Wesley Heath

Wesley Lawrence Heath, a beloved father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on April 17, 2026, at his apartment at Oak Pointe in Neosho, MO. Born on June 30, 1936, in the small town of Magazine, Arkansas, Wesley spent his life embodying the values and love instilled in him by his parents, Elbert H. Heath and Erma J. C. Twiggs.

Wesley shared 63 cherished years with his loving wife, Cleone A Eklund Heath, whom he married on January 21, 1956, in Yuma, Arizona. Together, they created a life filled with laughter, dedication, and mutual support. Cleone preceded Wesley in death, as did their beloved daughter, Cynthia A Heath. Wesley was also predeceased by his parents, his brothers J'Neal and Kenneth Heath, his sisters "Judy" Faubus and Sharon K Thurman, and his grandson, Joshua Heath.

Wesley's legacy is carried on by his children, Melanie L Heath, Matthew L Heath, and James W Heath, who were the pride of his life. He was a devoted grandfather to five grandchildren and a doting great-grandfather to eight great-grandchildren, always sharing his warmth, wisdom, and infectious smile with them.

A man committed to lifelong learning, Wesley attended Purdue University to obtain his teaching credentials for the State of California as a master plumber. He was also a licensed carpenter, skills that served him well throughout his career. Together with Cleone, he owned and operated Heath Plumbing, contributing significantly to the historical projects in Bentonville, Arkansas, and the homes in the Bellavista area.

Wesley's professional achievements were paralleled by his active involvement in his community. He was a proud member of the Lions Club in Goodman, MO, and a dedicated member of First Lutheran Church in Neosho, MO. Additionally, he participated in the Republican Club in Pineville, MO, always eager to engage with and contribute to the community he loved.

An avid outdoorsman, Wesley found joy in fishing, bird watching, and exploring nature's wonders. He possessed a talent for inventing solutions to construction challenges, a testament to his ingenuity and passion for problem-solving. His quick wit and warm smile endeared him to all who met him, while his life's motto, "offer a hand up and not a hand out," defined his generous spirit.

A celebration of Wesley's remarkable life will be held on June 30, 2026, at 2:00 PM at the First Lutheran Church, located at 431 Cemetery Rd, Neosho, MO 64860. The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the caregivers at North Pointe and the exceptional staff from Gentiva Hospice in Neosho, MO, for their compassionate care and support.

Wesley Lawrence Heath will be remembered as a man of integrity, kindness, and boundless love. His legacy lives on in the hearts of his family and all who were fortunate to know him. May he rest in peace, reunited with his beloved Cleone and cherished family members who have gone before him.

Mildred Jennings

(From Peterson Funeral Home)

Mildred Virginia Jennings, 77 of Aurora passed away Monday, June 15, 2026 in Cox Hospital, Monett, Missouri. She was born December 21, 1948 in Verona, MO., the daughter of William and Pearl (Means) Cantrell.

Survivors include her children, Mike Jennings and wife, Sondra of Aurora and Michele Litchy and husband, Joe of Republic, MO.; one brother, C.W. Cantrell of Ridgedale, MO; one sister, Pauline Jennings of Aurora, MO.; 4 grandchildren; and 4 great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents and one sister, Fran Grant.

A celebration of life will be held Saturday, June 20 from 11:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m. in the Peterson Funeral Chapel.

Arrangements are under the care of Peterson Funeral Chapel.

Kenneth Miles

(From Konantz Warden Funeral Home)

Kenneth Dean Miles, 87, of Lamar, Missouri, passed away on June 15, 2026, at Cox Barton County Hospital in Lamar, Missouri. He was born on August 10, 1938, in Temple, Texas, to Wilburn and Dallie (Dodd) Miles.

On September 3rd, 1963, Kenneth married Janet (Ayers) Brown, and they began their life together in Oklahoma City. He became a stepfather to Tamela and Teresa, and together had Katherine, Jarel, and Wesley, completing their family.

