Janalee Scott

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(From Ozark Memorial Park Crematory)

Janalee Scott, 72, of Joplin, Missouri, passed peacefully in her sleep on October 7, 2026.

Born and raised in Joplin, Missouri Janalee was the daughter of Dr. William and Darlene Laessig and the youngest of three children. Though she spent much of her life along the coast, she ultimately found her way back home for her final chapter.

Janalee was a kind, nurturing woman with a free spirit and a hippie soul. She loved the music of the ‘60s and ‘70s, especially The Beatles and cherished the beauty of the Emerald Coast. The ocean called to her, and she could often be found keeping an eye out for dolphins. She had a gentle heart, a colorful spirit, and a stubborn strength that came alive whenever she set her mind to something.

In 1989, Janalee married Carter Scott who was a loving father and faithful companion till her final days. She was a loving mother to Christopher Scott, Jennifer Scott-Bandler (Matthew), Ashli Scott, and Katie Scott. A proud grandmother to Dalton Massey, Jayden Wolfe, and Tyson Bandler. She is also survived by her brother, Gene Laessig, and her nieces and nephew, Cohen Copeland, Vickie Laessig and Craig Laessig. She was preceded in death by her parents, Dr William and Darlene Laessig, and her brother, Jim Laessig.

Janalee’s journey was not without hardships. She faced battles throughout much of her life, but in her later years, she overcame struggles that had followed her for a long time. Her family will forever be grateful for those precious years of healing, brighter days, and memories made together. She left this world on a high note, a gift her loved ones will always carry in their hearts.

Janalee will be remembered for her strength, her nurturing heart, and the free spirit that made her uniquely herself. May the music always play, the ocean breeze always blow, and the dolphins always dance across the water. May she finally be free to wander wherever her beautiful soul takes her.

Forever loved. Forever remembered. Forever free.

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

Audrey Witham

(From Simpson Funeral Home)

With a heart full of adventure and a spirit brimming with creativity, Audrey Witham, affectionately known as "Tater" to those closest to her, was a radiant presence in the lives of all who knew her. Born on September 2, 2008, in Fort Scott, KS, Audrey’s life was a testament to the power of laughter, loyalty, and love. She passed away on October 15, 2026 from injuries sustained in an automobile accident, leaving behind an unforgettable legacy of joy and warmth.

Audrey was a kitchen assistant in a movie theater, a role that allowed her to combine her love for cooking and her knack for making people smile. She was a beacon of positivity, her infectious laughter and radiant smile transforming any ordinary day into a memorable one. In her free time, Audrey could be found exploring nature, making music, or drawing – each hobby an expression of her adventurous and creative spirit.

Audrey's life was beautifully complex, filled with dreams of becoming a CIA agent and a welder before she decided to follow her own unique path. Her life echoed the words of Ralph Waldo Emerson: "Do not go where the path may lead, go instead where there is no path and leave a trail." She was still figuring out her career path, but one thing was certain: Audrey was determined to make a positive impact in the world.

What mattered most to Audrey was her family – those related by blood, and those she considered family by choice. She is survived by her father Robbie Witham, her mother Emily Grimes, her siblings Dominic Orndorff, Killian Grimes, Brenya Grimes, Taylor Witham, Dalton Witham and Sierra Lowry; her grandmothers Erma Orndorff and Betty Clark; and cousins Lucinda Unger and Kyler Benz. She was preceded in death by her grandfather Danny Orndorff, her aunts Nola (Wallen) and Misty Jones, her cousins Christopher Jones, and her step-father Michael Grimes.

Her life was a celebration of loyalty, love, and boundless adventure. Audrey was a reminder that even in the briefest of encounters, we can touch hearts and change lives. As we remember Audrey, we are reminded that the most beautiful things in the world cannot be seen or even touched. They must be felt with the heart.

Services will be held at Simpson Funeral Home in Webb City on Saturday, October 24, 2026, with visitation at 1pm and the funeral service at 2pm.

In remembering Audrey, we encourage relatives and friends to visit www.simpsonfh.com to share photos and memories of Audrey. Her life was a beautiful tapestry of laughter, creativity, and love – let us celebrate that, cherishing each memory as a testament to her radiant spirit.

