Phillip Hergert

(From Derfelt Funeral Home)

Phillip Edward Hergert, 63, of Joplin, Missouri, passed away peacefully ,at 1:37 pm, Wednesday, October 22, 2025 at Freeman West, Joplin, MO, leaving behind a legacy of kindness, craftsmanship, and love. Born on December 2, 1961, in Nevada, Missouri, to Leon E. Hergert and Eleanor N. Hergert, Phillip was raised in a home filled with family, laughter, and hard work — values that shaped the man he became.

Phillip had a passion for creating and fixing things, whether it was under the hood of a car, in his woodworking shop, or standing over his grill perfecting the art of smoking food. His easygoing nature and laid-back personality made him someone everyone loved to be around. He had a quiet way of making people feel welcome and cared for — often with a warm smile, a hearty laugh, and a plate of something delicious he’d cooked himself.

He was one of six siblings, and his bond with family remained strong throughout his life. He is survived by his brothers Steve Hergert (Gale), David Hergert (Vicki), and Mark Hergert; and his sisters Sue Ann Moore (Kirk) and Karen Bowles (James).

Phillip was blessed with the love of his life and best friend, Gaye, with whom he shared many beautiful years. Their love was deep and enduring, and those who knew Phillip knew how much he longed to be reunited with her after her passing.

He is also survived by his son Keenan Hergert (Tiffany); his stepdaughters Buffie Wescoat-Peters (Darvin), Ginger Kellar-Parker, and Jamie Kellar, all of Joplin; and eight grandchildren who brought him immense pride and joy: Cameron Wescoat, Dylan Kellar (Katelyn), Deone Kellar (his wife), Trevor Kellar-Stevens, Kloey Hergert (Billy), Macie Wininger (Brenton), Waylon Lee, and Issabelle Lee. He was preceded in death by his beloved grandson, Connor Wescoat, whom he now joins in eternal peace.

Phillip’s presence was a steady and comforting one — he was loved by all who knew him and will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and everyone who was lucky enough to have shared time with him.

A celebration of life will be held at his residence in Joplin, Missouri, on November 4th at 4:00 p.m., where friends and family will gather to share stories, laughter, and love in honor of a man who gave so much of himself to others.

Though he never sought the spotlight, Phillip’s light shines brightly in the lives of those he touched. He will be remembered not for grand gestures, but for the quiet, genuine warmth that made every moment with him feel like home.

Terry Young

(From Derfelf Funeral Home)

Terry Lee Young, 85 passed away peacefully at home on October 20, 2025. He leaves behind one daughter, Elizabeth Young of Baxter Springs, Kansas, one son, Christopher Young of Lake Worth, Florida, and one brother, Bill Young of Montana. He also leaves behind 8 grandchildren, 11 great grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews.

Terry is preceded in death by his wife of 63 years, Nancy (Roam) Young, their daughter Pamela (Young) Dean, and parents, William K. Young and Lucille (Edwards) Young of Joplin, Mo.

Burial will be held on Wednesday, October 29, 2025 at 1:00 pm in the Ozark Memorial Cemetery. Online condolences maybe expressed at www.derfeltfuneralhomes.com.

Carl Lewis

(From Parker Mortuary)

Carl D. Lewis, age 70, of Joplin, passed away on Sunday, October 26, 2025 at his home surrounded by family.

Carl was born October 20, 1955 in Larned, Kansas to the late Wade Sr. and Clara (Harding) Lewis. He was a 1973 graduate of Webb City High School. Carl worked as a delivery driver for IBT Industrial Solutions for over 20 years. He married Sheryl Ann Phillips on June 17, 1994 at Bassman Field in Joplin. They enjoyed photographing dirt track racing and spending countless weekends at the former 66 Speedway. They also enjoyed volunteering at Special Olympics events in their spare time. 

Together they were blessed with 25 years of marriage before Sheryl’s passing on January 18, 2020. Carl was an avid gun collector and spent countless hours going to the range to shoot. He enjoyed being outdoors and going to the ballfields to play softball.

In addition to his parents, Carl was preceded in death by two brothers, Wade Lewis, Jr. and William Lewis.

Carl is survived by two brothers, Paul Lewis and wife, Cindy, of Omaha, NE, and Harold Lewis and wife, Gloria, of Carthage, MO; son, Michael Judd and wife, Jennifer, of Joplin, MO; daughter, Christine Meadows, of Springfield, MO; five grandchildren, Trenten Judd, Journey Towsand, Nickolas Hoffman, Ashley Hoffman, Keagon Turner; nine great-grandchildren, Unique Hoffman, Liliana Hoffman, Silas Hoffman, Nova Gray, Ryder Gray, Willow Turner, Catherine Judd, Orion Little and Bowen Judd; and many other extended family members.

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

Dwight Pyles

(From Ulmer Funeral Home)

Elba “Dwight” Pyles, 77, of Carthage, passed away on Saturday, October 25, 2025, at Mercy Hospital in Joplin. 

