Dick Largent

(From Mason-Woodard Mortuary)

Richard “Dick” Wayne Largent, age 71 of Joplin, Mo passed away on November 3, 2016 at his home. 

He was born on September 23, 1945 in Lincoln, Ne the son of Wayne E and Lucille Newman Largent. Dick was a 1963 graduate of Joplin High School, and earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Sociology from Missouri Southern State University. He was a veteran serving his country with the United States Navy during the Vietnam War. He married Barbara Gillis on August 11, 1970 in Miami, Ok. He was employed with the City of Joplin from 1969 to his retirement in 2007, as a Community Developer and City Planner, with his biggest accomplishments being responsible for MAPPS, the flood plain management of the Joplin area and the Para Transit System. He attended the Bethel Free Will Baptist Church of Columbus, Ks, he was a member of the 203rd Army National Guard for 20 years retiring as 1st Sergeant, Fellowship Lodge 335 AF&AM, Joplin Elks Lodge 501, Joplin National Guard Retiree Association, and the Goldwing Road Riders Association. He was a volunteer at Mercy, an avid reader, loved fishing in local streams and Grand Lake and taught his granddaughters how to fish. 

Dick was preceded in death by his parents, and a brother, Reggie Largent. He is survived by his wife, Barbara of the home, a son, Justin Largent and wife, Rebecca of Hartsburg, MO, two granddaughters: Hannah and Lauren Largent, a brother, Dennis Largent and wife Leslie of Overland Park, Ks, a sister, Nancy Hill of Joplin, Mo, his mother in-law, Anna Gillis, two brothers in law: Phil Gillis and wife Glenda, and Larry Gillis of Joplin, Mo, three sisters in law: Cheryl Largent of Holt Summit, Mo, Linda Patten and husband Bill, and Ginny Holland, several Nieces and Nephews and his lap dog Pepper. 

Masonic rites and Military honors will be given at 6:00 pm Wednesday November 9, 2016, a memorial visitation will immediately follow at the Mason-Woodard Mortuary & Crematory. The family suggests contributions to the Bethel Free Will Baptist Church or to the family. The family would like to thank Dr. Skelly, Dr. Dalia, the oncology infusion center staff and Mercy Hospice for all their loving care. 

Arrangements entrusted to the Mason-Woodard Mortuary and Crematory.