Rueple Herrin

(From Clark Funeral Home)

Rueple Herrin was born January 24, 1927 in Neosho, Missouri to Walter Arthur Crews and Sarah Elizabeth Jefferson Crews. She lived independently in her own home in Neosho until 2023. She remained in the area until her health failed and she moved to Overland Park, Kansas on February 3, 2025 to be closer to her daughter. Rueple passed away on May 27, 2025 at the age of 98 years.

Rueple attended Meeks School, a one room schoolhouse in rural Newton County, Missouri for her elementary grades and graduated from Neosho High School.

Rueple married Charles Mottier Herrin Jr. in Bentonville, Arkansas on June 24, 1944. They were married for nearly 75 years and Rueple was devoted to caring for Charles the last few years of their marriage as his health declined.

They spent several years moving throughout the South as Charles worked on oil pipelines. Rueple enjoyed sharing how she could pack up their few belongings and set up house again in their new location in record time.

When they returned to Neosho, Rueple and Charles operated Herrin Grocery (situated in a half mess hall building that they bought from Camp Crowder) for about ten years. Rueple was never afraid of hard work and whether it was greeting customers at the counter, pumping gas or overhauling the motor on a meat cutter, she was up to the task.

When the store closed, Rueple devoted herself to her daughter, Labeta "Susie" Herrin, her husband and her beloved Oakwood Christian Church where she was a very "hands on" member for many years. She worked tirelessly alongside Charles assisting with church maintenance, construction and expansion. She was a wonderful homemaker, seamstress, plumber, electrician, roofer, etc. She was willing to do any type of hard work and loved staying busy. It is unclear who nicknamed her "Little Toughie" but, without question, she rightly earned it. Charles and she could often be seen on their his and hers riding mowers, well into their 80’s, mowing the lawn together. Charles had a shopful of power tools and Rueple knew how to operate all of them. She had a knack for coming up with creative ways to make broken things work again. She was a wonderful gardener and loved growing vegetables, especially to share with neighbors, or to can in order to help with the grocery bills and feed the family in the leaner months of winter. She grew the most gorgeous gladiolas in her flower gardens and enjoyed sewing beautiful clothes for her family.

Rueple was happiest when telling stories about her past and any one she met would soon learn about her life and her interesting past. She was very interested in native American history and avidly researched her family genealogy. Though she was never able to substantiate that she was part Native American, she always believed in her heart of hearts that it was so and carried it proudly.

She is survived by her daughter, Labeta "Susie" Herrin of Overland Park, Kansas (Andrea); two nieces: Beverlie Wilson (Jimmy) of Neosho and Glenda Livingston of Goodman, Missouri and Diane Marble (Neosho) and many nieces and nephews. Rueple is survived by a number of relatives of her late husband, including brother-in-law Doyle Herrin (Jeri), nieces Victoria Herrin, Christie Herrin, Stanley Herrin and Ann Galasi.






A debt of gratitude to cousins Anna Moore and Angela Duncan who were so helpful in providing caregiving guidance during difficult times, to Home Instead of Joplin who assisted Rueple to remain living independently in her home as long as possible, and to the compassionate caregivers of Garden Terrace of Overland Park and Good Shepherd Hospice who provided comfort and support to Rueple in her final days and weeks. Special mention and deepest thanks to Rueple's devoted caregiver Sandy Owen, who always went above and beyond to take care of all of Rueple's needs.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Charles M. Herrin Jr. of Neosho; her parents, Walter Arthur Crews and Sarah Elizabeth Jefferson Crews of Neosho; her sisters: Kathryn Marble, Retha Johnson and infant sister Gertrude Elizabeth Crews; and by her nephew Gerald Marble..

Her hope, one that she repeated often, was that she wanted to live to the age of 100. Although she defied predictions that she would not survive after several medical crises over the past few years, “Little Toughie” finally succumbed at age 98 and will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved her.

