Donna Soard

(From Ozark Memorial Park Crematory)

Mrs. Donna Dean Soard, 78, of Carthage, Missouri, departed this life on Monday, May 25, 2026, following a sudden illness.

Donna was born on January 12, 1948, in Ava, Missouri, to the late Luther and Dorothy (McDonald) Lee. She was raised in Red Oak, Missouri, and throughout her life lived in several local communities, including Reeds, Sarcoxie, La Russell, and Carthage. Donna worked for many years with the Carthage R-9 School District and at McDonald’s in Carthage. Even up until the last few months of her life, she continued working through DoorDash.

Donna enjoyed crocheting, doing word searches, visiting the casino, spending time outdoors in her yard, and most of all, being with her family. She also had a playful spirit and was known for “burning anything she could,” a memory her loved ones will always smile about.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Luther and Dorothy Lee; her husband, Kenneth Dale Soard; her sons, Kent Soard (Cynthia) and Darin Soard (Mary Jo); and one daughter, Shawn Soard.

She was also preceded in death by five siblings: Kenneth Lee (Marie), Ralph Lee, Gary Lee, Phyllis Shields (Evert), and Rick Lee.
Donna is survived by her three children: Kendra Soard (Richard), Dickie Soard (Cody), and Daleann.

She is also survived by her thirteen grandchildren: Kipp Soard; Dakota “Bear” Soard (Sky); Jaden Green; Sasha Evans (Jake); Krista Soard (Jeff); Kyle Shelton (Emily); Kalebb Soard (Ebb); Devin Soard (Tailyn); Chloe Soard (Steven); Lacie Hibbs (Blake); Brittany Rissman; Dylan Rissman (Kaylee); and LJ Parker.

She also leaves behind nineteen great-grandchildren.

Donna is further survived by six siblings: Beverly Williamson; Jerry Lee (Barbara); Sherri Ritchie (Stanley); Dan Lee (Sheila); Dickie Lee (Patty); and Carolyn Sloniker (Richard); as well as two sisters-in-law, Judy Lee and Bea Lee. She also leaves behind several nieces, nephews, extended family members, and many dear friends.

Donna will be deeply and dearly missed by her surviving family and friends. She never missed an opportunity to help anyone she could and had the most caring heart. Her family and loved ones will always treasure the moments they shared with her throughout this lifetime.

Arrangements are under the personal care and direction of Ozark Memorial Park Crematory of Joplin, Missouri.

Darice Kimball

(From Ulmer Funeral Home)

Darice Kristine Kimball, 58, passed away Sunday, May 24, 2026, in Lee's Summit, Missouri. Darice was born on July 8, 1967, in Joplin, Missouri. She was preceded in death by her parents, Dennis and Dixie Peck; and one brother, Dennis Peck, Jr. 

Darice is survived by three children, Spencer Kimball (Amie) of California, Missouri; Joe Dyke (Karli) of Raytown, Missouri; and Maddie Dyke (Drake) of Lee’s Summit, Missouri; two sisters, Danielle Horton of Willard, Missouri and Dara Peck of Flemington, Missouri; nine grandchildren, Jack, Alex, Zach, Maddie, Kai, Kelsey, Laila, Kammie, and one soon to arrive; two nieces, Victoria and Gwen; and four nephews, Steven, Danny, Dawson, and Gabe. 

Darice lived a life rooted in faith, family, compassion, and conviction. She believed deeply in the importance of family and devoted herself wholeheartedly to those she loved. Her strong faith as a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints guided her life and shaped the kindness, grace, and strength she shared with others every day. 

Darice had a remarkable ability to see the good in every person, no matter who they were or where they came from. She was passionately vocal about what was right and true and was never afraid to stand firmly for her beliefs. 

Darice also found great joy in nature and in the animals she loved so dearly. But above all, Darice lived to be "Goddie" to her beloved grandchildren. 

Services will be held at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Carthage, Missouri, on Saturday, June 6, 2026, at 11 a.m. Burial will be at Diamond Cemetery in Diamond, Missouri. 

