Sandy Judd

(From Clark Funeral Home)

Sandra Ann Judd, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, teacher, and friend, passed away peacefully on June 5, 2026, in her home in Bixby, Oklahoma. She was 82 years old. Sandy, as she was known to those who loved her, lived a life defined by joy, warmth, and an extraordinary devotion to children and family.

Sandy was born on July 30, 1943, in Granby, Missouri, the daughter of Herbert Ivan and Margaret Josephine (Beaver) Maness. She grew up in Granby and graduated from Granby High School in 1961. It was through a mutual friendship — Carol Judd’s sister introduced him to Sandy — that she met the man who would become her husband. Sandy and Carol Judd were married on May 28, 1961, in Miami, Oklahoma, beginning a partnership and love story that would span more than six decades.

Sandy pursued her education with quiet determination, attending Missouri Southern University before earning her bachelor’s degree in education from Langston University. Her love of children was evident long before she entered the classroom; prior to teaching, she opened and operated a daycare in her home, nurturing the youngest learners with patience and care. She went on to serve as a Reading Specialist and second-grade teacher at Glenpool Public Schools, a role that suited her perfectly. Sandy had a rare and natural gift with children — patient, encouraging, and truly joyful in their company. Many of her former students returned to visit her throughout the years, a testament to the lasting impressions she made.

Carol’s career in the aerospace industry brought the family to the Tulsa area in 1980. Sandy and Carol raised their three children in Diamond, Missouri, before settling in Bixby, Oklahoma, where the children completed their schooling. Sandy embraced Bixby as home and became deeply woven into the fabric of its community. She and Carol were longtime, devoted members of Riverview Baptist Church, where Sandy served faithfully in the children’s department and volunteered tirelessly with Vacation Bible School, pouring the same love into those young lives that she brought to her classroom.

Those who knew Sandy describe her with words that come easily and often: joyful, caring, nurturing, and patient. Patience was truly her forte — a gift she gave freely to every child in her care. Her cooking was legendary, an unbelievable talent she credited to a beloved home economics teacher from her Granby school days. She was a proud and active member of her local TOPS chapter and delighted in her Bunco group, bringing her sociable, lively spirit to every gathering. Sandy was, in every sense, a woman who made the room brighter simply by being in it.

Perhaps Sandy’s greatest joy in her later years was the role of grandmother. She embraced it with the same wholehearted devotion she brought to everything she loved, and her grandchildren and great-grandchildren were blessed by her boundless affection.

Sandy is survived by her devoted husband of 65 years, Carol Judd; her son Jason Judd and his wife Jennie; her son Steven Judd; her grandchildren Shelby, Saxton, Kaitlyn, Jonah, and Noah; and her great-grandchildren Zayden, Henley, Zaylie, Zoiee, and another on the way. She was preceded in death by her daughter Shelly Diane Judd, her daughter-in-law Stacy, and her brother Dwight.


A service to honor Sandy’s life will be held at 11:00 AM, Saturday, June 13, 2026, Riverview Baptist Church, Bixby, Oklahoma.

Visitation will be held from 6:00 – 8:00 PM, Friday, June 12, 2026, Parlor Room, Bixby Funeral Service.

Interment will be at 1:00 PM, Monday, June 15, 2026 at Diamond Cemetery, Diamond, Missouri.

“Well done, good and faithful servant.”

Linda Lee

(From Freeman Mortuary)

Linda Lou Lee, age 79 of Jefferson City, Mo., passed away on Saturday, June 6, 2026, in Villa Marie.

She was born March 25, 1947, in Stella, Mo., the daughter of James and Geneva (Winfield) Chapman.

Linda's story began on a 100-acre dairy farm in Sarcoxie, MO. Growing up, she learned to milk cows, care for the farm, and contribute wherever she was needed.

She attended Diamond Schools in Southwest MO, and after graduating, worked her way through college while employed at the Bank of Carthage. Her determination and perseverance paid off when she graduated from Missouri Southern State University in Joplin where she earned a bachelor's degree in business administration in 1969.

Following college, Linda moved to Jefferson City and began her career in public service with the State Auditor's Office for Kit Bond's audit team and later joined the campaign team during his run (and win) for governor. Her professional journey eventually led her to St. Louis in the 1970s, where she built a successful banking career with Metro Bank as Director of Internal Audit and Vice President of Operations at Boatman's BancShares. In 1984, returned to Jefferson City and held leadership roles as Comptroller for Capital City Ford, and Apache Management.

Never one to shy away from a new challenge, Linda embarked on a second career later in life, becoming a respected real estate broker salesperson with Coldwell Banker Gordon Company Realtors where she honed her skills. Later she was a producer at Re/Max Jefferson City for 2 decades. She so loved her Re/Max family. She retired in 2022.

