Roma Boester

(From Ozark Memorial Park Crematory)

Roma Lea (Darnell) Boester, 85, of Joplin, Missouri, passed away peacefully on April 10, 2026.

Roma was born on December 20, 1940, in Vienna, Illinois, to Everett and Ruth (Morris) Darnell. She spent her early years growing up in Vienna and Batavia, Illinois, where she developed the kind, gentle, and resilient spirit that defined her life.

Roma was married to Rudolph Boester, who survives. She was preceded in death by her parents, Everett and Ruth Darnell, and by her sister and best friend, Shelby Jean Palmer.

Roma was a devoted mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. She is survived by her two daughters, Krista (Baker) Carey (Michael Boyd) of Joplin, Missouri, and Lori (Baker) Petot (David) of Jackson, Missouri.

She was a proud grandmother to five grandchildren:
Jacob (Samantha) Jerrell of Pana, Illinois;
Jack Carey and Justin Carey, both of Joplin, Missouri;
Zackary (Nick) Petot of St. Louis, Missouri;
and Logan (Tyler) Wachter of Jackson, Missouri.

She was also blessed with four great-grandchildren: Marley, Havyn, and Ronan Jerrell of Pana, Illinois, and Jace Macke of Jackson, Missouri.

Roma worked as an optician, where her warm personality and caring nature made a lasting impression on those she helped and worked alongside. She was known for her kindness, gentle strength, and wonderful sense of humor that brought comfort and laughter to those around her.

Roma lived a life filled with joy, style, and simple pleasures. She had a love for dancing that brought energy and light to any room, and she took great pride in decorating her home, always making it a welcoming and beautiful space. An avid thrift shopper, Roma had a knack for finding hidden treasures and a great deal. She also enjoyed keeping up with her favorite soap operas, following every twist and turn with enthusiasm.

Above all, Roma cherished time spent with her family. Family gatherings filled with laughter, stories, and togetherness were among her greatest joys. She will be remembered for her vibrant spirit, creativity, quiet strength, and the warmth she shared so freely with those she loved.

Per her wishes, no funeral or memorial service will be held. Cremation arrangements have been entrusted to the family.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to The Solace House of Joplin, Missouri, in honor of Roma’s memory.

Cremation arrangements are under the personal care of Ozark Memorial Park Crematory of Joplin, Missouri.