Leanna Jackson

(From Greenfield Funeral Chapel)

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Leanna Kaye Schilling Jackson, 72, of Lee’s Summit, MO. She passed away on November 30, 2025 after a long illness.

Born in Springfield, MO on August 8, 1953, Leanna was the eldest of three children and devoted daughter to the late Elroy and Joetta Schilling.

Leanna grew up on a farm in Lockwood, MO where she attended Immanuel Lutheran Church as well as Immanuel Lutheran School through 8th grade. She attended Lockwood High School and graduated in 1971. Leanna earned her Bachelor of Science in Education degree in 1975 from Southwest Missouri State University (now Missouri State University) with emphasis in Special Education.

Leanna had an interest in teaching from a very young age when she attempted to help her younger brother and sister learn to read. She formally began her teaching career in Greenfield, MO in 1977 where she met her husband, Doug Jackson, who was also a teacher in the Greenfield Public Schools.

Leanna and Doug were married on June 3, 1978 in the Immanuel Lutheran Church in Lockwood, MO. They moved to Willard, MO in 1981 at which time Leanna taught special education in the Ash Grove, MO schools for one year then accepted a position with Springfield Public Schools in Springfield, MO, where she taught special education at Pipkin Middle School, Hickory Hills Middle School and finally Central High School. Doug and Leanna later moved to Springfield in 1987. While in Springfield, Leanna was very active with Habitat for Humanity and Champion Athletes of the Ozarks, a program dedicated to enhancing the lives of adults and children with disabilities through sports. She earned her Master of Science degree in education and later her Specialist Degree during her time in Springfield.

Doug and Leanna moved to Platte City, MO in 2003 after Doug accepted a job with the Federal Aviation Administration in Kansas City. Leanna continued to teach in Springfield, coming home on weekends during that 10-year period prior to her retirement.

Leanna retired from Springfield Public Schools in 2013 after 36 years of devoting her life to teaching special needs students. She then volunteered at Our Savior Christian Academy, associated with Our Savior Lutheran Church, in Platte City, MO. Leanna has had a positive effect on many lives over the course of her life.

Doug and Leanna later moved to Lee’s Summit, MO in 2017 so that they could be closer to and assist Leanna’s sister Lanette, who had suffered a stroke. She helped Lanette plan and host numerous get-togethers with her former colleagues at the Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City.

Leanna is preceded in death by her father Elroy Schilling, mother Joetta Schilling and her sister Lanette Schilling. She is survived by her husband Doug Jackson of Lee’s Summit, MO, brother Erryl Schilling and his wife Linda Schilling, nephew Brice Schilling and his wife Britt Schilling, niece Lane Bucane and her husband Aaron Bucane, and numerous great nieces and nephews, all of Lockwood, MO.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, December 4, 2025 at the Immanuel Lutheran Church in Lockwood, MO. Burial will follow in the Immanuel Lutheran Cemetery. The family will receive friends on Thursday from 10:00 a.m. until service time at the church. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Immanuel Lutheran Church. Services are under the care of Greenfield Funeral Chapel.

Judy LeFort

(From Ozark Funeral Home)

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Judith “Judy” Katheryn Johnson LeFort — a cherished wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend — who entered into her eternal rest at home in Statesboro, GA, on November 30, 2025, surrounded by those who loved her.

Born on January 19, 1941, in Kansas City, MO, Judy was the daughter of the late Carl Armstrong and Eula Johnson Mustain. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her daughter, Tonya Ruth; her nephew, Charles Bates Jr.; and her sisters, Mary Mustain Bates and Anna Fisher. 

Judy is survived by her husband, Armand O. “Lee” LeFort of Statesboro, GA; her daughter, Teresa R. Hormel of Seneca, MO; her sons, Michael D. Hormel of Seneca, MO, Mark A. Hormel (Rhonda) of Statesboro, GA, and John A. Hormel (Cindy) of Statesboro, GA; nine grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; and her sister, Lynn Crowley (John) of Cameron, MO.

Rooted in faith, Judy lived a life that made others feel seen and cherished through her warm smile, a listening ear, and the steady wisdom she offered so naturally. Her family was her greatest joy, and she poured her heart into nurturing and celebrating each generation. She offered comfort without judgment and a deep love that never failed. She showed us that kindness is a calling, generosity a blessing, and love the most enduring gift we can give.

Though our hearts ache, we imagine her stepping into a joy that knows no weariness — fully restored and unbound by the limitations of this world.

Please join the family in honoring Judy at 10 a.m. on Saturday, December 13, at the Ozark Funeral Home, Anderson, MO followed by burial in the Pineville Cemetery.

May Judy’s journey be guided by light. May her memory be a blessing. May her love live on through us all.

Dea Schnake

(From Housh-Goodwin Funeral Home)

Dea Jane Schnake Sarcoxie passed away on December 2, 2025, at her home.