Online condolences may be made at www.ulmerfh.com. 

Arrangements are under the care and direction of Ulmer Funeral Home.

Stevie Meredith

(From Parker Mortuary)

Stevie Marie Meredith, age 42, Joplin, MO was born on June 3, 1983, in Iowa City, Iowa, to Steven and Allison (Lake) Smith. Stevie passed away on May 25, 2026, in Kansas City, Kansas.

Stevie lived a life marked by care, hospitality, and sincere devotion to the people around her. She had a natural gift for making others feel welcome, comfortable, and valued, and she carried that gift into every part of her life. Whether she was opening her home, preparing a meal, or offering thoughtful words, she did so with a gracious spirit that reflected the best of who she was. Her presence had a way of making ordinary moments feel special, and her absence will be felt profoundly by all who knew her.

Among the many things Stevie loved, caring for babies held a special place in her heart. She was gentle, attentive, and deeply nurturing, and she found joy in the simple and meaningful work of tending to little ones. She also loved cooking. Meals prepared by Stevie were more than food. They were expressions of love, comfort, and togetherness, often shared in the company of family and friends.

Stevie was also known for her love of entertaining and hosting. She took great pride in bringing people together and creating gatherings that felt warm, joyful, and memorable. Holidays were especially dear to her, and she loved hosting them for everyone. She understood the importance of tradition, celebration, and shared time, and she made those occasions feel full of life and meaning. Her home was often a place where laughter, conversation, and good food came together, and many cherished memories were made under her care.

She was a thoughtful gift giver, always remembering the small details that made a person feel seen and appreciated. Stevie had a remarkable ability to choose gifts that reflected genuine understanding and affection.

Stevie also had a love for plants, and she appreciated the beauty and calm they brought into a home. She enjoyed tending to them and watching them grow, finding satisfaction in their quiet resilience and natural grace. In many ways, her care for plants reflected the way she lived her life, with patience, attention, and a deep appreciation for growth and beauty in everyday things.

Along with her parents, Stevie is survived by her beloved husband, Kyle Meredith; children, Aurora Ellington, Jaxson Ellington (Sophia), and EvieLynne Meredith; grandchildren, Bea Ellington; siblings, Ben McCarty and Mia Wireman; and best friend, Geoff Crowder.

A funeral service is planned for Wednesday, June 3, 2026, at 3:00 p.m. at Parker Mortuary Chapel in Joplin, MO. The family invites friends for a time of visitation on Tuesday, June 2, 2026, from 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. at the mortuary.

Arrangements are under the direct care of Parker Mortuary in Joplin, MO.

 

Johann Schleisman

(From Parker Mortuary)

Johann Delores Schleisman, age 90, passed away on May 23rd, 2026 comfortably in her home that she loved, surrounded by family, neighbors, and loved ones.

Johann was born April 30th,1936 in Pulaski County, Missouri, the daughter of George Baldrow McCann and Christina Sophia Schaap. Johann was the youngest of thirteen children. She grew up in Richland, Missouri and graduated from Richland High in 1954. She was a certified cosmetologist and graduate of the Springfield Beauty Academy. 

Johann’s pride and joy was her family, who looked to her as a steady, kind, and honest presence in their lives. Her determination and unstoppable work ethic was matched by her boundless generosity and loving support towards her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchild. Johann loved tending to her perfectly manicured yard – her home, garden, flowers, and the local birds brought her endless entertainment and peace. The deer and squirrels loved her yard as much as she did–they will miss her, but the feeling probably would not be mutual.

Johann always kept in touch, and her thoughtful check-in calls with friends and family will be greatly missed. She was the backbone of her family, she kept her friends always in her heart, and she cherished the neighbors who were her community.

Johann was preceded in death by her husband Robert, with whom she shared 58 wonderful years of marriage. It will be a blessing to have them united again at Springfield Veterans Cemetery.

