Allen Stevens

(From Konantz Warden Funeral Home)

Lloyd Allen Stevens, of Mindenmines, Missouri, passed away peacefully at home on September 23, 2026. He was born on October 27, 1955, in Pittsburg, Kansas, to David Lloyd Stevens and Mary Catherine “Cassie” (Lea) Stevens.

Allen grew up between Alton, Missouri and Pittsburg, Kansas, moving seasonally with his family. He graduated from Arma High School with the Class of 1973. In 1978, he married the love of his life, Kathy Shearer, in Alton. Throughout his working years, Allen held several jobs, spending much of his career as a laborer at a sawmill.

Allen was an outdoorsman through and through. He was an avid hunter and fisherman and loved nothing more than being out on the river. He spent countless hours diving, camping, fishing, helping canoers, and exploring alongside his fellow “river rats.” He had a knack for finding treasures the river had given up—including towels, iron pots, and countless other unexpected finds. His adventures on the river were more than a pastime; they were a cherished part of who he was.

Allen also had a lifelong passion for firearms. He was an enthusiastic collector and restorer of all types of guns and had an incredible talent for bringing old and forgotten pieces back to life. Give Allen a box of parts, and somehow, he could turn it into a gun. He enjoyed trading nearly as much as he enjoyed collecting and was known to trade just about anything—including cars on Trade-O.

In 1990, Allen moved his family to the Burgess/Mindenmines area to be closer to family. There, he built a life surrounded by the people, places, and activities he loved.

Allen is survived by his beloved wife, Kathy Stevens; his children, Toni Stevens of Mulberry, Kansas, Ricky Stevens (Loren) of Mindenmines, Missouri, and Penny Carreon of California; his sisters, Missy Proctor of Mindenmines, Missouri, Vickie Woods of Alton, Missouri, and Kyle Campiti and her husband, Shawn, of Frontenac, Kansas; his brother, Tom Stevens and his wife, Belinda, of Mindenmines; his grandchildren, Brianna, Micheal (Amanda), Keirstyn, Jack, and Rebecca; and his great-grandchildren, Thomas, Tottie, Kaydence, and Scarlett. He is also survived by his devoted and faithful dog, Sadie.

He was preceded in death by his parents, David (Lloyd) and Mary (Cassie) Stevens; his brother, Timmy Stevens; brothers-in-law, Leslie Woods and David Proctor; son-in-law, Jack Larson; and his uncle, Richard Lea.

Allen will be remembered for his love of the river, his adventurous spirit, his passion for the outdoors, and his remarkable ability to fix, restore, and bring new life to things others might have given up on. Most of all, he will be remembered for the stories he told, the adventures he shared, and the memories he created with the people he loved.

He leaves behind a family who loved him deeply and a lifetime of memories that will forever be treasured.

If you would like to make a donation in lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations directly to the funeral home to assist with final expenses. Konantz Warden Funeral Home is located at 1301 Gulf St, Lamar, MO 64759

The family will hold a private event to honor his life.

Tom Riley

(From Ulmer Funeral Home)

Thomas William Riley, 83, of Carthage, Missouri, passed away on Tuesday, September 22, 2026, at Aspire Senior Living. 

Tom was born on October 8, 1942, in Sault Ste Marie, Michigan, to the late William and Nellie Riley. He moved to Carthage in 1986 and has lived here for the past 40 years. He served in the United States Navy and retired after 22 years. He also worked for Leggett and Platt for 14 years. Tom was a member of the Carthage VFW Post #2590. He enjoyed playing bingo and was a Bonafide tinkerer. 

He was united in marriage to Norma Dean Ralston-Riley on April 6, 1988; she preceded him in death (June 2023). 

Tom is survived by two sons, John Riley (Tereasa) of Carthage, and Charles Ralston (Vicki) of Carthage, and Jerry Riley of Florida; two daughters, Jane Poole (Leonard) of Carthage and Ashley McComas of Seattle, Washington; one brother, Robert Riley of California; and one sister, Kathy McConkly of Michigan. 

Besides his parents and wife, Norma, Tom was preceded in death by one son, Jim Ralston; two brothers, Warren Riley and Jim Riley; and one sister, Eleanor Avery. 

A memorial visitation for Tom is scheduled from 6:00 to 7:00 PM on Wednesday, September 30, 2026, at Ulmer Funeral Home in Carthage, Missouri. 

