Thursday, August 31, 2017

Delbert Presslor

(From Parker Mortuary)

Delbert Lee Presslor, age 82, Herington, Kansas, passed away at 12:30 p.m. Sunday, August 27, 2017.

Delbert was born June 22, 1935 in Judson, Indiana to the late Clare Presslor and Lela Wagle Presslor.

Delbert retired from the United States Air Force as a Chief Master Sergeant. He loved to be outdoors, hunting and fishing. As a hobby, Delbert enjoyed making Blue Bird boxes.

He married Janice Boller on September 14, 1963 at the First Christian Church in Salina, Kansas. She survives at the home.

Additional survivors include a son, Jeff Presslor and his wife, Tracey, Joplin; and two grandchildren, Dillon Presslor and Matthew Henson; siblings, David, Martha, Bethina and June.

Other than his parents, Delbert was preceded in death by siblings, Paul, Kenny, Gene and Melvin (Bob).

Graveside services with military honors are planned for Friday at 3:00 p.m. at Mount Hope Cemetery. Rev. Roger Nichols will officiate.

Arrangements are under the direction of Parker Mortuary.

Bill Haynes

(From Buchanan Funeral Home)

Bill P. Haynes, age 80, of Monett, MO, passed away on Thursday, August 31, 2017.

He was born on June 9, 1937 in Stella, MO, son of Argyle and Geneva (Smith) Haynes.

Bill graduated from Wheaton High School in 1955. He attended Joplin Junior College and graduated from John Brown University in Siloam Springs, AR. He received his Master’s Degree from Northeastern State in Tahlequah, OK.

Bill was voted NAIA All-American while attending John Brown University on a basketball scholarship. He was also inducted into the Hall of Fame for his great athleticism and outstanding performance. He began his coaching career there and was selected District 17 NAIA Coach of the Year in baseball.

He returned to Missouri where he coached at Wheaton and Purdy and also coached some of his grandchildren in their various team sports.

Bill served on the MSHSAA Basketball Advisory Committee from 1984-87. While at Wheaton, his teams went to State Championships seven times and he was nominated Joplin Globe Coach of the Year in 1980-81.

Bill was united in marriage to Edna Thomas on June 10, 1956 at the First Baptist Church in Wheaton. He was a member of the First Baptist Church in Monett. He loved the Lord and was an avid St. Louis Cardinals fan. Comments from his players were that he was a talented athlete and a great Coach but most of all they felt he loved them and loved the Lord.

Bill is survived by his wife, Edna, of the home; three daughters, Vicki Hutchings (Mark) of Pierce City, MO, Lynn Hoskins (Kevin) of Neosho, MO and Kim Roller (Mike) of Purdy, MO; one daughter-in-law, Melanie Haynes, of Lincoln, MO; four brothers, Melvin Haynes (Betty), Darril Haynes (Esther), Wesley Haynes (Carolyn) all of Wheaton, MO and Gary Haynes of Broken Arrow, OK; four sisters, Freida Kite (Bud) of Carthage, MO, Carolyn Brattin (Charlie) of Cassville, MO, Wylene Clouse, of Springfield, MO and Veva Lee (Bill) of Cassville; one sister-in-law, Joan Haynes, of Wheaton; nine grandchildren, Lauren Huebner (Jerod), Alex Severs (Brook), Tara Dowling (Cody), Nathan Hoskins (Maggie), Tyler Haynes, Alisha Ackerman (John), Carly Haynes, Avery Legg (Adam) and Addy Roller; as well as eight great-grandchildren and a host of extended family and friends.

Bill was preceded in death by his parents; one son, Billy Haynes, Jr.; one brother, Claude Haynes; and one sister, Joyce Akin.

Funeral services for Mr. Haynes will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Monday, September 4, 2017 at the First Baptist Church in Monett with Dr. Bill Cox and Reverend Roger Pickard officiating. Interment will follow at the Rocky Comfort Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. on Sunday at the church. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the Bill Haynes Scholarship Fund, which will be awarded to Wheaton graduates, in care of the funeral home. 

Arrangements have been entrusted to Buchanan Funeral Home, Monett, MO.

Wade Short

(From Parker Mortuary)

Wade Brian Short, age 46, of Webb City, Missouri, passed away suddenly on Monday, August 28, 2017 at Freeman Hospital.

Wade was born on December 29, 1970 in Joplin to the late Scott Short and Vicki Arft Short. He graduated from Grove High School in 1989 and later became a licensed electrician with Bill's Electric, Inc. before later joining the I.B.E.W. Local 95.

On June 15, 1996, Wade married Missy Jordan.

Survivors include his wife, Missy; a son, Briar Short of the home; siblings, Lance Short and wife, Belinda of Broken Arrow, Oklahoma, Cole Short of Joplin, Kip Short, also of Broken Arrow; grandmother, Maxine Short of Joplin; in-laws, Leroy and Kay Jordan of Oronogo, Missouri; 2 nephews, 3 nieces; sister in law, Jayme Shanks and husband, Jeff of Webb City; several extended family and friends.

Other than his parents, Wade is preceded in death by a grandmother, Rudene Arft and a grandfather, Raymond Short.

A memorial visitation will be held on Saturday, September 2 from 1:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. at Christ Church of Oronogo, Student East Building, Oronogo, Missouri.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to Peterson Outdoor Ministries in care of the mortuary.

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

Wednesday, August 30, 2017

Shirley Batton

(From Clark Funeral Home)

Shirley Faye Batton, 80, Granby, passed away at Granby House on August 29, 2017. She was born Sept. 5, 1936 in Yellville, AR, the daughter of Richmond Thurman and Zella Belle (Matlock) Patterson. She spent much of her life in the Newton and McDonald County area. Shirley formerly worked as an inspector for Talbot Wire. She was a member of the Baptist Church, enjoyed going on cruises and was a fan of the KC Chiefs. 

Shirley is survived by two daughters, Rhonda Stutman and Tony Lakey of Granby, Linda Betsey of Quapaw, OK, one son, Kenneth Batton and wife, Marcie of Brandenburg, KY, nine grandchildren, seven great grandchildren, 1 great great grandchild, and one brother, Ed Patterson of Yellville, AR. In addition to her parents, Shirley was preceded in death by one son, Darrell Batton, one sister, Lillian Walters, and four brothers, Ray, Pat, Chet, and Jim Patterson.

Memorial services will be held on Saturday, Sept. 2, 2017 at 1:30 p.m. at Clark Funeral Home Chapel of Memories, Neosho. Pastor Sheldon Harris will officiate. Contributions in memory of Shirley may be made to Granby House Activity Fund c/o Clark Funeral Home, P.O. Box 66, Neosho, MO 64850.

Services are under the direction of Clark Funeral Home, Neosho, MO.

Wilda Barlett

(From Simpson Funeral Home)

Wilda B. Barlett age 64, passed away on Monday, August 28, 2017 at her residence in Carthage. 

She was born on July 1, 1953 in Joplin, Missouri to Ralph and Irene Maness. She worked as a cosmetologist for many years. 

 Wilda is survived by her daughters, Ginger Barlett Ehlert and husband Paul of Galena; Georgia (Jayma) Barlett of Oronogo; grandkids, Dalton Brinkerhoff of Joplin and Cole Miller of Oronogo; siblings, Sam Bernie, Donna and Doyle. Wilda has been taken for cremation and no services are planned at this time. 

 Cremation arrangements are under the direction of Simpson Funeral Home in Webb City. Visit www.simpsonfh.com for online condolences.

Hazel Lynch

(From Paul Thomas Funeral Home)

Hazel L. Lynch, 93 formally of Miami, Oklahoma passed away Saturday August 26, 2017 at her daughter’s home in Glenpool, Oklahoma.

Hazel was born March 16, 1924 to Herman and Mary (Sproat) Redington in Herrington, Kansas and had lived in the Ottawa County area all her life.

She married Glen Lynch on October 3, 1944 in Kingfisher, Oklahoma.

Hazel was a homemaker and of the Christian Faith.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband and one brother Ray Redington.
Survivors five daughters Betty Keene of Glenpool, OK, Linda Lawson of Glenpool, OK, Judy Mendoza of Joplin, MO, Glenda Hullinger of Broken Arrow, OK and Carol Anderson of Glenpool, OK. 11 grandchildren, 21 great grandchildren and 6 great-great grandchildren.

Graveside Services will be 1:30 pm Wednesday at the Fairland Cemetery with Steve Holestine officiating. Interment will follow under the direction of the Paul Thomas Funeral Home and Cremation Service of Miami, Oklahoma.

Samuel Spatafora

From Bath-Naylor Funeral Home)

Samuel P. Spatafora 57, of Pittsburg, KS died 2:42am August 26, 2017 at his home following a sudden illness.

Samuel was born April 4, 1960 in Melrose Park, IL the son of Samuel P. and Betty J. (Grove) Spatafora. He was a lifelong resident of the area and a graduate of Columbus High School in 1978. On August 17, 2007 

Samuel married Crystal M. Fields in Miami, OK; she survives at the home. In Samuel’s early years he worked on an Off Shore Oil Rig near Houston, TX; he later worked in residential home improvement for 20 years founding Handy Sam's. Samuel was of the Catholic Faith; loved hunting, fishing and was known as a loving husband, father and friend. 

