Russell Lee McFarren

Russell Lee McFarren, age 78, of Salem, Arkansas, passed away on Wednesday, October 8, 2025, in Mountain Home, Arkansas.

Visitation will be held from 2:00 p.m. until 4:00 p.m. on Sunday, October 12, 2025, at Barker Funeral Home in Salem, Arkansas. Military honors will be presented at 3:00 p.m. on Sunday at Barker Funeral Home.

Memorials may be made to Hospice of the Ozarks, 811 Burnett Drive, Mountain Home, Arkansas 72653, or to Tunnels to Towers Foundation at T2T.org.

Arrangements are under the direction of Barker Funeral Home in Salem, Arkansas.

 

Stanley Wayne Mitchell

Stanley Wayne Mitchell, age 52, of Jonesboro, Arkansas, passed away on Tuesday, October 7, 2025.

Memorial services will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Monday, October 13, 2025, at Barker Funeral Home in Salem, Arkansas, with Bro. John Hodges officiating. Visitation will be from 12:00 p.m. until service time at 2:00 p.m. on Monday at Barker Funeral Home. Interment will follow at Hebron Cemetery in Viola, Arkansas. Arrangements are under the direction of Barker Funeral Home in Salem, Arkansas.

Memorials may be made to the Hebron Cemetery Association, c/o Max William, 4867 N. AR Hwy 9, Brockwell, Arkansas 72517

Jason Allen Aubrey

Jason Allen Aubrey, age 37 of Springfield, MO was born December 27, 1987 in West Plains, MO and passed away October 5, 2025 at Mercy Hospital in Springfield, MO.

Survivors include, his father Timothy Deckard and wife Shannon, sister Kayleen Iigenfritz, two half-brothers Joshua and Justin, half-sister Shannon, and numerous other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his mother Cheryl Shumaker Deckard.

Graveside service will 11:00 am Wednesday, October 8, 2025 at the Deckard family farm.

Dale D. McKee

A memorial service for Dale D. McKee, 84, Willow Springs, Missouri, will be held at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, October 11, 2025, at Langston Street Chapel of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.

Mr. McKee passed away at 6:24 p.m., Friday, October 3, 2025, at his home.

He was born November 19, 1940, at Dormas, Ozark County, Missouri, to Carl McKee and Ruby Russell McKee.  On June 30, 1967, he was married at Willow Springs, Missouri, to Patricia Murrell.  Mr. McKee graduated from Bakersfield High School in 1958.   He loved his horses and his life on the dairy and beef farm.  He enjoyed spending time at Cloud 9 Ranch with his cousins, grandkids and his dog, Yodi.  He also enjoyed visiting with his friends at “the University” and going with his wife to listen to music at Roy’s Store in Dora on Tuesday nights and prior to that to the American Legion in Willow Springs to listen to Sherry Lovan, Alan Strickland and others.  His family was his life.  He had many fond memories from work to working out west with family and friends.  Mr. McKee was baptized and gave his life to Christ at Pomona Christian Church.

He is survived by his wife, Pat McKee, of the family home; two children, Brad McKee and wife, Cathy, Willow Springs,  Missouri and Stacy Bart and husband, Brian, Billings, Missouri; five grandchildren, Chelsea Gwaltney and husband, Michael, Hannah Stolba, Brody McKee, Tucker McKee and Greyson Bart; four great-grandchildren, Benjamin Gwaltney, Reid Gwaltney, Eli Stolba and Callie Stolba; one brother, Jim McKee, West Plains, Missouri; one sister, Mary Ann Joyce and husband, Bill, West  Plains, Missouri; one sister-in-law, Jeanne Murrell; many nieces and nephews; and cousin, Steve McKee and wife, Linda.

His parents, one infant brother, Junior McKee and two sisters, LaVelle Robinson and Patsy McKee, preceded him in death.

Visitation will be held from 10:00 until 11:00 a.m., Saturday, at Langston Street Chapel.  Memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital, and may be left at or mailed to Robertson-Drago Funeral Home, 211 W. Main St., West Plains, Missouri.

 

Cheryl Lynn Johnson

Cheryl Lynn Johnson, 74, of rural Ash Flat, Arkansas passed away at White River Medical Center in Batesville, Arkansas. She was born in Racine, Wisconsin. Cheryl was preceded in death by her parents, Roy and Isabelle Collins Kullberg, as well as two brothers.

Survivors include her husband, Terry Johnson of the home; a son, Gary Johnson (Stephanie); two daughters, Wendy Aumann and Kelly Huddleston (John); eight grandchildren: Nikki Lewis (Sam) and Chris Aumann, Kyle, Courtney, and Lindsey Huddleston, Nolan, Owen, and Cal Johnson; two great-grandchildren, Braxton and Brylie Lewis; a sister, Carol; many other relatives and good friends.

Cheryl was of the Lutheran faith. Family was extremely important to her. She loved board games of all kinds and enjoyed playing Bingo and games on her tablet. Hobbies included crochet and knitting.

Pascal Dee Shrable

Pascal Dee Shrable, 71, of Viola, Arkansas, departed this life on Friday, October 3, 2025, in Mountain Home, Arkansas.

He was born on September 20, 1954, in West Plains, Missouri, to the late Rudolph “Doc” and Erceil (Phillips) Shrable. Pascal was united in marriage to Ruth Ingram on December 31, 1987, in Mountain View, Arkansas.

During his working years, Pascal worked for the Arkansas Highway Department. Pascal had many favorite pastimes including playing cards, shooting darts, hunting, driving down country back roads, collecting keychains, watching westerns, and tinkering with things. Spending time with his grandkids was something he loved the most.

Pascal was a member of Viola First Baptist Church in Viola, Arkansas.

Pascal is survived by his wife, Ruth Shrable of Viola, Arkansas; son, Boyd Ray Shrable (Shandle), stepsons, Kevin Sanders of Mountain Home, Arkansas and Brian Sanders (Lottie) of Conway, Arkansas; and his grandchildren, Jordyn Powell (Jacob), Dalton Shrable, Jagger Shrable, Mailee, Gabby, Brady and Amara Williams (Jessie).

He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Boyd Dean Shrable and Doyle Shrable; and an infant brother, Gordon.

Pallbearers will be Justin Shrable, Dalton Shrable, Porter Howell, Jewell Fry, Robert Allen, and Jagger Shrable.

Funeral Service will be Monday, October 6, 2025, at 2:00 p.m.in the Flora Baptist Church in Viola, Arkansas, with Bro. Robert Lash officiating.

Burial will follow the service in Flora Cemetery in Viola.

Visitation will be Sunday, October 5, 2025, beginning at 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. in the Chapel of Doty Family Funeral Service in Salem, Arkansas.

Bobbie Keith Ragon

Graveside services for Bobbie Keith Ragon, 91, West Plains, Missouri, will be held at 2:00 p.m., Thursday, October 9, 2025, at South Fork Cemetery, under the direction of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.

Mr. Ragon passed away at 5:53 a.m., Monday, September 29, 2025, at Springfield, Missouri.

Visitation will be from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., Wednesday, at Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.  Memorial contributions may be made to Moody Volunteer Fire Department and may be left at or mailed to Robertson-Drago Funeral Home, 211 West Main, West Plains, MO  65775.

Judy Kay Tackitt

A Celebration of Life service for Judy Kay Tackitt, 75, Dora, Missouri, will be held at 11:00 a.m., Thursday, October 9, 2025, at Ball Church of Christ.

On Tuesday, September 30, 2025, Judy Kay (Tallon) Tackitt, a loving wife, mother, grandmother, and homemaker passed away at the age of seventy-five.  Judy was born on April 2, 1950, in Bakersfield, California, to Lizzie (Raglan) Tallon and Jerry Price Tallon Jr.  In 1968, Judy graduated high school at Wasco Union High in Wasco, California.  In 1967, she married Jerry Tackitt.  They shared life together for fifty-seven years.  From their marriage they had two children.  Judy worked as a teacher’s assistant for several years.  She was the publicist for Heritage Christian University and took classes in theology for two years.  She worked in banking, auto manufacturing (nine years for Toyota), Kimball International, and was the secretary for the Huntingburg Church of Christ from 1998 – 2017.  Judy’s support enabled her husband to pursue full-time ministry in the Lord’s church.  The impact of her life may not be realized fully on earth, but heaven knows.  She loved the Lord and helped many come to know Him more fully.

