Doris Walters

 (From Mason-Woodard Mortuary)

The world lost a dearly beloved soul, Doris Walters, on the evening of April 27th.

Doris was born August 12th,1945, in Joplin, the daughter of Joe and Thelma Dotson. She met Thomas Walters III at First Presbyterian Church. Doris and Tom married on June 12th,1971 which began a lifelong love that carried Doris through his passing in 1989. Of that union were born daughter, Margot (Walters) Patterson and son, Thomas M. Walters.

Doris earned her PhD in English from the University of Arkansas and was a professor of English at MSSU for 30 years. Her students were significant to her, and she to them. It was rare for her to be out in the community without a former student stopping her to say hello and update her on their life.

A deep faith led Doris’ involvement at First Presbyterian Church for over 50 years. She played a role in the establishment and development of KidStuff Preschool and was consistently active in the life of the church. Doris also volunteered for many years at the Wildcat Glades Conservation Center and Joplin NALA.

Those dedicated to carrying on the memory of Doris include Margot, Tom (Ashley), her granddaughters Beth, Emma, and Katie as well as grandsons Ian, Jasper, and Tommy, her brother, Sam Dotson, and beloved church family.







A memorial service will be held on Friday, May 2nd 2pm at First Presbyterian Church with family receiving friends immediately afterwards in the fellowship hall.

If you wish to contribute to Doris’ legacy and commitment to education, the Doris A. Walters English Scholarship at MSSU accepts donations through the Missouri Southern Foundation. Donations can also be made to KidStuff Preschool through First Presbyterian Church.

Lorene Dotson

(From Buchanan Funeral Home)

Lorene Dotson, 92, of Purdy, MO, passed away on Tuesday, April 29, 2025 while at Lacoba Homes in Monett, MO.

Lorene was born on May 2, 1932 in Washburn, MO, daughter of the late William and Fern (Shields) Laney. Lorene graduated from Washburn High School in 1950 and during her working career had worked several jobs but lastly, she retired after seventeen years with FASCO in Cassville. Lorene loved to fish and to go on road trips and she loved to hunt mushrooms. She was a devoted wife to Ralph Dotson, whom she married in March of 1959 in Cassville. They shared many wonderful years together until his passing in 2005.

Lorene is survived by three sons, David Dotson and wife Cheryl of Rogers, AR, John Dotson of Eagle Rock, MO and Mark Dotson and wife Susan of Verona, MO; two daughters, Linda Foster and husband Robert of Verona and Rebecca Bowman of Springfield, MO; eleven grandchildren; twenty great-grandchildren; five great-great-grandchildren; one sister, Dortha Woolaway, of Rocky Comfort, MO; two sisters-in-law, Glena Cron and Jean Cogan; and one brother-in-law, Kenny Dotson and wife Nita.

Lorene was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; two daughters, Cheryl Wilson and Susan Dotson; five brothers, Charles Herbert Laney, Jerry Laney, Dayton Laney, Joe Laney and Tom Laney; and two sisters, Elizabeth Ellison and Donna Smith.

Services are pending at this time. Arrangements are under the personal care and direction of Buchanan Funeral Home, Monett, MO.

 

Joelynn Rich

(From Sisco Funeral Home)

With hearts heavy yet brimming with love and gratitude, we celebrate the life of Joelynn Sue Rich, fondly known as "Sis", who passed away peacefully on April 26, 2025, at the age of 42 in Missouri. Born on December 19, 1982, in Knoxville, Tennessee, Joelynn made Rogers, Arkansas her home and touched the lives of countless people with her warmth, humor, and unyielding love.

Joelynn was the proud and devoted mother of three beautiful daughters, Mia Kathleen Talburt (21), Olivia Sue Clanton (16), and Anna Rae Howard (8), who were the very center of her universe. 

As "Gigi," she showered her beloved grandson, Jasper Lee Fausnaught, with boundless affection and joy, cherishing her role as his grandmother. She is also survived by her loving mother and inseparable companion, Nancy Grufford of Pineville, Missouri; her devoted siblings, Wynona Hirschey of Pea Ridge, Arkansas, Jolene Maglaughlin of Neosho, Missouri, and Jesse Rich of Centerton, Arkansas. Joelynn was a beloved aunt, cousin, and friend to a vast circle of extended family and close-knit friends who provided her with steadfast support.

A proud graduate of Rogers Mounties High School, Joelynn poured her heart into her work at Smokin' Joes Rib House, where she devoted 28 years, becoming a cherished member of the community. Joelynn's enduring qualities of hard work, perseverance, and grit were matched by her tender and loving spirit. She was, as her loved ones affectionately describe, both a spitfire and fiercely determined - a little ornery and stubborn in the most endearing way.

Her sense of humor was legendary. She could light up a room with her quick wit and had a knack for making everyone laugh, even in the toughest of times. She was a jokester through and through, always ready with a playful jab or a cheeky grin. And let’s be honest—she could be a bit of a pain in the ass, but in the kind of way that made you love her even more. Her mischievous streak kept everyone on their toes, and her laughter was the soundtrack to so many cherished memories.

