Mary Ellen Vinyard

(From Hedge-Lewis-Goodwin Funeral Home)

Mary Ellen Vinyard, age 91, of Webb City, Missouri, passed away peacefully at Freeman Hospital West in Joplin, Missouri, on Saturday, March 21, 2026, following a brief illness. She entered this life on June 30, 1934, in Joplin, Missouri, the third of six children born to the late Wesley and Hettie (Forkner) Gilbert.

A 1952 graduate of Webb City High School, Mary Ellen's passion for learning and personal growth led her to Stapp's Beauty School, where she honed her skills as a beauty operator. Her adventurous spirit later inspired her to embark on a unique journey, graduating from Crowder College School of Trucking to become an over-the-road trucker. Mary Ellen eventually found her calling in service to others, retiring from Jasper County Support Services after more than two decades of compassionate work as a caregiver for physically and mentally disabled individuals.

Mary Ellen's life was enriched by love and companionship when she married Fred L. Vinyard, Sr. on December 15, 1953. Together, they welcomed three children into the world. Although Fred Sr. preceded her in death on March 29, 1989, the legacy of their union continued to flourish through their family. Additionally, she was preceded by a grandson, Mason Moback; an infant brother, Paul Gilbert; and three sisters, Jennie Vinyard, Lois Alumbaugh and Ruth Gilbert.

She is survived by her loving children, Jean Vickers and her husband, Mike, of Webb City; Fred L. Vinyard, Jr. of Webb City; and David L. Vinyard of Carterville, Missouri. Mary Ellen's joy was multiplied by her five grandchildren, Misty Pfau, Justin Moback, Andrea Waldo, Crystal Alexander, and Eric Vinyard, as well as her three great-grandchildren. Her sister, Janice Essex of Miami, Oklahoma, and a host of other family and friends, will also hold her memory dear.

Mary Ellen's interests and talents were as diverse as they were delightful. She was a talented seamstress and an avid fiddler, whose music brought warmth to many gatherings. Her love for cooking and craft projects was only surpassed by her love for her family. As a former Cub Scout Den Mother, she guided young minds with patience and care. Her faith was an integral part of her life, and she was a member of Fairview Christian Church in Carthage, Missouri.


Funeral services are 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, March 25, 2026 in the chapel of Hedge-Lewis-Goodwin Funeral Home with Steve Cable officiating. Burial will follow at Weaver Cemetery. Those honoring her life by serving as pallbearers are David Vinyard, Justin Moback, Aaron Pfau, Tony Vickers, Mike Vickers and Eldon Winkelman. The family will receive friends beginning at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday at the funeral home. Memorials are being directed to the American Cancer Society c/o the funeral home. Arrangements are under the care of Hedge-Lewis-Goodwin Funeral Home in Webb City, Missouri.