Sydney Lara

(From Parker Mortuary)

Sydney Ann Lara, age 74, of Joplin passed away on Thursday, October 30, 2025 at Freeman Hospital in Joplin.

Sydney was born on January 5, 1951 in Joplin, MO to the union of Dean and Betty (Strater) Lippitt. She spent her childhood in the Joplin area, where she graduated High School from. She worked for Campbell Pest Control in Joplin as the Office Manager. Later on in life, she went back to school and obtained her Bachelor’s Degree in Medical Management from Ultimate Medical Academy. 

Sydney enjoyed creating beautiful arts and crafts with her hands in the quietness of her home. She also enjoyed fishing with her best friend, Betty. She spent countless weekends at 4th Street Bowl before her arthritis began to take over about 10 years ago. At home she enjoyed watching RuPaul’s Drag Race and playing computer games. She loved the town of Joplin and hard ventured far from it. She loved her grandchildren and thought the world of them. Those who knew Sydney will remember her kind and friendly nature. Her legacy is one of love, laughter and the simple joys of life.

In addition to her parents, Sydney was preceded in death by her aunt, Verda Lippitt; and cousin, Larry Lippitt.

Sydney is survived by her daughter, Zayden and her two children, Katana and Daniel Jr.; son, Jerome and his two sons; bonus daughter, Cynthia; and best-friend, Calvin.

A celebration of life will be announced at a later date.

Cremation arrangements are under the special direction of Parker Mortuary.