Survivors include children Samantha Schmitt of Joplin, MO, Adam Spatafora of Pittsburg, KS, Vince Rakestraw of Pittsburg, KS, Carl Rakestraw of Pittsburg, KS and Jasper Fields of Pittsburg, KS; siblings Kathy Bond of Columbus, KS, Debbie Spatafora of Grove, OK, Cindy Skahan and husband Rick of Columbus, KS, Sherry Thigpen and husband Jim of Columbus, KS, Dan Spatafora and wife Angela of Oswego, KS and David Spatafora of Columbus, KS; 6 grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews.
Samuel was preceded in death by his parents and brother in law Tom Bond.
Per Samuel’s wishes private burial will take place at Park Cemetery in Columbus, KS. Arrangements and services are under the direction of Bath-Naylor Funeral Home of Pittsburg, KS.

Roger Smith

(From Ozark Funeral Home)

Mr. Roger Dale Smith, 64, of Anderson, Missouri, departed this life on Friday morning, August 25, 2017, at the McDonald County Living Center in Anderson, Missouri, after a recent battle with cancer.

Roger entered this life on June 29, 1953, in Wheaton, Missouri, born to the union of the late Cliss Henry and Alma Louise (Day) Smith. He was raised on a farm near Powell, Missouri and was a lifelong resident of McDonald County. Roger was a very social individual who always wore a smile. He enjoyed playing games, listening to music, was an avid St. Louis Cardinal fan and an avid tool collector. Roger was a member of the Anderson First Baptist Church.

Roger is survived by his sister, Johnnie Buchanan and husband, John, of Powell, Missouri; a niece, Rhonda Bouvier and husband, Jeff, of Powell, Missouri; a nephew, Troy Buchanan and wife, Stephanie, of Anderson; five great nieces and nephews, Mykkah, Hayden, Tristain, Samuel and Kyla; three half-siblings, Clistine, Peggy and Harold; as well as a host of other family and friends.

Funeral services for Mr. Smith are 11:00 a.m. Tuesday, August 29, 2017, in the Anderson Chapel of the Ozark Funeral Homes with Bro. John Beck and Bro. Jerry Siegel officiating. Burial will follow in the Rocky Comfort Cemetery. Those honoring his life by serving as pallbearers are Troy Buchanan, Tristain Buchanan, John Buchanan, William Parrish, Hayden Bouvier, Samuel Bouvier and Jeff Bouvier. The family will receive friends on Tuesday morning at 10:00 a.m. in the funeral home chapel. Memorials are being directed to the McDonald County Living Center Activities Fund c/o the funeral home. On-line condolences may be sent to the family through our website, www.ozarkfuneralhome.com. 

 Arrangements are under the personal care and direction of the Ozark Funeral Home in Anderson, Missouri.

Harry Sumler

(From Ozark Funeral Home)

Mr. Harry Lewis Sumler, 82, of Anderson, Missouri, departed this life on Saturday, August 26, 2017, at Freeman Hospital West in Joplin, Missouri, after a recent decline in health.

Harry entered this life on February 13, 1935, in Dodson, Missouri, one of eight children born to the late Earnest and Opal (Coppack) Sumler. His formative years were spent in Nevada, Missouri and Dodson, Missouri, a small community near Kansas City. He attended Center High School in Dodson before enlisting in the United States Army in 1953. He served his country faithfully during the Korean Conflict as a gunner. On September 29, 1957, he was united in marriage to Norma Ruth Kidd and to this union one son was born. They resided in Kansas City until purchasing a farm in Anderson, Missouri, in March of 1969. In November of 1969, he began employment with the Missouri Department of Conservation as fleet mechanic, retiring in spring of 1997. He was a longtime member of the Union Chapel Church near Bethpage.

He was preceded in death by his parents; five brothers, Glenn, Charles, Raymond, Bernie and John Richard “Butch” Sumler; and a sister, Dixie Meads.

Harry is survived by his wife of fifty-nine years, Norma Sumler of the home; a son, Mark Sumler and wife, Dayna, of Anderson; seven grandchildren, Kayla Keen and husband, Darin, Aaron Sumler and wife, Teresa, Jeremy Whittle and wife, Jamie, Logan Sumler and wife, Randi, Daniel Sumler and wife, Emilee, Joshua Sumler and Rebecca Sumler; six great grandchildren, James, Jazmyn, Elijah, Jet, Oaklee and Emmalynn; a brother, Cappy Sumler of California, Missouri; several nieces and nephews; as well as a host of other family and friends.

Funeral services for Mr. Sumler are 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, August 30, 2017, in the Anderson Chapel of the Ozark Funeral Homes with Bro. Frank Arnall officiating. Burial with full military honors will follow in the Union Cemetery near Stella, Missouri. Those honoring his life by serving as pallbearers are Aaron Sumler, Jeremy Whittle, Logan Sumler, Daniel Sumler, Joshua Sumler, Darin Keen and Kyle Williams. The family will receive friends on Wednesday morning at 10:00 a.m. in the funeral home chapel. Memorials are being directed to the Union Chapel Church Building Fund c/o the funeral home. On-line condolences may be sent to the family through our website, www.ozarkfuneralhome.com. Arrangements are under the personal care and direction of the Ozark Funeral Home in Anderson, Missouri.

Artie Armstrong

(From Ozark Funeral Home)

Artie James Armstrong, 88 years, of Joplin, Missouri passed away on Saturday, August 26, 2017 at the Freeman West Hospital in Joplin, Missouri.

Artie was born on April 6, 1929 at Anderson, Missouri to the late William Thomas and Esther Jane (Lagers) Armstrong. He grew up in the Lone Star area, attending the Morrison School. He received his associates degree from Crowder College in Neosho, Missouri. Artie enlisted in the Army December of 1948 and discharged in August 31, 1969, serving in the Korean and Vietnam wars. He married Esther Lair on July 3, 1952 in Bentonville, Arkansas and to this union four daughters were born. In 1970 they moved back to Anderson, Missouri and opened a restaurant "Artie's Cafe and Donut Shop" until 1973. Artie was a faithful member of the Full Gospel Church in Joplin, Missouri, where he taught Sunday School. He was a licensed minister with the FGEA. Artie enjoyed hunting, fishing, singing and teaching.

He was preceded in death by his parents; eight brothers, Paul, Floyd, Dean, Arnold, Donald, David, Darrell and Bob; seven sisters, Dananell, Dalone, Laveral, Ruth, Wilma, Jean and Maylene.

Artie is survived by his children, Brenda Joyce Clutter and husband, Joel of Carl Junction, Missouri, Deborah Ann Caywood of Goodman, Missouri, Susan Esther Armstrong of Plano, Texas, Lisa Rosalie Davis and husband, David of Webb City, Missouri, Bay Carrier and wife, Tara of Webb City, Missouri; two sisters, Mable Sycamore and husband, Glade of Brigham City, Utah, Mary Gann and husband, Ben of Noel, Missouri; 11 grandchildren, Cory, Derek, Brennan, Elyse, Hayden, Sam, Rick, Robert, Chris, Hilaria and Kelsey; seven great grandchildren, Marissa, Kristy, Micah, Koblie, Emmie, Bentley and Collin; along with a host of other relatives and wonderful friends who will dearly miss Artie.

Graveside funeral services with full military honors for Artie will be held at 11:00 am on Wednesday, August 30, 2017 at the Peace Valley Cemetery in Anderson, Missouri. Brother John Myers will officiate. Visitation will be held from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm on Tuesday, August 29, 2017 in the Anderson Chapel of the Ozark funeral home. The family will receive friends at this time. Memorial contributions may be given to the Salvation Army in care of the funeral home.

Louis Gallahue

(From Ozark Funeral Home)

Mr. Louis Delbert Gallahue, Jr., 63, of Anderson, Missouri, departed this life on Monday, August 28, 2017, at his home, after a recent decline in health.

Louis entered this life on April 23, 1954, in Louisville, Kentucky, son of the late Louis Delbert Gallahue, Sr. and Helen (Echer) Gallahue. He was raised and attended school in Louisville, Kentucky. He served his country faithfully in the United States Army from 1971-73. After being honorably discharged he returned home to Louisville and on August 25, 1973 he was united in marriage to Mary Wittenauer. They remained in Louisville until moving to Anderson, Missouri in 1986. For several years he worked in the field of produce sales. He enjoyed hunting, fishing and spending numerous hours with his family.

He was preceded in death by his parents; two brothers, Donnie and John Gallahue; and a grandson, Derrek Gallahue.

Louis is survived by his wife of forty-four years, Mary Gallahue of the home; two sons, Michael Gallahue of Anderson and Matthew Gallahue and wife, Amy, of Zachary, Louisiana; six grandchildren, Joseph, Josh, Haylie, Justin, Brooklyn and Jesse; two brothers, Larry Gallahue of Louisville and Bill Gallahue of the state of South Carolina; a sister, Linda McCarty also of Louisville; several nieces and nephews; as well as a host of other family and friends.

A family memorial service will be held at a later date. Cremation arrangements are under the personal care and direction of the Ozark Funeral Home in Anderson, Missouri.

Barton Cooper

(From Ozark Funeral Home)

Mr. George Barton Cooper, 81, of Southwest City, Missouri, departed this life on Monday, August 28, 2017, in the comfort of his home after months of declining health.

Barton entered this life on March 15, 1936, in Benton County Arkansas, born to the union of Benjamin Barton and Letha Belle (Barnes) Cooper. He was a lifelong area resident and a 1954 graduate of Southwest City High School. On July 6, 1956, he was united in marriage to Betty Katherine Harp and together they shared sixty years before her passing on April 3, 2017. Barton was a truck driver throughout his life. He retired in 1998 from Praxair in Neosho after thirty-three years of employment. He along with his brother Joe founded Greenwood Cattle Company in 1977, raising limousine cattle for several years. He enjoyed traveling, and attending rodeos, especially the NFR in Las Vegas. Barton was a member of the First Baptist Church in Southwest City, Missouri.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his beloved wife, Betty; and two brothers, James Ross Cooper and Joe Cooper.

