Dorothy Short

(From Mason-Woodard Mortuary)

Frances (Dorothy) Short, 92, of Joplin, Missouri, passed away February 10th, 2023, at home. She was born in Nowata, Oklahoma, to Ralph Harlan King and Velma Lovetta Beaver on October 11th, 1930. She grew up in Welch, Oklahoma with her eight brothers and two sisters, “having the privilege” of helping with housework and raising her nine younger siblings. 

She attended Welch High School (class of 1948), where she developed lifelong friendships. Growing up with her siblings was something she recalled very fondly. She described that the babies were always her pride and joy and that she felt like they belonged to her. She attended college in Iowa.

Frances married the love of her life, Melvin LeRoy Short, on November 22nd, 1950 in Welch, Oklahoma and moved to Joplin, MO in 1951. They were always very active in their churches and had a very strong faith. They enjoyed motorcycle trips, spending time with family members, and yard sales. Throughout their marriage they were very well known for their generosity, often opening their home to friends and family. Melvin preceded her in death on October 1st, 2001. Although she missed him terribly, she was comforted knowing that one day they would be together again.

Frances had many occupations throughout her life. She primarily worked in customer service, bookkeeping, and management. Frances was a member of Independent Bethel Baptist Church for more than forty years. She acted as secretary, treasurer, and any other role that needed filled.

She was a devoted mother, grandmother, and great grandmother. She looked forward to visits from all of her grandkids and was always willing to entertain them for hours playing games.

She is survived by children, LaDona Short of Gallup, NM, Carl (Jonna) Short of Carthage, MO, and David Short of Shawnee, OK; grandchildren: Jason (Mariya) Lichlyter of Joplin, MO, Curtis (Nicole) Short of Independence, KS, Josh Short of Coppell, TX, Audra Keith of Rifle, CO, Jeff (Jennifer) Short of Joplin, MO, Joslyn Short of Coppell, TX, and Tayler (Scott) Justice of Shawnee, OK; four brothers: Ralph (Loretta) King Jr., Doug King, Tom (Suzanne) Wynn, Ronnie (Lorraine) Wynn and one sister: Catherine Jordan; ten great grandchildren as well as beloved cousins, nieces, nephews and dear friends that she recently talked about how much they meant to her. She was preceded in death by her parents; her sister: Mamie King; her brothers: Ted Wynn Jr., Paul Wynn, Sam Wynn, Lonnie Wynn; sister-in-laws: Janie Wynn, Shirley Wynn, Sue Wynn, and Juanita Wynn.

Family and friends are welcome to attend a service, which will be held at Independent Bethel Baptist Church at 1125 Waggoner Ave., Joplin, Missouri, 64801 on Tuesday, February 21st, 2023 at 10:00 a.m.

Arrangements are under the direction of Mason-Woodard Mortuary & Crematory Joplin, Missouri.