Condolences may be made at www.ulmerfh.com. 

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

Phill Short

(From Buchanan Funeral Home)

Phillip Roy Short, 77, of Aurora, MO, passed from this life on Tuesday, September 22, 2026 at his home. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather and friend to many.

Phill was born on November 14, 1948 in Amherst, TX, son of Lee Roy Short and Hazel Lee (Jackson) Short. Phill graduated from Muleshoe High School in Muleshoe, TX. He served his country honorably in the United States Navy and served during the Vietnam War. After he was honorably discharged, Phill furthered his education by earning his commission through the Police Academy and for many years worked as a Deputy, serving the citizens of Bryan County Oklahoma. Phill also worked in store front manufacturing as a Plant Manager at Kawneer, as well as he was a full-time farmer.

Phill married Linda Joy Gregory on December 31, 1970 in Muleshoe and to this union they were blessed with two children. He and his family moved to southwest Missouri in 1990 and continued his career in store front manufacturing at EFCO and later ASI. He then drove school buses for the Aurora School District until his retirement in 2020. Phill was a member of the Freedom Christian Center in Aurora. Some of his favorite things to do were hunting, fishing with family and friends. Nothing brought him more joy however than spending time with his family. He loved the reunions with Linda’s brothers and sisters and always loved the time with his family in Amarillo.

Phill is survived by his daughters, Shawndi Prisk, of Aurora, MO and Robin Miller and husband Chase, of Amarillo, TX; six grandchildren, Kaleigh J. Simmons and husband T.J., Jacob Short, Kade Brown, Michael Short, Austin Short and Andrew Short; three great-grandchildren, Sterling, Scarlett and Stella Simmons; as well as a host of extended family and friends.

Phill was preceded in death by his wife, Linda Short; his son, Wade Short; his parents, Lee Roy and Hazel Short; and his son-in-law, Fred Prisk.

A celebration of life with military honors will be held on Saturday, October 3, 2026 at 4:00 p.m. at the Clio Cemetery, Hwy 39, Jenkins, MO with Pastor Tony Swillum officiating. Memorial donations can be made to the Phillip and Linda Short memorial fund in care of Buchanan Funeral Home. Arrangements have been entrusted to Buchanan Funeral Home, Monett, MO.

Jean Wilson

(From Greenfield Funeral Chapel)

Phyllis Jean (Adams) Wilson, lovingly known as Jean, passed away on September 22, 2026, leaving behind a lifetime of beautiful memories and a family forever changed by the love she gave so freely.

Jean was born March 10, 1938, in Filley, Missouri, to Jesse Everett and Velma Caroline (Sallee) Adams. She graduated from El Dorado Springs High School in 1956. Not long after high school, Jean met the love of her life, John Douglas “JD” Wilson. The two were married on February 17, 1957, in Savannah, Georgia, beginning a life together that would be filled with family, hard work, laughter and countless memories. Together they raised three children, Tammy, John Douglas Jr., and Karen.

Jean began working at International Shoe Company after high school, where she remained until 1958. She then devoted herself to being a homemaker and raising her children. In 1969, Jean and JD purchased Adams Grill, which they owned and operated until 1976. She later worked for Vernal Henry Insurance before beginning her career with Cedar County Abstract, where she remained until her retirement.

But the jobs Jean held throughout her life could never fully describe the work that mattered most to her. Her greatest accomplishment was her family. Jean poured herself into raising her children and later found one of life's greatest joys in loving and thoroughly spoiling her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She had a way of making the people she loved feel cared for, and the impact of that love will continue through generations of her family.

Jean appreciated beautiful things and had a creative spirit. She loved music and painting and found joy in the things that brought beauty into everyday life. She and JD also shared a great love for quarter horses and owned many throughout their years together, creating memories around something they both enjoyed immensely.

And then there was Jean's cooking. She was a top-notch cook, and anyone who attended a family gathering knew that when Jean brought one of her pies, you had better get a piece before it disappeared. People would gather around waiting for a slice, and those pies became about much more than dessert. They were so popular JD built her a pie safe to carry them four at a time. Like so many things Jean did, feeding people was simply another way she showed her love.

Jean's life was not measured by possessions or titles, but by the people she loved and the lives she touched. She was a wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, friend, caretaker, cook, artist, and the heart of a family that will feel her absence deeply.