Mickey Fry

(From Simpson Funeral Home)

Mickey Fry, born Mary Margaret Louise Hailey, passed away peacefully in her home on Friday, October 16th, 2026. She was born to Carl Monroe Hailey and Florence Emily Potter Hailey in Joplin, Missouri on April 21st, 1941.

Mickey graduated from Joplin High School and married the love of her life, DJ Fry in 1959. In her life, Mickey was a proud Girl Scout Troop Leader and an avid bowler. Above all, Mickey was a dedicated homemaker, a loving wife and devoted mother, grandmother and great- grandmother. Over the years, Mickey worked at Eagle Pitcher, Peggy’s Past and Present, and Precious Moments.

Mickey loved any excuse to gather with friends and family. She took great pride in hosting annual holiday parties every Fourth of July, Halloween and Christmas. Treats were made with care and decorations were thoughtfully curated, each room with its own theme.

Mickey is survived by her children, Rory D Fry and his wife, Lynn Fry of Oronogo and Brenda K Fry of Carl Junction; her sisters, Carol June Jacobson and Linda Grace Enlow both of Joplin; her grandchildren, Jerrad Heath of Joplin, Jennifer Gandy of Joplin, Emily Mandzik of Republic and Sarah Wilkerson of Springfield; as well as her great-grandchildren, Trinity Gandy, Grayson Heath, Kaitlin and Addison Gandy.

Mickey was preceded in death by her loving husband DJ Fry; her son, Aaron L Fry and her daughter, Marcinda L Heath; her parents, Carl M Hailey and Florence E Potter Hailey; her sisters, Baby Girl Hailey, Faye Johnson, Maybelle Olmstead, Phyllis Isler, Sharon Arnold, and Beverly Ray; as well as her brothers, Phillip Hailey and Carl “Bud” Hailey.

Services will be held at Simpson Funeral Home in Webb City, MO on Thursday, October 22nd. Visitation will begin at 10am, funeral at 11am with a lunch to follow at Royal Heights United Methodist Church. Private burial will occur at Oronogo Cemetery at a later time.

Funeral arrangements are under the personal care and direction of Simpson Funeral Home. The family encourages relatives and friends to share memories and photos on the funeral home website.

Loretta Wright

(From Mason-Woodard Mortuary)

Loretta Jean Wright, age 75, passed away peacefully in her home on Thursday, October 15h, 2026, in Joplin, MO.

Born on November 6th, 1950, in Chanute, KS to James David and Donna Morrison, Loretta lived a life centered around love, family, and the simply joys that make life beautiful. 

Loretta was a woman with a strong will, a little sass, and a mind of her own. Her spirited personality was part of what made her unforgettable. She found happiness in life’s simple pleasures, including making music, watching birds, and admiring her plants and flowers. Above all, she treasured the time spent with her family, especially her three grandchildren who held a special place in her heart.

Loretta will be remembered for her independent spirit, the love she had for her family, and the memories she leaves behind. Though she will be deeply missed, she will forever hold a place in the hearts of those who knew and loved her. 

Loretta is survived by her significant other, Mike Lindsay; her son, Derrick Wright and significant other, Thu Le; daughter Renae Lanagan and husband Bill; and her three grandchildren, Shelby, Atley and Brayden. Loretta was proceeded in death by her brother, Roger and her sister, Rosina.

A Celebration of Life will be held on 11/7/2026 from 11am – 4pm in her home.

Earl Alsdurf

(From Mason-Woodard Mortuary)

Earl Wesley Alsdurf, 88, passed away on October 11, 2026, in Joplin, Missouri. He was born on March 24, 1938, in a pecan orchard in Yeardley, California.

Earl lived a life defined by hard work, strength, service, and an unwavering love for his family. A quiet man who didn't need to say much, Earl was known for his no-nonsense nature, quick humor, and kind heart. He was someone people could count on, always willing to lend a hand and help anyone who needed it. Above all, he was fiercely protective of his girls, and the people he loved never had to wonder if he would stand up for them. 