She is survived by her husband, Jerry Tackitt; one daughter, Lorie Tackitt; and one son-in-law, Wes Roberts.  She leaves behind eleven grandchildren, Jay (Kim) Roberts, Taylor (Mandi) Collins, Olivia (Scott) Mackey, Emilie (Aaron) Anderson, Bobbi Roberts, Alli (Tyler) Huffman, Austin Roberts, Matthew Roberts, Kaylee Roberts, Stacy Roberts, and Silas Roberts.  She is also survived by two sisters, Joan Bonham and Naomi Grontkowski; one brother, Lowell Tallon; eleven great-grandchildren; and many nieces, nephews, and friends.

Judy is preceded in death by her daughter, Marcie Roberts, her parents, and one sister, Ramona Belt.

Visitation will be held prior to the service, from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m., Thursday, at the church.  Memorial contributions may be made to Elijah Cemetery and may be left at or mailed to Robertson-Drago Funeral Home, 211 West Main, West Plains, MO  65775.

Maureen Elizabeth Curtis

Maureen Elizabeth Curtis, 71, of Thayer, Missouri, passed away on September 30, 2025, in Salem, Arkansas. She was born on September 7, 1954, in Ann Arbor, Michigan, to Richard Curtis and Charlene (Niles) Curtis.

Maureen dedicated her career to working in healthcare with disabled adults, where her compassion and kindness touched many lives. In her free time, she enjoyed watching television, drawing, and working crossword puzzles. Most of all, she loved her family and those closest to her.

She is survived by many nieces, nephews, friends, and caretakers, including Faye, Bobby, and John. She was preceded in death by her parents and her beloved partner, Chuck.

No services are scheduled at this time. Arrangements are under the direction of Barker Funeral Home in Salem, Arkansas.

Maureen will be remembered for her gentle spirit, her creativity, and the love she shared with those around her.

Ann Marie Anderson

Ann Marie Anderson, 64, of Horseshoe Bend, Arkansas passed away Thursday, October 2, 2025 at EagleCrest Nursing and Rehab Center in Ash Flat, Arkansas.  She was born November 4, 1960 in Chelsea, Massachusetts.  Ann had worked as a special education teacher and was preceded in death by her parents, Robert and Shirley Kessler, and a grandson, Aaden Lenoir.

Survivors include her husband, Walter Johnson; a son, Jesse France and his wife, Erica; a grandson, Isaiah France; a sister, Bonnie Kessler; a nephew, Kevin Kessler; and many good friends.

Ann “lived for Bingo” playing as many times a week as possible, and she enjoyed video games with her husband. Her grandson was “the apple of her eye” and he loved his grandmother.  Ann and Walter attended Ash Flat Baptist Church worshipping the Lord with fellow Christians.

A memorial service will be announced at a later date.

 

Joseph Slesarik

Joseph Slesarik Jr, 90, of West Plains, passed away at National Health Care, on October 2, 2025. 

Arrangements are pending.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date to be determined.

Arrangements by Always Faithful Memorial Services, West Plains, MO

 

Dollie Mae Messer

Dollie Mae Messer, 85, of Viola, Arkansas, passed from this walk of life to her Heavenly home on Monday, September 29, 2025, at her home in Viola surrounded by her family.

She was born on September 9, 1940, in Elizabeth, Arkansas, to the late Lee and Lona Bell (Shelton) Campbell. Dollie was united in marriage to the late Bobby Messer on February 26, 1960, in Kansas City, Missouri, and to this union four children were born. She enjoyed reading and watching TV. Dollie’s favorite pastime was music. She loved Southern Gospel music, and The Inspirations were her all time favorite group. Dollie also loved old gospel hymns, and she would often sing the old songs. She loved being with her family, especially with her grandchildren being the ultimate storyteller. Dollie was a member of Viola First Baptist Church in Viola, Arkansas.

Dollie is survived by her children, Sherry Ettinger and husband Alan of Viola, Arkansas, Natalie Hines and husband Bryon of Kansas City, Missouri, Kenneth Messer and wife Denise of Greenwood, South Carolina and Patricia Messer of Viola, Arkansas; brothers, LJ Campbell and wife Helen of Viola, Arkansas, Joe Campbell and wife June of Bakersfield, Missouri and Neal Campbell and wife Carolyn of Gepp, Arkansas; sister, Margie Fry of Elizabeth, Arkansas; grandchildren, Kelly Alexander (John) of Melbourne, Florida, Karen Jezowski (Rodger) of Kansas City, Missouri, Alecia Hines of Kansas City, Missouri, David Ettinger (Jennifer) of Kansas City, Missouri, Ashley Hines of Kansas City, Missouri, Christopher Messer (Rissa) of Clinton, South Carolina, Blaine Hines (Nhung) of Kansas City, Missouri and Christen Good (Brandon) of Honea Path, South Carolina; great grandchildren, Ashton Jezowski, Isabelle Alexander, Jacob Dodson, Nicholas Jezowski, James Messer, Hyacin Hines, Elijah Ettinger, Atlas Wright, Jeremiah Messer, Holly Alexander, Adalene Hines, Eisley Claire, Adelaide Messer, Bryce Hines, Silas Ettinger, Blake Hines, Michael Good, Remington Ettinger, Bennett Hines and Liam Good and numerous other family and friends.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Bobby Messer; parents; siblings and other family members.

Pallbearers include: John Alexander, Rodger Jezowski, David Ettinger, Christopher Messer, Brandon Good, Jacob Dodson, Nicholas Jezowski and Bryon Hines

Honorary Pallbearers include: James Messer, Elijah Ettinger, Atlas Wright, Jeremiah Messer, Bryce Hines, Silas Ettinger, Blake Hines, Michael Good, Bennett Hines and Liam Good

Funeral services will be Friday, October 3, 2025, beginning at 2:00 PM at Viola First Baptist in Viola, Arkansas, with Bro. Craig Golden officiating, Alan Ettinger and Blaine Hines speaking. Visitation will be prior to the service beginning at 1:00 PM. Burial will follow in the Elizabeth Cemetery in Elizabeth, Arkansas.

Scott Frank Kosemund

Funeral services for Scott Frank Kosemund, 57, will be held at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, October 4, 2025, at Ball Church of Christ, under the direction of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.

Mr. Kosemund lost his battle with bile duct cancer and passed away at 5:13 p.m., Thursday, September 25, 2025, at his home.

He was born February 20, 1968, at Iowa City, Iowa, to Frank and Elsie Marie Trail Kosemund.  He was a veteran, having served his country in the United States Army.  Mr. Kosemund was a long-time resident of West Plains.  He was a big sports fan.  The Kansas City Chiefs and the St. Louis Cardinals were his favorite teams.

He is survived by two sisters, Rita Smith and husband, Robert, and Valdean Kosemund; several nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews; and many aunts, uncles, and cousins

His parents preceded him in death.

Visitation will be held prior to the service, from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m., Saturday, at Ball Church of Christ.  Burial will be at Ball Cemetery.  Memorial contributions may be made to Ball Cemetery and may be left at or mailed to Robertson-Drago Funeral Home, 211 West Main, West Plains, MO  65775.

Harry Mark Hubbell

Harry Mark Hubbell, 99, of Salem, Arkansas, passed away on September 30, 2025, in Salem, Arkansas.

Visitation will be held Thursday, October 2, 2025, from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at Barker Funeral Home in Salem, Arkansas. Memorials may be made to the North Central Arkansas Food Bank in Mountain Home, Arkansas.

 

 

Melba Jean Wilkey Castleman

Melba Jean Wilkey Castleman, 87 of Salem, Arkansas, passed from this walk of life to her Heavenly home on Friday, September 26, 2025, in Salem.

She was born in Wilson, Arkansas on March 23, 1938, daughter of the late Roy Mitchell and Mary (Eudy) Wilkey. During her working years, Melba worked in insurance sales. She was a member of the Salem First Baptist Church in Salem, Arkansas, where when she was able to, she loved to go on the “old folks” trips and work at the church in various capacities. Melba enjoyed visiting with her grandchildren, playing bingo and traveling with her aunt.