Those carrying on her memory include her daughter, Joyce Schleisman of Kansas City, Missouri; son, Randy Schleisman and wife Ann of Protem, Missouri; grandchildren, Allison Schleisman of New York City, Matthew Schleisman and Katherine Parker of Portland, Oregon; Ivey and Ian Zoellers, and great-granddaughter River Zoellers of Sugar Creek, Missouri; sister Barbara Phillips; sisters-in-law Verleen Schleisman, Marian Schachtner, Donna Schreier, Dorothy Hall; and many nephews and nieces.

Memorial service will be Saturday, May 30th, 2026.

Visitation will take place at Thornhill-Dillon Mortuary from 11-12 pm. Services will follow, delivered by Pastor Shane Munn. Following services, the family will be gathering at Wilder’s Steakhouse. All family and friends are invited.

Cremation arrangements are under the direction of Parker Mortuary.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that loved ones consider a donation to the Joplin Humane Society. All are encouraged to spend time in their gardens and to call a friend or loved one to catch up and talk about the weather.

Jacqueline Casey

(From Clark Funeral Home)

Jacqueline Lee Casey, age 71, left this world to be with Jesus, on May 28, 2026.

She was born on May 10, 1955, in Omaha, Nebraska, to Frank Hammel and Trudy Enquist Frizzel.

Jacqueline graduated from Lincoln High School in Lincoln, Nebraska, and throughout her life was known as a hardworking and dependable woman who dedicated herself fully to whatever role she held. She worked many different jobs before retiring from Dynatech in data entry. She worked at Joplin Professional Door and at Economic Security. She also worked as a secretary for Precious Moments and at the Dollar General in Diamond, Missouri for eight years. Jacqueline worked diligently and devoted many hours helping others wherever she was employed.

In 1995, Jacqueline moved to the Joplin area from Pittsburg, Kansas. In 2000, she made her home in Granby and later settled in Diamond in October of 2002, where she remained for many years. She thoroughly enjoyed country line dancing, and it was through dancing that she met the love of her life, Jerry Casey. The two were married on June 29, 2002, in Eureka Springs (Carroll County), Arkansas.

Jacqueline was a homebody and enjoyed working crossword puzzles, spending quiet time at home.

She is survived by her husband, Jerry Casey; two step-sons, Brandon Casey and wife Kati of Grove, Oklahoma, and Josh Casey and wife Toni of Pittsburg, Kansas; step-grandchildren Blake Casey, Brayden Casey, Taryn Casey, Tanner Casey, Riley Casey, and Carly Casey; siblings Linda Brundies of Iowa, Joni Groll of Oshkosh, Wisconsin, Mark Hammel of Madison, Wisconsin, Scott Frizzel, Linda Henggler and Susan Martin, and Greg Moulas; her stepmother, Mona Eggan of Oshkosh, Wisconsin; her mother-in-law, Carolyn Casey of Neosho, Missouri ; and sister-in-law Sheryl Jones and husband Rick of Eucha, Oklahoma.

Jacqueline was preceded in death by her father, Frank Hammel; her mother, Trudy Frizzel; brothers Dan Hammel, Tom Hammel, and Mike Frizzel; sisters Patti Hammel and Janohn Wurm; step-son Tyler Casey; and her adopted parents, John and Amy Tapley.

Memorial contributions may be made to the American Heart Association in Jacqueline’s honor.

Services will be announced at a later date.

Kay Wells

(From Mason-Woodard Mortuary)

On May 26, 2026, Kay Wells, 91, departed this earthly realm with a hoot and a bang. After a final swig of her home cough remedy (compliments of her old friend Jack Daniels), and a last look at her favorite eye candy (a cardboard stand-up of Rege-Jean Page), Kay was outta here.

She raised four children with love, sacrifice, and reminders of: “Dummy up”; “I’m gonna twist a knot in your tail”; and “Can’t never did anything.” 

She was devoted through thick and thin in her 61 years of marriage to her high school sweetheart, Jerry. She enjoyed eight peaceful years after his death. She enjoyed time with her ever growing family and dear friends. However, she most enjoyed her own company, working jigsaw and crossword puzzles, reading, and watching her beloved Cardinals on TV with her two cats, Katy and Beckett. She lived independently until the end as that was the only way she would have it. We will always hear her contagious laughter most remembered as she was reading Erma Bombeck in the Joplin Globe (a daily ritual.) The sounds of Randy Travis and Vince Gill will also be a warm reminder of her.