Linda prided herself in working with home buyers to find them the perfect house for them and their families. She listened and moved with integrity when it came to such an investment. Many of her clients and customers became friends, and some she considered family.

While Linda was proud of her professional accomplishments, her greatest joy was always her family. She treasured family gatherings and celebrations, especially reunions with her beloved Winfiel(d) cousins in Fair Play, Bolivar, and Springfield.

Though she worked hard, she always made time for shooting hoops with her son, Ryan, going to the show, or spending time with he and his buddies. There was more than one time she was found ironing shirts before dances and special occasions. They also enjoyed her home-cooked meals and considered her to be a second Mom. She enjoyed spending time with him and his wife Sarah in her last days, playing UNO, checkers, and making bracelets.

Some of her favorite times were during simple Saturday mornings spent running errands and sharing lunch with her daughter. Linda never met a road trip she didn't enjoy, particularly those spontaneous adventures that often came with her daughter Melissa behind the wheel. As Linda would often say, "When Melissa has you captured, you never know where you'll end up." She especially loved traveling to Colorado, where she found peace and beauty in the mountains.

She was fiercely competitive during a game of UNO, though family members knew to keep a close eye on her because she could be delightfully sneaky when she wanted to win, especially later in life. A devoted fan of the St. Louis Cardinals, she could often be found cheering them on throughout the season. When a game was on, you didn't interrupt. She was in the center of her sofa coaching her "boys". Her love affair with them started listening to the games on the radio in the barn while milking cows with her Dad.

She carried herself with grace and confidence, but nothing brought a bigger smile to her face than her grandchildren, whom she loved beyond measure. They were among her greatest blessings, and she cherished every moment she was afforded with them.

Survivors include her children, Melissa Lee of Holts Summit, and Ryan Lee (Sarah) of Panama City Beach, Florida; two grandchildren, Jakoby and Jayden Lee; nieces and nephew, Judy Brashers of Springfield, Mo, Kim Haizlip of Tx, and Gary Brashers (Paula) of Fredericktown, Mo.; and numerous other relatives and a host of friends who were family to her.

She was preceded in death by her parents and siblings, Shirley Brashers Harris, Jim Chapman, and Dora Jane Bass. Also her nephews Gail Bass and James Dale Brashers, and a beloved young niece, Debbie.

The family would like to express their sincere thanks to Villa Marie staff and "her girls" who took excellent care of her. They often sang and danced and she'd roll her eyes, loving every minute of it. She kept them on their toes. Thanks also to Gentiva Hospice who cared for her during the very last leg on her journey.

Visitation will be held from 11:00 am until 1:00 pm, Saturday, June 27, 2026, at First Baptist Church Jefferson City, MO.

A celebration of life service will begin at 1:00 pm, Saturday, June 27, 2026, at First Baptist Church with the Reverend Melissa Hatfield officiating.

Linda will be laid to rest in Powers Cemetery, Sarcoxie, Mo., at a later date.

Memorial contributions may be made to River City Habitat for Humanity, 1420 Creek Trail Drive, Jefferson City, Mo., 6109.

Frank Brinson

(From Knell Mortuary)

Franklin Laverne “Frank” Brinson, age 88, of Carthage, Missouri, passed away on Tuesday, June 9, 2026, at Oak Pointe, Carthage. He was born on October 20, 1937, in Whigham, Georgia, the son of the late John Daniel Brinson and Claudia Irene (Walden) Brinson.

Upon completing school, Frank married the love of his life, Chrystal Ratledge, in April of 1960 in Thomasville, Georgia. He worked for many years as an electrician for Caterpillar, where he was known for his strong work ethic, dependability, and skill. 

Frank took pride in doing his work well and in serving others through the talents he developed over the years. His dedication and integrity were evident in all that he did, and he earned the respect of those who worked alongside him. Frank was also a Mason and a faithful member of Bethany Baptist Church in Carthage. His faith was an important part of his life, and he found strength and fellowship in his church family. He valued the bonds of brotherhood and community, and he lived in a way that reflected his beliefs and his commitment to others.

In his leisure time, Frank enjoyed fishing and playing music. These simple pleasures brought him joy and gave him opportunities to relax, reflect, and share meaningful moments with those around him. Whether he was spending time outdoors or making music, he found happiness in the things that connected him to family, friends, and the world he loved.

Frank is survived by his wife of 66 years, Chrystal Brinson; his sons, Anthony “Tony” Brinson and his wife Rebecca, and Mark Brinson and his wife Caryn; his grandsons, Travis Brinson and Drew Brinson; and his brother, Jerry Brinson. His family was the center of his life, and he cherished the years, memories, and love they shared together. He was also preceded in death by his brother, Buford Brinson.

Per Frank’s wishes, there was cremation. The family will hold private services at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions to Bethany Baptist Church or Oak Pointe in care of Knell Mortuary. Online condolences may be expressed through www.knellmortuary.com.