Those fortunate enough to know Jean will remember her in different ways the sound of her laughter, something she cooked, a story she told, a song she loved, her appreciation for beautiful things, or simply the feeling of being loved by her.

Jean was preceded in death by her beloved husband, John Douglas “JD” Wilson; her daughter, Karen; her parents, Jesse Everett and Velma Caroline Adams; and her in-laws, Harold and Ruby Wilson.

She is survived by her daughter, Tammy Mitts of the home; her son, John Douglas Wilson Jr.; her grandchildren, Amanda Murphy, Sarah Hart and husband Mike, Josh Wilson and wife Mary, Jessica Wilson, and Adam Wilson and wife Maggie; and her great-grandchildren, Teyler, Emma, Lucy Poore, Race, Lydiah, Jameson, Heavyn, Michael, Austin Hart, Alyssa, Brayden, Clayton, and Glen Wilson.

Jean leaves behind more than a family tree filled with people who loved her. She leaves behind traditions, stories, recipes, laughter, lessons, and memories that will be repeated around family tables for years to come. After a lifetime spent loving and caring for those around her, Jean is now reunited with those she missed so dearly, her husband, JD, and her daughter, Karen. Her family will miss her more than words can adequately express, but they will carry her with them in all the little things she left behind.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, September 25, 2026, at the First Baptist Church of El Dorado Springs. The family will receive friends on Friday at 1:00 p.m. until service time at the church. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be given to the American Cancer Society. Services are under the care of Greenfield Funeral Chapel.

Nancy Hoagland

(From Parker Mortuary)

Nancy Ann Hoagland, 78, of Joplin, Missouri, passed away on September 23, 2026, in Joplin, Missouri, following an extended illness.

She was born on November 24, 1947, in Joplin, Missouri, to the late Samual Ward, Jr. and Ruth (Gooch) Provance. Nancy lived her life in the community she called home and carried with her the values of family, faith, and quiet strength throughout the years.

Nancy graduated from Joplin High School in 1965 and later attended bookkeeping classes at Joplin Junior College. She used her education in service to others, working as a secretary and bookkeeper for several local businesses. While she was known for her dependable work and careful attention to detail, her most cherished and important role was that of a homemaker. She devoted herself to creating a loving home and caring for those around her with patience and grace.

She is survived by her husband of 60 years, Kenneth Hoagland of Joplin, Missouri; her daughters, Kim Branham and her husband Brian of Granby, Missouri, and Julie Turner and her husband Jason of Carl Junction, Missouri. Grandchildren, Maddie, Bailey and Olivia Bollin, and Emilea Branham. Her family was the center of her world, and she treasured every moment spent with them.

Other than her parents, Nancy is preceded in death by her brother, Jim Provance.

Nancy especially loved spending time with her grandchildren, and she found great joy in being present for their lives and accomplishments. Whether she was simply hanging out with her grandkids or sharing in the everyday moments that became lasting memories, she embraced those times with a warm heart and a genuine smile. She also enjoyed lake life, where she could relax and appreciate the beauty of the outdoors, and she was an avid reader who found comfort and enjoyment in a good book.

A memorial visitation is planned for Friday, September 25, 2026 from 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at Parker Mortuary.

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

Emelihda Santos

(From Parker Mortuary)

Emelihda Santos passed away on September 9, 2026, in Joplin, Missouri, after an extended illness. She was born on August 31, 1972, in Pohnpei, Micronesia, and lived a life marked by devotion to her family, her home, and the many people who were blessed to know her.

Emelihda was a devoted stay-at-home mom and wife whose greatest joy came from caring for her family and creating a warm, welcoming home. She gave of herself freely and consistently, always placing the needs of others before her own. Her life reflected quiet strength, patience, and a deep sense of responsibility, and those who knew her will remember the kindness she showed in everyday moments. She was the kind of person who made others feel seen, valued, and loved, and her presence brought comfort and stability to those around her.

She had a beautiful voice and loved singing, a gift that brought joy not only to her but also to those who heard her. She also enjoyed being involved in the children's sporting events, where she could be found cheering, encouraging, and supporting the young people in her life. These moments reflected her caring spirit and her genuine delight in the accomplishments and happiness of her children and grandchildren. Her family was the center of her world, and she embraced every opportunity to be present for them.