Kay was exceedingly bright, had a keen sense of humor, and was generous and kind. We marveled at her uncanny recall of every address where she had lived since birth, phone numbers, birthdates of family and friends, and the exact location of any item in her home. Kay took in and cared for many, many cats and dogs through her life. For those she couldn’t she gave of her time and treasure. She had a strong sense of right and wrong, and how to treat others and instilled these values in her children and grandchildren. Her love, humor, wisdom, presence, and big warm hugs will be deeply missed by all who loved her. 

She is survived by her children, Craig Wells and wife, Mona (Cape Girardeau MO); Scott Wells and wife, Kirsten (Joplin); Karen Wells Fisher (Joplin); and Anne Wells (Joplin.) Grandchildren Kurt Wells and wife, Cathryn (Colorado Springs CO), Kyle Wells (Sikeston MO), Avery Wells and wife, Meghan (Kansas City MO), Aren Wells and fiancée, Paige (Chicago IL), Jerad Fisher (Joplin MO), Blake Fisher and wife, Lexus (Joplin MO), Meghan Wells and wife, McKaela (Knoxville TN.) Great grandchildren, Ari and Eden Wells (Colorado Springs, CO), Nadia Wells (Kansas City MO), Veryn and Hudson Fisher (Joplin MO), and Milo Wells (expected to make his arrival at any time in Knoxville, TN.)

In lieu of flowers, Kay requested that memorial contributions be made to the Joplin Humane Society. In honor of her wishes no memorial service will be held. A book is available to sign at Mason-Woodard mortuary.

Ed Kennedy

(From Mason-Woodard Mortuary)

Edward Lee Kennedy, age 79, passed away peacefully and went to be with his Lord and Savior on May 26, 2026. Born in Joplin, Missouri to Betty Robbins Kennedy and James Kennedy on July 18, 1946. Ed grew up in the area and graduated from Carl Junction High School, where he forged lifelong roots in the community.

Following High School, Ed answered the call to serve his country, as a United States Marine during the Vietnam War. His time in the Marines instilled in him a quiet strength, discipline, and a deep sense of duty that carried through the rest of his life. Upon returning home, Ed built a stable, hardworking career at UPS in Omaha dedicating many years of reliable service before moving on to other business endeavors. He owned and operated the Carl Junction Super Stop.

Ed was a man who knew what he liked and appreciated the simple pleasures of life. As a younger man, he found his peace on the water canoeing, fishing, and hunting. Later in life, Ed could usually be found in his favorite chair, drinking a hot cup of coffee, keeping up with the world on Fox News, and watching the Squirrels at the feeder. He loved Football and passionately cheered on the Kansas City Chiefs and the Nebraska Cornhuskers.

Above all else, Ed was anchored by his massive, growing family. He shared a life of love and devotion with his wife, Judith Kennedy, spending 54 years together, they built a legacy that will live on through generations.

Ed was preceded in death by his parents, James and Betty Kennedy; his brother, Jimmy Kennedy; his sister, Carol McBee; and his sister-in-law, Linda Kennedy.

He is survived and deeply missed by his beloved spouse, Judith Kennedy; his children, Lori Kennedy Thompson (Brad), Kelli Kennedy Brannan (Andy), Sean Kennedy (Suzanne), Will Kennedy (Charlotte), Jake Kennedy (Amy), and Joe Kennedy (Brittany). He also leaves behind a proud legacy of 19 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren, all of whom brought immense joy to his life.

Semper Fi, Ed. Your hard work, dedication to your family and country will never be forgotten.

A funeral service has been scheduled for 12:00 pm on Monday, June 1, 2026, at Mason-Woodard Chapel.
The family will receive friends and visitors from 11:00 am to 12:00 pm prior to the service.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Ed's memory to the Joplin Humane Society.