Melba is survived by her son, Bryan Keith Castleman of Florida; daughter, Cindy Castleman of Florida; sister, Mary Moore of Salem, Arkansas, grandchildren, Briana Kay Castleman, Bryan Keith Castleman, Jr. and Brandon K. Castleman all of Florida; great grandchildren, Cooper Rudd, Micah Rudd and Jaxson Castleman; bonus children, Robbie (Barry) Alred and W.K. “Bill” (Wanda) Weston and special nephew who took great care of her, Joe and his wife Sandy Massey.

She was preceded in death by her parents and brothers, John Wilkey and Mitchell Wilkey.

Graveside services will be Thursday, October 2, 2025, at Crittenden Memorial Park in Marion, Arkansas, beginning at 10:00 AM with Bro. Tom Doty officiating. Visitation will be Wednesday, October 1, 2025, at Doty Family Funeral Service Chapel in Salem, Arkansas, from 5:00 PM until 7:00 PM.

David Bruce Tompkins

Funeral services for David Bruce Tompkins, 86, West Plains, Missouri, will be held at 2:00 p.m., Thursday, October 2, 2025, at Spring Creek Church, under the direction of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.

Mr. Tompkins passed away at 11:02 a.m., Thursday, September 25, 2025, at his home surrounded by his loving family.

He was born July 17, 1939, at Cornwall Hospital, Cornwall, New York, to David Hammond Tompkins and Madeline Edith Cosman.  Dave was a licensed water well driller in New York, New Jersey and Missouri.  He worked for over 65 years in the water well drilling and well service.  He started a well service business in Missouri with his son, Rip Tompkins, who continued the business until 2023.  Dave was proud of his military service with the United States Navy and was aboard the USS Forrestal where he worked launching planes and made three Mediterranean cruises.  Dave met Judith Louise Eckert in June of 1963 and they were married the following June at Montgomery, New York.  They enjoyed over 61 years together and had three children, Michell (Shelly) Cannon and husband, David, David (Rip) Tompkins, Jr. and wife, Lisa and Carrie Siegman and husband, Gregg and six grandchildren, David J. Cannon, Zachary Cannon and wife, Maggie, Marisa Rickard and husband, Cliff, Ryan Tompkins, Abigail Siegman and fiancé, Justin and Nathan Siegman.  Dave loved his family and was very proud of them.

He is survived by his wife, Judy, of the family home; his children; grandchildren; one brother, Rick Tompkins; and many nieces, nephews, family and friends.

His parents, and one sister, Joan Denardo, preceded him in death.

Visitation will be held from 6:00 until 8:00 p.m., Wednesday, in the main room at Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.  Burial will be in New Hope Cemetery.

 

Harry Mark Hubbell

Harry Mark Hubbell, 99, of Salem, Arkansas passed from this life on Tuesday, September 30, 2025, in Salem, Arkansas.

Visitation will be 6:00 P.M. until 8:00 P.M. Thursday, October 2, 2025, at Barker Funeral Home in Salem, Arkansas. Memorials may be made to the Food Bank of North Central Arkansas in Mountain Home, Arkansas. Arrangements are under the direction of Barker Funeral Home in Salem, Arkansas.

Marilyn Sue Surritte

Funeral services for Marilyn Sue Surritte, 81, West Plains, Missouri, will be held at 10:00 a.m., Tuesday, September 30, 2025, at His Place House of Worship, under the direction of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.

Mrs. Surritte passed away at 4:08 p.m., Wednesday, September 24, 2025, at her home.

She was born December 30, 1943, in Harrison County, Missouri, to Harvey Raymond Christie and Edith Mae Damon Christie.  Sue graduated high school in Bethany, Missouri in 1961.  She was married to Edwin Earl Wilson in June of 1961 and to this union three daughters were born, Kim, Beverly and Cheryl.  On June 1, 1971, she was married to Ralph Warren Surritte, who preceded her in death in August of 2019.  Sue worked for many years as a server at Skillet’s.  She enjoyed making candy, embroidery, bowling and listening to gospel music.  She loved to travel with her family.  Mrs. Surritte was a born again Christian and was a current member of His Place House of Worship.

She is survived by three daughters, Kim Wilson, West Plains, Beverly Dye and husband, Tim, Bakersfield, Missouri and Cheryl Walker, West Plains; four grandchildren, Lacy Mill and husband, Michael, Caulfield, Missouri, Joshua Dye and wife, Sabrina, West Plains, Keenan Walker and significant other, Lyndsi, West Plains and Cheylyn Smith and husband, Dillin, West Plains; five great-grandchildren; two brothers, Dwight Christie, Appleton City, Missouri and Herb Christie, State of Iowa; one sister, Lillian McCully and husband, Ron, State of Illinois; and several nieces and nephews.

Her parents, one sister, Eva Christie and two brothers, Raymond and Harold Christie, preceded her in death.

Mrs. Surritte will lie in state from 5:00 until 8:00 p.m., Monday, at Langston Street Chapel.  Burial will be in Howell Memorial Park Cemetery.  Memorial contributions may be made to His Place House of Worship, and may be left at or mailed to Robertson-Drago Funeral Home, 211 W. Main St., West Plains, Missouri.

Sue Ellen VanHorn

A private celebration of life service for Sue Ellen VanHorn, 79, West Plains, Missouri, will be held at a later date.

Mrs. VanHorn passed away Monday, September 22, 2025, at her home.

She was born March 15, 1946, at Columbia, Missouri, to Robert Louis Jones and Elizabeth Suzanne Beck Jones.  On March 1, 1986, she was married at Centralia, Missouri, to Mike VanHorn.  Sue worked at Hubbell Power Systems for 39 years.  After retiring, she worked as a licensed insurance agent in the State of Missouri.  She was a good example of what a wife, mother and grandmother truly should be.  Sue was an avid reader and an excellent cook.  She enjoyed collecting recipes, cross stitching, collecting antique furniture, glassware and dishes.  She enjoyed traveling and camping with her husband, Mike.  Sue had a heart for helping others and loved doting on her grandchildren.

She is survived by her husband, Mike VanHorn, of the family home; one son, Aaron Sydow and wife, Sara, West Plains, Missouri; two granddaughters, Grace Green and husband, Hayden, Memphis, Tennessee and Sophia Sydow, West Plains, Missouri; and many nieces and nephews.

Her parents and one brother, Larry Jones, preceded her in death.

Memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital, and may be left at or mailed to Robertson-Drago Funeral Home, 211 W. Main St., West Plains, Missouri.  Arrangements under the direction of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.

Wanda Chritton

A Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, September 27, 2025, to honor Wanda Chritton, formerly of West Plains, Missouri. The service will begin at noon at the West Plains Opera House, with food and beverages to be served following the service.  In accordance with her wishes, Wanda was cremated. The family will gather for a brief graveside service at Mt. Zion Cemetery at 10:00 a.m. on the morning of the memorial celebration. Friends are warmly welcome to attend.   Guests are encouraged to wear Wanda’s favorite color—pink.

Wanda Lee Weatherford was born October 31, 1933 in the West Plains area. She was the only daughter of Pearl and Nova Weatherford, and was raised with three brothers on a farm near Siloam Springs, Missouri. She passed away on September 6, 2025, at her home in Las Vegas, Nevada, with her children and their spouses by her side. She was 91 years old.

Wanda graduated from West Plains High School in 1951, and moved to St. Louis to work as a secretary. Two years later, she married Bill Chritton, Jr., also of West Plains. They first met at a softball game between their one-room schoolhouses. Bill was pitching, and Wanda hit the winning home run. (He never got over it).

Bill had been drafted into the U.S. Army two years before they got married. Over the next 28 years, they moved 24 times, living in Missouri, Kansas, Texas, Georgia, Virginia, as well as three years in Italy. They settled for the final decade of his career in Springfield, Virginia, where Bill worked at the Pentagon and in the Office of Congressional Liaison. While Bill was serving his country, Wanda was holding down the fort at home—no easy task with four children who were only six years apart in age.

