Cecelia Perry

(From Ozark Memorial Park Crematory)

Cecelia Marie Perry, 79, passed away peacefully after a lengthy illness at 6:50 p.m. on August 22, 2026, at Solace House in Joplin Missouri, surrounded by her loved ones.

Cecelia was born July 3, 1947, to Vincent Charles and Irene Frances (Finnegan) Travis in Cold Spring, New York.

She met Floyd Gene Johnson, at Granby High School. They were married on October 18, 1969, in Neosho, Missouri, and built a life together rooted in love, family, and resilience. Throughout the years, they lived in Granby, Joplin, Springdale, Arkansas, and Cape Girardeau, Missouri, where they raised their three daughters and created a home filled with warmth and lasting memories.

After the passing of her first husband, Cecelia later found love again and married Bradford Everett Perry on May 20, 1996. Together they shared many years of companionship and care.

Cecelia was a devoted mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother whose love for her family knew no bounds. Her children and grandchildren were her greatest joy, and she poured her heart into each of them.

She is survived by her loving husband, Bradford Everett Perry; her three children: Jennifer Vay Warren (Douglas) of Rhome, Texas; Tara Marie York (Craig) of Neosho, Missouri; and Brandi Francis McMullin (Gary) of Kansas City, Missouri; eight grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; and many other loving relatives and dear friends. She is also survived by her four sisters: Loretta Renee Eller of Chandler, Arizona; Deborah Jean Smith (Gene) of Joplin, Missouri; Irene Frances Fullerton of Granby, Missouri; and Nancy Joan Capps (Allan) of Neosho, Missouri.

Growing up, Cecelia and her sisters spent six years in Germany during the 1950s while their father served in the U.S. Army, an experience that brought them close together and created lifelong memories.

She was preceded in death by her parents and her first husband of 22 years, Floyd.

Cecelia had a lifelong passion for sewing and was a gifted seamstress who lovingly created beautiful clothing for her family. Many will remember the care she put into every stitch, making not just garments, but meaningful pieces filled with love. Even after her vision declined and she could no longer sew, the pieces she created remained a lasting reflection of her gentle spirit and giving heart.

In addition to her creativity, Cecelia dedicated 38 years of her life to nursing, including her time at St. John’s Hospital in Joplin. She cared deeply for her patients and approached her work with compassion, kindness, and strength. Nursing was more than a career for her; it was a reflection of who she was.

She also had a fun and lighthearted side that her family will always cherish. On Friday and Saturday nights, Cecelia could often be found square dancing, or watching WWE, a tradition that brought laughter and excitement into the home. It was a simple but special part of life that created memories her family will never forget.

Cecelia’s faith remained an important part of her life.

She will be remembered for her gentle spirit, her quiet strength, and the deep love she had for her family. She had a way of making others feel comfortable, cared for, and at home in her presence. Though she will be deeply missed, her memory will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

Cecelia’s Celebration of Life will be on Thursday, September 10, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. at Celebration Church in Joplin, Missouri.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Cecelia’s memory may be made to The Solace House of the Ozarks or the MO-KAN Nurse Honor Guard.

Cremation arrangements are under the personal care of Ozark Memorial Park Crematory of Joplin, Missouri.

Misty Skaggs

(From Ozark Memorial Park Crematory)

Misty Darlene Skaggs, 53, of Joplin, Missouri, passed away on Thursday, August 13, 2026, at Freeman Hospital in Joplin, Missouri.

She was born on October 31, 1972, in Joplin, Missouri.

She was a care giver in home health care, and a preschool teacher.

She enjoyed painting, green thumb and nature, swimming, and listening to music.

She is survived by two sons; Paris and Paxton Skaggs, her father; Carl Skaggs, her stepmom; Judy Loonsfoot, one brother; Robert Matthews,

two sisters; Melissa Edgett-Doke, Carla Skaggs Tupin (Gerad), three grandchildren; Laken, Jossette, and Cruz Skaggs, nieces and nephews;

Sasha Briscoe, Shenoah Ford, Ivy Cook, Micheala Ashley Skaggs, Adam Tupin, Bethany Harnish, and Jacob Tupin, her aunt and uncle;

Vickie and Lonnie Hulette.

She was preceded in death by her mother; Connie Newberry.

There will be a Celebration of Life conducted at a later date.

Services have been entrusted to Ozark Memorial Park Cemetery & Crematory in Joplin, Missouri.

Dave Eiken

(From Knell Mortuary)

David Lee Eiken, known to family and friends as Dave, passed away on August 24, 2026, in Carthage, Missouri, at the age of 59. He was born on March 21, 1967, in Harrisonville, Missouri, and lived a life marked by kindness, creativity, and a genuine love for the people around him.

Dave was a beloved son, brother, uncle, and friend whose presence brought warmth and steadiness to those who knew him. He was the son of Donald Eiken and Margaret (Robinson) Eiken. He is survived by his father, Donald Eiken and Martha of Carthage, Missouri; his brothers, Donnie Eiken and Diana of Strafford, Missouri, Jeramy Eiken and Melissa of Springfield, Missouri, and Jonathan Eiken and Gladys of Royce City, Texas, sister-in-law Kari Benson, Washington, D.C.; his stepsister, Barbara Grider and Justin of Carthage, Missouri; and his stepbrother, Jeffery Tilton and Pocky of Bangkok, Thailand. He also leaves behind ten nieces and nephews, numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins, all of whom will cherish his memory. 