Joelynn's passions were as vibrant as her personality. She delighted in family get-togethers, making every moment meaningful and special. Her love for animals was boundless, as was her appreciation for life's simple pleasures—speeding down the road, savoring her daily coffee and lattes, or sharing home-cooked meals. Thanksgiving dinner, especially a perfectly roasted turkey, was her favorite. She had an undeniable sweet tooth, with a special fondness for cheese balls, chocolate, and all things sugary and delightful.

Joelynn's family and friends will forever remember her as the heartbeat of their gatherings, a loving daughter, sister, mother, and grandmother who always put others before herself. Despite her battle with terminal cervical cancer, Joelynn never let go of her determined spirit, fighting until the very end to ensure her family was okay. Her resilience, tenacity, and enormous heart will continue to inspire all who knew her.

As we say goodbye to Joelynn Sue Rich, we take comfort in knowing her legacy of love, laughter, and loyalty will live on in the hearts of those she cherished most. May she rest peacefully and forever be remembered for the indelible mark she left on all our lives

A Celebration of Life service will be held from 1:00p.m. to 2:30p.m. Sunday, May 4, 2025 at Sisco Funeral Home in Pea Ridge.

 

Gary Jimerson

(From Paul Thomas Funeral Home)

Gary Lee Jimerson of Miami, OK passed from this life Monday, April 28, 2025 at his mother’s home in Quapaw, OK. He was 51.

Gary was born September 9, 1973, in Houston, TX. He had lived in Quapaw most of his life and graduated high school from Rogers High School in Rogers, AR. Gary had worked for Baxter Vault Company in Baxter Springs, KS, the Quapaw Tribe Grounds Maintenance and for Miami Tent Company.

He was preceded by 1 brother, Thomas Brown.

Gary is survived by his wife Kristy (McNeely) Jimerson of the home, 1 son, Scott Bolin of Baxter Springs, KS, 2 daughters, Delainy McConnell and husband Kenny of Neosho, MO and Makayla Bolin of Vandalia, MO, his mother Wilma Johnson of Quapaw, OK, 3 brothers, Harvey Jimerson and wife Pam of Quapaw, OK, Todd Johnson and wife Shelby of Miami, OK and Lawerance Johnson and wife Lena of North Miami, OK, 2 sisters, Terri Brown of Quapaw, OK and Cherri Stanley of Quapaw, OK and many nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be at 10:00 a.m. Thursday, May 1, 2025 at the Quapaw Tribal Building southeast of Quapaw, OK with Rev. Charles Clevenger officiating. Native American Rites will be conducted by Jeremy Olson. Gary will lie in state at the Quapaw Tribal Building beginning at 9:30 a.m. Wednesday, April 30, 2025. Services have been placed in the care of Paul Thomas Funeral Home and Cremation Service of Miami, OK. Online condolences may be made at www.paulthomasfuneralhomes.com.

Falon Walker

(From Parker Mortuary)

Falon Shalon Walker, age 43, of Neosho, MO passed away on Sunday, April 27, 2025 at Freeman Hospital in Joplin.

Falon was born on January 7, 1982 in Little Rock, AR to Richard Weber Sr. and Cheryl Creech. She was a 2000 graduate of Southwest High School in Washburn, MO. She then went on to obtain her pharmacy technician certificate. 

She worked for Walmart and Dollar Tree for a few years, but most of her time she spent raising her children, nieces and nephews. Falon had a huge heart and loved spending her time giving to others, whether that was caregiving to her elderly neighbors or just sitting down and listening to other's stories. She married Herb Walker on May 20th, 2006. Together they were blessed with 18 years before her passing. In her spare time, she enjoyed listening to music, shopping and crafting. She was an inspiration to all of her family and friends and will be deeply missed.

Falon was preceded in death by her father, Richard Weber Sr.; her mother and stepfather, Cheryl Creech and husband, Austin; and one brother, James Weber.

Falon is survived by her husband, Herb Walker; five children, Darrin Hunn and wife, Ariel, Kaiden Walker, Kelton Walker, Kory Walker and Katherine Walker; two grandchildren, Caster and Wynnie Hunn; three siblings, Richard Weber Jr. and wife, Shelly, Rashawnna Walker, and Melanie Mullins; and many nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that donations be made out to Autism Speaks in care of the mortuary.

Private services are being held at the mortuary.

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

Frank Fried

(From Parker Mortuary)

My brother, Franklin Alfred Fried, went Home to his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, in the wee hours of the morning on Wednesday, April 23, 2025, at Mercy Hospital in Joplin, MO.

Frank was born on September 21, 1956 (mom’s birthday), at Bethesda Naval Hospital, MD, to two United States Marines, Alfred and Harriet. They lived in Alexandria, VA, (I came along a bit later). In 1960, when Dad went to Okinawa, Mom, Frank, and I moved to Greeley, CO, to live with Grammy and Pop Pop Geis. In 1961, Dad was transferred, and we moved to Philadelphia, PA, not far from Grammy and Pop Pop Fried.

