Gaye Hergert

(From Derfelt Funeral Home)

Gaye Lynn Hergert, age 72, passed away at 7:35 pm, Tuesday, March 19, 2024, at Freeman West Hospital, Joplin, MO.

Gaye was born January 31, 1952, in Joplin. Her parents were Gresham Morris Waldorf and Margaret Lorraine (Shoemaker) Farthing. She was a lifetime resident of Joplin.

Gaye graduated from Joplin High School in 1970. For several years, she and her husband, Joe Kellar, managed Plaza Lanes Bowling Alley in Joplin. 

For the past 25 years, she has worked as an office manager in the pest control business at Rottler Pest Solutions, formerly Alert One Pest Control.

She was an avid KC Chiefs Fan. She also enjoyed bowling and listening to country music. But, most of all, her grandchildren were the apple of her eye.

Gaye was married to Phillip Hergert on March 31, 2001, in Joplin. He survives.

Additional survivors include three daughters, Buffie Wescoat-Peters (Darvin), Ginger Kellar-Parker, and Jamie Kellar, all of Joplin; one stepson, Keenan B Hergert (Tiffany), Joplin; one brother, Chuck Farthing (Peggy), Hilton Head Island, SC; five grandchildren, Cameron Wescoat (Jessica), Dylan Kellar (Katelyn), Deone Kellar (his wife), Trevor Kellar-Stevens (Olivia), and Kloey Hergert; and five great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents and one grandson, Connor Wescoat.

Funeral services will be at 11:00 am, Friday, March 22, 2024, at Journey Church, Joplin. Rev. Fred Vogel will officiate. Burial will be in Osborne Memorial Cemetery, Joplin. Arrangements are under the direction of Derfelt Funeral Home, Galena, KS.

The family will receive friends from 10:00 am until the funeral time on Friday at the church.