Dea was born in Joplin, Missouri on August 25, 1951, to the union of R.D. and Opal White. She graduated from Sarcoxie High School in 1969. She was united in marriage to the love of her life, Jerold Schnake on April 6, 2002, sharing nineteen wonderful years together. 

Dea was a hard worker, earning a degree in Wastewater Management and putting that degree to use at Leggett and Platt Wire Mill from 1993-2002. She left Leggett in 2002 and started working for the Sarcoxie school district, retiring in 2016. Dea was a member of Mt. Moriah Methodist Church, where many friendships were made between bagging candy, working the Christmas lights, and fellowship on Sundays.

Dea was great fun to be around. She was witty with a little bit of sass thrown in. Known to many as Mamma, she always had a hug to give. She enjoyed time with family and life-changing adventures that she had with her grandchildren.

Dea was proceeded in death by her husband, Jerold Schnake; grandson, Clay Wormington; parents R.D. and Opal White; and sister Ann Weaver.

Dea is survived by her children Sibra (John) Wormington, Sarcoxie, Dawn (Bill) Thompson, Monett, Chris (Tiffany) Schnake, Carthage; sisters, Debra Block, Sarcoxie, Sibel Garrett, Webb City, Janice Greene, Springfield and one brother, Terry (Karen) White, LaRussell; five grandchildren, Mandi, Nikki, Hayley, Hope, & Emma; five great- grandchildren; as well as her nieces and nephews; and brother-in-law, Jimmy Weaver.

The family would like to thank the staff of Gentiva for all their care and compassion. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Clay Wormington scholarship, in care of the funeral home.

Funeral service will be 11:00 a.m. Friday, December 5, 2025, at Housh-Goodwin Funeral Home with pastor Trey Laveroni officiating. Burial will follow in Sarcoxie Cemetery. Pallbearers are Chase Higgs, Britten House, Zach Potthoff, Aaron White, Ben White, and Andy White. Honorary pallbearers are Tyler Lambeth and Carter Phillips. Visitation will be Thursday evening from 5-7:00 p.m. at 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, Sarcoxie, Missouri.

Patrick Perrin

(From Midland Cremation Society)

Patrick Wayne Perrin, 43, passed away on November, 27, in Joplin Mo, leaving behind a legacy of kindness, laughter, and unwavering devotion to those he loved.

Born on September, 22, to Hazel Marie Perrin & Terry Lee Perrin. Patrick was known for his generous heart and his incredible gift for working with his hands. As a talented mechanic, he could fix just about anything with wheels but what truly set him apart was the way he cared for the people behind those cars. He offered help without hesitation, never expecting anything in return. If you called, he was there with no hesitation or questions asked. 

Patrick’s sense of humor was one of his greatest qualities. He could bring light into the darkest moments and make anyone laugh, even on their hardest days. His jokes, quick wit, and ability to find humor in everyday life are memories that will forever bring smiles to those who knew him.

He had the warmest and the best hugs. The way he spoke love and kindness into others will never be forgotten.

Above all else, Patrick loved his family deeply. He had a tender, protective heart, especially when it came to his sisters. He checked on them constantly making sure they were safe, supported, and never feeling alone. His loyalty to them was unshakable, and his presence was a source of comfort and strength. 

Patrick is Survived by his children, Ethan, Nathan and Morgan. His Sisters Stacy and Stephanie. Nieces Jessica, Kaileigh, Autumn, Trinidy, and nephew Michael.

Great nieces Weslynn, Sofia, Isellah, Ariah and nephew Moises.

Patrick is now with his Momma who he mourned for many years, as well as his father.

May Patrick be at peace surrounded by the same worth he gave out so freely in this world.

Family will hold private services.

Juanita Briscoe

(From Paul Thomas Funeral Home)

Juanita Joan Briscoe of Quapaw, OK passed from this life Friday, November 28, 2025 at Mercy Hospital in Joplin, MO. She was 82.

Juanita was born February 1, 1943 in Picher, OK to Dean "Keg" and Lola (Morton) Miner. She had lived in the Quapaw and Seneca area most of her life. She was a 1961 graduate of Quapaw High School.

Juanita was a bus driver for many years for Seneca Schools and Quapaw Schools, she also owned and operated ceramic and gift shops in Grove and Quapaw and owned and operated Briscoe Scrap in Quapaw with her husband Ronnie. She was a member of First Baptist Church in Quapaw.

She was preceded in death by her first husband, Jim Gipson in 1963. She later married George Ronald "Ronnie" Briscoe and he preceded her in 2020. She was also preceded by 2 sons, Larry Briscoe in 1990 and Gary Briscoe in 2019, her parents, 1 brother, Lester Miner and 1 sister, Geneva Sweeton.

Juanita is survived by 1 son, Terry Ray Briscoe and his wife Darlene of Vinita, OK, 2 daughters, Kim Brown and her husband Raymond of Quapaw, OK and Tammy Briscoe of Quapaw, OK, 1 sister, Penney Daniel of Quapaw, OK, 11 grandchildren and several great-grandchildren.

