Danny Spiva

(From Ulmer Funeral Home)

Danny Lee Spiva, 82, Carthage Missouri, passed away on June 16, 2026 at Freeman Hospital in Joplin Missouri. Danny was born in Abilene Texas on February 27, 1944 to RV Spiva and Juanita Vaughn (Powers). Danny’s father passed away in World War II when he was six months old. He was raised by his stepfather, Marvin Vaughn and his mother.

Danny attended Carthage High school. He then joined the Marine Corps and fought during the Vietnam era. He worked for Willis Shaw Express for decades. He then moved on to being a driving instructor at Hook-Up Drivers until he retired in 2017. 

Although Danny enjoyed his work and side business adventures he loved spending most of his time with his family. Especially his two grands, Ava and Jaxon. Traveling to the Caribbean was also great pastime for him.

Danny was united in marriage to June J Gallardo on July 14, 1970, in Ramona, California; she survives. Their love story was unique to say the least. They met on a Friday evening and was married a few days later… Truly love at first sight …an amazing marriage spanning
56 years. After residing in Carthage for 2 years they had a daughter, Marcie. Shortly after the new family went on an adventure and moved to South America…the country June was from. They reside in San Andres, Island for four years where they opened, a clothing, boutique, Marcella‘s Fashions. Danny and June were both very entrepreneurial minded. They returned back to Carthage in 1976. Later in life, they played a significant role in opening Mary May Inn in San Andres Island which was family owned, and recently sold after years of ownership. 

Survivors include his wife June Spiva; daughter Marcie Goade; brother, Mike, Vaughn; and sisters, Vicki Ralston (Chuck),Melba Haws(Rob), Dorothy Sebastiani(Eduardo); and grandchildren Ava Goade & Jaxon Goade. In addition to many special nieces and nephews.

He was proceeded in death by his beloved parents; RV Spiva, Marvin and Juanita Vaughn; his sister Patty Byrd and son-in-law, Jason Goade.

Danny was a kind generous man of
high integrity, loved unconditionally & always put others first. He will be deeply missed.

A visitation will be held for Danny Friday June 26th 2026 at Ulmer Funeral Home from 12pm-2pm. The funeral Service will be Friday June 26th 2026 at Ulmer Funeral Home at 2pm with burial and military honors to follow at Park Cemetery also in Carthage.

Services are under the direction and care of Ulmer Funeral Home.