Loretta Yates

(From Adams Funeral Home)

Loretta Mae Yates, cherished resident of Republic, Missouri, passed away peacefully on April 27, 2026, at the age of 90. Born on October 26, 1935, in Lockwood, Missouri, Loretta lived the greater part of her life in Greene County community, where she was deeply loved and respected.

On June 4, 1955, Loretta united in marriage with James W. Yates, sharing a bond that enriched her life profoundly. Throughout her career, Loretta was engaged in the retail industry as a dedicated salesperson, where her kindness and genuine spirit left a lasting impression on those fortunate to know her. She enjoyed working at Dillards, where she retired from the fine china department. She loved her job and loved the dishes. 

 

Loretta was a member of Calvary Baptist Church in Republic.

A lover of literature, Loretta found great joy in reading, particularly romance novels. She enjoyed watching Westerns and treasured the time spent with family and close friends. She will be fondly remembered for her warm nature, unwavering devotion to her family, and the simple pleasures that brightened every day.

Loretta was preceded in death by her husband, James W. Yates; her sister, Juanita Adcock; and a great grandchild Jordan Robert Hedrick.

Loretta’s legacy endures through her beloved children, Debra Hagewood of Republic and Greg Yates of New York and wife Donna; her grandchildren, David Keopke, Mark Keopke, Jamie Hagewood Fenske and her husband Tony, Cody Hagewood and wife Britney, Melody Emery and her husband Chuck, Jamie Gouveia and her husband Derric, and Greg Yates; as well as many great grandchildren; great great grandchildren and cherished family members.

A funeral service to honor Loretta’s life will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Thursday, May 7, 2026 at Adams Funeral Home, Nixa, with Pastor Denny Marr officiating. Burial will follow at Hillcrest Cemetery in Mountain Grove. Visitation will take place from noon until 1:00 p.m. immediately before the funeral at the funeral home.

Loretta Mae Yates’ life was a testament to love, warmth, and the enduring strength of family ties. She will be lovingly missed and forever remembered by all who knew her.

Carol Slaughter

(From Clark Funeral Home)

Carol Sue Slaughter was born on February 6, 1944, in Carthage, Missouri, to Herbert Crow and Ilene (Stiles) Crow. She passed away on April 30, 2026, at the home of her daughter in Highlandville, Missouri, at the age of 82.

Carol was a loving friend, mom, grandma, great-grandma, and great-great grandma. She enjoyed spending her time on cruises to tropical destinations, camping with family, fishing, and gambling.

She is survived by her children: Frank Reynolds (Karen) of Webb City, Missouri, Ronda Clark (Tim) of Highlandville, Missouri, and Ryan Slaughter of Moberly, Missouri; 14 grandchildren; 22 great-grandchildren; and 1 great-great-grandchild; and two sisters Delores Moser (Art) of Joplin, Missouri, and Janet Crow of Miami, Oklahoma. She was preceded in death by her parents, Herbert and Ilene Crow; her husband, Ralph Andy Slaughter; one daughter, Robin Logsdon; two grandchildren, Brett Reynolds and Micah Frerer; a great-grandchild, Skyler Logsdon; one brother, Darrell Crow; and two sisters, Melba Duckett and Debbie Smith.

Visitation will be from 1:00 – 2:00 pm on Wednesday, May 6, 2026, at Clark Funeral Home Chapel of Memories. The Funeral service will be at 2:00 pm on May 6, 2026, at Clark Funeral Home Chapel of Memories. The Graveside service will immediately follow at Oakwood Cemetery in Neosho, Missouri.

Jerry Kruckenberg

(From Parker Mortuary)

Jerald “Jerry” Lynn Kruckenberg, age 64, of Joplin, Missouri, passed away on April 24, 2026, at his home.

Jerry was born on December 11, 1961, in Medicine Lodge, Kansas, to Gene Kruckenberg and Sharon (Hindman) Knoll. He was later raised by his mother and father, Richard Knoll.

He attended Enid High School and went on to further his education at Northwestern Oklahoma State University in Alva, Oklahoma, where he earned his Bachelor’s degree in Education. He also pursued studies in ministry. Jerry spent much of his life serving as both a pastor and an educator, roles he took great pride in. He most recently taught at Webb City High School, where he dedicated 18 years before retiring in 2021.

Jerry was a man of strong convictions. His faith was an important part of his life, and he cared deeply about sharing the message of Jesus and serving others through ministry.

He loved traveling and created once in a lifetime memories by taking his children and grandchildren on many trips. He was also skilled at building and took pride in his work as a drafter. Jerry had a big, unforgettable laugh that will be remembered by those who knew him.