Dwight was born on April 4, 1948, in Anderson, Missouri, to Dale Pyles and Thelma Smith. He was a lifetime resident of Carthage and an active member of Victory Baptist Church. Dwight was a truck driver for over 40 years, driving for various companies, he retired from H.E. Williams. He served in the National Guard and United States Air Force. He was a bass player for several bands and played all types of music. 

In his free time, he enjoyed car shows and tractor pulls, stock car racing, and watching the Chiefs, but above all else, Dwight loved his family, especially his grandkids. 

Dwight was joined in marriage to the love of his life, Wilma “Faye” Sims on September 6, 1970, in Carthage, she preceded him in death on July 16, 2022. 

He is survived by his son, Dale Pyles (Michelle) of Overland Park, Kansas; two daughters, Tammie Edwards (Mike) of Broken Arrow, Oklahoma, and Shellie Nevills of Carthage; his mom, Thelma Mae Pyles; one sister, Cathy Hall (Don) of Springfield, Missouri; eight grandkids, Dylan, Taylor, Korby, Jayce, Michael (Megan), Johnathan, Savy (James), Rachel (John); three great grandkids, Mikey, Mason, and Brooklyn; his mother in law, Gail Scriber of Carthage; four sisters in law, Patty Golden (Perry), Debbie Blaylock, Janis Pyles, and Alice Sims; and several nieces and nephews. 

Dwight was preceded in death by his dad, Dale Pyles; son in law, Joe Nevills; two brothers, Jerry Pyles and Terry Pyles; father-in-law, Charlie Sims; and brother-in-law Steve Sims. 

There will be a funeral service for Dwight at 10:00 AM on Thursday, October 30, 2025, at Victory Baptist Church in Carthage. The visitation will be from 6:00 to 7:00 PM the previous evening on Wednesday, October 29, 2025, at Ulmer Funeral Home. The burial will take place at Fullerton Cemetery directly following the service. 

Condolences may be made online at www.ulmerfh.com. 

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

Xander Cupp

(From Ozark Memorial Park Crematory)

Xander James Cupp, born on November 17, 2005, in Joplin, Missouri, was a radiant spirit whose journey on this earth was tragically cut short at the young age of 19 due to injuries sustained in an automobile accident.

Xander was a cherished son to Charles “Andy” and Amber (Beale) Cupp. From an early age, he was known for his infectious sense of humor, always the funniest person in the room, and a source of joy for everyone around him.

Xander’s educational journey began at Heartland Christian Academy in Bethel MO, from the age of 3 to 15 where he was active in basketball. The Heartland Community Church is also where he accepted Christ as his Lord and Savior and followed in believers baptism. He often served alongside his mom and dad during their annual missions conference and open house and many times helped his mom deliver meals for those in need in the community. He later graduated from Webb City High School in 2024. 

During his high school years, Xander worked at Subway in Carthage and Casey’s in Joplin, Webb City and Oronogo and he was currently honing his mechanical skills as a valued mechanic with his Papa Mark, at his family’s business, All Around Automotive, in Granby MO, a place where he envisioned his future. 

Xander had a flair for creativity, exploring his artistic side and learning the craft of tattooing. Xander’s wit and charm, paired with his mechanical inclination and entrepreneurial spirit was evident as he dreamed of taking over his grandfather’s automotive business one day.

His character was defined by a hard-working nature and an old loving soul, embodying kindness and consideration for others. Xander took immense pride in being a big brother to his two sisters, Mikynna and Leah, and was deeply committed to caring for those he loved. He never missed an opportunity to be a jokester. Xander’s selflessness extended beyond his family; he gave the gift of life as an organ donor, ensuring that a part of his vibrant spirit will continue to live on in others.

He is preceded in death by his uncle, Blake Fitzgerald, and his great-grandparents, Ed Clevenger, Bernadine and Ronald E. Crews and Katherine Hawkins.

Xander is survived by his loving parents, Charles “Andy”, who he got his outgoing and humorous spirit from and Amber (Beale) Cupp, who he got his heart for serving others from and he loved deeply like both his mom and dad; his sisters, Mikynna and Leah Cupp; his fiancée, Halle Hannum; and a host of family and friends, including aunts Dr. Jasmine Hawkins, Kristin Long and her husband Greg; uncles Dr. Christopher Fitzgerald and his husband Julien, Josh Anderson and his wife Kelly, Mike Cupp and his wife, Lynna; maternal grandparents Cherie Hawkins and her husband, Tom. Mark Beale, and his wife, Renee; paternal grandmother Rhonda Wilson; great-grandparents Jon and Peggy Brazelton, Tom Hawkins Sr., Ron Beale, Wilda Smith, Karen Beale, and Patricia Clevenger; as well as numerous cousins, great aunts, great uncles, and extended family members.

