Jeannine Wormington

(From Housh-Goodwin Funeral Home)

Jeannine Wormington, born on August 27, 1946, in Jasper County, Missouri, passed away on Sunday, March 29, 2026, in Sarcoxie, Missouri. She lived a life marked by kindness, service, wisdom, and steady devotion to the people and places she loved.

Jeannine was the daughter of Troy Elmer and Suzanne Pearl (Bachtold) Wormington, who preceded her in death. She grew up with a strong sense of purpose and a caring spirit that would become the foundation of her life.

Jeannine graduated from Sarcoxie High School in 1964, and she continued her education at Pittsburg State University, where she earned a degree in Library Science. She understood that learning is a lifelong journey, and she dedicated herself to helping others discover that same truth. For a period of time, she taught in public schools, where she shared knowledge with patience and care. Later, she became a loyal and dedicated librarian for the Sarcoxie Public Library, and she served there faithfully until her retirement after many years of service. Her work was never just a job. It was a calling, and she answered that calling with excellence.

Her commitment to her community extended far beyond her professional life. Jeannine was a lifelong member of the First Baptist Church in Sarcoxie, where she served as Sunday School Secretary for more than fifty years. She also served as the church librarian, continuing to use her gifts in a way that strengthened the life of the church and supported those around her. She was dependable, thoughtful, and deeply trusted. Her memory was remarkable, and she could answer almost any question asked of her. That gift made her not only a keeper of records and books, but also a keeper of history, wisdom, and treasured details that might otherwise have been forgotten.

Jeannine also enjoyed being involved with her high school reunions, where she remained connected to the people and memories that helped shape her journey.

She is survived by several cousins and a host of many friends who will carry her memory forward.

Funeral services for Jeannine are 2:00 p.m. Friday, April 3, 2026, at the First Baptist Church in Sarcoxie with Pastor Kody Dowell officiating. Visitation will be at 1:00 p.m. prior to the service. Burial will follow in the Sarcoxie Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be directed to the Sarcoxie Senior Center in care of the funeral home. Online condolences may be sent to the family through our website www.housh-goodwinfuneralhome.com.

Arrangements are under the personal care and direction of Housh-Goodwin Funeral Home in Sarcoxie, Missouri.

Bob Hamilton

(From Clark Funeral Home)

Robert “Bob” Roy Hamilton passed away on March 27, 2026, at the age of 82. He was born on June 15, 1943, in Webb City, Missouri, to Joseph Thomas and Sarah Irene (Clayworth) Hamilton.

Bob was a man with many interests and talents. In his younger years, Bob enjoyed spelunking in local caves. He was a patriotic man, having served his country in the United States Army. He always shook and thanked Veterans for their service when he saw them. 

 Two years ago, he had the privilege of taking an Honor Flight. Classic Country music was his style. Being an acoustic guitar player himself, he appreciated the old stuff, and his favorite was Johnny Cash, and pretty much anyone from Sun Records. He enjoyed the hunt of coin collecting and metal detecting/treasure hunting. His interests ranged from locksmithing to rock tumbling. Sometimes he enjoyed just taking a country drive or riding his scooter around the block. He was good-natured and loved to make people laugh with things like introducing Judy as “my first wife”. He was a family man, a provider, and great friend. In his later years, Bob and his little buddy, Chip were inseparable.

Over the years, Bob worked retail for Quick Trip/Pronto, and for 9 years at Wal-Mart. He retired from Rhomar Inc. of Springfield, Missouri, in 2017. He served his community and supported his family as an Assistant Scout Master while both of his sons were in Boy Scouts, a Rainbow Girls supporter when his wife was a member, as an advisor on Demolay, and got locked up in jail to raise funds for Children’s Miracle Network.