He was previously married to Tammy Bell, with whom he shared two daughters, Amanda Cramer and Amber Lucero. He later married Laurenda Ferguson, and together they had two daughters, Angel Miller and Hannah Kruckenberg.

Jerry made his home in Joplin, Missouri, where he spent many years teaching and building his life.

He is survived by his daughters: Amanda Cramer of Joplin, Missouri; Angel Miller and her husband Trey Miller of Nevada, Missouri; and Hannah Kruckenberg of Springfield, Missouri; and his son-in-law Ben Lucero.

He is also survived by his mother, Sharon Knoll; his father, Richard Knoll; his brother, Wesley and Kama Kruckenberg of Edmond, Oklahoma; and his sister, Robin and J.R. Kopf of Alva, Oklahoma.

Jerry was preceded in death by his biological father, Gene Kruckenberg; his daughter, Amber Lucero; his sister, Brenda Newman; and his nephews, Kyle Newman and Alex Kopf.

He was a proud grandfather to ten grandchildren: KateLynn Heartmen, Clayton Lucero, Jamie Cramer, Jymie lucero, Abbigail Cramer , Lauren Bain, Ledger Miller, Lydia Bain, Lailee Miller, and Jordyn Kruckenberg.

He is also survived by his great-grandchildren: AdaLynn Kay, Zahmir Maison, Samariah Liz, and Eyzic James, along with several nieces and nephews.

Jerry will be remembered for his strong spirit, his laughter, his faith, and the memories he created with those he loved.

Inurnment to be announced..

Kathleen Bagby

(From Parker Mortuary)

Kathleen Ann Bagby, lovingly known as Kathleen, passed away on April 27, 2026, in Joplin, Missouri, at the age of 78.

She was born on February 6, 1948, in Joplin, Missouri and was a loving and generous woman whose kindness touched the lives of many. She carried herself with quiet strength, warmth, and a sincere care for others that will be remembered by all who knew her.

Kathleen graduated from Seneca High School in 1966 and went on to earn her bachelor’s degree in teaching from Missouri Southern State University in 1970. Her education reflected her dedication, discipline, and lifelong appreciation for learning. Throughout her life, she valued knowledge and the opportunities it created, and she brought that same thoughtful spirit into every part of her daily life.

Kathleen worked in a clerical position for Mercy Hospital in the medical records department for 20 years before her retirement in 2012. Her work was steady and important, and she was known for her reliability and attention to detail. She approached her responsibilities with care and professionalism, and those who worked with her appreciated her dependable nature and kind demeanor.

Kathleen found joy in the simple and meaningful moments of life. She especially enjoyed going out to eat with her friends and family, where she loved sitting around a table, talking, and sharing stories. These gatherings brought her happiness, and she treasured the laughter, conversation, and companionship that came with them. She also enjoyed watching movies and was an enthusiastic sports fan. She could often be found watching every sport that was on television, sometimes with four to six different games displayed on the split screen at once, following them all with great interest.

She is survived by her sister, Karen Royer of Joplin, Missouri; her brothers, Thomas and Sabrina Bagby of Joplin, Missouri, and James and Darla Bagby of Joplin, Missouri; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. Kathleen’s family and friends will remember her for the love she gave so freely, the generosity she showed so naturally, and the many ways she enriched the lives of those around her.

Kathleen will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing her. Her life was marked by devotion to family, friendship, and the everyday joys that made her smile.

Funeral services will take place on Saturday, May 2, at 11 a.m. at Parker Mortuary with Josh Patrick officiating. Burial will follow at the Crocker Cemetery near Pittsburg, Kansas.

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

Patricia Tripoli

(From Thornhill-Dillon Mortuary)

Patricia Ann Tripoli, 89, of Joplin, Missouri, passed away on April 29, 2026, after an extended illness.

She was born on November 7, 1936, in Hartford, Connecticut, to her beloved parents, Frances and Alice Gilbert Miller. Patricia lived a life marked by kindness, courage, and gentleness, and those qualities were evident in the way she cared for her family, served her community, and met each season of life with grace. She was a Christian woman whose Catholic faith remained an important part of her life throughout the years.

Patricia graduated from Holy Trinity High School in Hartford, Connecticut, and went on to build a meaningful career in library service. She worked as a librarian for the Hartford Public Library, the Pittsburg, Kansas Public Library, and the Joplin Public Library. Later, she served as the Technical Processor for the Pittsburg State University Library. Her work reflected her love of learning, her attention to detail, and her steady commitment to helping others find knowledge and resources. She was respected by those who worked alongside her and appreciated by those she served.

