Leroy Miller

(From Parker Mortuary)

Charles Leroy Miller, known affectionately as Leroy to his friends and family, passed away peacefully on February 22, 2026, in Joplin, Missouri, at the age of 80. Born on September 15, 1945, in the quaint town of Cape Fair, Missouri, Leroy was a man whose life was defined by his unwavering kindness and love for his family.

Leroy moved to Galena, Kansas as a young boy and fondly recalled trying to blow out the streetlamps as his family drove into town. He grew up with a deep love for family and community and was a proud graduate of Galena High School, class of 1963. After graduation, he embarked on a career with Lozier Corporation, dedicating many years to manufacturing and shipping and receiving. His work ethic and commitment to excellence left a lasting impression on all who worked alongside him.

A true outdoorsman at heart, Leroy found solace and joy in the beauty of nature. He was an avid hunter, a pastime that allowed him to immerse himself in the serenity of the wilderness (many times with his eyes closed). When not enjoying the great outdoors, Leroy could often be found watching his grandkids sports activities, or with his eyes fixed on the screen, either watching the New York Yankees or Minnesota Vikings, or watching old western movies featuring his favorite actor, John Wayne. These simple pleasures brought great contentment to his life.

Leroy was a walking encyclopedia of U.S. history and baseball statistics and loved sharing his knowledge and family stories with anyone willing to listen. His legacy lives on through his cherished grandchildren, Jordan Miller and Hannah, Hali Brook Scharenberg and Matthew, Joshua Miller and Bethany; and his adored great-grandchildren, Hadley Scharenberg, Braylee Scharenberg, J (Joshua Jr) Miller, and Creed Miller. His daughter-in-law, Titia Kersh, also survives him, holding dear the memories and lessons Leroy imparted.

Leroy was preceded in death by his parents, Charles and Audra (Jane) Miller; his wife Kathryn Miller, his three children, Douglas L. Miller, Lucinda Jeannise Miller, and Wesley S. Miller; and his brother, Troy Miller. His departure leaves a void in the hearts of those who knew and loved him, but his spirit remains a guiding light.

As we bid farewell to Leroy, we reflect on a life well-lived, a journey marked by unwavering love and selfless giving.

Graveside services for Mr. Charles Leroy Miller will take place on Saturday, February 28, at 2 p.m. at the Diamond Cemetery in Diamond, MO.

In lieu of flowers family has asked that donations be made to the Solace House of the Ozarks.


Parker Mortuary is in charge of the arrangements.

Jennie Steele

(From Parker Mortuary)

Jennie Steele, 35, passed away far too soon, leaving behind a family and a circle of friends who loved her deeply and will miss her beyond words.

Jennie was truly one of a kind. She had an infectious laugh that could fill a room and a smile that made everyone feel welcome. She was the life of every party – not because she tried to be, but because her energy, humor, and warmth naturally drew people in.

Jennie loved capturing moments, whether through endless selfies, sharing laughs over Vine and YouTube, or creating inside jokes that only her closest people could fully appreciate.

She lived for concerts, musicals, spontaneous adventures, and any excuse to have a good time with the people she loved most. The same vibrant spirit led her to New York City during the pandemic, where she served as a Respiratory Therapist on the front lines, helping others breathe in their darkest hours.

Her beloved dog, Kaiya, was her constant companion and one of her greatest joys. The bond they shared was a source of comfort and unconditional love.

In later years, Jennie faced some personal struggles. She met those challenges with courage in her own way, and her journey is a reminder that even the brightest spirits can carry burdens unseen by others. She was so much more than her struggles – she was laughter, loyalty, kindness, and a heart that cared deeply for her people.

Jennie is survived by her devoted mother, Julie Madl (Ken); father, Doug Steele; brother, Sam; two sisters, Allie and Jessica; along with extended family and countless friends who are grieving this tremendous loss.

The love she gave so freely will continue to echo in stories shared, the music played loud, the selfies snapped, the musicals watched, and the inside jokes that will forever belong to her.

Though her time with us was far too short, Jennie’s vibrant spirit and unforgettable laugh will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

In lieu of flowers, the family invites you to honor Jennie by donating to the Children’s Center – Joplin, MO or the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals.

A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, February 28, 2026 from 3:00 – 6:00 p.m. at Galena Senior Citizen Facility, 720 Wall Street Galena, KS 66739.

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

 

Marlene Hizer

(From Ferry Funeral Home)

Ethyl Marlene Hizer, 85, Nevada, MO passed away on Thursday, February 26, 2026 at Medicalodges of Nevada. Marlene was born on March 29, 1940, in Shattuck, OK, to Marvin Ira and Geneva Marie (Wright) Brown. She married Ammon M. Hizer on March 19, 1960, in Kansas City, MO and he survives of the home.

Marlene was raised in Oklahoma and moved to Kansas City in the early 1950s. She graduated from North Kansas City High School in 1958. She received a Bachelor’s Degree in English & Spanish from Northwest Missouri State University in Maryville, MO and later earned her Master’s Degree in Library Sciences from the University of Central Missouri in Warrensburg, MO. 