After Bill’s retirement in 1980, the couple returned to West Plains, where they operated a strawberry farm for several years. In the late 1980’s, Wanda took her first ride in a hot-air balloon. She had so much fun, Bill bought the balloon. Bill already was a licensed pilot. Wanda studied and trained, and earned her pilot’s license at the age of 55. Over the next few years, they took hundreds of area residents on balloon rides.

In 1985, Bill and Wanda, along with a handful other area residents, bought a helicopter and started an air ambulance service, based West Plains. Bill was their original chief pilot and director of operations, and later became company president. When Air Evac Lifeteam was sold in 2004, it had 41 bases in fourteen states.

When Bill retired from Air Evac, Wanda decided it was time to get out of the house. In July 2004, at the age of 70, Wanda offered to help her daughter run a wine store and cafe she had just purchased. Wanda soon took over the full-time management of Grapevine Wine Store and Cafe. She loved talking with customers and helping them pick out bottles of wine. She acquired a great deal of knowledge about wine and developed a refined palate. (Bill complained because she no longer would drink his homemade wine.) She finally took off her boss-hat at the age of 86 to be a caregiver to Bill, and to play an occasional game of golf.

She remained by Bill’s side until he passed in July 2021, after 67 years of marriage. In April 2025, Wanda surprised her family by moving, at 91, to Las Vegas, Nevada, where her eldest son Mike lived. Her youngest daughter, Toni, lived with her as caregiver. In July, Wanda suffered a fall that left her with a fractured neck and spine. Though she initially seemed to be recovering, she developed an infection that led to pneumonia.

Wanda is survived by two of her four children, Mike Chritton (Sonia) of Las Vegas, and Toni Johnson (Dennis) of West Plains, along with her brothers Dale, Jerry and Raymond Weatherford. She also leaves behind six grandchildren and ten great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Bill; her parents; her son, Dan Chritton; and her daughter, Vicki Chritton-Myers.

Her family will always remember her as an intelligent, witty, feisty, unselfish and dedicated mother who always put the needs of her family before her own needs. She was a physically and mentally strong woman who met challenges head-on and was never afraid to tackle a difficult task or learn something new. She taught her children that they could accomplish just about anything they set their mind to doing. She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.

Ray Gene Belt

Ray Gene Belt passed away at his home in Ozark County with his wife and his family at his side on September 18, 2025. He was born in Elijah, Missouri, on July 22, 1940. He was a lifelong resident of Ozark County.

On October 4, 1982, in a small ceremony in the front yard of their home he married the love of his life, Shirley. They would have been celebrating 43 years of marriage this fall. To this wonderful union was an everlasting legacy of 16 children, 40 grandchildren, and many great grandchildren.

For the majority of Ray’s working years, he drove a truck providing for his family. For a few years he worked on a railroad up in Iowa. He also logged & had a sawmill. Ray loved to go fishing and deer hunting. One of Ray’s favorite things to do in his spare time was to go to auctions. He especially liked the auctions the Amish held on a regular basis north of Salem, Arkansas. Above all else he loved his wife more than anything, his children, his grandchildren and great grandchildren. He loved every single one of them. He was a hard worker and a good provider for his family.

He is survived by his loving wife Shirley, 12 children: Danny (Chris), Boyd (late wife Sandy), Kevin (Debbie), Rita (late husband Richard), Randy (Hope), Angela (Steve), Tresa (Mike), Twila (Travis), Chuck (Sarah), Casey (Lacey), Clint, Cameron (Amanda), his great friend Edsel Johnson, his sister Linda (Kevin), too many grandchildren and great-grandchildren to list, and many other friends.

He was preceded in death by his children: Pam, Tonia, Trenda, Michael Hall, his parents, Odie and Sylvia Belt, and his brothers Charles, Flay, and Darrell.

His legacy will live on forever in his family & friends. He will be missed so much. Remember all the good times, the laughter and love.

The family will hold a Celebration of Life and inter him at Marshall Cemetery on County Road 349 near Caulfield on October 19, 2025, at 2 pm. Then there will be a potluck dinner to follow immediately at the Caulfield Community Center.

Arrangements by Always Faithful Memorial Services, West Plains, MO.

James Rickey Moore

James Rickey Moore, 70, of Hardy, Arkansas passed away September 21, 2025 at White River Medical Center in Batesville, Arkansas. He was born January 3, 1955 in Memphis, Tennessee to Frank and Laverne Pankey Moore. He was preceded in death by his parents and a brother, Don.

Rickey was a motorcycle enthusiast as well as a huge fan of Western movies (especially those featuring actor John Wayne). He was the owner of Smokin’ Rick’s Barbeque in Hardy and a member of Highland Hills Baptist Church.

Survivors include his wife, Tracie; three sons: Shane, Jimmy (Jeni), and Brian (Leann); eight grandchildren: Brock, Hunter M, Summer, Hunter W, Colton, Calab, Bradley, and Ethan; three great-grandchildren: Bryce, Brentley, and Roselyn; along with many other relatives and great friends.

Memorial services will be at noon Saturday, September 27, at Highland Hills Baptist Church in Highland, Arkansas.

Ronnie Watkins

A celebration of life service for Ronnie Watkins, 78, Dora, Missouri will be held at 2:00 p.m., Saturday, September 27, 2025, at Family Life Church, Dora, Missouri, under the direction of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.

Ronnie peacefully passed away in his home on Saturday, September 20, 2025 after a courageous 5 month battle with complications following heart surgery. The son of Bernie and Geneva (Lane) Watkins, Ronnie was born in Oakdale, California on November 9, 1946. His family returned to Dora when he was six years old and he graduated from Dora High School with the class of 1964. He worked at Hallmark in Kansas City, and was a supervisor at Foremost Dairy in Kansas City until he joined the Kansas National Guard in 1966. He served 6 years in the National Guard, with 2 ½ years being on active duty, during this time he was stationed in Fort Carson, Colorado.

On September 3, 1966, Ronnie married the love of his life, Wanda Lovan, and they enjoyed 59 years of marriage. While stationed in Colorado, Ronnie and Wanda fell in love with the Colorado mountains. They developed a love for travelling, especially out west, and they enjoyed taking many, many trips together over the years. Ronnie felt that he knew the roads and towns of Colorado better than Missouri. Coming back from a vacation, he always said “it was good to travel, but it’s good to come home too!”

Ronnie was a true embodiment of a “salt of the earth man”. His commitment to his cattle farm was unwavering. He was well-known in the cattle industry and made many friends over the years through farming. He ran background steers for 46 years and replacement heifers for 3 years. He owned and operated Watkins Fertilizer for several years as well doing custom hay baling. He was also a cattle buyer for several Kansas feed lots. Ronnie was always busy, whether checking fence, working cattle, baling hay, or taking a drive to check on pastures. Ronnie and Wanda could be found every morning at Roy’s Store drinking coffee before doing the daily chores.

Ronnie had a lifelong love of softball. He began playing fastpitch at the age of 23, and was a well-respected pitcher in southern Missouri and Arkansas. All summer long, he played league four nights a week, in two different towns, and he loved every single inning. He later transitioned to slow-pitch softball, where he was known as a homerun hitter and a “tough out”, even while playing with much younger guys. He played his last game at the age of 57. Ronnie instilled the love of the game into both his children and his son-in-law, Brian. Some of his best memories were of his kids playing ball, then later, his granddaughters, Kelsi and Keeli. He once said that he could have bought another farm for what he had spent following the girls all over the country to softball tourneys. He never once regretted a penny of it and he’d do it all over again. He enjoyed assistant coaching Tara’s high school fastpitch team and was proud of Lance’s softball accomplishments over the years.

Ronnie was a humble and respectful competitor in all he did. He worked hard, played hard, and enjoyed his life. His biggest victory was accepting Christ on September 17, 2025. He was baptized on September 18, 2025 by his friend of 68 years, Don Hamby.

Ronnie’s legacy lives on through his family that he loved so much. Ronnie and Wanda built a beautiful life together over their 59 years of marriage. He is survived by his wife, Wanda, his two children: Lance Watkins and wife, Jessi, and Tara Land, and husband, Brian, all of Dora, grandchildren: Autumn Miller (Nathan), Brian Collins, Jordan Arnett, Drake Arnett, Blaine Watkins, Sydney Watkins, Kelsi Earls (Braitton), Keeli Holden (Barent), and one great-granddaughter, Emma May Miller, siblings: Randy Watkins, Connie Williams (Jack), Becky Smith (Phillip), brothers-in-law: Stan Lovan (Judy), Brant Lovan, and Terry Luna, sisters-in-laws: Brenda Kinney (Bob), Evelyn Thornton (Jay), Carmen McCarty, and several nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Bernie and Geneva Watkins, in-laws Claude and Vera May Lovan, and one sister, Amy Luna.