He was preceded in death by his mother, Margaret Eiken, and his brother, Stephen Eiken.

Dave grew up with strong roots in Missouri and graduated from Strafford High School with the class of 1985. He later earned his bachelor’s degree in Electronic Media, a reflection of his interest in learning and his ability to pursue his goals with determination. Throughout his life, he carried himself with a quiet strength and a thoughtful spirit that made him easy to know and easy to love.

He was a member of St. Ann’s Catholic Church in Carthage and the Knights of Columbus, where he found fellowship and shared in the values of faith, service, and community. His involvement in these organizations reflected the way he lived his life, with a sense of responsibility and care for others.

Dave had many interests that brought him joy and allowed his personality to shine. He enjoyed video editing, disc golf, photography, and bicycling. He also had a special heart for helping autistic people, a reflection of his compassion and his desire to make a positive difference in the lives of others. Whether he was spending time with friends and family, pursuing a hobby, or simply enjoying the moment, Dave found meaning in connection and shared experiences.

Those who knew Dave will remember his friendly nature, his creative mind, and the way he made others feel welcome. He valued time with loved ones and appreciated the simple pleasures of life. His memory will live on in the hearts of his family and friends, who will continue to carry forward the love, laughter, and kindness he shared so freely.

Rosary will be held at 6 pm Thursday August 27. 2026, with visitation to follow from 6:30 to 7:30 pm at Knell Mortuary. Funeral Mass will be held at 10 am Friday, August 28, 2026 at St. Ann’s Catholic Church, Carthage. The family suggests memorial contributions to the ALS Association in care of Knell Mortuary. Online condolences may be expressed through www.knellmortuary.com. Arrangements are under the direction and personal care of Knell Mortuary.

Charles Bettis

(From Paul Thomas Funeral Home)

Charles Wayne Bettis of Seneca, MO passed from this life Sunday, August 23, 2026 at his home. He was 68.

Wayne was born August 28, 1957 in Joplin, MO to Charles Ivan and Bonnie Ellen (Fritchey) Bettis. He had lived in the Seneca area all his life and graduated from Seneca High School class of 1975. He was co-owner of C&W Auto Supply in Seneca, MO and a member of Bethel Baptist Church in Seneca, MO.

Wayne was preceded in death by his wife Monica (Captain) Bettis on March 16, 2026 and his father Charles Bettis.

Wayne is survived by his son, Jesse Dewayne Bettis and wife Brianna of Joplin, MO, his mother, Bonnie Bettis of Seneca, MO and his sister, LaVeta Phyfer of Seneca, MO.

Graveside services will be at 10:30 a.m. Thursday, August 27, 2026 at Captain Cemetery, east of Miami, OK. Mark Buzzard will officiate. Rick Fritchey, Denny Fritchey, Roger Chester, Alan Loehr, Lisa Kuhn and Leslie Kuhn will serve as honorary pallbearers. Services have been placed in the care of Paul Thomas Funeral Home and Cremation Service of Miami, OK. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to your favorite charity. Online condolences may be made at www.paulthomasfuneralhomes.com.

Jimmy Hillman

(From Daniel Funeral Home)

James “Jimmy” Andrew Hillman, age 47, of Lamar, Missouri, passed away unexpectedly from a heart attack on Friday, August 21, 2026.

Jimmy was born July 14, 1979, in Joplin, Missouri, to James C. Hillman and Margaret “Peggy” Helen (O’Sullivan) Hillman. He graduated from Lamar High School in the class of 1998 and continued his education at Missouri Southern State University, where he earned his Bachelor of Science in Education. He later earned his Master of Education from Pittsburg State University. Jimmy’s lifelong love of learning never faded. He enjoyed studying history and current events and was always ready for a spirited debate. He welcomed different ideas and opinions into the conversation, even when he passionately disagreed, because for Jimmy, a good argument was simply another way of connecting with people.

Jimmy’s passion for education and athletics shaped much of his life. He worked as a physical education teacher at Bronaugh, Golden City, and Ballard and was especially proud of his years as a coach. He coached a variety of sports, including basketball, volleyball, baseball, and youth football. His competitive nature and love of the game were evident to everyone who knew him, but the scoreboard was never what mattered most. Jimmy believed sports were a way to teach young people important lessons that would stay with them throughout life—discipline, resilience, teamwork, and heart.

Jimmy loved to work and took great pride in everything he did. Following his years in education, he used his experience and compassion to work as a caseworker for the Department of Social Services, where he helped people facing some of life’s most difficult challenges. Most recently, he was working for Next Generation Ag in Greenfield, Missouri, helping develop and grow new and innovative agricultural products. He approached each of his careers with the same energy, dedication, and enthusiasm that he brought to the classroom, gym, and ball field.