 Marlene began as a High School English and Spanish teacher in North Kansas City, MO before she and Ammon came to Nevada in 1971. She raised her family, then in early 1985 took a job as the Director of the Nevada Public Library, retiring in 2000. Marlene was instrumental in moving the library from the Carnegie Building to its current location on 218 W. Walnut.

Marlene was a longtime member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints where she served in many roles. She was also a member of the DAR and MENSA.

Marlene is survived by her husband, Ammon, of the home; daughter, Holly Caldwell, Nevada, MO; two grandchildren, Colton Caldwell (Courtney), Nevada, MO and Erica Caldwell (Levi Dipman) and their children, Gunner, Moe, Max, and Marly, Lamar, MO; and son-in-law, Loren Hunt, Nevada, MO. She was preceded in death by her parents and a daughter, Lori Hunt.

Graveside services will be at 2:00p.m. on Monday, March 2, 2026, at Newton Burial Park, Nevada. In lieu of flowers, those who wish may contribute in Marlene’s memory to the Nevada Public Library in care of Ferry Funeral Home, Nevada.

Lorraine Nicola

(From Knell Mortuary)

Lorraine Ethel Nicola, a beacon of faith and love, passed away peacefully on February 21, 2026, in Carthage, Missouri. She was born on March 8, 1938, in Knoxville, Tennessee, the daughter of the late David and Edith (Garrett) Livingston. Lorraine's life was a tapestry of devotion to her family, church, work, and passions. She will be remembered by her kindness to all.

She graduated from Gibbs High School in Knox County, Tennessee. Her education there laid the foundation for what would become a variety of positions ranging from insurance assistant to bank teller to executive secretary of a chemical company. Lorraine's professional life was marked by a strong work ethic and a level of dedication that earned her the respect and admiration of all her employers and colleagues.

Her work was only one aspect of her full life. Lorraine spent time in Madrid, Spain, after marrying Ken Nicola, who served in the U.S. Air Force. She followed her husband into the ministry which led them to Kentucky, Tennessee, Illinois, and Michigan. Lorraine was talented in many areas, especially in the gift of hospitality. A southerner at birth, she watched her mother in the kitchen and quickly learned the trait of cooking and pastry making. Homemade rolls and homemade pies were her expertise. She and her husband invited many a guest or family to dine at their table spread with delicious Southern cooking. Sewing, gardening, and canning were amongst other talents that she had mastered. Throughout her life, she loved the Bible. She taught Sunday School from children’s classes to adult classes at each church she joined. She also led small groups, divorce-support groups, and cancer support groups that she was certified to lead. In later years, she could be found immersed in a good book, always seeking to learn and grow.

Lorraine was a loving mother to her daughters, Pamela Rhyne, Julia Faley and Lisa, Teresa Hatcher and Carey, Lisa Malone and Bill. Her brothers, Edwin Livingston with his wife Pat, and Darryl Livingston, along with her sisters, Jeanette Anderson and Debbie Villareal, will fondly remember her love for God and family. Lorraine's legacy continues through her nine grandchildren, ten great-grandchildren, and the cherished memories of one grandchild who preceded her in death.

Per Lorraine’s wishes there was cremation. Family services will be held at a later date. Online condolences may be expressed through www.knellmortuary.com.

Danny Burkybile

(From Paul Thomas Funeral Home)

Daniel Lee “Danny” Burkybile of Quapaw, OK passed from this life Wednesday, February 25, 2026 at his home. He was 55.

Danny was born August 23, 1970 in San Antonio, TX. He had lived in the Picher and Quapaw area all his life and graduated from Quapaw High School class of 1988. He was a member of the Modoc Nation, Quapaw Nation and Ottawa Tribe of Oklahoma. Danny was a self-employed general contractor and had worked in retail sales and for Jayhawk Chemicals. He was a member and Ordained Deacon of Cardin Baptist Church. He was a firefighter and served as Chaplain for the Peoria Fire Department.

Danny was preceded in death by his grandparents, Jim and Wanda Etheridge, Joe and Cecil Burkybile and Rex and Janieve Karnes, his aunts and uncles, Janis Mills, Layvetta Sue Lambeth, Robert Burkybile, Charles “Burky” Burkybile, Billy Edward Burkybile and Tommy Gene Burkybile.

Danny is survived by his wife Teresa Burkybile of the home, 1 son, Rex Harrison Robert Burkybile of Joplin, MO, 2 daughters, Amber Danylle Clouse and wife Courtney of Joplin, MO and Sierra DaAnn Burkybile of Quapaw, OK, his parents, Susan and Dick Karnes of Miami, OK, 1 brother, Benjamin James Karnes of Miami, OK, 3 sisters, Susan Mishelle “Shelle” Glerup of Miami, OK, Michelle Dawn Johnson and her husband Jerry of Fairland, OK and Kerri Lynn Karnes of Baxter Springs, KS, his uncle, Jimmie Etheridge and his wife Cathy of Dewey, OK and his aunts, Naomi King of Edmond, OK and Connie Morgan and her husband Stacey of Bullard, TX.