Visitation will be held from 6:00 until 8:00 p.m., Friday, at Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.   Memorial contributions may be made to American Heart Association, and may be left at or mailed to Robertson-Drago Funeral Home, 211 W. Main St., West Plains, Missouri.

James Rickey Moore

James Rickey Moore, 70, of Hardy, Arkansas passed away September 21, 2025 at White River Medical Center in Batesville, Arkansas. He was born January 3, 1955 in Memphis, Tennessee to Frank and Laverne Pankey Moore. He was preceded in death by his parents and a brother, Don.

Rickey was a motorcycle enthusiast as well as a huge fan of Western movies (especially those featuring actor John Wayne). He was the owner of Smokin’ Rick’s Barbeque in Hardy and a member of Highland Hills Baptist Church.

Survivors include his wife, Tracie; three sons: Shane, Jimmy (Jeni), and Brian (Leann); eight grandchildren: Brock, Hunter M, Summer, Hunter W, Colton, Calab, Bradley, and Ethan; three great-grandchildren: Bryce, Brentley, and Roselyn; along with many other relatives and great friends.

Memorial services will be at noon Saturday, September 27, at Highland Hills Baptist Church in Highland, Arkansas.

Charles Herbert Montgomery

Charles Herbert Montgomery, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on September 18, 2025, at 4:30 AM, at the age of 79, near West Plains, Missouri. His life will be celebrated during graveside services on Thursday, September 25, at 2 PM at the Thayer Memorial Cemetery in Thayer, MO, under the direction of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.

Paisley Grace Quinn

A celebration of life service for Paisley Grace Quinn, one year old daughter of Larmey Head and Richard Quinn, West Plains, Missouri, will be held from 5:00 until 7:00 p.m., Tuesday, September 23, 2025, at Langston Street Chapel of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.

Paisley went to be with the Angels at 4:28 p.m., Friday, September 12, 2025, at Mercy Hospital, Springfield, Missouri.

She was born at 3:17 a.m., Saturday, July 27, 2024 at Ozarks Medical Center, West Plains, Missouri, to Richard Quinn Jr. and Larmey Head.  Paisley resided with her parents and was a healthy and happy little girl with a passion for the unknown and the sweetest soul.

She is survived by her parents, Richard Quinn and Larmey Head, of the family home; grandparents, Keith and Shawna Head, West Plains; great-grandmother, Ann Paschal, Pomona, Missouri; uncles and aunts, Desmond, Rebecca, Russell, Layton, Zayden, Teagan and Lainey; and bonus uncle and aunt, T.J. and Jordan.

Her great-grandparents, Gary Rosenbum and Gary and Carolyn Head and grandparents, Richard and Mildred Quinn, preceded her in death.

Memorial contributions may be made to the family, and may be left at or mailed to Robertson-Drago Funeral Home, 211 W. Main St., West Plains, Missouri.

Albert Daniel Johnson

Albert Daniel “Danny” Johnson, 73, of Mammoth Spring, Arkansas, passed away peacefully at home on September 19, 2025, surrounded by his loved ones.

Danny was born on September 28, 1951, to Tommy and Wanda Johnson. On March 5, 1971, he married his sweetheart, Sandra Taylor, in Oxford, Arkansas. The two shared 54 wonderful years together, building a life filled with love, family, and lasting memories. Danny was a devoted husband, father, grandfather (“Pappaw”), and friend.

He is survived by his loving wife, Sandra Johnson, of the home; two daughters, Janet (Devon) Smoot and Robin (Richard) VanGinhoven, both of Mammoth Spring; six granddaughters, Sierra (Scott) Small of Mammoth Spring, Shy Smoot of Mammoth Spring, Caitlin (Chase) Snow of Bentonville, AR, Brianna (Nick) Mero of Farmington, AR, Maddie (Tyler) Savage of Mammoth Spring, and Shelby VanGinhoven of Jonesboro, AR; and three great-grandchildren, Wesleigh Kate Small, Rush Mero, and Lane Savage.

He is also survived by three brothers, Thomas Johnson, Doug (Elousie) Johnson, and Don (Lorraine) Johnson; one sister, Anita Wells; two sisters-in-law, Jean Downing and Barbara Thompson; two brothers-in-law, Steve Taylor and Randy (Cheryl) Taylor; along with several nieces, nephews, cousins, and countless friends who were like family.

Danny was preceded in death by his parents, Tommy and Wanda Johnson; his father- and mother-in-law, Verl and Bonnie Taylor; one sister, Diane Barker; one brother-in-law, Frank Wells; and one sister-in-law, Kay Johnson, and one close friend Eugene Washam.

Danny dedicated 47 years of hard work to Cover Lumber Company, where he was known for his reliability, dedication, and strong work ethic. Outside of work, he enjoyed hunting, fishing, gardening, bowling, farming, cooking, and—most of all—eating. He especially loved spending time with his grandchildren and was their biggest fan at every sporting event. In quieter moments, Danny enjoyed watching Law and Order, golf, and old westerns. His presence filled a room with warmth and humor, and his legacy will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

A memorial service will be held at 10am Tuesday, September 23, 2025, at the Clary Funeral Home in Thayer, MO, with Bro. Jay Nelson officiating. Visitation will be 6pm-8pm Monday, September 22, 2025.

Honorary Pallbearers: Ray Barker, Junior Bookout, Brad Johnson, Tommy Wayne Johnson Kyle Taylor, Brad Washam, Dale Washam, and Jack Wells

 

Carey G. Tomlinson

Lt. Col.  Carey G. Tomlinson, United States Army (Ret.) of Pine Bluff, Arkansas, passed away on September 18, 2025, surrounded by his loving daughters. He was born July 31, 1936, in Memphis, Tennessee, to James F. and Betty Rafferty Tomlinson, who preceded him in death. He is survived by his brothers James Tomlinson, Tommy Tomlinson, Ralph Tomlinson, and sisters Betty Ann Hadaway and Linda Younger.

Carey graduated from Arkansas State University, where he was a proud member of Tau Kappa Epsilon Fraternity. He went on to serve 21 years in the United States Army, with assignments that took him around the world, including two tours in Vietnam. His distinguished military career was recognized with numerous medals and commendations, among them the Legion of Merit and five Bronze Star Medals.

Carey married the love of his life, Roslyn Russell Tomlinson, on October 2, 1960, at Fort Benning, Georgia. Together they raised three children: Cari (Jim) Foscue of Huntsville, AL; Michelle (Michael) Mantuano of Little Rock, AR; and the late Michael Tomlinson. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Roz, and son, Michael David.

Carey was especially devoted to his grandchildren—Kevin Taylor, Matthew Taylor, Megan Riggins, and Caroline Foscue — and deeply cherished his great-grandchildren: Caroline, Michael, Korbin, Jack, and Brooks.

Beyond his military service, Carey was President of Tomlinson Avionics. He lived a full and active life pursing many passions, including flying, cattle ranching, hunting, fishing, and golfing.

With full military honors, Carey will be interred at Evening Shade–Sharp Cemetery alongside his wife and son.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to all who shared in his care.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Evening Shade United Methodist Church, 177 Sorrel Rd, Evening Shade, Arkansas.

 

Charleen Eberle

Charleen Eberle, age 56, of West Plains, passed away with her husband Frank Plachy at her side.  She is leaving behind a legacy of kindness, faith, and compassion. Charleen was known throughout her community as a woman with a generous heart and an unwavering belief in the goodness of people. Her life was a testament to the power of hope and second chances.

Charleen found joy in the simple pleasures of the outdoors. She loved spending time by the river, where the flowing water brought her peace and reflection. Collecting rocks and hunting for arrowheads were among her favorite pastimes, each treasure she found a reminder of nature’s beauty and the stories of those who came before.