Barton is survived by two siblings, Paul Cooper and wife, Melody, of Miami, Oklahoma and Karen Scott of Southwest City, Missouri; several nieces and nephews; as well as a host of other family and friends.

Funeral services for Mr. Cooper are 10:00 a.m. Friday, September 1, 2017, at the First Baptist Church in Southwest City, Missouri, with Bro. Rob Grimm officiating. Burial will follow in the Southwest City Cemetery. Those honoring his life by serving as pallbearers are Jeff Cooper, Tristan Cooper, Brent Cooper, Jerry Cooper, Garrett Cooper and Adam Cooper. Lloyd Barnes and Keith Lindquist will be serving as honorary pallbearers. The family will receive friends on Thursday evening from 5-7:00 p.m. in the Southwest City Chapel of the Ozark Funeral Homes. Memorials are being directed to either the First Baptist Church or the Southwest City Cemetery Care Fund c/o the funeral home. On-line condolences may be sent to the family through our website www.ozarkfuneralhome.com. 

Arrangements are under the personal care and direction of the Ozark Funeral Home in Southwest City, Missouri.

Scott McKay

(From Housh-Goodwin Funeral Home)

Donald Scott McKay, 77, of Sarcoxie, Missouri departed this life on Sunday, August 20, 2017 in the comfort of his home.

Scott entered this life on March 15, 1940 in Pendleton, Oregon to the union of the late Donald and Winifred (Halsey) McKay. Scott was baptized on May 4, 1958 at the Episcopal Church of the Redeemer. Scott was a graduate of Pendleton High School on May 28, 1958. After graduation he attended Boise State College and later graduated from Eastern Oregon College where he earned his bachelor’s degree on June 6, 1964. On October 4, 1994 he received his certification in refrigerant transition and recovery from Ferris State University in Michigan. He later moved to Sarcoxie, Missouri in which he called home. He was a very talented man in many areas. He was extremely involved in the community of Sarcoxie and the public schools. At the time of his passing he was a board member of the Sarcoxie Chamber of Commerce as well as mayor pro tem for the City of Sarcoxie. Scott was very proud on his Native American heritage. He enjoyed Dutch oven cooking; as well as spending time with his friends. Scott touched the lives of everyone he met. He will be greatly missed by his friends which he considered family.

He is survived by his faithful companion, Callie, a mini Australian shepherd, who was the reason he woke up every morning.

A celebration of life for Scott will be 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, August 30, 2017 on the City Square in Sarcoxie, Missouri, with Pastor Scott Pogue officiating. Memorial contributions may be directed to the City of Sarcoxie for the beautification of the park on the Square and may be left at the funeral home. Friends of Scott ask that casual attire be worn as well as bring your lawn chairs. Arrangements are under the personal care and direction of Housh-Goodwin Funeral Home in Sarcoxie, Missouri.

Jerry Coleman

(From Greenfield Funeral Chapel)

Jerry Max Coleman, of Greenfield, MO, departed this life on Monday, August 28, 2017, in his home at the age of 67 years.

He was born on November 30, 1949 in Beaver, OK to Marvin and Fern (Hageman) Coleman. Jerry served his country in the United States Army during the Vietnam War. He was united in marriage to Betty Louise Shrum on December 26, 1971 in Beaver, OK.

Preceding him in death were his parents, Marvin and Fern Coleman; and one sister, Alberta Perry.

Survivors include his wife, Betty Louise Coleman of the home; one son, Clint Coleman of Lockwood, MO; one daughter, Lori Juel of Chandler, OK; one sister, Roberta Reddick of Beaver, OK; and two grandchildren, Sterling Coleman and Alexis Juel.

Graveside memorial services will be held at a later date at Pioneer Cemetery in Beaver, OK. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Hospital. Online condolences may be shared at www.greenfieldfuneralchapel.com. Cremation services are under the care of Greenfield Funeral Chapel.

Patricia McKinney

(From Knell Mortuary)

Patricia A. McKinney, 81, Carthage, MO, passed away Monday evening, August 28, 2017 at her home. Patricia Ann Ward was born February 4, 1936 in Sarcoxie, MO to the late Henry Ward and Loeta (Dennison) Ward. She was a graduate of Sarcoxie High School, Class of 1953. She received her degree in nursing from MSSC. Patricia worked as a RN for McCune Brooks for 12 years, and Freeman East for 18 years, retiring in 2005. She married John F. McKinney on April 27, 1963 in Carthage, MO; he preceded her in death on February 15, 2007. Patricia was a member of the Grace Episcopal Church, Carthage.

Survivors include two daughters, Jeannine Tague (husband David), Cameron, MO, and Kelly McKinney, Carthage, MO; one son, Paul McKinney (wife Nancy), Excelsior Springs, MO; one sister, Virginia Loop, Carthage, MO; ten grandchildren, Amy Vaughn Liles, Johnathon McKinney, Kylie Boyd, Marshall McKinney, Nerissa Baublitz, Addison McKinney, Miranda Plybon, Laken Roberts, Suzie Persell, and Richard Tague, and 14 great grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, two sons, Bill McKinney and David McKinney, and one brother, Harold Williams.

Visitation will be held 1-2 pm, Thursday, August 31, 2017 at Knell Mortuary. A graveside service will follow at 2pm in Park Cemetery, Carthage. Fr. Steve Wilson will officiate. Memorial gifts are suggested to Missouri Veterans Home, Mt. Vernon, MO in care of Knell Mortuary, 308 W. Chestnut, Carthage, MO 64836. Online condolences may be expressed through www.knellmortuary.com. Arrangements are under the direction and personal care of Knell Mortuary.

Tuesday, August 29, 2017

Oscar VanWinkle

(From Clark Funeral Home)

Oscar Allen VanWinkle, 86, Neosho, passed away at Mercy Hospital, Joplin on August 28, 2017. 

Oscar was born May 1, 1931 in Berryville, AR to Oliver Edgar and Lora (McCully) VanWinkle. His parents were farmers, and Oscar worked on their farm until 1948 when they moved to Idaho. After living in Idaho for a year, he relocated to Kansas. Oscar was drafted in 1952 and spent two years in the Army, serving in Korea and Japan. 

In 1956, Oscar married Peggy Byers and they had 61 wonderful years together. To this union, three wonderful children were born: Brenda Brown, Gary VanWinkle, and Phillip VanWinkle. Oscar worked at Pet Milk Company and was a custodian for the Neosho School system. He was always a helper and loved the Lord. He was a member of Abundant Life Assembly of God, and loved to work in the church, where he wore many hats through the years, including bus driver, custodian, carpet cleaner, maintenance, and door greeter. He also loved fishing and attending music shows in Branson. 

Oscar is survived by his wife, Peggy, two sons, Gary, and wife Mindy, and Phillip, son in law, Chris Brown, five grandchildren, two great grandchildren, and a host of nephews and nieces. He was preceded in death by his parents, three brothers, Orville, Clifford, and Kenneth, two sisters, Lucille and Retha, and a daughter, Brenda Brown.

Family will receive friends from 6 to 8 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 1 at Clark Funeral Home in Neosho. Services will be held Saturday, Sept. 2, 2017, at 10:00 a.m. at the Abundant Life Assembly of God in Neosho with the Rev. Ken Robinson officiating. Burial will follow at the Gibson Cemetery in Neosho, with Nathan VanWinkle, Josh VanWinkle, Brice VanWinkle, Eric Brown, Wayne VanWinkle, and Bob VanWinkle honoring their grandfather and uncle by serving as pallbearers. Contributions in memory of Oscar may be made to Abundant Life Assembly of God, c/o Clark Funeral Home, PO Box 66, Neosho, MO 64850.

Services are under the direction of Clark Funeral Home, Neosho, MO.

Gary Blood

(From Parker Mortuary)

Gary V Blood, age 48, of Joplin, peacefully passed from this life on Monday, August 28, after a lifetime filled with love, laughter, adventure, too much cancer, and lots more love and laughter.

He was born on June 18, 1969, in Denver, Colorado.

Gary had a big love for his fellow mankind. He had an undying loyalty to his humongous circle of family and friends. He loved fiercely. Gary had an amazing sense of humor, and he knew it, as he would say himself, “I am the funniest person I know.” He exuded kindness, and found great joy in making the people around him happy, and laughing, and eating the amazing food he was almost world famous for preparing for them.

Gary was infinitely dedicated to his wife, best friend, and as he called her, “my whole world”, Jamie Farrill Blood. Together, they were quite the pair, both free spirits and proof that this life is to be shared with friends and enjoyed to the fullest. As social as the couple was, it was always obvious that they were each other’s favorite person.

Gary’s beautiful spirit will live on as he blessed the world with two sons, Bennett and Grayson, and taught them to be loving, funny, and big hearted. In return, his boys brought out the childlike and goofy side in Gary. He adored his children and said they were his greatest accomplishment.

He worked at Locke Supply in sales. He was an amazing chef who found great pleasure in cooking by turning food into art; he sprinkled love in every dish.

Additional loved ones include his father Valor Blood and wife Vikki Blood; siblings Jamie Largent, Jeremy and Marsha Blood, Ashlee and Josh Coate; Jordan and Jeff Lofting, Lynsey and Jed Skaggs; father and mother in- law, Buck and Vicki Farrill, in laws Ray and Kellee Uber and Blake Farrill and numerous aunts, uncles, grandparents, cousins, nephews, nieces and countless friends that were his family.