In 1964, we moved to Barstow, CA. In 1966, Frank accepted Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior at Vacation Bible School at a local church. In 1968, we moved to Camp Pendleton. When Dad retired, in 1971, we settled in San Marcos, CA. Frank attended San Marcos High School, and his love of the Lord blossomed when he found Emmanuel Faith Community Church in Escondido. He graduated in 1974. He went on to attend Palomar Junior College in San Marcos and later graduated from BIOLA in La Mirada.

During his college days Frank worked as a sign painter in and around Escondido. Some of his artistry could be seen in billboards and shop windows around town. He was a Youth Pastor at Calvary Church of Santa Ana. Ultimately, he found his career as a chaplain at Olive Crest in Santa Ana where he shared the Gospel of Jesus Christ with kids in foster care in Orange and Riverside counties for almost 40 years. He retired in 2021 and moved to southwest Missouri. He loved Missouri and found a new church family at Christ's Church of Joplin.

Perhaps his greatest love of all was being Pop Pop to his bonus grandson Tucker, who he loved beyond his imagination.

Shortly after Dad passed away in 2010, Mom moved to live near Frank in Orange County, CA. He was her constant companion and a great source of entertainment for her until she passed in 2014. He took such good care of her.

Frank made many friends along the way, and he continued to stay in touch with many of them. I am grateful for so many who have reached out in recent days expressing their love for Frank and his faith in the Lord, as well as sharing good times they had along the way. Frank will be greatly missed.

I will miss Frank’s phone calls, which usually occurred when he was driving somewhere and often included a joke or a story about an interesting adventure…and of course, his texts, which frequently included a GIF or a picture of his canine companion Pippin.

Frank, I know you’re resting peacefully and rejoicing to be at your heavenly Home with Jesus.

I love you, Franklin, and I will miss you greatly.

Your baby sister, Ruthie.

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

Lorraine Goodwin

(From Bath-Naylor Funeral Home)

Lorraine H. Goodwin, 80, of Pittsburg, KS, passed away on Friday, April 25, 2025, at KU Medical Center in Kansas City, KS, following a stroke. 

Born in Bremerton, WA, on January 5, 1945, she was the daughter of
Randall Dean and Maxine Luella (Cullison) Hartley. Lorraine graduated from Fort Lauderdale High School and later earned a nursing degree from Labette Community College, where she became a Registered Nurse at Shawnee Mission Medical Center and St. John’s Hospital in Joplin. 

She married Don Goodwin in Wichita, KS, who preceded her in death in November 2004. 

A devoted member of the Christian faith, Lorraine was actively involved in AARP, volunteered at the Salvation Army, and cherished her beloved dog, Dolly.

Lorraine is survived by her partner, Jerry DeGruson of Pittsburg, KS; her daughter, Heather Scott Thompson and husband Pat of Brooksville, FL; her sisters, Connie Garason of Spokane, WA, and June Marrone of Frontenac, KS; her grandchildren, Grant Fitzsimmons, Carter Fitzsimmons, Tyler Fitzsimmons, Devin Shay Brown, and Alexa Thompson; and her great-grandchildren, Olive Rae Brown and Wells Patrick Brown. She was preceded in death by her parents and her sister, Elizabeth Hartley-Keith.

Known for her love, strength, and adventurous spirit, Lorraine was a woman of mystery and determination, deeply cherished by her family. Throughout her childhood, her father’s work as a civilian in the Navy led the family to make their home in various states, including Bremerton, WA, Murphy, NC, and Fort Lauderdale, FL. 

After high school, Lorraine worked for many years in Ft. Lauderdale in the insurance industry but eventually moved to Pittsburg, KS in 1979, to raise her daughter and be closer to her parents and
siblings.


Lorraine embraced new challenges and opportunities throughout her life. In the 1990s, she embarked on a new journey by returning to school to pursue nursing, graduating in 1998, and eventually specialized in oncology medicine. Prior to becoming a nurse, she worked for McNally Pittsburg and for Honeywell Inc, as well as enjoyed many years working part-time as a hostess at Jim’s Steak House, making lifelong friends in the process. Her years at FLHS made an impact and she attended several class reunions over the years and stayed in touch with many friends.

In 2009, Lorraine took a bold step by sailing across the Pacific Ocean from Puerto Vallarta to Tahiti with other like-minded people, truly exemplifying her adventurous spirit.

A private ceremony will take place at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that expressions of sympathy be made in the form of memorials to the American Stroke Association. Friends may drop off or mail memorials to Bath-Naylor Funeral Home, 522 S. Broadway, Pittsburg, KS 66762.

Condolences may be left at www.bathnaylor.com. Arrangements and services are under the direction of
Bath-Naylor Funeral Home of Pittsburg,
KS.