Graveside Service 

Tuesday, June 3, 2025
1:00 PM
Neosho Memorial Park Cemetery 20388 Gateway Dr
Neosho, MO 64850

Gloria Carroll

(From Daniel Funeral Home)

Gloria Jean Carroll, age 81, of Lamar, Missouri, passed away peacefully on May 28, 2025.

Gloria was born on July 8, 1943, in St. Paul, Minnesota, to George Percy Williams and Catherine Mary (Diggins) Williams. She married the love of her life, Lester Lee Carroll, on November 28, 1964, in White Bear Lake, Minnesota. They shared 57 wonderful years of marriage before Lester’s passing in December 2021.

A devoted wife, mother, and grandmother, Gloria dedicated her life to her family and to supporting her husband on the farm. Her strength, kindness, and unwavering love touched the lives of everyone who knew her.

She is survived by her son, Gregory Lee Carroll of Nevada, Missouri; three daughters, Lisa Catherine (Allen) Lehman of Lamar, Missouri; Gina Georgeann (Eric) Kafer of Nevada, Missouri; and LeAnna Jean (Joel) Blankenship of Lamar, Missouri. Gloria was blessed with nine grandchildren: Justin Carroll, Taylor (Andrew) Melvin, Brenton Kafer, Jake Carroll, Dalton Brekke, Gianna (Jacob) Armstrong, Kyle Dahmer, Gelina Kafer, and Shalea Dahmer. She also leaves behind eight great-grandchildren: Brenlee Kafer, Bailee Kafer, Colter Carroll, Cole Melvin, Hadley Armstrong, Cade Carroll, Jesse Melvin, and Haisley Armstrong.

In addition to her husband and parents, Gloria was preceded in death by two brothers and five sisters.

A private family burial will be held.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial contributions be made to St. Jude Children’s Hospital, in care of Daniel Funeral Home.

Condolences and memories may be shared at www.dfhlamar.com.

Ethel Reed

(From Parker Mortuary)

Ethel Mae Reed, age 88, Joplin, passed away on Monday, May 26, 2025 in Joplin.

Ethel was born August 28, 1936 in Enid, OK, daughter of the late Hubert and Ruby (Griffith) Grim. She lost her father at a young age, and moved to Wagoner, SD with her mother as a child where she attended school before losing her mother at the age of 15. She would then move back to Enid, OK to be adopted by her grandparents, Archa and Mary Ann Haymaker. 

She met and married Gene B. Reed on March 24, 1954, and the couple moved to Ulysses, KS where they owned and operated the local airport, Reed Air Inc. for several years before retiring and moving to Kimberling City, MO where they owned and operated Kimberling City Tire for several years. She loved spending time in her garden, and was very talented with the tending to her plants. She was also an avid thrift shopper who could stretch a penny a mile. She will be missed by her family very much.

In addition to her parents and grandparents, Ethel was preceded in death by her husband, Gene B. Reed; an infant sister, and a brother and his wife, Frank and Peggy Grim.

Survivors include her children, Danny Reed and wife Dena, Randy Reed and wife Tracie of Pearland, TX, Melinda Benham of Webb City, MO, and Kimberly Johnson and husband Randy of Kirbyville, MO; nine grandchildren, four great-grandchildren, and two great-great-grandchildren.

Cremation arrangements are under the direction of Parker Mortuary with no service planned at this time.

Robin Botts

(From Greenfield Funeral Chapel)

Robin Botts, of Greenfield, MO, departed this life on Tuesday, May 27, 2025, at Truman Healthcare and Rehabilitation Center in Lamar, MO at the age of 64.

She was born on December 8, 1960 in Carthage, MO to C.W. and Sandra (Montgomery) Felty. Robin had worked at Leggett and Platt in Carthage, MO.

Preceding her in death were her parents, C.W. and Sandra Felty.