He was preceded in death by his mother Teddy Gilmore and grandfather Martin Blood.

Gary provided a glowing example of how to live life: by loving fiercely, by staying positive, by understanding the power of a smile, by faith and discipleship in Jesus Christ, and by being a true friend. Family will receive friends at Parker Mortuary, Joplin 6-8pm Thursday. Funeral Services will be held at 10am Friday at Impact Life Church.

Family requests that memorial contributions be made to Garebear Boys Fund at SMB.

It’s hard not to crack a smile when thinking about Gary, even in this time of intense grief

Charles Belk

(From Parker Mortuary)

Charles Dwight Belk, 87, Joplin, passed away on Friday, August 25, after a long illness.

Charles was born on July 4, 1930, in Joplin, Missouri, son of the late Floyd Belk and Leho (Shafer) Belk.

Charles graduated from Joplin High School in 1949, and then served in the United States Air Force from 1951 to 1955. After serving, he attended Kansas State Teachers College (Pittsburg State University) where he earned Bachelors and Masters Degrees in Education.

Charles began his career in education in Sarcoxie, Missouri, and later became a guidance counselor in Lansing, Kansas. It was while he was in Lansing that he met the love of his life, Joan Lorraine Budzisch, whom he married on October 8, 1965.

After marrying, Charles was employed by the US Forest Service in Grants, New Mexico, where he served as a counselor for the Job Corps program. He later served as a guidance counselor in Lebanon, Missouri, before returning with his family to Joplin, where he served in the same capacity for 31 years, retiring from the Joplin R-8 schools in 1999. He attended First United Methodist Church.

He is survived by his wife of 51 years, Joan; son Christopher (Melissa) Belk of Joplin; daughter Jennifer Wring of Topeka, Kansas; grandchildren, Evan Belk and Hannah Belk; and brothers, Floyd Belk and Richard Belk, both of Joplin.

The family will receive friends at the Joplin First United Methodist Church Family Life Center, 501 West 4th Street, on Tuesday, August 29, at 7:00 PM.

Cremation arrangements are under the direction of Parker Mortuary with private inurnment of his ashes at a later date in Osborne Memorial Columbarium.

Memorial contributions may be made to First United Methodist Church, or the Joplin Humane Society, in care of Parker Mortuary.

Charles’ family would like to extend their warmest thanks to the staff of Hospice Compassus, who cared for him for over a year. Their compassion, dedication, and care have left an indelible impression.

Monday, August 28, 2017

Kara Fly

(From Buchanan Funeral Home)

Kara Lynn Fly, 37, of Crane, MO, died on Saturday, August 26, 2017, at Springfield Villa, in Springfield, MO.

Kara was born on January 18, 1980 in Gillette, WY, daughter of the late David Lyndon Fly and Jo Lynn (Dacy) Ford.

Kara attended high school in Pierce City and Calvary Chapel in Monett.

Kara is survived by her three brothers, Arron Fly of Joplin, MO, Derrick Fly of Pierce City, MO and Jarred Young of Ava, MO; one sister, Megan Wilson of Pierce City, MO; her grandmother, Joyce Fly of Springfield, MO; step-father, Gerald Ford of Monett; and several extended family.



Service Schedule

Memorial Graveside
3:00 PM, Saturday, September 2, 2017
Pierce City Cemetery
Pierce City, MO

Raymond Dunn

(From Mason-Woodard Mortuary)

Raymond G. Dunn, age 65, of Carterville, Mo. has gone fishin’ at the big lake in the sky at 12:20 p.m. Sunday, August 20, 2017 at Bay Medical Center in Panama City, Florida, after suffering an apparent heart attack while on vacation. Raymond was born September 29, 1951 in Joplin, Mo. and had lived in Carterville for over 30 years. He was a graduate of Carl Junction High School. Raymond worked for over 35 years with the former Safeway Bakery in Joplin, retiring in 2008. He was a member of the Bakers and Confectionary Workers Union, Local 218 in Kansas City, Mo.

Raymond married Debra Curry April 8, 1984 in Carthage, Mo. and she survives. Additional survivors include two sons, Randall Dunn and wife Cindy, Webb City, and Rodney Dunn and girlfriend Billie Collins, Carterville, three daughters, Mandy Haley and husband Steve, Skiatook, Ok., Sheena Lutz and husband A.J., and Misty Stewart and husband Billy, all of Webb City, his mother, Nadine Bennett and husband Amos, Joplin, one brother, Arthur Dunn, Webb City, one sister, Linda Tilton and husband Donnie, Oronogo, Mo., twenty grandchildren and many nieces and nephews. Raymond was preceded in death by his father, Arthur V. Dunn, a brother, Fred Dunn, and a step-father, Winfred A. Burkhart.

The family will have a celebration of life at 3:00 p.m. Saturday, September 2, 2017 at the Route 66 Event Center at 21 S. Webb Street, Webb City, Mo. 64870.

Donald Tripp

(From Mason-Woodard Mortuary)

Donald Gene Tripp, age 85 of Joplin, Mo., passed away August 26, 2017 at his home surrounded by his loving family.

Donald was born on May 26, 1932 in Jersey City, N.J., the son of William and Stella (Morningstar) Tripp. He proudly served his country as a member of the US Army during the Korean War. Donald has been an area resident for many years after moving from Pennsylvania. He worked as a supervisor for Kraft Foods for 35 years before retiring in 1991.

He is survived by his wife, Frances (Romano). They would have celebrated their 60th anniversary on August 31st. Additional survivors include five children: Donna, wife of George McGrew; William, husband of Sonya; Donald husband of Tammy; Robert, husband of Lauri; Diane, wife of Anthony Vanim; seven grandchildren: Matthew, Allen, Jorden, Donald (Trey), Brooke, Andrew, and Alek; four great-grandchildren; brother Alan. Donald was predeceased by his parents and brother, William.

The family will hold private services at Mason-Woodard Mortuary.

Nora Ellis

(From Clark Funeral Home)

Nora A. (Beaver) Ellis, age 100, formerly of Neosho, died on August 26, 2017 at Lacoba Homes in Monett, MO. 

 Nora was born on Feb. 16, 1917 in Ritchey, MO, the daughter of Oscar L. and Pearl (York) Beaver. She attended Ritchey School and moved to Neosho in 1947 where she was a homemaker and raised her family. She enjoyed raising her four sons and daughter, her family was her life. She resided in Neosho for over 70 years and was a member of the Neosho United Methodist Church. 

 Nora married the love of her life, Robert Ira Ellis on Feb. 20, 1937 and he preceded her in death on Aug. 11, 1996. She and Bob made many road trips over the years to visit children and grandchildren. They also enjoyed many ‘Good Sam’s Club’ camping trips. 

Nora is survived by a daughter, Beverly Martin and four sons, Lane Ellis and wife, Frances; Rex Ellis and wife, Elaine; Gale Ellis and wife, Sheila and Dale Ellis and wife, Gail; sister in law, Opal Allen; eleven grandchildren; twenty great grandchildren and two great great grandchildren. In addition to her husband, Nora is preceded in death by her parents, two brothers and three sisters. 

 Funeral Services will be held on Sept. 1, 2017 at 10 am at the Clark Funeral Home Chapel of Memories, Rev. Mitchell Jarvis will officiate. Interment will follow in the Neosho Memorial Park Cemetery. The family will receive friends Thursday evening at the Clark Funeral Home, Neosho, from 6 to 7 pm. Contributions in memory of Nora may be made to the Neosho United Methodist Church Building Fund, c/o Clark Funeral Home, PO Box 66; Neosho, MO 64850.

Services are under the direction of Clark Funeral Home, Neosho, MO.

Jeanie Page

(From Parker Mortuary)

Imogene Mary Dymott Page, age 93, formerly of Joplin, passed away on Friday, August 25, 2017 in Carthage.

Imogene was born December 21, 1923 in Joplin, daughter of the late DeWitt and Bessie Craig.

On April 3, 1942 she married Charles W. Dymott, who preceded her in death on April 9, 1974. On March 20, 1980 she married Marvin N. Page. Marvin preceded her in death on April 18, 2008.

Imogene, or Jeanie as her friends called her, graduated from Joplin Senior High School in May 1941, and then graduated from Joplin Junior College in May 1943. When Charlie Dymott was shipped overseas during WWII, Jeanie moved to Staten Island, New York where she stayed with Charlie's family. After the war, the couple stayed in New York but Jeanie was home sick for Joplin. Upon returning to Joplin they built a home at 3345 Sergeant Ave.. Jeanie continued her career as a secretary in different businesses and medical offices. After retirement, she and Marvin enjoyed going to the lake and traveling. She was a member of the chapter GQ of P.E.O., a volunteer at Freeman Hospital, and was an active member of First United Methodist Church, Joplin.

Jeanie is survived by sons Jeff Dymott and wife Nancy (Howerton), Carthage, MO, Larry Dymott, Texarkana, TX., step-daughter Nancy Page Allen and husband Richard "Butch" Allen of Grove, OK; grandchildren James Dymott, St. Louis, Jean Ann Dymott, Dallas, TX, step-grand sons Steve Page, Joplin, Darren Allen, Grove and four step-great-grandsons.

Funeral services will be held Thursday, August 31, 2017 at 11:00 a.m. in First United Methodist Church with visitation at the Church on Thursday, prior to the service from 10:00 a.m. until service time.

The family requests any memorials be given to First United Methodist Church, Joplin.