Bob is survived by his wife, Judy; his children: Tommy Leon (Tina) Hamilton, Barbara Ann (Jim) Reed, Dennis Lee (Shana) Hamilton, and Scott Allen Hamilton; eleven grandchildren: Jordan, Amber, Michael, Asa, Kyle, Mickala, Whitney, Cailtin, Jayci, and Hallie; twelve great-grandchilren: Hallie, Haivynn, Everlee, Jaxon, Hudson, Heston, Crew, Carter, Creed, Cade, Hallie, and Ambers; his niece, Sherry (Larry) Case; two sisters-in-law, Vivian (Kevin) Smith and Janice Compton, and many cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph and Sarah Hamilton, sister Mary Lou Rogers, and two grandchildren, Baby B and Hudson Coon.

Services for Bob will be held on Friday, April 3, 2026 at Clark Funeral Home Chapel of Memories in Neosho, Missouri. Visitation will take place from 9:00 – 10:00 am and the Funeral will follow at 10:00 am.

In lieu of flowers, Memorial Contributions in memory of Bob may be made to Alzheimer’s Association Greater Missouri Chapter c/o Clark Funeral Home P.O. Box 66 Neosho, Missouri 64850.

Services are under the personal care and direction of Clark Funeral Homes.

 

May Halverson

 (From Parker Mortuary)

May Irene Halverson, age 92, of Joplin, MO, passed away on Sunday, March 29, 2026 at Freeman Hospital in Joplin.

May was born on May 17, 1933 in Gravette, AR to the union of Houston and Maude (Baker) Lewellen. She was one of seven children. She married Deno Donald Halverson on May 20, 1958 in Miami, OK. Together they were blessed with 27 years of marriage before his passing in April of 1986. 

May lived with a straightforward honesty that those around her came to appreciate, and she was known for being very blunt in the most endearing way. May devoted a meaningful part of her working life to serving as a cook at Memorial High School in Joplin, Missouri. 

Faith was an important part of May’s life, and she cherished attending her Sunday School class. She began worshipping at Fairview Baptist Church then Spring City Baptist Church until finding her home at Forest Park Church. She loved riding the MAPS Trolley to the Mall, JC Penny’s, and Chick-fil-a, to which everyone knew her by name. She enjoyed spending time with her great-grandchildren at Silver Dollar City and at school band concerts. 

Travel also brought May joy, particularly her trips to Omaha to see her grandchildren. Her family and friends will remember her for her honesty, her devotion, and the warmth she shared in her own unique manner.

In addition to her parents and husband, May was preceded in death by four sisters, Fern Beaver, Barbara Wills, Betty Lewellen and Rosemary McGarrah; and son-in-law, Orval Nelson.

May is survived by her daughter, Debbie Nelson; two grandchildren, Joshua Nelson (Staci) and Justin Nelson (Alisha); four great-grandchildren, Justin Dakota Nelson, Joseph Dale Nelson, Jacob David Nelson and Jesse Duane Nelson; two sisters, Susan Gates (J.D.) and Linda Gonzalez; and a host of extended nieces, nephews and friends.


Funeral services are pending.




Funeral arrangements are under the special care and direction of Parker Mortuary.

Jeanetta Diles

(From Parker Mortuary)

Jeanetta Diles passed away on March 29, 2026, in Joplin, Missouri, at the age of 78.

She was born on May 5, 1947, in Lebanon, Missouri, and spent most of her life in the Joplin area. Jeanetta graduated from Joplin High School and was known for her eye for presentation and her appreciation for antiques and beautiful display.

For many years, Jeanetta worked in the cosmetics field at the well-known store Kassab, where she developed a strong sense of style and beauty. She later owned and operated, with her husband, a specialty shop called Distinctive Touch, where she applied her eye for detail and appreciation for design, something that became a defining part of how she expressed herself. She had a way of making things beautiful. 

She also spent many years helping others through estate sales, where her experience and understanding of value provided guidance during what was often a difficult time. She had a long-standing interest in antiques and decorating, spending time visiting shops in search of unique pieces. She enjoyed arranging and curating items to reflect her distinctive taste. Her home, yard, and businesses reflected this sense of style.

