Gerry Warner

(From Thornhill-Dillon Mortuary)

Geraldine "Gerry" Warner, a beacon of love and gentleness, passed away peacefully on February 24, 2026, at the age of 98 in Carl Junction, MO. Born on December 12, 1927, in Diamond, MO, Gerry was the cherished daughter of the late Clebert Turner and Dora Strong-Turner. Her life was a testament to the power of kindness, adventure, and unwavering faith.

Gerry grew up around the close-knit community of Diamond, where she attended and graduated from Diamond High School. Her passion for helping others led her to pursue a career in nursing, culminating in her graduation from a nursing school in Joplin. Gerry dedicated 38 years of her life as a Licensed Practical Nurse at Freeman Hospital, where her gentle touch and warm smile brought comfort to countless patients and their families.

Her commitment to her faith was evident in her active service at Ritchey Bible Holiness Church near Granby, MO. Gerry's Christian beliefs were the cornerstone of her life, guiding her actions and interactions with everyone she met. She was a loving mother to her son, Larry Smith, and his wife, Maria, of Carl Junction, MO. Gerry's legacy continued through her grandchildren, Dave Smith and his wife, Emylou, of Palacios, TX; Kerrie Dunlop of Carl Junction, MO; and Dustin Smith of Joplin. She was also a proud great-grandmother to Tess, Cole, Trenton, Ty, Ross, Landon, and Sara, and a delighted great-great-grandmother to Iris and Bryer.

Other than her parents, Gerry was preceded in death by her husband of 35 years, Melvin Warner; brother, Gene Turner, sister, Barbara Atterbery and a great-great grandson, Phoenix Beasley.

Gerry's adventurous spirit shone brightly through her love of camping with her family. She found peace and joy in being outdoors, whether it was tending to her flower gardens or simply enjoying the beauty of nature. Her gentle soul and loving nature were the words that best described her, and these qualities were deeply felt by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Visitation is planned for Monday, March 2, 2026 from 1:00 p.m. to service time at 2:00 p.m. in the Thornhill-Dillon Chapel. Burial to follow at Ozark Memorial Park Cemetery of Joplin.

Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Thornhill-Dillon Mortuary of Joplin, Missouri.