Survivors include her son, Ryan Felty; two brothers, Lynn Felty and Michael Felty; four grandchildren, Tyra Felty, Payton Felty, Blake Felty, and Rheagan Felty; her special friend, Christene Cooper; and host of nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations are suggested to be made to Greenfield Funeral Chapel to help the family with her cremation service. Cremation services are under the care of Greenfield Funeral Chapel.

Helen Ann Cleveland

(From Ferry Funeral Home)

Helen Ann Cleveland, 79 years of age, died peacefully with a flower in her hair at her home in Broken Arrow, OK on Thursday, May 22, 2025. Helen was born in Nevada, MO to Wilford and Maxine Streich on April 20, 1946. She dearly loved the farm where she grew up and attended Nevada High School where she met and married her lifelong sweetheart, Michael Cleveland on August 20, 1962. They were happily married for 54 years.

More than anything else, Helen Ann loved Mike and her family. She devoted her life to making their home a warm and loving place. She was honest, smart, strong, genuine, kind and humble. She made every Christmas a magical experience with her cooking, baking, and artfully wrapped Christmas presents.

As an excellent wildlife artist, she was invited to travel with the Silver Dollar City craft shows. Helen Ann had a keen eye for acquiring antique tine, post cards, furniture, and timeless treasures from her farming youth. She loved wildflowers so much that she became a master gardener and volunteered her free time at the Vernon County Historical Society of Nevada, MO. You will find a mural she painted at the Bushwhacker Museum. She also made beautiful, thoughtful scrapbooks for her family.

Helen Ann loved her two daughters. She enjoyed horses and was often a part of Christine’s many horse show competitions. Helen Ann passed on her cooking and crafting magic to Nichole.

Helen Ann is survived by her two daughters, Christine Kunzweiler of Tulsa, OK and Nichole Jacobs of Tualatin, OR; and her younger brother, Edwin Streich and his wife, Beth, of Carthage, MO. She will be missed by her sons-in-law, Steve and Brian; four granddaughters, Sandra, Jenny, Jackie, and Jessica; as well as her niece, Lindsey. She also was blessed to have two great-grandsons, Alex and Andrew with Sandra’s marriage to Ryan Gabay. She was preceded in death by her husband, Mike, and her parents.

Helen Ann will be laid to rest next to her husband, Mike Cleveland in Newton Burial Park, Nevada, MO. A funeral mass will be held at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Nevada on June 7, 2025, at 10:30 a.m., with Father Peter Savidge officiating. The family suggests memorial contributions to the Vernon County Historical Society in c/o Ferry Funeral Home.

Mavis Stewart

(From Knell Mortuary)

Mavis Lynn Stewart, a gentle soul whose brief presence in this world left an indelible mark on the hearts of her family, passed away on May 23, 2025, in Joplin, Missouri. Mavis, the cherished daughter of Dylan and Madison Stewart, was a beacon of love and joy to her doting parents from the moment they learned of her arrival.

Mavis's impact was profound, touching the lives of her beloved brother, Mavrick Stewart, who looked forward to being the protective and loving sibling. Mavis was the treasured granddaughter of Melvin and Reba Dalon III on her mother's side and Daniel and Nancy Stewart on her father's side. Each grandparent had eagerly anticipated the opportunity to spoil and nurture her with all the wisdom and affection they had to offer.

Mavis's arrival was celebrated by a host of aunts and uncles, including Melvin Dalon IV, Michael, Maliakhi, and Matthew Dalon, as well as Natalie Stewart-Cutbirth and her husband Alex, Devin, Derek, Damon, and Nichole Stewart. Each had envisioned a future filled with laughter, learning, and the unique joy that comes from watching a new family member grow and explore the world.

In her gentle way, Mavis reminded everyone around her of the preciousness of life and the importance of cherishing every moment. Her memory will be held in a special place within the family's collective heart, a tender reminder of love, hope, and the fleeting nature of our time here.

Mavis Lynn Stewart, though she never spoke a word, communicated something profound about the strength and resilience of love. Her family will forever honor her memory, finding comfort in the knowledge that her spirit will continue to guide and inspire them throughout their lives.