She is survived by her husband of 60 years, James R. Diles Jr.; her daughter, Shannan Wren and husband Jeffrey of South Carolina; her brother, Randy Cook and wife Loyce of Lee’s Summit; her grandchildren, Garrett Wren and Elizabeth of West Virginia, and Joshua Wren and Maddy of South Carolina; and her great-granddaughter, Lyra Wren of West Virginia.

Jeanetta will be remembered for her independence, her ability to create beautiful spaces that reflected her distinctive taste, and the life she built around her interests and passions. She was loved by those who knew her.

Daylan Leivan

(From Parker Mortuary)

Ricky Daylan Leivan, known to family and friends as Daylan, passed away on March 28, 2026, in Springfield, Missouri, following a sudden accident. He was born on May 24, 1999, in Joplin, Missouri, and lived a life marked by love, laughter, music, and a spirit of adventure that touched everyone who knew him.

Daylan was a beloved son, brother, grandson, uncle, and cherished member of a large and loving family. He is survived by his father, Ricky L. Leivan and Brandi of Jasper, Missouri; his mother, Janett Porter and Rob of Springdale, Arkansas; his sister, Marissa Acevedo and Bobby of Fayetteville, Arkansas; his niece, Elsie; his maternal grandfather, Murrell Hamilton of Jasper, Missouri; his paternal grandmother, Gloria Scott of Jasper, Missouri; and numerous aunts, uncles, and extended family members who will forever hold his memory close to their hearts. He was preceded in death by loved ones who now welcome him into eternal rest.

Daylan graduated from Jasper High School in Jasper, Missouri, in 2017, where he was active in band, choir, FCCLA, and the high school cheer squad. He carried the friendships and experiences from those years with him throughout his life, and those who knew him then remember his energy, his talent, and the joy he brought to every activity he joined. He later attended classes at MSSU in Joplin, continuing to pursue growth and learning in his own way.

In his working life, Daylan served as an in-home caretaker of the disabled, a role that reflected his compassionate heart and his willingness to help others. He approached his work with kindness, patience, and a genuine concern for the well-being of those in his care. His presence brought comfort, and his ability to connect with people was one of the many gifts that made him so special.

Daylan was very adventurous in life and embraced each day with enthusiasm. He loved music and was very talented, and his appreciation for it was a defining part of who he was. Whether he was singing, listening, or simply enjoying the rhythm of a favorite song, music was a source of happiness and expression for him. He also loved cats and found joy in their companionship. Those who knew him best will remember his loving nature, his funny personality, and the passion he brought to the things and people he cared about most.

Daylan was preceded in death by his maternal grandmother, Joyce Hamilton.

Funeral services are planned for Saturday, April 4, 2026 at 10:00 a.m. at Parker Mortuary in Joplin, Missouri with visitation to follow. Cremation will follow the service.

Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Parker Mortuary, Joplin, Missouri.

Michael Darby

(From Fossett-Mosher Funeral Home)

Michael James Darby, age 67, of Mt. Vernon, Missouri, passed away at 12:20 p.m. on Monday, March 23, 2026, at his home. He was born May 3, 1958, in Dallas, Texas, the son of Billy Ray and Jacqueline (McNicholl) Darby Sr.

Michael was a 1976 graduate of Grandview High School in Grandview, Missouri. He was a U.S. Air Force veteran and was a truck driver for Yellow Freight for 14 years. He was a member of the Lockwood Baptist Church, in Lockwood, Missouri. 

Michael is survived by his daughter, Jennifer Roe and her husband, Matthew, of El Dorado Springs, Missouri; one son, Nicholas Darby, of Hallandale Beach, Florida; four grandchildren, Cydney and Cylus Garrett and Hunter and Christian Darby; three sisters, Lauren McNicholls of the state of Washington, Lisa Parnell and her husband, William Hutchison of Miller, Missouri and Shannon Darby of Mt. Vernon, Missouri; one brother, Steven Reardon of Golden City, Missouri; his very special aunt and uncle, Kibbie and Boot Stewart of Rowlett, Texas and several nieces, nephews and cousins.