Judy Wilson

(From Clark Funeral Home)

Judy Marie Wilson, 61, of Neosho, Missouri, passed away peacefully on June 8, 2026.

Born on October 31, 1964, in Neosho, Missouri, Judy was the daughter of Jim Dean Farley and Billie Jean Williams Farley. A lifelong resident of the area, she graduated from Neosho High School in 1983. Judy was known for her kind heart, feisty spirit, and unwavering love for her family and friends.

Judy dedicated many years of her life to serving others in the beauty industry. She proudly owned and operated Tropical Tan and The Shoppe for 20 years, offering hair, nail, and tanning services to the community she loved. Through her work, she built countless friendships and took pride in helping others look and feel their best. She continued her career as a cosmetologist until her retirement in 2015.

Judy never met a stranger. She loved everyone she encountered and had a way of making people feel welcome. Her children were the center of her world, and she loved them fiercely. Always on the go, Judy devoted much of her time to coaching all three of her children’s sports teams throughout their childhood, creating lasting memories and cheering them on every step of the way. She enjoyed being outdoors and was known for her green thumb, taking great pride in her many plants and flowers. Some of her favorite memories were made at Grand Lake, where she spent time with her children, grandchildren, family, and friends.

She is survived by her children, Brandi Wilson and wife Montana of Neosho, Trevor Wilson and wife Nicole of Neosho, and Stephanie Altman and husband Dusty of Neosho; her former spouse, Jeff Wilson, with whom she shared many years and raised their three children; six grandchildren, Brylee, Mack, Oaklee, Tripp, Jones, and Brooks; her brothers, Bubby “Jimmie” Farley and wife Darla of Neosho, and Danny Ezell of Neosho, Missouri; along with numerous extended family members, lifelong friends, and all who were blessed to know her.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Jim Dean Farley and Billie Jean Farley.

Judy’s kindness, laughter, strength, and unconditional love for her family will be deeply missed and forever remembered by those who knew and loved her.

A Memorial Visitation will be held on Thursday, June 11, 2026, from 5:30 - 7:00 pm at Clark Funeral Home in Neosho, Missouri.

A graveside will be held at a later date.

Clarence Ackerson

(From Parker Mortuary)

Clarence Le Roy Ackerson II, known affectionately to family and friends as Butch, passed away on June 6, 2026, in Joplin, Missouri, at the age of 56. He was born on June 20, 1969, in Joplin, Missouri, and lived a life marked by love, humor, loyalty, and a deep devotion to the people and places that meant the most to him.

Butch graduated from Joplin High School in 1987 and went on to work as an auto mechanic for many years. He took pride in his work and was known for his practical skills and dependable nature. Whether he was helping someone get back on the road or lending a hand wherever it was needed, he carried himself with a quiet generosity that reflected the kind of man he was. He was selfless by nature and always tried to put the needs of others before his own.

He is survived by his mother, Paulette Eby of Joplin, Missouri, who meant the world to him. He leaves behind his son, Christopher Ackerson of Carl Junction, Missouri, and his two daughters, Kennadi Dawn Ackerson of Webb City, Missouri, and Emylee Michael of Joplin, Missouri. His sister, Donna Eby of Peoria, IL and his special nephew, Bobby Cooper of Joplin, MO. He was preceded in death by his father, Clarence L. Ackerson, and his daughter, Markala Ackerson. The love he had for his family was evident in all he did, and those who knew him understood that his heart belonged first and foremost to the people he loved.

Butch enjoyed the simple pleasures in life and found happiness in the things that brought him peace and excitement. He liked playing golf and enjoyed video games whenever time allowed. He especially loved going to local rodeos, where he could take in the atmosphere he enjoyed so much, and he had a deep appreciation for riding horses and roping. These interests were a reflection of his spirited personality and his connection to the traditions and activities he held dear.

He also shared a special bond with his dog, Gracie, who was never far behind him wherever he went. Those who knew Butch will remember that he could be ornery, and that was part of his charm. The dimples in his cheeks often gave away whatever he was thinking before he even said a word. He had a funny, friendly, and loving nature that made him memorable to everyone around him. His sense of humor and warm presence left a lasting impression on family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Above all else, Butch loved his mother more than anything, and it was clear to everyone that the sun rose and set with her. That devotion was one of the truest reflections of his character. He lived with a generous heart, a strong spirit, and a deep capacity for love. Even in his ornery moments, there was kindness beneath the surface, and his life was filled with the kind of relationships that endure in memory long after a person is gone.

Clarence Le Roy “Butch” Ackerson will be remembered for his loving heart, his humor, his friendliness, and the way he cared for others. His family and friends will forever hold close the memories of his laughter, his dimples, his selfless spirit, and the many ways he made life brighter for those around him.