Carolyn Thrasher

(From Clark Funeral Home)

Carolyn Louise Thrasher, 62, Neosho, entered into rest on Aug. 25, 2017 at Freeman West Hospital in Joplin. 

 Carolyn was born April 29, 1955 in Neosho, the daughter of Lyford and Pauline (Saralls) Thrasher, the youngest of seven children. She was a lifelong area resident and graduated from Parkwood High School in 1974. She had worked at La-Z-Boy in Neosho for 34 years and was a member of the Gospel Lighthouse Church. 

 She is survived by one sister, Inez Booth and husband, Chester of Joplin; three brothers, Don Thrasher and wife, Louise of Granby; Wayne Thrasher and wife, Donna and Jim Thrasher and wife, Vicki, all of Joplin; several nieces and nephews and her best friends, Cathy Mosby and husband, Wayne and Kasey Wiley and husband, Jeff of Neosho as well as many other family and friends. She is preceded in death by her parents and two sisters, Paulette Sherman and Kaye Prater and a nephew, Danny Sherman, Jr.

Services will be held on Friday, September 1, 2017 at 2 pm at the Clark Funeral Home Chapel of Memories, Pastor Craig Baslee will officiate. Interment will follow in the New Bethel Cemetery, Anderson and serving as pallbearers will be Kevin Patterson, Kyle Patterson, Jeff Wiley, Wayne Mosby, Tom Henry and Roger Haslip. The family will receive friends Thursday evening from 6 to 7 pm at the Clark Funeral Home, Neosho. Contributions in memory of Carolyn may be made to Gospel Lighthouse, c/o Clark Funeral Home, PO Box 66; Neosho, MO 64850.

Services are under the direction of Clark Funeral Home, Neosho, MO.

Sunday, August 27, 2017

Keith Watson

(From Konantz Warden Funeral Home)

Billy Keith Watson 64 years old of Lockwood, Mo passed away on August 25, 2017 after a courageous battle with cancer. 

Keith was born October 24, 1952 to Paul & Patsy (Daffron) Watson in Thayer, MO. Keith was a member of the Methodist Church in Lockwood, MO. Keith had several professions in his lifetime. He was a truck driver, insurance salesman, and also laid carpet in the area for many years. Keith had a natural love for speed whether it was race cars, classic cars or boats. He equally loved the peace & quiet of the outdoors. He enjoyed fishing, hunting, canoeing and camping. He often said the water is where he found his peace. 

 is survived by one son and his wife Shawn & Breean Watson, one daughter and her husband Tammie and Rick Gastel. He was a grandfather to five grandchildren Reed Gastel, Abryana Watson, Taylen Watson, Kruz Gastel and Kase Gastel. He is survived by one sister and her husband Ann and Richard Kaiser of Strafford, Mo and a host of nieces, nephews and cousins.


Keith was proceded in death by his parents Paul & Patsy Watson, one sister Shirley Goodwin and one brother David Watson. 

Funeral services will be held at Lockwood Methodist Church on August 29 at 11:00 am with Pastor Travis James officiating.

Saturday, August 26, 2017

David Stovall

(From Paul Thomas Funeral Home)

David Lynn Stovall of Miami, OK passed away Thursday, August 24, 2017 at his home. He was 56.

David was born May 28, 1961 in Kansas City, MO to Roscoe and Frieda (Becker) Stovall. He had lived in Kansas City until he was 4 and moved to Quapaw. He graduated Quapaw High School 1979 and attended N.E.O. A&M College. He served in the U.S. Air Force and worked for OK Disposal in Wyandotte. He attended Spring River Indian Baptist Church and was a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Miami.

David was preceded in death by his father Roscoe Stovall , a brother John Stovall and a sister Anita Bartholomew .

Survivors include his son Jordan Stovall and wife Katy of Wyandotte, OK, his daughter Josie Stovall of Glenwood Springs, CO, his mother Frieda Stovall of Quapaw, OK , 3 brothers Bob Stovall of Carthage, MO, Bill Stovall of Joplin, MO and James Stovall of Commerce, OK one sister Lisa Ward of Olive Branch, MS and a granddaughter ,Joslyn Stovall.

Graveside Celebration of Life Services will be Monday, August 28, 2017 at 10:00 a.m. at G.A.R. Cemetery in Miami, OK. Rev. Carl Kerkemeyer will officiate. Services have been placed in the care of the Paul Thomas Funeral Home and Cremation Service of Miami, OK. Online condolences may be made at www.paulthomasfuneralhomes.com

Alaina Stepp

(From Paul Thomas Funeral Home)

Alaina Racachelle Stepp, 12, passed away August 24, 2017 at Saint Francis Hospital in Tulsa, Oklahoma.

Alaina was born August 20, 2005 in Miami, Oklahoma to Jon Stepp and Shana Bridendolph.
She attended the First Assembly of God Church in Commerce, Oklahoma and attended Commerce Middle School.

Survivors: her mother and father of the home, one brother Riden Dewayne Bridendolph of the Home and one sister Jocelyn Taylor Stepp also of the home, paternal grandparents Rodney Stepp of North Miami, OK and Gloria Stepp of Quapaw, OK, maternal grandparents Ronald Bridendolph of Chetopa, KS and Brenda and husband Carlos of Joplin, MO great grandparents Fred Haddock of the home and Gilbert Bridendolph of Commerce, OK

Services will be 10:30 Tuesday, August 29, 2017 at the First Assembly of God Church with Pastor Howie Moss officiating. Interment will follow under in Greenlawn Cemetery, Treece, Kansas under the direction of the Paul Thomas Funeral Home in Commerce, Oklahoma. The family will receive friends and relatives Monday August 28, 2017 from 6-7 at the Paul Thomas Funeral Home in Commerce, Oklahoma. Pallbearers will be Jon Stepp, Rodney Stepp, Josh Whaley and Roger Stepp.

Dwaine McCarty

(From Ozark Funeral Home)

Mr. Dwaine Lavon McCarty, 73, of Stella, Missouri, departed this life on Wednesday, August 23, 2017, in the comfort of his home after a long courageous battle with cancer.

Dwaine entered this life on September 10, 1943, in Lincoln, Arkansas, born to the late Frank and Lillie Bell (Hurst) McCarty. His formative years were spent in Cane Hill and Morrow, Arkansas. On July 18, 1967, he was united in marriage to Rita Skaggs and to this union they had three sons. They resided at their farm in Cave Springs, Arkansas for 34 years before moving to a farm in Stella, Missouri, in 2005. Dwaine was a hardworking cattle farmer and truck driver throughout his life. He enjoyed tending to the needs of his farm, raising his cattle and spending time with his family.

He was preceded in death by his parents; four brothers, Calvin, Alvin, Doyle and Darrell McCarty; and four sisters, Alice McLung, Lorene Sears, Evelyn Curtis and Linda McCarty.

Dwaine is survived by his wife of fifty years, Rita McCarty of the home; three sons, Kevin McCarty and wife, Steffanie, of Gentry, Arkansas, Cody McCarty of Stella, Missouri and Travis Skaggs and wife, Kristen, of Neosho, Missouri; seven grandchildren, Cory, Dakota, Logan, Dylan, Alyssa, Brayden and Emma Grace; a sister, Ruth Corter of Springdale, Arkansas; several nieces and nephews; as well as a host of other family and friends.

Funeral services for Mr. McCarty are 10:00 a.m. Monday, August 28, 2017, in the Anderson Chapel of the Ozark Funeral Homes with Pastor Bobby Main officiating. Burial will follow in the Union Cemetery near Stella, Missouri. Those honoring his life by serving as pallbearers are Kevin McCarty, Cody McCarty, Travis Skaggs, Randy Skaggs, Cory McCarty and Logan Watts. Dakota McCarty, Keith Smith and Bud Smith will be serving as honorary pallbearers. The family will receive friends on Sunday afternoon from 2-4:00 p.m. in the funeral home chapel. Memorials are being directed to healthwellfoundation.org and contributions may be left at the funeral home. On-line condolences may be sent to the family through our website, www.ozarkfuneralhome.com. 

 Arrangements are under the personal care and direction of the Ozark Funeral Home in Anderson, Missouri.

Corvin Morse

(From Parker Mortuary)

Corvin Gene Morse, age 56, Joplin, passed away on Thursday, August 10, 2017 at Freeman West after a short illness.

Corvin was born June 28, 1961 in Harrisonburg, Pennsylvania, son of the late Bobby Eugene Morse and Kathe E. Lohr Morse. He graduated from Parkwood High School in 1979, and then received a bachelor's degree in drafting and design from Missouri Southern State University. He worked several jobs over the years, and most recently was working with O'Reilly's Automotive. He also served for over 20 years with the United States Air Force Reserves, retiring with the rank of Sergeant. He was a member of Immanuel Lutheran Church.

In addition to his parents, Corvin was preceded in death by a sister, Sandra Ann Morse Cogdill.

Survivors include his children, Gregory Morse, and Anna Morse both of Joplin; brother, Edward Morse of Groves, Texas.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Immanuel Lutheran Church of Joplin on Thursday, August 31, 2017 from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m.

Friday, August 25, 2017

Jacob Holliday

(From Weng Funeral Chapel)

Jacob Noah Holliday, 21 of Jasper, Missouri went home to be with the Lord in Heaven on Wednesday, August 23, 2017. 

He was born September 6, 1995 in Joplin, Missouri to Bruce and Kelly (Adams) Holliday. Jacob graduated from Jasper High School with the class of 2014. He was attending Crowder College in Webb City and doing his fieldwork as an Occupational Therapy Assistant student at Wildwood Nursing Home in Joplin. He planned to graduate this December. He had worked at Pizza Hut in Lamar for the last year. 