Michael was preceded in death by his parents, Billy, and Jacqueline Darby Sr; one brother, Billy Ray Darby Jr; one sister, Dierdre “Dee” Standhardt and one granddaughter, Braxton Garrrett.

No services are planned at this time. Arrangements are under the direction of Fossett-Mosher Funeral Home in Mt. Vernon, Missouri.

Online condolences may be shared at www.FossettMosherFuneralHome.com.

 

Evelyn Barnes

(From Fossett-Mosher Funeral Home)

Evelyn May Barnes (née Schmidt) was born on December 17, 1945, at home in Nanty Glo, Pennsylvania, a small coal mining town in the western part of the state. As the youngest of five children, family was at the center of her life. Because of this, she became a strong, kind, and generous person. She made friends easily and was a natural caregiver. These traits remained constant throughout her life.

After graduating from high school, Evelyn moved to Washington, D.C., where she began working for the Federal Aviation Administration. This is where she met the love of her life, Jimmy Barnes, who was introduced to her by “Uncle Paul.” They were married on June 3, 1967. Three weeks afterwards, they left for England. From there, they traveled the world from one adventure to another. Three and a half years later while overseas in England, they welcomed their son, Kevin James.

Following this portion of their adventure, they returned to Virginia briefly before embarking on another international journey. During their two years in Africa, they welcomed their daughter Renae Suzanne. The following two years the family was stationed in the Philippines before returning to the United States.

Throughout the years, Evelyn worked in multiple administrative positions, served as a real estate agent, and later held various roles within the U.S. government.

In April of 1998, Evelyn and Jimmy moved to Mt. Vernon, Missouri, where she worked for a title company and a paving/construction company. As a devoted member of First Baptist Church, her servant’s heart shone brightly. She volunteered faithfully at local nursing homes and was deeply involved in church ministries. This included Wednesday night dinners, funeral meals, and AWANA. She also participated in the church’s Disaster Relief Group, assisted with Red Cross efforts, and served at the local food pantry.

Evelyn was preceded in death by her father, Emil; her mother, Cecelia and her three brothers, Bill, Don, and Leroy. 

She is survived by her loving husband of 58 years, Jimmy Barnes; her sister, Lois; her son, Kevin Barnes, and wife Rebecca; her daughter, Renae Barnes and her cherished grandsons, Jackson, Lukas, and Carter. Additionally, she leaves behind a network of nieces, nephews, and friends.

Evelyn will be remembered for her kindness, generosity, and unwavering dedication to her family, church, and community. Her life was marked by service, compassion, and love, leaving a lasting legacy in the hearts of all who knew her.

A visitation under the direction of Fossett-Mosher Funeral Home, in Mt. Vernon, Missouri, will be held from 10:00–11:00 a.m. on Monday, April 6, 2026, at the Mt. Vernon First Baptist Church with a funeral service to follow at 11:00 a.m. at the church. Burial will follow at the Summit Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made payable to the Summit Cemetery, in care of the funeral home.

Online condolences may be shared at www.FossettMosherFuneralHome.com.

 

David Nokes

(From Adams Funeral Home)

David Nokes Jr., 65, passed away peacefully on March 29, 2026. He was born on March 20, 1961, in Kansas City, Missouri. David lived a life marked by dedication, service, and a deep commitment to his community.

He was preceded in death by his parents, David Nokes Sr. and Freida Nokes.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Beverly Nokes; his daughter, Tarah Foster; and his son-in-law, Bradley Foster. He is also survived by his sisters, Deborah Whitaker and Tamara Wilson, as well as his cherished nieces and nephews.

