Karen Newby

(From Fohn Funeral Home)

Karen Ann Newby, age 69, of Shell Knob, Missouri, passed away unexpectedly on Friday, August 7, 2026, at her home, comforted by her husband.

She was born Karen Ann Shockley on February 6, 1957, in Wichita, Kansas, the daughter of John Stewart and Clara Ann (Cassidy) Shockley. Karen met the love of her life, James Lee Newby, in Wichita, and the two were married on June 3, 1978.

Karen was preceded in death by her parents, John and Clara Shockley; her niece, Kendra Leigh Nystrom; her granddaughter, Nora Mar Newby; and her beloved lab, Shiner.

She leaves behind her beloved husband of 48 years, James Lee Newby; her three children, Megan Marie (Newby) Hilton, Kelsey Ann Newby, and Matthew DeLair Newby and wife Tori; her grandchildren, Clara, Cassidy, Parker, Grady, Abram, Ellison, and Asher; and Andrew and Athena Greathouse, whom she loved as her own. She also leaves behind many extended family members and dear friends who will remember her for her warmth, acceptance, humor, generosity, and unwavering support.

Karen grew up in Wichita and graduated from Wichita West High School. She worked in healthcare as a medical coding and billing consultant for nearly 20 years before retiring in 2008.

After retirement, Karen and Jim moved to Shell Knob, Missouri, a place that held deep meaning for her and where her parents had also retired and were buried nearby. Overlooking Table Rock lake, Karen found peace in the beauty of nature and especially loved spending time on her deck, watching the water and feeding the birds, which sometimes ate right from her hand.

Karen had a deep love for genealogy. She spent countless hours researching her family’s history, tracing generations and carefully documenting the stories, names, and connections that made up her family’s past. Her dedication preserved pieces of family history that might otherwise be lost and gave future generations a lasting connection to those who came before them.

Above all, Karen loved her family deeply. She adored her grandchildren and treasured every opportunity to see them, spend time with them, and, as she loved to do, spoil them. They brought her immense joy, and the memories they made together will we remain a cherished part of their lives.

Karen will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her. Her family will forever cherish her laughter, loving heart, unconditional acceptance, generosity, and the joy she found in the people she loved and the simple beauty of life.

Her legacy will live on through the family she loved so dearly and the history she worked so diligently to preserve.

Private services will be held in Shell Knob, Missouri, and Augusta, Kansas. Cremation arrangements are under direction of Fohn Funeral Home Cassville, Missouri.

Robert Woolsey

(From Parker Mortuary)

Robert Lee Woolsey, age 42, of Joplin, passed away on Tuesday, August 4, 2026, at his home.

Robert was born on September 06, 1983, in Carthage, MO, to Randy Woolsey and Linda (Tullis) Sivewright. He married the love of his life, Crystal Clifton, on February 13, 2016, in Carterville, MO. Robert was a man who found comfort in the simple and meaningful parts of life. He was a homebody at heart, and there was nowhere he would have rather been than surrounded by the warmth of his family and the familiar comforts of home. Robert deeply loved his family, and that love showed in the many ways he gave of himself each day. 

He enjoyed cooking for his family, taking pride in preparing meals that brought everyone together. He also treasured the playful energy of nerf wars with his children, creating memories filled with laughter, excitement, and joy. In his spare time, Robert enjoyed doing yard work and mowing. He also enjoyed playing video games, especially Forza and Call of Duty, which gave him time to relax and enjoy an interest he truly loved. Robert also loved tinkering with electronics, especially stereo equipment, he wanted his music to be loud and heard from a far. Robert will be remembered for the love he gave and the laughter he shared.

Robert was preceded in death by his father, Randy Woolsey.

Robert is survived by his loving wife, Crystal Woolsey; three children, Randy Woolsey, Roxanne Jarrell and Dean Jarrell; one grandchild; mother, Linda Sivewright and husband, Tony; brother, Jesse Woolsey and wife, Becca; nephew, Jude Woolsey; and niece, Esme Woolsey.

A Celebration of Life will be announced at a later date.

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

James Burt

(From Parker Mortuary)

James Burt II, age 90, of Grove, Oklahoma, passed away on August 5, 2026, in Grove, Oklahoma. He was born on February 22, 1936, in Inglewood, California, and lived a life marked by devotion to his family, hard work, and a deep appreciation for the simple joys that made each day meaningful.

James was a loving husband, father, and family man whose greatest pride was the life he built with those he cherished most. He leaves surviving his loving wife of 70 years, Delores Burt. He is also survived by his children, Lyndee Downs of Wake Forest, North Carolina, and James Wesley Burt III and his wife Christine of Bernice, Oklahoma. He is also survived by his 4 loving grandchildren and 5 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, James W. Burt Sr. and Vernell (Wiley) Burt, as well as his son-in-law, Alan Downs and a host of extended family members who welcomed him in passing.