Emelihda was preceded in death by her parents, Ewalt Santos and Delihda Saimon; her husband, Alenson Damian, Sr.; and her daughter, Ereselihda Santos. Their memories remained close to her heart throughout her life, and she carried their love with her always. Though she experienced profound loss, she continued to live with grace and devotion, drawing strength from the family bonds that remained.

She is survived by her sons, Alanzo Penikinos, Alenson Damian, Jr., Quinten Ligorio, and Jeff Ike Eliou; her daughters, Elselihda Santos and Adrishta Damian; and her beloved grandchildren, Ellinten, Ellaina, and Aiden. She is also survived by her siblings, Oswalt Santos, Jr., Elpetner Santos, Rexner Santos, Stanley Santos, Wantilihda Santos, and Oswalt Santos. Her family will forever cherish the love she gave, the lessons she taught, and the example she set through her steady kindness and unwavering care.

Visitation for Emelihda will be on Saturday, September 26, 2026 from 9:00 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. at Parker Mortuary with graveside service to follow at 11:00 a.m. at Fairview Cemetery in Joplin.

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

Kathy Shears

(From Derfelt Funeral Home)

Kathy Doreen (Robinson) Shears, age 70, passed away Friday, September 18, 2026, in Joplin, Missouri, following a courageous battle with Alzheimer's disease.

Kathy was born July 9, 1956, in Long Beach, California. Her parents were Robert Darius Robinson and Dorothy Pearl Easley. She lived most of her life in Galena, Kansas, before making her home in Joplin, MO.

A proud member of the Riverton High School Class of 1974, Kathy brought joy and spirit to everyone around her as a cheerleader.

Kathy worked as a mail carrier and later as a clerk at the Galena, KS Post Office before becoming Postmaster in McCune, KS. She retired from the USPS after 25 years of service.

Kathy was married to Timothy Howard "Tim" Shears on June 25, 1976, in Baxter Springs, KS. He preceded her in death.

Additional survivors include her beloved daughter, Shannon Leigh Thomas (Brandon), Joplin; three treasured grandchildren, Colton Thomas, Grady Thomas, and Tristan Shears; her brother, Reverend Dave Robinson of Galena; her sister-in-law, Susan Ezell (Don) of Galena; nieces and nephews Jason Robinson (Katie), Jamie Robinson (Howie), Sammie Brueggemann (Josh), and Jeremy Ezell (Paige);as well as a rich circle of extended family, great-nieces, great-nephews, and dear friends who held a special place in her heart.

In addition to her husband and her parents, she was joyfully reunited with her son, T.J. Shears; her grandson, Tyler Rainey; and her sister-in-law, Mary Robinson.

Kathy was a member of Tennessee Prairie Church in Galena, KS, where she was proud to attend and hear her brother, Rev. Dave Robinson, preach the gospel of Jesus Christ. She lived a life of service, caring for anyone who needed it, even in her final years.

Kathy made everything better. She loved BIG and she brightened every room she entered. Her beauty and strength radiated onto all of her loved ones. She worked hard. She loved a good project, whether it was home decorating or working in the garden, and she had a gift for turning ordinary moments into occasions, dreaming up games for the kids at every holiday, sending nieces and nephews on scavenger hunts at sleepovers, and mailing packages that always included a handmade card and the newest stamps for the collection. She was easy to make laugh, and she was the biggest fan "all of her kids" ever had, always bragging about them to anyone who'd listen. She loved her grandsons and couldn’t be more proud of them

Above all, Kathy was a fierce, loyal defender of those she loved and an anchor of steadfast friendship, rooted deeply in her devotion to the Lord. Her family and friends remain eternally blessed to have walked in the warmth of her light. We are lucky to have had Kathy to love on us and always be in our corner.

The family extends their deepest gratitude to the compassionate caregivers at Wildwood Senior Living and Compassus Hospice in Joplin, Missouri, for the tenderness and grace shown to Kathy.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Derfelt Funeral Home in Galena, KS.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests memorial contributions be made to the Joplin Humane Society.

A celebration of Kathy’s life will be held at Tennessee Prairie Church, 11370 SE 110th St., Galena, KS 66739 on October 1st at 4:00 PM.

"She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come. She speaks with wisdom, and faithful instruction is on her tongue." — Proverbs 31:25-26

"She has fire in her soul and grace in her heart."