David began his career in law enforcement as a police officer with the Cassville, Missouri Police Department. He went on to serve 23 years with the Springfield Police Department, where he retired at the rank of Major. His professional life was dedicated to public service, and even after retirement, his commitment never wavered—he continued serving as Chief of Police for the Springfield-Branson National Airport and later as a correctional officer. David truly lived to serve, protect, and better his community.

Outside of his professional life, David was a passionate and accomplished athlete. He found great joy in cycling, running, and swimming, and proudly completed an Ironman-distance triathlon, placing second in his division. He was an integral part of the endurance sports community, not only pursuing his own goals but helping others achieve theirs. He especially loved group rides and time spent outdoors, particularly at Wilson’s Creek National Battlefield. His love for the sport and its community was evident in his work at Fleet Feet in Springfield, Missouri, where he found joy in helping a diverse range of people find the perfect running and walking shoes to support their journeys.

Above all, David was a devoted and loving husband and father. He was deeply respected both in his community and at home for his love, gentle spirit, wisdom, and his wonderful sense of humor. He was a strong man of faith and a good and faithful servant of his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Nokes Cemetery Memorial Fund via GoFundMe https://gofund.me/5fd3987c9, in honor of David’s wish to beautify and preserve his family’s historic cemetery.

A come-and-go celebration of life service will be held at a later date. Details, including date and time, will be shared on the GoFundMe page once finalized.

Arrangements are under the direction of Adams Funeral Home, Nixa and cremation rites will be accorded by Adams Crematory.

Bill Davis

(From Derfelf Funeral Home)

William Milo Davis, age 80 of Galena, passed away unexpectedly at 6:34 PM on Friday, March 27, 2026 at Freeman West Hospital, Joplin, MO.

Bill was born on October 16, 1945 to the union of Cortland Sears Davis and Dorothea Leroy (Winn) Davis. He graduated from Galena High School with the Class of 1963 and was a lifetime resident of Galena. He worked in some unique roles throughout his life including as a bowling alley pin setter, a breadman, a milkman, and even owned his own "Cherokee Car Crushers" company. He retired as a Lab Technician for Tamko Roofing around 2007. 

Throughout his life he enjoyed fishing, and volunteering at the Galena Mining and Historical Museum, where he always had a story to share. He spent many years caring for Rose Ann, the love of his life. As life slowed down, he spent hours maintaining his bird feeders and watering the flowers which he and Rose Ann thoroughly enjoyed. He attended First Presbyterian Church in Galena prior to its closing in 2005.

He was united in marriage with Rose Ann (Honeywell) Davis on August 7, 1981 in Miami, OK She preceded him in death on October 19, 2025.

He was also preceded in death by his parents, Cortland and Dorothea Davis; as well as his grandparents, John and Glades Meggison.

Survivors include three sons, John Adams (wife, Shelley) of Galena, Kevin Adams of Springfield, MO, Brad Adams (wife, Shelley) of Purcell, MO; Shawnalea Upton (husband, Tom) and William Scott Lemen; a "bonus son", Gerald McCumber (wife, Michelle) of Galena, KS; seven grandchildren, Justin Adams (wife, Kyna) of Joplin, MO, Jeff Adams of Springfield, MO, Samantha Adams of Springfield, MO, Katy Adams (Greg) of Webb City, MO, Brett Adams of Springfield, MO, Darrell Adams (wife, Billie) of Galena, KS, Alyssa Adams of Iola, KS; three great-grandchildren; one brother, John Davis (wife, Sharon) of Galena, KS; one niece, Susan Best; two nephews, Steve Davis, John Ross Davis (wife, Olivia).

Mr. Davis has been entrusted to Derfelt Funeral Home of Galena for cremation. A graveside memorial service will be held at 2:00 PM on Monday, April 6, 2026 at Hillcrest Cemetery of Galena. Pastor Linda Estrada will officiate.

Online condolences may be expressed at www.derfeltfuneralhomes.com.