Jacob was a member of the Countryside Church west of Jasper. Jacob was an avid runner and ran Track and Cross Country and played Basketball at Jasper. He ran the 1600 meter run at State in 2014 with a time of 4:48. He also won first place at the Bass Pro Ozark Greenways 5K in 2012 in Springfield, Missouri beating over 1,000 runners. He loved playing basketball since second grade and set many records in his career. Foosball was his game at home against his brother. He enjoyed fishing at the family pond. He liked to make peach cobbler and loved playing with his niece and his cats and dogs. He helped constantly on the family farm. Jacob was very strong in his faith and had a deep love for his Savior. He was very active in his home church where he led in communion devotions and song services.He was well known for his winning smile and positive attitude. 

Survivors include his parents, Bruce and Kelly Holliday of the home. One brother, Benjamin and his wife Kristin and their daughter Kaylin of Jasper. Two sisters, Kristy Holliday of the home, and Katie Bronson and her husband Jason of Lamar. Paternal grandmother, Dorothy Holliday of Jasper. Maternal grandparents, Corky and Patty Adams of Carthage. He was preceded in death by his paternal grandfather, Arthur Holliday Jr. 

Funeral services will be held on Monday, August 28, 2017 at 10:00am at Weng Funeral Chapel in Jasper. The family will receive friends on Sunday, August 27, 2017 from 2:00 to 4:00pm at Weng Funeral Chapel. Burial will be in Mitchell Cemetery east of Jasper. Memorial contributions can be made to the Jasper High School Track, Cross Country or Basketball programs. 

Arrangements are under the care of Weng Funeral Chapel. Online condolences can be made at www.wengfuneralchapel.com

Marvin Waltrip

(From Fohn Funeral Home)

Marvin Henry Waltrip, age 59 of Purdy, Missouri passed away Wednesday, August 23, 2017 at his home.

He was born June 21, 1958 in Monett, Missouri the son of Melvin and Mary Ellen (Lloyd) Waltrip, who preceded him in death.

Surviving are his fiancée, Linda Barber of Purdy, Missouri; children, Kyle, Felicity and Chelsea; four brothers, Melvin Waltrip of Aurora, Missouri, Wayne Waltrip of Carthage, Missouri and Bill Waltrip and George Waltrip both of Monett, Missouri; a sister, Liz Tuell of Monett, Missouri and six grandchildren.

Marvin was a life-long resident of southwest Missouri. He was an electrician for chicken houses.

Services will be held at 6:30 P.M. Monday, August 28, 2017 at McDowell Community Church.

Arrangements are under direction of Fohn Funeral Home in Cassville.

Garry Kelley

(From Parker Mortuary)

Garry Edwin Kelley, 79, Joplin, passed away Thursday, August 24 at his home after a long battle with cancer. Garry was born February 25, 1938 in Neosho, MO to Edwin Kelley and Edna (Marble) Kelley.

Garry graduated from Joplin High School with the class of 1956. He received his associate degree of arts from Joplin Junior College in 1958. On August 4, 1988, Garry married Earlene Kay (Wilson). She preceded him in death on June 20, 2017.

Garry lived in the Joplin area all of his life and was a member of the Missouri National Guard. He retired from CFI in 2010 and was a member of Calvary Baptist Church, Joplin.

He is survived by his brothers, Danny Kelley, Pierce City, MO, Pat (Linda) Kelley, Gautier, MS; one daughter, Kristen (Robert) Fearnow, Nevada, MO; two step sons, William Chennault, Joplin, Richard (Regina) Chennault, San Leandro, California; five grandchildren and two great grandchildren.

In addition to his parents, Garry was preceded in death by an infant brother, Dennis Kelley.

Graveside services are planned for Tuesday at 3:00 p.m. at Ozark Memorial Park Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the Joplin Humane Society, in care of Parker Mortuary.

Arrangements are under the direction of Parker Mortuary.

Martha Simpson

(From Clark Funeral Home)

Martha Mae Simpson, 67, Stella, died on Aug. 25, 2017 in Neosho. 

 Martha was born March 22, 1950 in Goodman, MO. She had worked at Crowder College in the food service as a baker and managed the salad bar and was a homemaker. 

 Memorial services will be held on Tuesday, Aug. 29, 2017 at 4 pm at the Clark Funeral Home Chapel in Granby. Visitation will follow until 5 pm.

Services are under the direction of Clark Funeral Home, Neosho, MO.

Thursday, August 24, 2017

Victoria Crouch

(From Clark Funeral Home)

Victoria Ann Crouch, 71, Neosho, entered into rest on August 23, 2017. She was the daughter of James and Ivy Dixon of Redondo Beach, CA, where she was born on March 16, 1946.

She was survived by two daughters, Julie A. Murphy of Neosho, MO and Jolene M. Fryer of Joplin, MO.

She was preceded in death by husband, Carl E. Crouch and son, John Neil Davis.

She was also survived by her grandchildren, Liam Dillow, Hannah Hames, Tara Linder, Ashely Guersney, Viktoria Emery, and Andrew Davis; 6 great grandchildren; two sisters; and her loving canine companion, Joy!

Victoria moved to Missouri in 1984 and operated her own craft business ‘Victoria’s Loveables’! She loved the Lord, her family and close friends.

Memorial services will be held at New Life Fellowship Church, 4022 LaQuesta Drive, Neosho, Missouri on August 29, 2017 at 6:00 p.m.

Arrangements by Julie Murphy and Jolene Fryer and the Clark Funeral Home, Neosho, MO.

Deb Mayfield

(From Daniel Funeral Home)

Delbert “Deb” Neil Mayfield, age 81, passed away, Tuesday, August 22, 2017 after a short illness.

Deb was born June 18, 1936 in rural Barton County to Harvey Floyd and Iva Lavesta (Greer) Mayfield. On December 22, 1956, he married Nadine Loewe in Lamar. He was an elder and member of Hopewell Cumberland Presbyterian Church, a crop farmer, and a friend to many.

Deb leaves behind his wife of 60 years; a daughter, Brenda and husband Steve Ensor, Paris, Missouri; two grandchildren, Cyndi and husband Hank Hargis, Centralia, Missouri and Dan Ensor, Paris, Missouri; three great-grandchildren, Morgan Rush, Dayton Rush and Jackson Hargis; one brother, Lyn and wife Marilyn Mayfield, Roy, Utah; one sister, Janet and husband Larry Sechrest, Lamar; brothers in law, Bob Keithly and Gene Loewe, Lamar; sisters in law, Velma Crockett, Wilma Braker, and Betty Gilmartin, all of Lamar; and numerous nieces and nephews, by whom he will be greatly missed.

Preceding him in death were his parents; a daughter, Karen Laraine Mayfield; and a sister, Jean Keithly.

Funeral service will be 2:00 pm Sunday, August 27, 2017 at Daniel Funeral Home with burial to follow in Sheldon Cemetery.

Friends and family are invited to visit at the family home.

Contributions are suggested to the American Cancer Society in care of Daniel Funeral Home.

Condolences may be shared at www.danielfuneralhome.net

Dale Roark

Dale Roark, age 60 of Seneca, entered into heavenly peace on Sunday, August 20, 2017 at his home in Seneca, due to sudden cardiac arrest. 

Dale was born February 2, 1957 in Noel, Missouri, the son of Claud T Roark and Hazel M Plummer (Roark). 

Dale married Vicki L Sowersby on August 10, 1984 and she survives. Additional survivors include Roark brothers; Jerry & wife Melba of Stockbridge, GA, Tommy & wife Kay of Bentonville, Glen & wife Carol of Neosho, Allen of Kansas City, and sister, Sue & husband Tony Pendergraft of Neosho; Son Adam W Roark & fiancée Megan of Neosho and nine grandchildren: Ethan and Betty Sue; Ashley, Hailey and Logan; and Emma, Gavin, Gracie and Ella. Dale is preceded in death by daughter, Misha B Roark on December 23, 2009 and his parents Claud (Blub) & Hazel Roark. 

Dale was employed by Modine Manufacturing Company as a certified welder for 29 years. He loved playing slow pitch softball with the Noel Farmers team and also coached children’s baseball for many years in Anderson and Seneca. Dale also enjoyed watching the St. Louis and Springfield Cardinals, especially taking his wife, children and grandchildren to their games. His love of reading books was an everyday part of his life. Dale fell asleep every night listening to 70’s classic rock. 

CELEBRATION OF LIFE 
Monday, August 28, 2017, 7 p.m. 
Hornet Community Building 

PASTORS OFFICIATING 
Truman Brady and Mark Landreth

Jeanne Gibbs

(From Mason-Woodard Mortuary)

Jeanne Gibbs, age 75, of Webb City, Mo. passed away at 3:11 p.m. Wednesday, August 23, 2017 at her home in rural Webb City surrounded by her family. Jeanne was born July 13, 1942 in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. She moved to the Webb City area in 1973 where she began teaching in the Carthage School District. She was an elementary teacher for Fairview and Mark Twain Schools. She retired in 2001. Jeanne was a member of College Heights Christian Church in Joplin.

Jeanne married Joe Gibbs March 23, 1963 in Oklahoma City and he survives. Additional survivors include two daughters, Kayla Collins and husband Tom, Orlando, Florida, and April Wages, Springfield, Mo., her mother, Gerrie Wiegman, Ormond Beach, Florida, one sister, Kay Duff, Ormond Beach, Florida, and four grandchildren; Zachary Collins and wife Anna, Paige Collins, and McKenzie and Kassidy Wages. She was preceded in death by her Father, Floyd Wiegman, a brother, Rick Wiegman and a son in law, Kurtis Wages.