A memorial visitation will be held from 5 to 7 pm Friday May 30, 2025 at Knell Mortuary. Online condolences may be expressed through www.knellmortuary.com. Arrangements are under the direction and personal care of Knell Mortuary.

Gary Yates

(From Knell Mortuary)

Gary Wayne Yates, 69, Nixa, Missouri, passed away on Tuesday, May 27, 2025, at his house in Kimberling City, Missouri. He was born on January 30, 1956, in Carthage, Missouri, the son of the late Charles Lee Yates and Eunice Jane (Farmer) Yates. Gary's life was marked by his jovial spirit, unwavering friendliness, and the love he so generously spread.

Gary began his career working alongside his father at Faubion Tank Shop, where he developed a strong work ethic and valuable skills. He graduated from Carthage High School in 1974 and went on to attend Missouri Southern State College, where he furthered his education before embarking on a successful career. He dedicated many years to H.E. Williams as a national sales manager until his retirement. 

Even in retirement, Gary remained active by assisting with the family business at La-Z-Boy, where he enjoyed lending a hand and staying connected with those he loved. His professional life was complemented by involvement in his community, where he was a past member of the Carthage Rotary Club and maintained a lasting connection to Fairview Christian Church in Carthage. Gary married Cindy Wickstrom on January 2, 2004, in the Carthage Courthouse.

His family was the cornerstone of his life. Gary is survived by his loving wife of 21 years, Cindy Yates; his adored children, Shayla Yates of Springfield, Missouri, and Maddy Scanio (Danny), also of Springfield; his grandchildren, Layla Morton, Leah Morton, Ariyah Morton, Brooks Scanio, and Graham Scanio, who will miss their grandfather's humor and warmth. Gary also leaves behind his brother, Bill Yates (Sue), Nixa, Missouri; his brothers-in-law, Bob McDaniel, Larry Biles, and Mike Vaughan; his cherished nieces and nephews, Kristi Montague, Susie McDaniel Huffman, Roberta McDaniel Dias, Beth McDaniel, Brian Biles, Tracey Biles, Jessica Vaughan, and Nicholas Vaughan; and many extended family and friends. He was also preceded in death by his sisters, Charlene McDaniel, Sarah Biles, Connie Yates Brown, and twin sister, Sherry Vaughan; and his nephew, Kevin Yates.

Gary’s passions were as spirited as his personality. A loyal Kansas City Chiefs fan, he held season tickets for 40 years—a true testament to his dedication and enthusiasm. He also enjoyed watching NASCAR and had a love for the open road, whether it was riding his Harley Davidson or cruising in one of his Corvettes. A devoted animal lover, Gary had a special bond with his horses and dogs, cherishing the time spent caring for and being around them. He had a deep love for golf and could often be found on the course, sharing laughs and stories.

Above all else, Gary cherished time with his family—whether it was spending a day at the lake, celebrating life’s moments, or simply relaxing together on the porch while listening to classic '70s rock.

Described by those who knew him as funny, friendly, and spirited, Gary had a remarkable knack for making everyone around him smile. He was a gifted storyteller who never hesitated to tell it like it was, and he never met a stranger—always striking up conversations and making people feel welcome. His humor was infectious, his companionship treasured, and his presence a source of comfort and joy. Gary's ability to light up a room with his laughter and connect with people from all walks of life will be deeply missed.

The family will receive friends from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. on Friday, May 30, 2025, at Knell Mortuary in Carthage. Funeral services will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, May 31, 2025, also at Knell Mortuary. Burial will follow at Park Cemetery in Carthage. Following the burial, a gathering for friends and family will be held from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. at Cherry’s Woodshed, located at 311 S. Main Street in downtown Carthage. All are welcome to join in remembering and celebrating Gary’s life.

Online condolences may be expressed at www.knellmortuary.com. Arrangements are under the direction and personal care of Knell Mortuary.