After graduating from high school, James went on to obtain his associate's degree at Flat River Community College. He carried with him throughout life the intelligence and determination that helped shape his many accomplishments. James was known as a hardworking and capable man who built a successful career as the owner and operator of numerous nursing homes across Missouri, Illinois, and Kansas. He also operated a variety of other businesses and approached every business venture with the same steady commitment and practical wisdom that guided so much of his life.

Those who knew James will remember him as a man who was loving, intelligent, and handy in every sense of the word. He had a gift for working with his hands and took great pride in building cabinetry and completing remodeling projects in his free time. He found satisfaction in making things that were useful and lasting, and his craftsmanship reflected the care and patience that were part of his character. He was also a car fanatic and especially enjoyed driving his Cadillac Fleetwood Brougham.

James also treasured time spent with his family, and some of his happiest memories were made while traveling the country with them by his side. He loved the open road and enjoyed driving from one destination to the next, taking in the sights along the way. He especially loved spending time on the lake with his family, where laughter, conversation, and togetherness meant the most. Throughout his life, he enjoyed relaxing with his pipe, a quiet habit that brought him comfort and reflected the calm, steady nature that so many admired in him.

James Burt II will be remembered for his devotion to his family, his strong work ethic, and the many ways he enriched the lives of those around him. He lived a full and meaningful life, and his presence will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him. His memory will remain a lasting source of comfort and inspiration to his family and friends.

In lieu of flowers the family has asked that donations be made to St. Jude Children's hospital in James's name. 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN 38105

The arrangements are being handled under the personal care and direction of Parker Mortuary.

Bill Harlan

(From Parker Mortuary)

William "Bill" Joseph Harlan, age 72, of Joplin, passed away on July 30, 2026, at his home.

Bill was born on November 1, 1953, in Joplin, to the late James and Patricia (Anthony) Harlan. He was a proud graduate of Memorial High School. Bill enlisted into the United States Air Force, a decision he regarded with great pride. His service to his country was an important part of his life, and he carried that experience with honor for the rest of his days. 

He loved working on cars and cleaning them, and he took satisfaction in making sure they looked and ran their best. He had an eye for detail and a natural ability to understand how things worked. Bill also enjoyed listening to classic metal and rock. Those who knew Bill best will remember his sense of humor and his ability to bring a smile to others. He had a way of making people laugh, often with a quick remark or a well-timed joke.

Bill is survived by his two children, Andrew and Phillip Harlan; four siblings, Debra Charles and husband, Sam, Maria Anspach, Tommy Harlan and Jimmy Harlan; one grandchild, Onyx Harlan; and lifetime partner, Mary Martin.

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

Grant Mitchell

(From Lakin Funeral Home)

Grant Dean Mitchell, age 78, of Monett, Missouri, passed away peacefully at home on Thursday, August 6, 2026, surrounded by his loving family.

Grant was born on June 29, 1948, in Coquille, Oregon, to Maurice and Joan (Smith) Mitchell. After the passing of his father at the age of 4, he was lovingly raised in Nebraska by his uncle and aunt, George and Mabel Yost. He graduated from North High School in Omaha and attended the University of Nebraska for two years.






Through his own personal study and careful reading of the Bible, Grant dedicated his life to Jehovah and was baptized as one of Jehovah's Witnesses in 1985. The following year, he willingly expanded his ministry to help a Spanish-speaking congregation despite not knowing the language. Through determination and reliance on Jehovah, he quickly learned Spanish and became part of the first Spanish congregation in Omaha. It was there that he met Bertha, whom he married on December 24, 1988. Grant lovingly adopted her two children, Eddie and David, embracing them as his own. From 1990 to 2005, Grant and Bertha had the privilege of serving together as regular pioneers in the full-time ministry. In 1994, they moved with their family to Monett, Missouri, to help support another Spanish-speaking congregation where there was a need.

Grant's love for Jehovah shaped every aspect of his life. He found great joy in reading the Bible, sharing its message with others, and encouraging those around him. He was known for his quiet strength, humility, kindness, and willingness to help wherever he was needed. An accomplished piano player, Grant also enjoyed playing chess, biking, golfing, jogging, traveling, and gardening. He especially loved eating fresh vegetables from his own garden. Above all, he cherished his family and treasured every opportunity to spend time with them, especially enjoying games of Monopoly with his grandchildren.

