Mary Lou York

(From Parker Mortuary)

Mary Lou York, age 86, of Joplin, Missouri, formerly of Webb City, Missouri, passed away peacefully on Monday, April 14, 2025, at the Westgate Care Facility in Joplin, Missouri. She entered this life on September 14, 1938, in the quaint town of Golden City, Missouri, to the late Delbert and Ora (Holtsclaw) Fanning.

Raised in Golden City, Mary Lou was a proud graduate of Golden City High School, class of 1956. Shortly after graduation, she married her beloved husband, Glenn York, on May 20, 1956. Their loving union was blessed with two daughters, Patty and Alicia.

Mary Lou's professional journey was marked by her commitment to excellence and her ability to connect with people. She worked at Elaine Powers Figure Salon, Flutter in Fashions, the Jasper County Assessor's Office, and Howsman's Office Supply.

Beyond her professional endeavors, Mary Lou was deeply involved in her community. She was a longtime member of South Joplin Christian Church, where she nurtured her faith and formed lasting friendships. Her altruistic nature found further expression through her volunteer work at the Joplin Senior Center and the Joplin Association for the Blind, where she generously gave her time and energy to improve the lives of others.

Mary Lou's legacy is carried on by her loving family, who were the joy of her life. She is survived by her two daughters, Patty Moss and her husband, Mike, and Alicia Childers. Her grandchildren, Robert Moss and his wife, Brandie, Ryan Moss and his wife, Allie, Art Sprouse and his wife, Katie, Caleb Childers, Cody Childers and his wife, Jordan, and Hunter Sainsbury and his wife, Angela; nine great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild; a sister, Juanita James, and a brother, Gene Fanning and his wife, Sue; as well as a host of other extended family and friends. 

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Glenn York; her brother, Bud Fanning and his wife, Lena Mae; and a brother-in-law, Bill James.

Graveside services are pending at this time. Arrangements are under the care of Parker Mortuary in Joplin, Missouri