A devoted fan of the Kansas City Chiefs and St. Louis Cardinals, Jimmy never lost his competitive spirit. Yet, beneath that competitive nature was a man whose greatest guiding principle was his love for his family. Above all else, Jimmy cherished his two sons, Andrew and J.P. Some of his proudest memories were the years he spent coaching his own children, especially in youth football, where being “Coach” and being “Dad” became one and the same.

Jimmy is survived by his two sons, Andrew James Hillman and his fiancée, Molly Ledbetter, of Pittsburg, Kansas, and James Perry “J.P.” Hillman of Mills, Wyoming; his father and stepmother, James “Jim” and Martha Hillman of Lamar; three sisters, Abby (John) Gilkey and Jenny (Jeff) Tucker, both of Lamar, and Kathleen (Matt) Van Becelaere of Prairie Village, Kansas; stepbrother, Joe (Mindie) Starks of Carl Junction, Missouri; and stepsister, Jesse (Josh) McGinnis of Show Low, Arizona. He is also survived by many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends who will miss him dearly.

Jimmy was preceded in death by his beloved mother, Peggy Hillman. Jimmy was one of God’s greatest blessings to her, and she cherished him beyond words. The love they shared remained one of the most treasured parts of her heart.

Jimmy leaves behind a legacy of love for his family, dedication to his students and athletes, and a willingness to stand up for those who needed someone in their corner. He will be remembered not only as a teacher, coach, father, and son, but as someone who believed in people and never hesitated to champion the underdog.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m., Friday, August 28, 2026, at the First Baptist Church of Lamar. A private family burial will be held.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Hillman Education Fund in care of Daniel Funeral Home. Contributions may be mailed to Daniel Funeral Home, 1201 Broadway St., Lamar, MO 64759. For those wishing to make a contribution by credit card, payments may also be made by calling Daniel Funeral Home at 417-682-5518.

Condolences may be shared at www.dfhlamar.com.

Angeline Gillham

(From Campbell-Biddlecome Funeral Home)

Angeline M. Gillham, 80, Neosho, MO, passed away August 20, 2026 at Freeman West Hospital in Joplin after an illness.

Angeline Margaret Koziarz was born June 28, 1946 in East Chicago, IN. the daughter of Joseph and Margaret Koziarz. Angeline lived in Texas for many years moving to there area in 1995 and then to Wichita, KS and back to Joplin MO. in 2026. She loved crafting, Baking, flower gardening. Angeline love Christmas and Thanksgiving where she cooked for her family.

Angeline M. Koziarz married Michael Gillham in 1975 and he preceded her in death in 1994. She was also preceded in death by her parents and one brother Rick Koziarz.

Survivors include her daughters; Laurie Testerman, Neosho, MO and Paula Parsons, Joplin, MO; her sister Pamela Makiel, Hammond, IN and her sister-in-law LeAnn Koziarz, Wichita, KS; 7 grandchildren and 2 great-grandchildren. Also survived by several nieces and nephews and several great nieces and nephews.

The body has been taken for cremation under the personal direction of Campbell-Biddlecome Funeral Home, Seneca, MO. The family will hold private services at a later date.

Dwight Pattyson

(From Buchanan Funeral Home)

Dwight James Pattyson, age 76, passed away on August 22, 2026, in Aurora, Missouri.

Born on July 14, 1950, in Kansas City, Missouri, he was the son of the late James and Uldine (Scott) Pattyson. Dwight was a masonry contractor during his professional life, as well as a talented craftsman and artist. He sculpted and created works ranging from the very small to the very large, using many different mediums, and his work was recognized for its meticulous detail. He skillfully used his talents in building to construct the family home located outside of Marionville, Missouri.

Dwight graduated from Marionville High School in 1968 and grew up attending the Assembly of God Church in Aurora, Missouri, which played a significant role in his upbringing and later in the raising of his own family. His life was enriched by his close relationships with family and friends.

He is survived by his wife of nearly 50 years, Deborah Dale (Kiesov) Pattyson; his son, Daniel Pattyson and his wife, Lacy, and their two children, James and Emily Pattyson, of Republic, Missouri; one brother, Charles Pattyson and his wife, Ginny, of Holts Summit, Missouri; and his brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, Richard Kiesov, of Irving, Texas, Alice Kiesov, of Monett, Missouri, Michael Kiesov, of Kansas City, Missouri, Leslie Kiesov, of Carthage, Missouri, and Janan Nimock, of St. Louis, Missouri; as well as a host of extended family and friends. Dwight will be dearly missed by all who knew him.

Dwight was preceded in death by his son, Darin Pattyson; his brother, Darrel Pattyson; his sister, Cheryl Pattyson; and his mother-in-law and father-in-law, Patricia and Walter Kiesov.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, August 29, 2026, at Buchanan Funeral Home in Monett, Missouri, with Pastor Greg Gilliam officiating. Interment will follow at Nolan Cemetery in Crossroads, Missouri, near Galena, Missouri. Visitation will take place at 10:00 a.m. prior to the service. Memorial contributions have been suggested to St. Jude Children’s Hospital. Arrangements are under the guidance of Buchanan Funeral Home, Monett, Missouri.