Randy Roark

(From Ozark Funeral Home)

Randy Joe Roark, age 68, of Neosho, Missouri, formerly of Anderson, Missouri, departed this life on Monday afternoon, December 2, 2024, at Freeman Hospital in Neosho, Missouri, after a brief decline in health. He entered this life on October 1, 1956, in Joplin, Missouri, born to the union of the late Charles F. and Mary Jane (Sharp) Roark.

Randy was a lifelong resident of Anderson, Missouri, where he was a beloved member of the community. . Randy celebrated his 10th year work anniversary at Crowder Industries in Neosho, where his dedication and cheerful demeanor were an inspiration to his coworkers.

A man of simple pleasures, Randy found immense joy in his flock of chickens, geese, and birds in general, a testament to his love for nature and the outdoors. As he grew older he took up bird feeding, plants and collecting western videos and country music cds and records. Randy loved to go to antique shops, eating out, and his weekly run to the nearby Walmart . Randy was also quick to share a story about anyone. Randy loved to call people, If he had a speed dial we would've been in trouble. Randy loved to ensure that each baby in the family received a blanket from him. His thoughts were always about the families and their new babies. He couldn't wait to meet them. He still asked about the blankets he gave over thirty years ago. Randy would talk your ear off if you got on the phone. He always asked how everyone was, what they were doing, when were you going to see him. Randy loved with his whole heart, he always has. Randy made this Earth a little sweeter for the 68 years he was upon it. His laugh was contagious. His friendship was a blessing.

Randy's interests also included a fondness for classic television shows, with "Gun Smoke" and "The Andy Griffith Show" being among his favorites. His laughter and smiles were infectious, often filling the room with warmth and happiness. Randy's presence was a comfort to many, and he was truly a joy to be around.

He is survived by a loving family that includes two brothers, Jerry Roark and his wife, Tammy, of Anderson, and Ricky Roark and his wife, Sarah, of Neosho; one sister, Linda Sultzer of Anderson; and a host of adoring nieces, nephews, great and great-great nieces and nephews, as well as numerous cousins. Each of these family members, along with countless friends, will forever hold Randy's memory in their hearts.

Randy was preceded in death by his parents; two sisters, Mary Charlene Roark and Pamela Lewis and two brothers, Charles Ray Roark and Roy Roark.

Funeral services are 10:00 a.m. Wednesday, December 11, 2024, in the Anderson Chapel of the Ozark Funeral Homes with Pastor Joseph Shepard officiating. Burial will follow at Swars Prairie Cemetery. Those honoring his life by serving as pallbearers are Dylan Hardage, Dalton Crunkleton, Chad Roark, William Jones, Monty Sharp, and Ryan Gilker. 

Honorary pallbearers are Jerry Roark, Ricky Roark, Brian Sultzer, Matthew Sultzer, and Tyler Shockley. The family will receive friends on Tuesday evening from 5-7:00 p.m. in the funeral home chapel. Memorials are being directed to New Visions Group Homes c/o the funeral home. Arrangements are under the care of Ozark Funeral Home in Anderson, Missouri.