Services will be at 10:30 a.m. Monday at College Heights Christian Church Chapel with Rick Bushnell, Minister, officiating. Visitation will follow the service. Graveside services will be at 2:00 p.m. Tuesday at Maple Park Cemetery in Springfield, Mo. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Good News Productions Intl. or World Poverty Solutions in care of the Mortuary. Arrangements have been entrusted to the Mason-Woodard Mortuary of Joplin, Mo.

Lynda Sumners

(From Parker Mortuary)

Lynda Jean Sumners, age 73, Joplin, passed away Sunday, August 20, 2017 at Freeman Hospital West, Joplin.

She was born February 21, 1944 in Joplin, to the late John Jackson and Mary Eva Orr Jackson.

Lynda married Monty Sumners on June 5,1958, in Albuquerque, New Mexico, he survives of the home.

She served many years as one of the first female police officers for the City of Joplin, after retirement she worked as an security officer for St. John's Hospital, Joplin.

In addition to her parents she was preceded in death by a son, Darryl Sumners; one brother, Orr Collins and a sister, Fern Crandall.

Survivors include her husband; one son, Lonnie Sumners, wife, Karen, Webb City; a daughter, Diana Sumners, wife, Tami Hood, Carthage; two grandsons, Travis Sumners, wife, Patricia, Joplin and John Sumners, wife, Annie, Joplin; one granddaughter, Shalimar Sumners, Neosho and three great grandchildren, Cameron, Jay and Eevee Sumners.

Memorial services will be 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, August 26, in the Parker Mortuary Chapel, with Tim Herrington, officiating. Burial will be at a later date in Ozark Memorial Park Cemetery.

Arrangements are under the direction of Parker Mortuary, Joplin.   

Kandace Landreneau

(From Simpson Funeral Home)

A celebration of life service for Dr. Kandace Jo Landreneau will be held at The Church of the Cross in Haughton, Louisiana, Friday, August 25th at 7pm. Rev. Andy Harris will be officiating. Visitation will preceded the service and will be held at The Church of the Cross from 6pm until 7pm.

Subsequent visitation and interment, in Missouri, will be Tuesday, August 29th. Visitation in Missouri will be at Simpsons Funeral Home, from 9-10am in Webb City, Missouri. Interment will be at Pleasant Hill Methodist Church at 11am, following a graveside service there. Rev. Marlon Sparks will be officiating.

Kandace Jo Landreneau went home to be with the Lord, Monday August 21st, while in the arms of her children and mother, after a long battle with brain cancer, of which she won. She was the most outstanding, loving, caring, fun, protecting, and Godly mother, daughter and friend. She was beautiful.

She is proceeded in death by her father Ralph L. Costley, her husband Michael D. Landreneau. She is survived by her mother Helen A. Costley, her two children Kandace Lee Landreneau and Michael Darrick Landreneau. Her siblings Karen West, Keith Costley, and Kevin Costley.

Pallbearers: Darrick Landreneau, Ben Costley, Mark Lamb, Christopher Selsor, Tim Fredrickson, Stephen Fredrickson,

Kandace was born in Joplin, Missouri, June 17th, 1956 and spent her young adult life singing with her two brothers in their family singing group, The Costley K's. They sang at hundreds of churches and events across the midwest. She was married to Dr. Michael D. Landreneau and they had two children Kandace Lee and Michael Darrick. Kandace went into nursing and earned her PhD at UMKC and subsequent post doctorate at UCSF. She was a Professor in the graduate program at Northwestern State University where she passed on her skills and compassion for patient care to nurses who now serve across the state of Louisiana and country. She was the founder of Nurses Christian Fellowship at NSU, a choir member at The Church of the Cross, an award winning member of Sigma Theta Tau International Honors Society of Nursing, and award winning member of NATCO The Organization for Transplant Professionals. She's published many research articles and has been a guest presenter at many prestigious international conferences around the world. Through her long career and vast expertise, her greatest joy as a nurse was taking care of the transplant patients she and her husband, Mike, served. She often said "as a nurse, I got paid to be a Christian." Kandace loved to sing in the choir, take her kids to every gospel concert across the country, teach research students, sewing and upholstering furniture, decorating, and anything that had to do with Ireland. She loved to take trips at the spur of the moment with her children. She was SO MUCH FUN!

Kandace had no greater joy and goal in life than to serve the Lord Jesus Christ and be with her two children and mother. Her life was centered around the church and wanting people to be ready to meet Jesus. She said "It's the most important appointment you'll ever have". She wouldn't hesitate to give you the shoes off her feet and whatever she had if you needed it. Those who have her shoes today can attest to that. And to her children, nothing was better than seeing her gorgeous smile, hearing her big laugh, holding her hand, listen to her sing and hear her say "I love you baby".

She desired above all else that her life would lead others to Jesus Christ, and that's exactly what she did. If anything is known of her, this is abundantly clear, she was the definition of a true Christian woman and mother.

Momma, thank you! We love you more and will see you soon. a' tout a' l'heure

Love, Kandace Lee and Darrick and her mother, Helen

John 10:10
"The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly."

The family would like to extend a special thanks to Rev. Andy Harris and the greatest church in the world, The Church of the Cross.

In lieu of flowers we ask that donations be made to The Church of The Cross building fund in mom's name, of which she was a faithful giver.

Gerald Owen

(From Parker Mortuary)

Gerald Lee Owen, age 83, Webb City, MO passed away Monday, August 21, 2017 at his residence.

He was born September 19, 1933 in Red Oak, MO to the late Charles Owen, Sr. and Zeltha Luney.

Gerald married Leona Mae Goodpasture, on December 16, 1955 in Miami, Oklahoma, she survives of the home.

He worked for Ozark Machine in Webb City, retiring after 33 years. Church membership was held in Liberty Baptist Church.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a brother, Charles Owen and an infant son, Danny Owen.

Survivors include his wife, he is also survived by a son, Timothy Owen, wife, Michelle, Carthage; a daughter, Linda Riggs, husband, Jon, Gardnerville, NV; one grandson, Trey Collins, Carthage and a brother, Wayne Owen, Arkansas.

Memorial service will be held at 2:00 p.m. Saturday, September 2, 2017 at Parker Mortuary, with Pastor Gary Balfour, officiating. Memorial contributions are suggested to Hospice Compassus and may be left in care of the mortuary.

Arrangements are under the direction of Parker Mortuary, Joplin.

Wednesday, August 23, 2017

Stephanie Barnes

(From Mason-Woodard Mortuary)

Stephanie Lynn Hall Barnes, 35, of Joplin, Mo., passed away Thursday, August 17, 2017.

She was born May 24, 1982, in Aurora, Ill. She was the adopted daughter of James and Alice Marie White Hall.

Stephanie was the loving wife of Robert Barnes, Joplin. He survives at the home. Additional survivors include her father and mother; brother, Joshua Hall, DeKalb, Ill.; and her aunts Jeannine (Bernie) Johnson, H. Diane Cunningham, both of Dekalb, and Elizabeth Meador, Dallas, Texas; and many extended family members.


Annabell Moore

(From Greenfield Funeral Chapel)

Annabell Moore, of Everton, MO, departed this life on Monday, August 21, 2017, in the Dade County Nursing Home at the age of 91 years.

She was born on November 24, 1925 in Everton, MO to David Ab and Flossy (Beals) Brewer. Annabell graduated from Greenfield High School and the Springfield Teachers College. She was united in marriage to Thomas Ray Moore on April 21, 1946 in Girard, KS. Annabell owned and operated a residential and commercial painting business. She was a member of Sharon Baptist Church for over 70 years.

Preceding her in death were her parents, David and Flossy Brewer; her husband, Thomas Moore; one son, Olin Moore; one son-in-law, James Horton; and her sister, Alphinzeen Montgomery.

Survivors include two daughters, Peggy Horton of Greenfield, MO and Conita “Nicki” Vandegrift and husband Royce of Everton, MO; one son, Steven Moore and wife Pam of Lamar, MO; eight grandchildren, Todd Vandegrift and wife Karen, Scott Vandegrift and wife Susan, Carmen Morrow and husband Tony, Shelley Mills and husband Curtis, Barbra Decker and husband Scott, Jesse Moore, Jeffry Moore and wife Elyse, and James Moore; and fifteen great-grandchildren, Josh Harris, Tristan Vandegrift, Ethan Vandegrift, Alexis Riddle, Gavin Vandegrift, Jayd Forst, Landon Morrow, Piper Morrow, Harper Morrow, Jensen Morrow, Cash Moore, Joey Moore, Aden Moore, Jayde Moore, and Jasper Moore.

Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, August 25, 2017, in Greenfield Funeral Chapel. Burial will follow in Carr’s Chapel Cemetery. The family will receive friends on Thursday evening from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. in the funeral chapel. Memorial contributions may be made to Carr’s Chapel Cemetery. Online condolences may be shared at www.greenfieldfuneralchapel.com. Services are under the care of Greenfield Funeral Chapel.

Justin Scott

(From Clark Funeral Home)

Justin V. Scott, age 86 of Neosho, entered into rest on Aug. 22, 2017 at his home in Neosho.

 Justin was born Sept. 30, 1930 in Racine, Missouri, the son of Paul and Maggie Scott. Justin served in the U. S. Army during the Korean Conflict. He worked as a press operator at GM for over 30 years and enjoyed fishing and gardening. He was a member of the Burkhart Church of Christ Congregation and was baptized in 1950. 