Patricia also gave generously of her time through volunteer service. For many years, she volunteered at Ronald McDonald House of Joplin, offering her time and compassion to families during difficult moments. She also served in Girl Scouts while her daughters were younger, helping guide and encourage young girls with patience and care. Her service to others was a natural extension of the loving and thoughtful person she was.

Family was central to Patricia’s life. She was preceded in death by her husband, Joseph Tripoli of 61 years, and by her parents, Frances and Alice Gilbert Miller. She is survived by her son, Anthony Tripoli of Joplin, Missouri; her daughters, Aleda Cable of Joplin, Missouri, Veronica Tripoli of Dallas, Texas, and Kelly Tripoli of Loma Linda, Missouri; her grandchildren, Mark Williams, Meghan Wiles, Kylee VanHorn, Ethan Tripoli, Stevie Sell, Patrick Baldridge, Emily Birdsong, and Nicholas Sell; and eight great-grandchildren. She also leaves behind many cherished memories that will remain in the hearts of those who loved her.

Funeral services will be Thursday, May 7, 2026 at 10:00 a.m. at Thornhill-Dillon Mortuary in Joplin with burial following at Mt. Hope Cemetery in Webb City, Missouri. Family will receive friends on Wednesday, May 6, 2026 from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at the Thorhill-Dillon Chapel.

Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Thornhill-Dillon Mortuary, Joplin, Missouri.

Deloris Markham

(From Parker Mortuary)

Deloris J. Markham, known to family and friends simply as Jean, passed away on April 29, 2026, in Joplin, Missouri, at the age of 91.

Deloris was born on May 24, 1934, in Galena, Kansas, the daughter of the late Floyd and Ada (Anderson) Fox.

She graduated from Joplin High School in 1952 and later worked in manufacturing for several years. Through her work, she showed a steady dedication and a strong sense of responsibility.

She is survived by her daughter, Jeanette Minard of Joplin, and her son, James Harbison of Joplin. She also leaves behind her sisters, Judy Riddle and Ron of Joplin, and Laura Strait of Joplin, as well as her brother, Dwain Fox and Lil of Iowa. She also leaves surving two grandsons and five great grandchildren.

Deloris had many interest, she enjoyed reading detective mysteries and could spend hours immersed in a good story. She also liked to paint and make artwork, expressing herself through color and imagination. One of her greatest joys was studying her family genealogy, and she took great interest in learning about the generations that came before her.

She also had a huge heart for animals, especially the local stray cats she welcomed and cared for over the years. Her memory will be treasured by those who knew and loved her.

Graveside services will take place for Mrs. Deloris J. Markham on Tuesday, May 5 at 2 p.m. at the Webb City Cemetery with Pastor Ben Johnson officiating.

The arrangements will be handled under the personal care and direction of Parker Mortuary.

Amanda Gentry

(From Lakin Funeral Home)

Amanda Sue Gentry, age 48, passed away on Wednesday, April 29, 2026, at her home in Oronogo, MO with family by her side. She was born in Joplin, MO, on Wednesday, March 8, 1978, the daughter of Neil Richard and LouAnn (Cole) Wagner.

Amanda truly enjoyed life, often helping those in need and giving to those who required a boost. She loved her family and cherished time with her boys and grandson. She lived each day to the fullest, making her own rules, and prioritizing time with others. Amanda enjoyed traveling, showing cattle, pulling tractors, flying on planes, loving on her animals, and spoiling her grandson. She always looked forward to trips to the beach with her family and friends. Amanda never met a stranger. 

Surviving are her best friend, Darrel; two children, Taylor (Heather) Schooling and Logan (Macy Thogmartin) Lakin; one grandson, Cedar Schooling; one sister, Heather Wilson; her niece, Maddie de Guzman; two nephews, Cole Wilson and Derrick Wagner; and many, many friends who will miss her.

Amanda was preceded in death by her parents, Neil and LouAnn Wagner, and her brother, Jeff Wagner.

The family will receive friends at Lakin Funeral Home in Pierce City, MO, on Sunday, May 3, 2026, from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM. 

Funeral Mass will be held at St. Agnes Catholic Church in Sarcoxie, MO, on Monday, May 4, 2026, beginning at 10:30 AM with Father Joseph Weidenbenner officiating. Burial will follow at St. Agnes Catholic Cemetery in Sarcoxie, MO.

Memorials may be made to the Jeff Wagner Memorial Golf Tournament in care of the funeral home. Arrangements are under the personal care and direction of Lakin Funeral Home in Pierce City, MO.