With an open mind and an open heart, Charleen believed that everyone deserved a second chance. She was a guiding light for those struggling to find their way out of dark places, always willing to lend an ear, offer advice, or simply be present. Her compassion knew no bounds, and many found hope and encouragement through her kindness.

Charleen’s faith was a cornerstone of her life. She was a praying woman who loved God deeply, and that love was reflected in the way she treated others. Her spiritual strength gave her the courage to help those in need, and she inspired others to do the same through her example.

Above all, Charleen was a good person who tried to help everyone she met. Her generosity and empathy touched countless lives, and her absence will be deeply felt by all who knew her. She leaves behind memories of laughter by the river, quiet moments spent in prayer, and the lasting impact of a life lived in service to others.

Charleen Eberle will be remembered as a beacon of hope, a lover of nature, and a true friend to many. Her legacy will live on in the hearts of those she helped and the community she cherished. May she rest in peace, surrounded by the love of God and the beauty she found in the world.

A Celebration of Life will be held at her favorite place, Patrick Bridge, on the river, this Friday at 1 p.m.  

Arrangements by Always Faithful Memorial Services, West Plains, MO

Janet Louise Russell

Funeral services for Janet Louise Russell, 80, West Plains, Missouri, will be held at 10:00 a.m., Monday, September 22, 2025, in the Rose Chapel at Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.

Mrs. Russell passed away at 10:36 a.m., Monday, September 15, 2025, at Ozarks Healthcare.

She was born August 7, 1945, at Cleveland, Ohio, to Jack Nesbit and Viola Margaret Merritts Nesbit.  On February 24, 1974, she was married at West Plains, to Jackie Dean (Jack) Russell, who preceded her in death on August 25, 2015.  Janet loved using yarn, making crafts, doing puzzles and playing Bingo.  She was very social and loved visiting people; she also enjoyed the Curry Street Church of Christ services at Pleasant Valley Manor.

She is survived by three children, Jeffrey Russell and wife, Jennifer, Athens, Alabama, Michael Cockrum and wife, Marilyn, West Plains, Missouri and Kellie Woody and husband, Steven, Peace Valley, Missouri; eight grandchildren, Olivia Brownlee, Bailey Brownlee, Mason Cockrum and wife, Tiffany, Myles Cockrum and wife, Mandy, Marcus Cockrum, Korey Woody and wife, Klassie, Kaitlynn Nunally and husband, Justin ad Kameron King and husband, Travis; four great-grandchildren and two on the way, Keaton, Lainey, Brooks and Kase; two nieces and one nephew.

Her parents, husband, one son, Jason and all of her siblings, preceded her in death.

Visitation will be held from 5:00 until 7:00 p.m., Sunday, at Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.  Burial will be at Howell Memorial Park Cemetery.  Memorial contributions may be made to Pleasant Valley Manor Activity Fund or American Heart Association, and may be left at or mailed to Robertson-Drago Funeral Home, 211 W. Main St., West Plains, Missouri.

Colbert Lynn Crouch

Colbert Lynn Crouch, born May 26, 1933, passed away peacefully in his home surrounded by his family. He was preceded in death by his parents, Henry and Sarah Crouch, four brothers, three sisters, and one son, Colbert Brandon Crouch.

He is survived by his loving wife of 72 years, Julia G. Crouch; four daughters: Laberta Stout (Warren), Lavonda Allen (Greg), Ellen Lavera Qualls (Leo), and Ramona Wilkerson; ten grandchildren; numerous great and great-great grandchildren; and a host of other family and friends.

Colbert was a devout member of the Church of Christ. He loved his family dearly, and Sunday lunches will forever be a part of their memories. Colbert was a hard worker as a carpenter for NADC, and he always had a garden big enough to feed everyone. He enjoyed showing the grandkids his animals and teaching them to enjoy the simpler things in life. Colbert was greatly loved and will be sorely missed.

Services will be Sunday, September 21, 2025 in the chapel of Tri-County Funeral Home, 1540 Hwy. 62/412, Highland, Arkansas. Visitation of family and friends will begin at 1:00 p.m. with the funeral to follow at 2:00 p.m.

Burial will be in Campground Cemetery between Ash Flat and Evening Shade, Arkansas. Pallbearers will include Marcus Stout, John Berryhill, Jason Qualls, Jesse Qualls, Chris Wilkerson, and Cody Qualls.  Honorary pallbearers will be Scott Humphrey and Mitch Moore.

 

Melissa Parsley

 

Carole Appel

Carole Appel, 90, West Plains, Missouri, passed away Sunday, September 14, 2025, at West Vue Nursing Center.  A family graveside service will be held at a later date.

She was born October 13, 1934 at Higgins, Texas to Verl D. and Leila Glisan Litchfield.  Carole attended school in Higgins, Texas.  As a young teen she helped her mother and sisters run the town telephone office.  Carole and her family survived the Higgins tornado of 1947, which destroyed most of the town and blew away their house.  On December 23, 1950, she was married at Higgins, Texas, to Harry Leroy Appel.  Carole lived the life of a Navy wife as Harry served in the Navy for twenty years.  They lived near Navy bases across the country.  Carole was responsible for keeping the home life going as Harry was often deployed on a ship for months at a time.  She was a homemaker most of her life, but worked briefly at a fabric store and a shirt factory.  Two children were born to the family – Linda Kay Hobbs and Thomas Lee Appel.  After Harry retired, they moved to a farm near Marshall, Arkansas where she helped raise cattle, put up hay and care for the farm.  She was a wonderful cook.  Carole loved raising flowers and a big garden.  She enjoyed canning, sewing (making most of her and Harry’s clothes), piecing quilts and hand quilting them and creating crafts.  After forty years on the farm, the couple moved to West Plains to be closer to their daughter and family.  Harry passed away on December 25, 2022, just after they had celebrated 72 years of marriage.

She is survived by her daughter, Linda Hobbs and husband, Danny; daughter-in-law, Laverne Appel Weems; grandchildren, Bethany Kunz, Jason Appel, Brianne Hobbs and Travis Appel; great-grandchildren, Griffin, Garrett, Maya, Conner, Owen, Reece, Evan, Jacob and Avie; siblings, Dale Litchfield and Verna Beth Morrow; and many nieces and nephews.

Her parents, husband, one son, Tom Appel, sisters, Norma Brooks, Nona Gray, Gaydean Bucher and Jony Thomas and brother, Don Litchfield, preceded her in death.

Arrangements under the direction of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.

 

Zela Harris

Funeral services for Zela (Fern) Harris, 86, West Plains, Missouri, will be held at 10:00 a.m., Saturday, September 27, 2025, in the Rose Chapel at Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.

Mrs. Harris passed away Saturday, September 13, 2025, at Cox South, Springfield, Missouri.

She was born February 24, 1939, at Koshkonong, Missouri, to the late Hobert Miller and Gertrude Judd Miller.  On December 23, 1961, she was married at Camarillo, California, to Claude Kenneth Harris, who preceded her in death on January 5, 2014.  When she was young, Fern sang at church with her sister, Peggy.  She played varsity volleyball from Junior High until she graduated from Thomasville High School in 1957.  Fern moved to Camarillo, California, to marry Ken, who was serving in the United States Navy.  They welcomed their three children during their time in California.  Once Ken completed his tour they moved back to Missouri and settled in Sedalia in 1971.  After Ken’s passing, she fulfilled their retirement plans and moved back home, settling in West Plains in 2019.  Fern retired from Best Western in Sedalia, Missouri.  She became known for her fried chicken which was frequently requested by country music artists performing at the Missouri State Fair.  Fern enjoyed spending time with her grandkids, going to sporting events and 4-H shows, working in her flower gardens, going antiquing, family gatherings and watching baseball and football.

She is survived by two sons, Ricky Lee Harris (Cindy), Cole Camp, Missouri and Kenneth Ray Harris (Leslie), Sedalia, Missouri; one daughter, Vicki Harris, West Plains,  Missouri; six grandchildren, Elyssa Harris, Tyler Harris (Shelbi), Briar Smith, Zofia Smith, Kellough Smith and Buzz Harris; three great-grandchildren;  one sister, Peggy  Huddleston, West Plains, Missouri; and several nieces and nephews.