 He is survived by his children, Janice Ruth Hacker and husband, Jeff, Paul Scott and wife, Imogene Ruth; Joyce Scott; Judy Purcell and husband, Keith and Phillip Scott and wife, Laura; numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren and a sister, Imogene Wagner. He is preceded in death by his parents, his wife, Maxine and his wife, Margaret. 

Services will be held Saturday, Aug. 26, 2017 at 10 am at the Clark Funeral Home Chapel of Memories, Dennis Smith will officiate. Interment will follow in the Neosho IOOF Cemetery. The family will receive friends Friday evening from 6 to 7 pm at the Clark Funeral Home, Neosho. Contributions in memory of Justin may be made to the Burkhart Church of Christ Congregation, c/o Clark Funeral Home, PO Box 66; Neosho, MO 64850.

Services are under the direction of Clark Funeral Home, Neosho, MO.

Elaine Ashley

(From Buchanan Funeral Home)

Elaine Carol Ashley, 93, of Monett, MO, died on August 22, 2017 while at her home.

She was born April 23, 1924, in Minneapolis, MN. Her birth parents were Elmore William Charles and Nileen Averil (Wynn) Steffen. Elaine’s parents divorced when she was six and her father married the wonderful woman she knew as Mom. Her name was Anna Marie (Wolf). Elmore and Anna had three children together, making Elaine the second oldest of seven.

Elaine was baptized into the Lutheran faith on April 5, 1925 and confirmed her faith through the Rite of Confirmation on April 10, 1938. Her confirmation verse was Hebrews 13:5, Be content with such things as ye have; for He hath said, “I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.”

Elaine graduated from Cedar Falls High School, Cedar Falls, IA, with the Class of 1942. She did secretarial work. On Easter Sunday, April 25. 1943, she married Royce Onley Ashley of LaPorte City, IA, at St. Peter’s American Evangelical Lutheran Church, Santa Ana, CA, where he was stationed in the U.S. Army Air Force during World War II.

After an Honorable Discharge from military service on January 21, 1946, Royce returned to his family and farming in his home state of Iowa. Then in January 1957, Elaine and Royce packed up their truck and a small trailer and moved their family of four children to Monett, MO. They soon bought an 89 acre farm northwest of town with his GI Bill. This came to be known as Ashley’s Acres, where Elaine and Royce lived for 50 years, during which time they raised five children, many hogs, cattle, other animals, and crops. Elaine was a homemaker and the farm’s secretary. She also sold Stanley Home Products for over 20 years.

After retiring from the hog business, Elaine and Royce traveled for 20 years from Alaska to Hawaii to Florida and in between, often stopping to visit family and friends across the country. Elaine was very interested in genealogy, the research of which she incorporated into their travels.

The five children, all of whom survive, are Leon Ashley of Humansville, MO; Lynda Endicott of Sarcoxie, MO; Carolyn Kleiboeker (Glennon) of Wentworth, MO; Janine Gates (Billy) of Battlefield, MO; Wynette Quade (Tony) of Carthage, MO.

Elaine had twelve grandchildren, numerous great-grandchildren and great-great grandchildren. She is also survived by one brother, Leon Jon Steffen (Laura) of Albert Lea, MN; and one sister, DeLila Schweizer of Visalia, CA.

She was preceded in death by her parents, three sisters, one brother, and her husband Royce of 71 years.

She was a member of St. John’s Lutheran Church, Monett, MO, where funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, August 26, 2017. Reverend Andrew Kennell will be officiating. Interment will follow at McCormick-St. John’s Cemetery, Monett. Visitation will be held from 6-8:00 p.m. Friday at Buchanan Funeral Home. Memorial contributions can be made to St. John’s Lutheran Church in care of the funeral home. 

Arrangements have been entrusted to Buchanan Funeral Home, Monett, MO.

Tuesday, August 22, 2017

Tank Francisco

(From Ulmer Funeral Home)

Richard Dean “Tank” Francisco, 55, passed away August 21, 2017 at his home in Carthage. Tank was born October 9, 1961 in Carthage to Freddie and Nancy “Perry” Francisco. He was born and raised in Carthage, although he lived briefly in several places, since his father was in the Navy. Tank graduated from Carthage High School Class of 1979, served in the United States Army and was a truck driver.

Tank is survived by two sisters: Denise Thompson and Lisa Miller, one brother-in-law Michael Rock of Norfolk, Virginia, two uncles: Claude Perry of Carthage and Bob Tatum of Owasso, Oklahoma, along with numerous cousins, nieces and nephews.

Tank is preceded in death by his parents, one sister, Shelby Kay Rock and one Aunt Marsha Elaine Tatum and his grandparents Frank and Nadine Perry, who helped raise him.

Services will be held at 10:00 a.m., Thursday, August 24, 2017 at Ulmer Funeral Home. Visitation will be from 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., Wednesday, August 23, 2017 at Ulmer Funeral Home. Burial will be at Park Cemetery in Carthage.

Contributions may be made to Carthage Shriners Travel Fund, care of Ulmer Funeral Home.

Arrangements are under the direction of Ulmer Funeral Home.

Harold Harris

(From Clark Funeral Home)

Harold Gene Harris, 91, Stark City, Missouri, entered into rest on August 20, 2017 at Granby House, Granby, MO, following a short illness. 

 Harold was born Feb. 4, 1926 in Fairview, Missouri, the son of Amza and Lovenia O’Dell (Bradley) Harris and was a lifelong Fairview and Stark City resident and graduated from Fairview High School in 1944. He served in the U.S. Army and served as Postmaster in Stark City for 24 years. He was a dairy and cattle farmer and a longtime Cardinals fan. 

 Harold and Cynthia (Poor) were married on Sept. 6, 1944 in Carroll County, Arkansas and she preceded him in death on March 13, 2013. He is survived by two sons, Larry Harris and wife, Maxine and Terry Harris and wife, Brenda, all of Stark City; one brother, Ray Harris of Stark City; five grandchildren, Melissa Brunner and husband, Rob, Clovis Harris and wife, Michelle, Marla Harris, Sam Harris and wife, Shelly, Brent Harris and wife, Cindy; nine great grandchildren; Tyler White, Houston Harris, Lauren Bray, McKenzie Horne, Milton Brunner, Georgia Mae Harris, Adaline Harris, Cecilia Harris and Amza Rae Harris and two great great grandchildren. In addition to his wife and parents, he is preceded in death by one brother, Clovis Harris and two sisters, Wanda Dickens and Dean Allen. 

Graveside Services and full military honors will be held on Wednesday, Aug. 23, 2017 at 2 pm at the Muncie Chapel Cemetery. The family will receive friends at a time of visitation on Tuesday evening at the Clark Funeral Home, Granby from 6 pm to 8 pm. Contributions in memory of Harold may be made to the Granby House Activity Fund, c/o Clark Funeral Home, PO Box 26; Granby, MO 64844.

Services are under the direction of Clark Funeral Home, Neosho, MO.

Bill Reeves

(From Bath-Naylor Funeral Home)

William "Bill" Reeves, 74, of Columbus, KS, died Saturday, August 19, 2017 at Medicalodges in Columbus following a long illness.

He was born October 23, 1942 in Columbus to Francis and Maxine (Goodwin) Reeves. He attended and graduated from Columbus High School.

Bill owned and operated Columbus Auto Salvage and Antique Acres for many years. He spent most of his life in Columbus, always loyal to his hometown. He enjoyed traveling to go deep sea fishing in Texas.

Survivors include his children; Bill Reeves and wife Heide of Joplin, MO.,James Reeves and wife Amber of Columbus, and daughter, Tamela Doom, Mountain Grove, MO. , Bill's sisters Susan Beggs and husband Jerry, Claremore OK., and Janet Draeger and husband Rick also of Columbus. He is survived by a host of nieces and nephews and several grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Francis and Maxine Reeves; brother, Tom Reeves and son, Mark Pennington Reeves.

Services will be 11 am, Wednesday, August 23, 2017 at the House of Prayer in Riverton, KS. Family will receive friends on Tuesday, August 22, 2017 at 6 pm at Bath Naylor Funeral Home in Columbus, KS.

In lieu of flowers, contribution may be left to: Columbus Recreation Committee, to fund Reeves Park.
Condolences may be left at www.bathnaylor.com. Arrangements and services are under the direction of Bath-Naylor Funeral Home of Columbus, KS.

Maxine Crossley

(From Daniel Funeral Home)

Emma Maxine Crossley, age 91, of Lamar, Missouri and formerly of Joplin, Missouri, died Sunday, August 20, 2017 at Truman Healthcare Center.

Maxine was born August 8, 1926 in Marionville, Illinois to Jean and Opal (VanVeer) Girtman. After she graduated high school and pursued her career in special education, she ultimately earning her Doctorate of Education. She was a speech specialist and educational specialist and finally a Principal of a school for children with disabilities. In 2009, she moved to Joplin from California, to live with her son. She was a member of the Zonta Club in California and was passionate about educating children.

Survivors include a son, Martin Crossley, Lamar, Missouri; a sister Elizabeth, New Mexico; two grandsons, James and wife Stephanie Crossley, Lamar, Missouri, Thomas and wife Jennifer Crossley, Joplin, Missouri; two granddaughters, Leslie, and Julie of Michigan; and 18 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, William Otto Crossley; a son, William Otto Crossley Jr., and a brother, Bill Girtman.

Graveside service will be 10:00 am Friday, August 25, 2017 at Busby Cemetery, Goreville, Illinois.