Kenneth worked for Lee Way Motor Freight in Oklahoma City for many years until its closing. He then worked at Tinker Air Force Base.

He was known for his strong work ethic, both professionally and at home—whether maintaining a beautiful garden, restoring antiques, woodworking, painting homes, or volunteering. In his later years, he enjoyed attending auctions and putting together puzzles with Janet.

Kenneth was a lifetime member of the Oklahoma City Elks Lodge #417, reflecting his commitment to community and fellowship.

Kenneth served his country with distinction in the United States Marine Corps. He began his military career at Camp Pendleton, later joined the Marine Reserves, and answered the call during Operation Desert Storm with Fox Battery, 2nd Battalion, 14th Marines. Master Gunnery Sergeant/Top/Master Guns Miles loved this country and his Marine Corps brothers.

Kenneth was deeply devoted to his wife Janet of 62 years. Janet passed away on May 7, 2026. The fact that they were separated by only a few weeks before being reunited is especially touching.

He was also preceded in death by his daughter, Teresa Norton; granddaughter, Kendra Gard; his parents, Wilburn and Dallie (Dodd) Miles; his in-laws, Orvan and Dortha Ayers; and his brother-in-law, PFC Jarel Wayne Ayers. He was the last surviving sibling of ten children and was preceded in death by his brothers, Louie Joyce Miles, William “Red” Miles, James Miles, and Alvin Ted Miles; his sisters, Evelyn Long, Faye Nell Kleeman, Hallie Compton, and Dallie Howerton; and an infant sister, Mary Ann Miles.

Kenneth is survived by his daughter, Tamela (Joe) Schafer of Forney, Texas; daughter, Katherine Gard of Lamar, Missouri; sons, Jarel (Sherry) Miles of Oklahoma City; and Wesley (Stephani) Miles of Oklahoma City.

He is also survived by his grandchildren: Jason (Evelyn) Brown of Forney, Texas; Jeremy Brown of Frisco, Texas; Christina Aponte of Watauga, Texas; Kelly (Brent) Courville of Forney, Texas; Kimberly (Harold) Stokes of Oklahoma City; Kelsey Norton of Oklahoma City; Drake (Rachel) Gard of Fairview, Oklahoma; Marissa (Cole) Corlett of Webb City, Missouri; Blake Gard of Fairview, Oklahoma; Courtney Miles of Marlow, Oklahoma; Jeffrey Miles of Atlanta, Georgia; Whitney Miles of Oklahoma City; Ava Roper of Oklahoma City; Sophie Roper of Oklahoma City; and Aden Roper of Mustang, Oklahoma.

Kenneth leaves behind great-grandchildren Victoria, Charlotte, Haylie, Trevor, Alexis, Quinn, Lincoln, Georgia, Aubrey G., Brigham, Jax, Aelita, Casper, Tarian, Brayleigh, and Aubrey M.; and great-great-grandchildren Bentley, Elleana, Parker, Oliver, Hudson, and Paisley, along with several beloved nieces and nephews who meant the world to him.

The family would like to thank the doctors, nurses, and staff at Cox Barton County Hospital for their exceptional care.

Kenneth left a legacy of hard work and integrity. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who knew him.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Disabled American Veterans (DAV) in care of the funeral home.

Visitation will be held at Konantz Warden Funeral Home on Saturday, June 20, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. A graveside service with military honors will follow at Morehead Cemetery.

Betty McCoy

(From Knell Mortuary)

Betty Jean McCoy, age 97, of Carthage, Missouri, passed away on June 12, 2026. She was born on October 21, 1928, in Terre Haute, Indiana and lived a long life marked by love, faith, generosity, and devoted service to others. She grew up during the Great Depression with hardships that would forever shape her perspective on life.

When Betty was barely four years old, her father lost his job, and a difficult decision was made. She and her six siblings were placed in Chauncey Rose Orphan’s Home. Two years later, she would be the only sibling to be adopted. Betty remembered her time at the orphanage vividly. Memories shared with her siblings when they reunited as adults.