Grant is survived by his devoted wife, Bertha Mitchell of Monett, Missouri; his two sons, Eddie (Briseida) Mitchell and David Mitchell both of Monett, Missouri; five cherished grandchildren, Isaac, Talia, Ethan, Trevor, and Devin; two brothers, Craig (Connie) Mitchell and Jerry Mitchell; one sister, Julie (Walter) McGrew; along with many nieces, nephews, and dear friends. 

Grant was preceded in death by his parents, Maurice and Joan Mitchell and by the uncle and aunt who lovingly raised him, George and Mabel Yost.

Grant will be remembered for his unwavering faith, his loving devotion to his family, and his lifelong desire to serve Jehovah and help others. His example of humility, kindness, and faithful endurance will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing him.

A Celebration of Life will be at Kingdom Hall of Jehovah's Witnesses in Monett, MO on Saturday, August 15, 2026 beginning at 2:00 PM with Louis Driska officiating. Arrangements are under the personal care and direction of Lakin Funeral Home in Pierce City, MO.

Hansum Orr

(From Simpson Funeral Home)

It is with heartfelt sorrow that we announce the passing of Hansum Orr on August 6, 2026.

Born to Jerry and Shawn Orr on August 6, 2026, Hansum was a beloved son. Hansum's passing leaves a void that cannot be filled. However, his spirit lives on in the hearts of his loving parents, Jerry and Shawn Orr. 

He is survived by his siblings, Aalyiah Lynn Orr, Clauz Blu Orr, C.J Haverfield II, Shaylee Dutton, Gabe Dutton, Jayden Mcnally, Kyran Dumas, Kaiden Ryder and Max Purvis; grandparents April Madrid of Joplin, Stephen Orr of Folsum, CA, Cindy Green of El Dorado Springs, and Alan Sawyer of Buckner, MO; aunts, Brooklynn Madrid, Sparkle Sawyer and his uncle Phillip Green. 

Hansum is preceded in passing by his siblings, Kyson and Khaleesi Baker.

It is our fervent prayer that the Lord will grant comfort and peace to his family during this challenging time, as reflected in the words from Psalm 34:18, "The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit."

A Graveside service will be held at Mt. Hope Cemetery on Thursday August 13, 2026 at 11 a.m.

Services are under the personal care and direction of Simpson Funeral Home. The family encourages relatives and friends to visit www.simpsonfh.com to share photos and memories of their loved one. In this way, Hansum's radiant spirit will continue to shine in our hearts, illuminating our lives with the light of his love and joy.

James Arrowood

(From Simpson Funeral Home)

James Everett Arrowood, known affectionately as "Handsome Jim," passed away peacefully on August 5, 2026, in his beloved home in Carterville, Missouri. Born on June 19, 1945, James lived a life that was defined by his love for Jesus, his family, and his service to his community. He was a loving and inspiring figure, whose compassionate nature and generous heart touched countless lives.

James dedicated over three decades of his life to public service, retiring from the City of Carterville Police Department in 2012. He served the community with distinction, earning the titles of Commander and Chaplain. Once retired, James's enthusiasm for life found new outlets. He was not only an ardent RC Plane enthusiast, a member of the RC Plane Club, but also a skilled Ham Radio Operator. 

His love for music found expression in his church where he led the music. A man of many talents, James even taught Karate, inspiring others with his discipline and strength. His Christian faith was the cornerstone of his life, and he was a devoted member of Faith and New Hope Church in Carterville, MO.

In the words of the Apostle Paul, "I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith." (2 Timothy 4:7). James embodied this verse through his life of service, love, and faith. He is preceded in death by his mother, Gwen Arrowood, who nurtured the values that defined his life.

Preceding James in death were his parents and his daughter Tabitha Jean Arrowood.

James is survived by his wife Johnny Lee Arrowood, his son James Arrowood, JR his wife Kari, and his sister Rita Maples and his sister in law, Alicia Bennett. His grandchildren, Amanda Dumas and her husband Justin, Jacob Arrowood, Micha Spenser, Christopher Arrowood and Elijah Arrowood. His great grandchildren Rose Spenser, Tabitha Dumas, Emma Spencer, Jaxxon Dumas and Ophelia Spenser.

A Memorial Service will be held on August 17th at 9am at the Faith and New Hope Church in Joplin.

Services for James are under the personal care and direction of Simpson Funeral Home. The family encourages relatives and friends to visit www.simpsonfh.com to share photos and cherished memories of James. Despite the sorrow of his passing, let us celebrate the remarkable life of James Arrowood, who was truly a blessing to all who knew him. As we remember him, let's cherish his inspiring life and the beautiful memories he left us with.