Graveside services will be at 11:00 a.m. Monday, March 2, 2026 at Burkybile Family Cemetery at 8006 S 650 Road, Quapaw, OK. Rev. Geoff Buffalo will officiate. Robert Berry, Mike Berry, Marshall Harp, Danny Kibel, Heath Glerup and Gage Glerup will serve as pallbearers. Final call will be conducted by Peoria Fire Department. Danny will lie in state at the family home. 

The family will receive friends at the home on Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. only at these times at the home at 8006 S 650 Road, Quapaw, OK. Services have been placed in the care of Paul Thomas Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Miami, OK. Online condolences may be made at www.paulthomasfuneralhomes.com.

Austin Deans

(From Fohn Funeral Home)

Austin Leon Deans, age 47, of Purdy, Missouri passed away on February 23, 2026 in Purdy.

He was born on November 28, 1978 in Rogers, Arkansas to Henry Austin and Connie (Paul) Deans. Preceding him in death was his father; paternal grandparents, Jonathan “Sid” and Myrtle Deans and maternal grandparents, Leon and Charlene Paul.

Surviving are his mother and stepfather, Connie (Paul) Deans Hubrig and Bruce Hubrig of Washburn, Missouri; fiancée, Angel Tiner of Purdy, Missouri; son, Silas Deans of Joplin, Missouri; daughters, Martha King of Camdenton, Missouri, Sydney Dudley of Springfield, Missouri, Kyla Deans and fiancé, Landon McCracken of Granby, Missouri, Kristal Deans of Springfield, Missouri, Kaitlyn Tiner and husband Hunter Annecharico, of Exeter, Missouri and Addie Hill of Cassville, Missouri; brother, Philip Deans, and wife Jamie, of Rogers, Arkansas and grandchildren, William, Meadow, and Stormi.

Austin grew up in Washburn, Missouri and attended Southwest High School. He was employed by Arning Companies, Incorporated in Cassville for 15 years as a welder. Austin loved Barry County, he had lived his entire life here. He was a jack of all trades, he could keep his cars running and make many of the home repairs. He enjoyed tinkering with all kinds of things, he especially liked making walking sticks. Austin cared deeply for his kids and enjoyed being a father. He found his person and the love of his life in his relationship with Angel, they had recently become engaged. Austin made a profession of faith at church camp in the summer of 1988 and was baptized October 9, 1988. Austin was a member of Washburn First Baptist Church and had recently attended Community Faith Chapel in Cassville.

Services will be held at 3:00 P.M. Thursday, February 26, 2026 at Fohn Funeral Home in Cassville. Pastor Rick Cooper and Reverend Jim Erwin will conduct the services.

The family will receive friends from 1:00 to 3:00 P.M. on Thursday at Fohn Funeral Home in Cassville.

Contributions may be made to the family in care of Fohn Funeral Home in memory of Austin.

Rita Stange

(From Spitzer-Miller Funeral Home)

The memorial service for Rita Ann Stange, 81, of Buffalo, MN, will be 11:00am, Saturday, March 7, 2026, at Spitzer-Miller Funeral Home, with Pastor Alton Vilhauer officiating. Burial will follow at Groton Union Cemetery in Groton, SD. Rita passed away peacefully with family at her side on Wednesday, February 18, at Cura Nursing Home in Monticello, MN.

Visitation will be 9:30-10:45am, before the service, at Spitzer-Miller Funeral Home, 1111 South Main Street.

Rita Ann Stange was born Sept 10th ,1944, in Britton, SD to Marvin and Mary (Hostetter) Kimball, the family lived in Oaks, ND, Cutbank, MT, Granby, MO, and Columbia, SD. After Rita’s father died in 1952, her mother married Harold McCormick in August of 1956 and the family moved to the farm in Columbia where Rita grew up and graduated from Columbia high school. She was baptized and attended and frequently sang at the Congregational church. She played clarinet, was a high school cheerleader, enjoyed debate team and acting in school plays. She was crowned Miss Columbia 1962.

Rita married Dennis Stange on Nov 4th ,1962. They lived in Fargo, Chicago, Minneapolis, and Sioux Falls. She moved back to Minnesota in 2023 where she passed away. Rita had four children, seven grandchildren, and four great grandchildren. She was very active in the order of the Eastern Star. She was a past Matron and past Grand Martha. She drove school bus for 19 years, she was a master quilt maker, and loved knitting, crocheting, and sewing.

Rita was preceded in death by her husband Dennis, son Brandon, grandson Jacob, granddaughter Devyn, her parents Marvin Kimball and Mary and Harold McCormick, her sister Lana Cuzzort and brother Gary Kimball, her brother-in-law Leland Stange, and sister- in-law Marilyn Stange




She is survived by her children Terry Stange (Sonja Wilkinson), Jerry (Janelle) Stange and Brenda Hall, her grandchildren Cole Stange (Thomas Thaler), Ashlyn Wilkinson, Justus (Raeanna) Hall, Colton Hall, Samantha (Nick) Brooks, Emily Stange (Nick Reis), great grand-children Tony and Rylan Lujan, Layla Koll, and Norman Hall, her sister Judy (Wilbur) Albrecht, in-laws Nancy Stange , Gary and Myrna Stange, Verlin Stange, and many nieces and nephews.