count on. His long career reflected the same dependable character that guided him in all areas of life.

Outside of work, Bill enjoyed rebuilding cars, a hobby that suited his practical skills and love of working with his hands. He also enjoyed going to the casino and spending time outdoors, where he found relaxation and enjoyment in the simple pleasures of life. Whether he was working on a project, camping, fishing, spending time outside with a cup of coffee, or enjoying a little excitement, Bill approached life with energy and enthusiasm.

Family was an important part of Bill's life. He is survived by his daughters, Shannon Best (Scott Ford) of Joplin, Missouri and Dana Smith of Joplin; son, William B. Smith, Jr. and his wife Fontella of Carl Junction, Missouri. He also leaves behind his grandchildren, Ashley Barila (Timothy Barila), Jessy Alvarado (Dayana Juares), Shelby Smith (Web George), and Shayla Villanueva, along with 10 great-grandchildren and two dogs, Turbo and Chief who brought him great joy. Bill is also survived by his siblings, Doug Smith of Tulsa, Oklahoma, and Marsha Smith of Carthage, Missouri.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Melody Smith, by his siblings Kenny, Don, and Martha. The bonds of family were deeply meaningful to him, and his presence will be missed by all who loved him.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.

Cremation arrangements are under the direction of Parker Mortuary, Joplin, Missouri.