Her parents, husband, seven siblings, Cecil Miller, Joe Miller, Emma Roark, Margaret Carter, Minerva McKenzie, Faye Johnston and Cora Winfrey, and three infant brothers, Carl, Ray and Harold Miller, preceded her in death.

Cynthia Sue Franks

A Celebration of Life service for Cynthia Sue (Cindy) Franks, 66, Peace Valley, Missouri, will be held from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m., Saturday, September 20, 2025, at First Baptist Church in the South Campus building.

Mrs. Franks passed away at 5:30 p.m., Thursday, September 11, 2025, at Springfield, Missouri.

She was born April 17, 1959, at Blytheville, Arkansas, to Kenneth Skaggs and the late Carole Kimberland Skaggs.  On April 14, 1978, she was married at New Hope Baptist Church to Daniel Franks.  At the age of sixteen, Cindy began volunteering at the hospital as a candy striper.  She became an LPN in 1980, and an RN in 1990.  She spent most of her career helping patients in critical care.  Cindy worked at Ozarks Medical Center, Mercy Hospital – Springfield, and Cox Health – Springfield.  She was the Director of Nursing at NHC Healthcare and BrookHaven Nursing and Rehab.  She was also a travel nurse for ten years, traveling coast-to-coast and to the Virgin Islands.  Cindy greatly enjoyed her grandkids.  She loved her dogs and cats and would bring strays back from all over and take care of them.  She was very strong-willed and wanted what was best for her patients and family.  Cindy was baptized at a young age and was strong in her faith.  She attended First Baptist Church in West Plains.

She is survived by her husband, Daniel Franks, of the family home; two sons, Nathaniel Franks and wife, Ashley, and Matthew Franks and wife, Kayla, all of Peace Valley; five grandchildren, Tyler, Hayden, Cooper, McKinley, and McKena; her father, Kenneth Skaggs, West Plains, Missouri; one sister, Tammy Kinder and husband, Terry, Sturkie, Arkansas; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Her mother, Carole, and brother, Kenneth B. Skaggs Jr., preceded her in death.

Memorial contributions may be made to Barnett Cemetery and may be left at or mailed to Robertson-Drago Funeral Home, 211 West Main, West Plains, MO  65775.  Arrangements are under the direction of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.

 

Loretta Faye Rogers

Funeral services for Loretta Faye (Rita) Rogers, 80, West Plains, Missouri, will be held at 10:00 a.m., Saturday, September 20, 2025, at Calvary Pentecostal Tabernacle, under the direction of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.

Mrs. Rogers gained her Heavenly reward on September 11, 2025, surrounded by her family.

She was born October 29, 1944, at Cincinnati, Ohio, to Charles Lowery and Hazel Brumley Lowery.  She was married on January 16, 1965, in the middle of a blizzard to Frank Lee Rogers.  Rita was a Godly woman with a feisty spirit.  Frank would warn the grandkids not to make her mad or she would get her tomahawk out.  Rita believed Jesus Christ was her Lord and Savior; she received her salvation at a very young age.  In 1977, s he became a Minister’s wife and was the prayer warrior behind her husband’s ministry.  With much hesitation, in 1995, she went on her first mission trip for Christmas in Mexico.  That was the year God gave her the burden and she never missed a year after that.  Rita had a close relationship with God and would pray daily for the ministry of others.  She loved her country and would encourage others, sometimes rather loudly, to vote in elections.

Rita was blessed with three children, Mark Rogers (Dianna), Michael Rogers and Shannon Rogers Collins (Kevin); thirteen grandchildren, Christopher Moore,  Jordan Collins (Felicia), Kaitlin Rogers (Casey), Jacob Rogers (Leah), Kellsie Rogers Mathenia (Logan), Michaela Rogers, Julianna Rogers, Kendra Collins Romine (Charlie), Jarrett Young, Jalene Canada, Lonnie Canada, Joni Canada and Tyler Phipps; sixteen great-grandchildren

She is survived by her husband, children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, two sisters, Janet Palmer (Russ) and Sandy Treadway, one brother, Danny Lowery (Kathy), one sister-in-law, Wanda Lowery and a slew of nieces and nephews.

Her parents, two brothers, David and Ricky Lowery and one brother-in-law, Bill Treadway, preceded her in death.

Visitation will be held from 6:00 until 8:00 p.m., Friday, at Calvary Pentecostal Tabernacle.  Burial will be at Union Grove Cemetery.  Memorial contributions may be made to Champion Holiness Mission, and may be left at or mailed to Robertson-Drago Funeral Home, 211 W. Main St., West Plains, Missouri.

Shirley Jean Beggs

Shirley Jean Beggs Moore went to be with her Lord and Savior on September 3, 2025, surrounded by her family after a courageous yearlong battle with cancer.She was born April 5, 1962, in Albuquerque, New Mexico to Dorris Brott & Carey Beggs.

She will be remembered by everyone as the most selfless, loving person. She was always giving to everyone who needed anything. Her legacy is one of love & selflessness, which was felt by all who knew her.

Shirley is survived by her children; Jason Barton, Rex Moore Jr, and Tabetha Moore. Grandchildren; Madison Owens, Aiden Owens, Gracelynn Owens, Talyn Barton, Thornton Barton and her only great grandchild, Ellie Mae Barton. She is also survived by her siblings; Carey Beggs II, Renee Brown, Ray “Peewee” Beggs, Ray Hicks, Ben Hall and Barbara Hooker. She is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews whom she loved very much.

She is preceded in death by her mother and father, her sister Lavida Rodgers, her twins, Albert & Alfred Cutbirth, and her son, Coby Cutbirth.

Shirley will be forever missed & forever loved.

Arrangements by Always Faithful Memorial Services, West Plains, MO

 

Ron William White

Graveside services for Ron William White, 75, West Plains, Missouri, will be held at 10:00 a.m., Friday, September 12, 2025, at Pottersville Cemetery, under the direction of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.

Mr. White passed away at 1:44 a.m., Monday, September 8, 2025, at his home.

He was born October 30, 1949, at Ypsilati, Michigan.  Ron enjoyed history, especially researching genealogies, collecting fish tanks and had a love for animals.  He had a good sense of humor and enjoyed making others laugh.  Ron dedicated his life to raising his family and often joked that he was the chief cook and bottle washer.  Mr. White was of the Christian faith.

He is survived by two children, Katherine Adolphson and husband, Jason and Tim White and significant other, Amanda Morton; six grandchildren, Amber Rose, Charles Smoot, Garrett Smoot, Sarahbeth Adolphson, Dawson White and Atlee White; two great-grandchildren, Alpha and Magik Zuniga; one brother, Dean Dover and wife, Lisa; and many nieces and nephews.

His parents, Bill and Sue White, his wife, Judie Ann White, three brothers and one sister, preceded him in death.

Memorial contributions may be made to Pottersville Cemetery, and may be left at or mailed to Robertson-Drago Funeral Home, 211 W. Main St., West Plains, Missouri.

Gregory Duane Bradshaw

Gregory Duane Bradshaw, 60, West Plains, Missouri, passed away at 8:00 p.m., Saturday, September 6, 2025, at his home.

He was born June 10, 1965, at Springfield, Missouri, to Charles Malcolm Bradshaw, Sr. and Carolyn Virginia Barnes Bradshaw.  On April 15, 1989, he was married at Selmer, Tennessee, to Kimberly Lambert, who preceded him in death.  Mr. Bradshaw was a disabled veteran, having served his country in the United States Army.  He was a loving and caring father and was a business owner.  Gregory loved learning so much, that he received a Bachelor’s Degree in Cyber Security while in his 50’s.

He is survived by two children, Cameron Duane Bradshaw, West Plains, Missouri and Courtney Bradshaw, Selmer, Tennessee; two brothers, Charles Malcolm Bradshaw, Jr., and wife, Mounia, Culpepper, Virginia and Chance Wayne Bradshaw and wife, Maria, Joplin, Missouri; and several nieces and nephews.

His parents, wife, one daughter, Cassidy Dawn Bradshaw and one son, Cody James Bradshaw, preceded him in death.

Arrangements under the direction of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.

Donald Collins

Donald (Jr) Collins, 79, West Plains, Missouri, passed away at 10:45 p.m., Friday, September 5, 2025, at NHC HealthCare.