As a child, Betty’s family moved frequently. She often told stories that ranged from life on the farm with a one-room school to life in a large city, always seeing the positives in every situation. Through her struggles and difficulties in childhood, Betty learned to not only be resilient, but to have compassion, to value others, and to count her blessings. She credited her mother for introducing her to a faith that would be her anchor through life.

Betty attended Ball State University after graduating high school. She was also a veteran, proudly serving her country as a med tech in the U.S. Navy during the Korean War. Betty married the love of her life, James Davilee “Dave” McCoy, on August 17, 1952, in Columbus, Indiana, and together they shared 72 years of love and life until his passing on March 30, 2025. As a loving wife and mother, she provided not only a nurturing home but an example of how to live a life full of purpose and gratitude.

A faithful Christian, Betty was a member of the First Christian Church in Carthage. Her faith was her guiding light in life, and she supported many ministries over the years. She found joy in living out her beliefs through quiet acts of kindness, encouragement, and compassion. She was a sweet, faith-filled, generous woman with an unexpected quick-wit and sense of humor. Her presence brought comfort, warmth and joy to those around her.

Betty will be remembered for her gentle spirit, her words of wisdom, that touch of orneriness and sense of joy for life, her steadfast devotion to God and family, and her passion to build up others with humility and grace. Her life reflected the values she held dear, and her memory will remain a source of comfort and inspiration to all who loved her.

Betty Jean McCoy is survived by her children, Debi Morgan of Carthage, Missouri; Karen Maynard and her husband Greg of Buffalo, Missouri; David Keith McCoy of Joplin, Missouri; Cheryl Bryant and her husband Jeff of Springfield, Missouri; and her daughter-in-law, Linda McCoy of Warrensburg, Missouri. She also leaves behind her grandchildren, Whitney Brown, Andrew Morgan, Matt Maynard, Forrest Maynard, Sarah Maynard, Sara Bell, William Bell, and Annie McCoy, along with 12 great-grandchildren who brought her great joy. She is also survived by her brother, Richard Bear and his wife Doris; and several nieces, nephews, and extended family members and friends who will cherish her memory. She was preceded in death by her husband, Dave McCoy; her son, Mike McCoy; her parents, Earl M. Bear and Ruth (Lamson) Bear Armstrong; her sisters, Gertrude Shower, Erma Knuth, Dorothy Bryan; and her brothers, Charles Allan, Claude Allan, and George Allan.

Memorial services will be held at 10:30 am, on Saturday, June 27, 2026, at Knell Mortuary, Carthage. The family will receive friends from 10:00 am until service time. Memorial gifts are suggested to Shiloh Christian Children’s Ranch or Ozark Food Harvest in care of Knell Mortuary. Online condolences may be expressed through www.knellmortuary.com. Arrangements are under the direction and personal care of Knell Mortuary.

Dixie Ward

(From Hedge-Lewis-Goodwin Funeral Home)

Dixie Ann Vailes Ward, born on November 23, 1937, in Webb City, Missouri, passed away on June 14, 2026, in Carthage, Missouri, following an extended illness.

Dixie was a loving, thoughtful, and selfless woman whose life was marked by devotion to her family, her faith, and the many people she cared for throughout the years. She attended Webb City Schools and carried the values of her hometown with her throughout her life. Her gentle spirit and steady presence touched the lives of all who knew her, and she will be remembered for the kindness and compassion she shared so freely. For more than 40 years, Dixie served as a Nurse Aide, dedicating her working life to the care and comfort of others. Her long career reflected the same nurturing heart that defined her life outside of work.

Dixie was a long-time member of Central Christian Center in Joplin. Her faith was an important part of who she was, and it guided her through life with strength and grace. She found comfort and fellowship in her church family and lived her beliefs through the way she treated others.