The arrangements are under the personal care and direction of Parker Mortuary

Private family services will take place at a later date.

Arland Williams

(From Clark Funeral Home)

Arland Wayne Williams, born July 16, 1934, to Calvin and Beulah (Norton) Williams in Rush Springs, OK. Both his parents passed away by the time he turned 12, he then lived with various family members until enlisting into the United States Air Force at the age of 17. While stationed in San Rafael, CA., he met his first wife and mother of his children, Bonnie Pierce. They lived in several cities across California, relocating to the state of Missouri in 1977.

Arland was a grade A welder and in 1979, along with being in the Air Force reserves, went to work for the civil service, relocating to Oklahoma City, OK., working at Tinker Air Force Base. While employed there, he met and married the love of his life, Rachel. They had 34 wonderful years together before her passing in 2014.

After Rachel's passing, he relocated to Southeast Kansas to be closer to family.

Along with his parents and his wife, Rachel, he was also preceded in death by 5 brothers, John Wesley Williams of Rush Springs, OK., Melvin Williams of Galena, MO., Billy Jo Williams of Oklahoma City, OK., Alvin L. Williams of Verden, OK., Bobby Gene Williams of Crane, MO., a sister, Myra Nell McDonald of Crane, MO., and a daughter, Deborah Jean Forehand of Joplin, MO.

He is survived by a daughter, Becky Cagle and husband Bob, Joplin, grandson Matthew Cagle, Joplin, granddaughters Sonni Potts and husband James, Joplin, Allie Ellsworth and husband Colby, Springfield, great-grandchildren, Donovan Potts, Alex Potts, Halle Potts, Silas Ellsworth, Kaylee Ellsworth and Liam Ellsworth.

Arland was born and raised to be a person of faith. Serving God was his passion until the day he passed. He faithfully attended The Sheep Shed Church, Neosho, MO.

He was a natural born charmer, he could "grin and sweet talk" his way out of any situation.

He has gained his robe and crown, and surely he will be waiting at the gate when we all one day join him.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, June 25, 2026, from 5:30 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. at Clark Funeral Home Chapel of Memories in Neosho. A graveside service will be held on Friday, June 26, 2026, at Missouri Veterans Cemetery in Springfield, Missouri.

Arland will be laid to rest with full military honors conducted by the Missouri Funeral Honors Program.

Sheila Brenneman

(From Mason-Woodard Mortuary)

Sheila M. Brenneman, age 64, of Neosho, MO passed away on June 7, 2026, after a brief illness. She will be forever missed by those who knew and loved her.

Sheila was born on September 25, 1961, in Tacoma, WA, to her mother, Essie M. Jones. She attended and graduated from Lincoln High School in Tacoma. After the birth of her son Marcus and daughter Moria, she reunited with Steven Brenneman, whom she had known since 7th grade. At the time, Steven was already serving in the military. The two were married on June 14, 1986, and had another son, Michael, shortly after. Sheila faithfully followed Steven during his military service. The family lived in Germany for three and a half years, where she welcomed her youngest son, Matthew. During her time in Germany, God led her to a church family under Pastor Lee, where she gave her life to Christ.

After Steven’s tour of duty, the family returned to the United States. They lived in Oklahoma from 1992 to 2003 before settling in Neosho, Missouri, where she remained for the rest of her life. While living in Oklahoma, she was introduced to Pastor Blue and became a devoted and faithful member of New Testament Holiness Church.

Sheila worked for 18 years as a dietary aide at Freeman Hospital in Joplin, MO, prior to her retirement. Sheila enjoyed home improvement projects, landscaping, and writing calligraphy and poetry. She loved spending time with her children and cherished her grandchildren even more. Most importantly, she centered her life on Christ and was a dedicated member and pillar of her church. She was a prayer warrior who found great joy in reading her Bible. Up until her passing, she remained strong in her faith and always kept a smile.

She is survived by her life partner, Steve Brenneman, (adopted nephew Ian); her children, Marcus Philpot (wife Tia), Moria Brenneman (Shantez), Michael Brenneman, and Matthew Brenneman (Tosha); her grandchildren, Zykius, Devin, Emmanuel, Deion, Leah, Jayden, Ava, Aubree, Titus, Jace, Jordan, and Faithlynn; her siblings, brother Marc and sisters Michelle, Debra, and Diane; her nephews, Anthony, Martinez, and Maurice; and her nieces, Kieona, D’nara, and Kiana. She was preceded in death by her mother, Essie M. Jones, and her nephew, Vondrae Martin.

A visitation will be held from 5:00–6:00 p.m., Monday, June 15, 2026, at Mason-Woodard Mortuary, followed by a graveside service on Tuesday, June 16, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. at Osborne Cemetery in Joplin, MO.