Earl proudly served his country, first in the United States Navy and later in the Army Reserves, where he served as a crew chief on the CH-47 Chinook helicopter. His commitment to service continued in his civilian life, including his career with the Wichita Fire Department, where he formed lifelong friendships and lasting bonds with his fellow firefighters.

Earl was also dedicated to his education. In 1969, he graduated from Oklahoma State University with a bachelor's degree in Fire Protection and Safety Engineering, combining his education with his commitment to protecting and serving others. Retirement never meant slowing down for Earl. He kept himself busy working for as long as he was able, always finding something that needed doing. He was the strongest man many of his family members ever knew, and he took pride in staying active and working out. Tough, determined, and hardworking, Earl approached life with the same strength and resolve that defined him throughout his years. 

He also had a love for sailing and a sense of humor that made him uniquely Earl. And, of course, there was his well-known fondness for Oreos wrapped in bologna—a combination that might surprise some, but was simply one of his own special quirks. Earl's greatest legacy is the family he built and the generations who will carry his memory forward. He is survived by his beloved wife of 66 years, Connie; their children, Wesley (Laurie) and Stayce; three grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; two great-great-grandchildren; and his beloved cat, Nugget.

Earl will be remembered as a strong, kind, hardworking man who loved deeply, protected his family, helped others without hesitation, and never needed to be the loudest person in the room to make a difference.

His humor, his strength, his steady presence, and the love he gave his family will live on in the stories shared and the memories treasured for generations to come. He leaves behind a lifetime of love, lessons, laughter, and a family who will forever be grateful to have called him husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and great-great-grandfather. He will be deeply missed and never forgotten.

Jessie Jeffers

(From Ozark Memorial Park Crematory)

Jessie Jeffers, age 83, of Joplin, Missouri, passed away October 9, 2026 leaving behind a legacy of love and cherished memories.

Jessie was born on January 28, 1943, in Nowata, Oklahoma, to her parents, Herbert and Beulah White.

She married James Jeffers on January 23, 1965 in Nowata, Oklahoma and have shared over 61 beautiful years of marriage together building a life, love, and wonderful legacy. Throughout her life, she was dedicated to her work and spent many years serving as a personnel assistant before eventually retiring.

Jessie is survived by her husband James, her daughter Robin, her son Scott, and four sisters Barbara, Janet, Debbie, and Kathy, two grandchildren C.J., Megan and six great-grandchildren, all of whom will carry her memory in their hearts.

Jessie’s life touched those who had the privilege of knowing and loving her. She will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and all whose lives she touched. May she be remembered with love and find peace in her eternal rest.

The family has chosen not to have any services.

Arrangements in care of Ozark Memorial Park.

Donna Meadows

(From Hedge-Lewis-Goodwin Funeral Home)

Donna LaDeane Meadows of Webb City Mo. was born on January 22, 1952 in Pittsburg, KS to Donald and Jackie Meadows. She went to heaven on October 17, 2026.

Donna resided in many places throughout her life. After leaving Kansas as a teenager, her travels took her to Atlanta, Georgia; Sumter, South Carolina; Ramstein, Germany; Abiline, Texas and Crossville, Tennessee. She found her way back to the Midwest where she spent the last 40 years being a Mother, Grandmother and Great Grandmother. Donna was a devout Christian with endless love for Jesus Christ her savior. She also enjoyed Jimmy Swaggart, Elvis Presley and President Trump. 

Donna was preceded in death by her husband Mike Girdner, father Donald Meadows, mother Jackie Merritt, stepfather Bill Merritt, brother Marty Meadows and daughter In-law Angela Yow.

Donna is survived by three children; Melissa West (Byron) Nevada, MO; Mike Yow (Mindy) Webb City, MO and Adam Huffman of the home and many beloved grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Services will be held on Tuesday, October 20, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Hedge-Lewis-Goodwin Funeral Home in Webb City, Missouri. The family invites friends for a time of visitation prior to the service at the mortuary at 10:00 a.m. In lieu of flowers, the family request a donation be made in Donna's name to the Joplin Humane Society.