Dixie was preceded in death by her husbands, LeRoy Vailes and Robert Ward; her parents, Phillip and Lorene (Reitz) Ayers; her brothers, Eugene and James Rose and Marvin Ayers and sisters, Reba Bull and Mildred Coleman.

She is survived by her sons, Jerry Reitz of Webb City, and Terry Reitz of Joplin; her daughters, Margaret Vailes of Webb City, Debbie Vincent of Joplin, and Connie Von Brookner and her husband James of Baxter Springs, Kansas; her sister, Eldeana Riley of Webb City; 11 grandchildren; and numerous great-grandchildren. She also leaves behind many extended family members and friends who will cherish her memory and the love she gave so generously.

Graveside services are planned for Thursday, June 18, 2026 at 11:30 a.m. at the Carterville Cemetery in Carterville, Missouri. Family will receive friends in the Hedge-Lewis Goodwin Chapel from 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. prior to the service.

Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Hedge-Lewis Goodwin Funeral Home in Webb City, Missouri.

Rex Eaton

(From Fohn Funeral Home)

Rex Howard Eaton, age 90, of Jenkins, Missouri passed away Friday, June 12, 2026 in Delaware, Oklahoma.

He was born June 30, 1935 in Kearney, Missouri, the son of R.H. and Fannie Ann Elizabeth (Castle) Eaton. On August 19, 1993 he was united in marriage to Ollie “Libby” Eaton, who preceded him in death on November 22, 2013. He was previously married to Sue Dry in Durant, Oklahoma. Also preceding him in death were his parents and brother, Chris Eaton.

Surviving are his sons, Bobby Eaton and wife Mitzi of Jenkins, Missouri and Loyd Eaton and wife Denise of Bartlesville, Oklahoma; daughters, Tonya Lopp and husband Damon of Delaware, Oklahoma and Tara Tyler of McAlester, Oklahoma; sister, Barbara Podell of Pennsylvania; 17 grandchildren; 24 great grandchildren; one great-great-grandchild and special friends, Jim and Mary Birdsong and Doug Fare.

Rex grew up in Pleasant Hill, Missouri, where he attended school and graduated from Pleasant Hill High School in 1953. Following graduation, he served in the United States Army. Rex was self-employed as a paint contractor and farmer. He had a passion for gardening, especially growing tomatoes, and was always dreaming of the next great cattle farm he would build. Above all, God and family were the center of Rex’s life. He was a member of Community Faith Church. Rex will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

Contributions may be made to Clio Cemetery in memory of Rex.

Services are currently pending under direction of Fohn Funeral Home in Cassville.

Lynus Becker

(From Clark Funeral Home)

Lynus Francis Becker passed away peacefully at his home on June 14, 2026, at the age of 75.

He was born on February 7, 1951, in Festus, Missouri, to Eugene F. Becker and Ethel E. (DeRousse) Becker. Lynus graduated from Crystal City High School and later earned an associate degree in business. He worked for Equal Opportunity Organization.

Lynus served his country in the United States Air Force from 1971 to 1974.

Lynus enjoyed working in his yard, fixing things, watching professional wrestling, and spending time in the kitchen, where he was known as a great cook. Above all, Lynus cherished the time he spent with his grandchildren and family.

He is survived by his children, Amy Becker of St. Joseph, Missouri, John Becker and wife, Minori, of Aomori-Ken, Japan, and Paul Becker of Atlanta, Georgia; six grandchildren, Terrence (T-Bone) Rhodes III, Tevion (T-Bird) Rhodes, Riko Becker, Runa Becker, Ramu Becker, and Noah Becker.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Eugene and Ethel Becker, and two brothers, Gerald Becker and Dennis Becker.

Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, June 20, 2026, at Clark Funeral Home, Granby Chapel, in Granby, Missouri. A time of visitation and fellowship with the family will follow the service.

A private family graveside service will be held at the Missouri Veterans Cemetery in Springfield, Missouri, where Lynus will be laid to rest with full military honors in recognition of his faithful service to his country.