The family will receive friends Thursday, December 4, 2025 from 6 - 8 p.m. at Paul Thomas Funeral Home in Miami, OK. Private inurnment will be at a later date in Ottawa Indian Cemetery, southeast of Miami, OK. Services have been placed in the care of Paul Thomas Funeral Home and Cremation Service of Miami, OK. Online condolences may be made at www.paulthomasfuneralhomes.com.

 

Mary Bossert

(From Clark Funeral Home)

Mary Sue Bossert of Neosho, Missouri, entered into rest on November 24, 2025, at Freeman West Hospital in Joplin at the age of 75.

She was born Garden Grove, California, to Ada Marie Viola (Boyanton) Wilkins and was a graduate from San Pedro High School.

On June 21, 2000, in Las Vegas, Nevada, she married her husband Keith Douglas Bossert. He survives her.

Mary was a devoted wife and the loving mother of four, finding her greatest joy in the moments she spent with her family. Her faith was an important part of her life, and she cherished attending church and being part of the Gospel Lighthouse family.

She loved the ocean and lakes. Fishing, particularly bass fishing, was one of her favorite pastimes that brought her happiness. She especially enjoyed it when she could fish with her husband, Doug.

Sue’s greatest joy was her family. She was a selfless woman with a true heart for others-always giving, always caring, and always putting love into everything she did. Her grandchildren brought her immeasurable happiness.

She is survived by her children: Brian McGehee of Neosho, Missouri, Anthony McGehee of Neosho, Missouri, Christina, and husband, Timothy Hembree of Neosho, Missouri, and Cassie, and husband, Tyler White of Stark City, Missouri.

She was a cherished grandmother of six grandchildren, Blaine McGehee, Hailey Vickers, Alyssa McGehee, Keaton Hembree, Aidan Toye, and Lillianna McGehee, and three great-grandchildren, Asher Logan, Lawson Logan, and Warren Logan.

A Memorial Visitation will be Thursday, December 4, 2025 at 1:00pm with a Celebration Of Life following at 2:00pm, both held at Gospel Lighthouse.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Neosho Help Center, c/o Clark Funeral Home, P.O. Box 66, Neosho, MO 64850.

Bill Vinson

(From Housh-Goodwin Funeral Home)

Billy C. Vinson, age 92, went to be with his Lord and Savior on November 26, 2025, at the Missouri Veterans Home in Mt. Vernon, Missouri. He was born on March 9, 1933, in rural Love County, Oklahoma, to James Earl and Elta Mae (Meeks) Vinson.

Throughout his lifetime, he was proud to proclaim himself from “Oklahoma!” His family moved to southwest Missouri during his teen years where he graduated from Exeter High School. He met the love of his life, Loretta Pilant, through gospel quartet singing. They were married in Cassville, Missouri, on June 6, 1953. 

During the Korean War, he served with the US Army in Germany. He completed a bachelor’s degree from Southwest Missouri State College in Springfield, then began a business career in Tulsa, Oklahoma, working with Ohio Oil Company. In 1960 they moved back to Missouri for family farm life and a career change to the field of education. He served at Exeter High School for one year then taught business classes for 30 more years in Joplin, Missouri, at Franklin Technical School and Parkwood High School. 

They settled with their two daughters in the Sarcoxie community where Bill and Loretta lived for almost 60 years. He enjoyed raising Angus cattle and his prize registered Duroc hogs. To supplement retirement, they built and operated a self-storage business at Sarcoxie. Bill was an active member of First Baptist Church of Sarcoxie, where he taught an adult Sunday School class and served as deacon for many years. He was passionate to study the Bible and talk theology. He liked to deer hunt, canoe, and travel to the mountains with family. Throughout his life, he was known by everyone for his fondness to joke and tease. Bill will be greatly missed by those who loved him.

He is survived by his wife of 72 years, Loretta; daughters Teresa Brown (husband, Greg), Tina Augustine (husband, Charlie Hughes); grandchildren, Trevor Brown, Taryn Brown, Charity Hootman, Casie Augustine, and Blake Augustine; 4 great-grandchildren; brother Loyd Vinson (wife, Mary); sisters Ann Richards, Shirley Pewthers (husband, Gerald), and Nita Crabb. 

He is preceded in death by his parents; brothers Darrell Vinson and Don Vinson; and son-in-law, Larry Augustine.

Graveside services will be held at the Pilant Family Cemetery near Cassville, Missouri, at 2PM on Wednesday, December 3, 2025, with Gary Vinson officiating. His Celebration of Life will be at 1PM on Tuesday, January 6th, at First Baptist Church of Sarcoxie, Missouri. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the church in care of the funeral home. Online condolences may be sent to the family through our website www.housh-godwinfuneralhome.com.

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