Memorial services for Xander James Cupp, age 19, of Joplin will be held on Thursday, October 30, 2025 at 10:00 AM at One Church in Joplin with Pastor Shane Munn officiating. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the family and entrusted to Ozark Memorial Park Cemetery and Crematory. Cremation arrangements are under the personal care and direction of Ozark Memorial Park Crematory, Joplin.

 

John Berrey

(From Mason-Woodard Mortuary)

John Lane Berrey, 67, of Joplin, Missouri, passed away peacefully on Saturday, October 25, 2025, surrounded by family at Freeman Memorial Hospital.

John was born on August 31, 1958, in Lakewood, Colorado, the fifth of seven children of Joseph Lane and Janet Long Berrey. His father’s aerospace engineering career took the family to Florissant, Missouri, where John spent his early school years, and later to Fountain Valley, California, where he graduated from Los Amigos High School in 1976.

Family road trips were a highlight of his youth — traveling across the country to visit relatives, camp, fish, and explore. A proud Boy Scout, John earned the rank of Eagle Scout after attending Philmont Scout Ranch in New Mexico, an experience he treasured throughout his life.

After his family moved to Fayetteville, Arkansas, in 1977, John attended the University of Arkansas and earned his degree. Following graduation, he moved to Tulsa, Oklahoma, with his fiancée, Kim Jester. They married, shared 20 years together, and raised two children, Lane and Jack.

John began his career in sales with Hilti Corporation, but his growing interest in his Quapaw heritage and tribal governance inspired a new path. In 2002, he was elected Chairman of the Quapaw Tribal Business Committee, a position he held for nearly two decades.

Under his leadership, the Quapaw Nation achieved self-governance, developed Downstream and Saracen Casinos, and created numerous business and housing initiatives that provided jobs and strengthened the tribe’s economic foundation. He also led efforts to reclaim and consolidate tribal lands, secure federal funding for development, and pursue a landmark legal settlement on behalf of the Quapaw people.

Guided by a vision to restore a Quapaw presence in their ancestral home of Arkansas, John championed cultural, educational, and economic partnerships that reconnected the Nation to its roots. His advocacy helped pave the way for the creation of Saracen Casino, reflecting his belief that tribal enterprise could lift local communities and ensure long-term self-sufficiency.

After the devastating 2011 Joplin tornado, John led the Quapaw Nation in donating to rebuild the Leffen Center for Autism, where he met Sarah Cox, who he married in 2023.

Chairman Berrey will be remembered for his vision, perseverance, and deep commitment to the Quapaw people. His leadership leaves an enduring legacy that will continue to shape the Nation for generations to come.

John is survived by his two children, Lane and Jack; wife, Sarah and her children Liam and Henry Horton; mother, Janet; and sisters, Ellen Bauer, Jan Sadeghi, Mary Jo Gover, Kayte Pratt and Carol Boger. He was preceded in death by his father, Joseph, and his brother, Jody.

A funeral service will be held at 3:00 p.m. on Saturday, November 1, 2025, at Mason-Woodard Mortuary in Joplin, with visitation immediately following in the Mason-Woodard Chapel.

In lieu of flowers, the family invites those wishing to honor John’s memory to make a donation to the Leffen Center for Autism.

Ruby Sallee

(From Simpson Funeral Home)

Ruby Eileen Sallee, of Joplin, Missouri, passed away on October 27, 2025, at the age of 84. Born on February 22, 1941, to Morris Farmer and Suzie Smith, Ruby was a compassionate and loving soul who touched many lives. Growing up in Carthage, Missouri, Ruby was a smart and loyal individual who always focused on her family and God. She often said, "Family is not an important thing, it's everything," and she lived those words every day.

Ruby was a shining light in her community. Ruby channeled her passion for helping others into her role as a Certified Medical Technician. Before retiring, Ruby spent many years working at Leggett & Platt, where her diligent service in cleaning and housekeeping was valued and respected. She also contributed to her community through her role as a Sunday School Teacher at Carterville Christian Center and as an active participant in a health club at Bethel Baptist Heights Church. Her hobbies included nurturing plants, dancing, and attending church services. Ruby's unwavering faith was her guiding force, and her dedication to her family and community was unyielding.

Ruby is survived by her loving husband, Ronald Sallee, whom she married on March 19, 2021. Their relationship was a testament to Ruby's loyalty and love. She is also survived by her daughters, Lois Denise Bishop, Rose Lee and her son, Johnnie Petty; 7 siblings and her beloved 8 grandchildren and 24 great grandchildren. Ruby was preceded in death by her parents, Morris Farmer and Suzie Smith; her son Dennis Williams, 7 siblings and 1 grandchild.

In the words of Maya Angelou, "People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel." Ruby left an indelible mark on everyone she met, making them feel loved, appreciated, and valued. We feel blessed to have had Ruby in our lives and will miss her deeply.

Services are under the direction of Simpson Funeral Home. The family encourages relatives and friends to visit www.simpsonfh.com to share photos and memories of Ruby. As we celebrate Ruby's life, we invite you to join us in remembering her compassionate spirit, her loving heart, and her devotion to her family and faith.