He was born November 23, 1945, at Siloam Springs, Missouri, to Sid Effner Collins and Vivian May Collins.  On March 31, 1970, he was married at West Plains, to Helena Bauer; they celebrated 55 years of marriage.  Mr. Collins enjoyed watching westerns, camping, deer hunting, and loved stock car races.  In the early 1970’s he built a stock car number 35.  He worked at Cloud Oak Flooring, owned a sawmill at AP and 14 Highway, Marathon Electric (also known as Regal Beloit) and retired after thirty plus years.  After his retirement, he enjoyed raising dogs.

He is survived by his wife, Helena Collins; two children, Sheila Thompson and husband, Terry, West Plains, Missouri and Jeremy Collins, Strafford, Missouri; seven grandchildren, Justin Collins, Jennifer Collins, Morgan Welch, Jessica Akpotozor, Matthew McCauley, Ashley Dunn and Jaycob Collins; nine great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.

His parents, one son, Donald Collins, one great-grandchild, Jocelyn Marie Vaughn, three brothers, Ricky, Sammy and Wendell, preceded him in death.

Arrangements under the direction of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.

Gordon Brian Cox

Gordon Brian Cox, 56, of Salem, Arkansas, passed away on Saturday, September 6, 2025, in Salem, Arkansas. He was born on July 15, 1969, in Marianna, Arkansas.

Brian worked as a real estate agent and attended the Assembly of God Church. He had a deep love for the outdoors and enjoyed riding motorcycles, boating, and fishing. A devoted Dallas Cowboys fan, he also loved time with his children and family. Brian loved living in both the Ozarks and Memphis and carried fond memories of both places. He shared a special bond with his late sister, Deanna Mitchell, whose memory he always held close.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Philomena Cox, and his sister, Deanna Mitchell. Survivors include his son, Nikolas Minard of Mountain Home, Arkansas; his daughter, Brianna Cox of Flippin, Arkansas; his father, Gordon Cox of Bull Shoals, Arkansas; his brothers, Chris Wilkerson of Bentonville, Arkansas, and Jeremy Wilkerson of Gulfport, Mississippi; along with many other relatives and friends.

Graveside services will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Thursday, September 11, 2025, at Flippin Cemetery in Flippin, Arkansas, with Pastor Davis Morrow officiating. Arrangements are under the direction of Barker Funeral Home in Salem, Arkansas.

Brian will be remembered for his adventurous spirit, his love for family, and the joy he brought to those who knew him.

Julia M Bretthauer

Julia M Bretthauer, 93, of Oxford, Arkansas, passed away, Friday, September 5, 2025, in Mountain Home, Arkansas.

She was born in Hurley, Missouri, on November 24, 1931, daughter of the late Frank and Beatrice (Zimmerman) Gregory. Julia was united in marriage to the late Karl Bretthauer on February 7, 1978, in Georgia. She was a member of the Oxford United Methodist Church, the Oxford Fire Department and the Red Hat Society. During her working years, Julia was a tax accountant. Julia was a very happy and positive person who loved life.

She is survived by her sons, David Stanley of Oxford, Arkansas and Greg Stanley of Florida; daughter, Treva Rush of Melbourne, Arkansas.

She was preceded in death by her husband; parents; daughter, Pamela Hunt; brother, Frank P. Gregory and sister, Madeline Snipes.

No services are planned at this time.

Brian Leon Haney

Brian Leon Haney was born July 17, 1943, in Trayer, Iowa, and passed away in his home, September 5, 2025. He is preceded in death by: his parents, Luther and Carrie Haney; one brother, Wayne Haney, and a sister Barbara Ford; and daughter, Lisa Fedurchuk. His passing is mourned by: his son, James and daughter-in-law, Ashley; his son, John, and daughter-in-love, Katherine Walls; grandchildren, Gage and Claire; a brother, Robert, and sister-in-law Jeanne; brother-in-law, Ed Ford; and many nephews and nieces.

A graduate of Mammoth Spring High School and Finlay Engineering College, Brian joined the US Army serving in France and Germany. He later worked as a department of defense contractor in Shemya, Alaska, Diyarbakir, Turkey, and a site in Saudi Arabia. The final third of his career was with the Harris Corporation installing and maintaining large printing presses around the world. He retired in 2009 to his farm west of Thayer.

Graveside services will be 2pm Thursday, September 11, 2025, at the Shiloh-Grand Gulf Cemetery in Thayer, MO, with Bro. Bill Ford officiating. Visitation will be 6pm-8pm Wednesday, September 10, 2025, at the Clary Funeral Home in Thayer, MO.

 

Mel Privett

June 22nd, 1954 – September 6th, 2025

Funeral 

2:00pm Friday

September 12, 2025

Clary Funeral Home

Alton, MO

Burial

Bailey Cemetery

Alton, MO

Alma Madelyn Trana

Alma Madelyn Trana, 103, a long-time resident of Cherokee Village, Arkansas, fell asleep in Jesus on Thursday, September 4, 2025 at EagleCrest Nursing and Rehab Center in Ash Flat, Arkansas.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Gordon; her son, Stephen; and her grandson, Christian Starr.

Alma was born November 18, 1921 in McLean County, Illinois to Weaver and Mary Dulaney and raised in Mt. Vernon, Illinois. Alma graduated from Mt. Vernon High School and later worked for a local savings and loan. She married Gordon Trana in 1945 and moved to Dearborn, Michigan, where Gordon worked at Ford Motor Company. They enjoyed many summer vacation trips west to Yellowstone with their two children in tow. Alma and Gordon retired in 1979 to Cherokee Village, Arkansas. When he was admitted years later to EagleCrest Nursing and Rehab Center, Alma obtained her driver’s license at the age of 75 so she could visit him almost daily for many years.

As a precious wife of 66 years and a beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend, she will be dearly missed and lovingly remembered for her faith in Jesus Christ, her kind and generous spirit, and her ever-listening ear and encouragement. Her life Bible verse was Galatians 2:20.

Alma is survived by her daughter and son-in-law, Karen and Chris Starr of Warrenville, Illinois; her daughter-in-law Carol Trana of Little Rock, Arkansas; her five grandchildren: Rachel Trana (husband Bobby), Ethan Trana (wife Kelly), Ian Starr (wife Chelsea), Devin Starr (wife Brittany), Jennifer Carter (husband Ray); and ten (soon to be eleven) great-grandchildren. Her dear friends, Will and Maxine and Linda, brought much love and care to her life for which the family is most grateful.

Burial will be at Mount Vernon Memorial Gardens in Woodlawn, Illinois at a date to be determined.

Freddie Johnson

Freddie “Darrell” Johnson, of Thayer, Missouri passed away on September 5, 2025, in Springfield, Missouri.

A full obituary will be available at a later date.

Visitation will be Thursday, September 11, 2025, from 6:00 p.m.- 8:00 p.m. at the Carter Funeral Home Chapel of Thayer, Missouri.

Funeral will be on Friday, September 12, 2025, at 11 a.m. at the Carter Funeral Chapel of Thayer, Missouri.

Burial will be at the Camp Cemetery of Camp, Arkansas on Friday, September 12, 2025.

Serivces in care of Carter Funeral Home Inc., – Thayer, Missouri.

Gary Dale Risner

Gary Dale Risner, age 79, of Mammoth Spring, Arkansas, passed away peacefully at his home on September 9, 2025. He was born on October 5, 1945, in Mammoth Spring to Frandell and Ethel (Phillips) Risner.

On April 28, 1973, Gary married Linda Yarber in Ponder, Missouri. Linda, originally from Gatewood, Missouri, is the daughter of John and Bessie Yarber. Together, Gary and Linda shared 50 loving years of marriage.

Gary dedicated much of his life to working in grocery stores and spent 12½ years at Little Creek Ranch in Bakersfield, Missouri. After retirement, he continued working for a time at Ark Cane. He had a deep love for cattle and small-scale farming, and in his younger years, he enjoyed hunting. A quiet and humble man, Gary found joy in the simple pleasures of home, family, and faith. He was a devoted member of Clifton Freewill Baptist Church in Thayer, Missouri, and attended services as often as he could.

Gary is survived by his beloved wife, Linda Risner of the home; his brother Ronnie Risner and wife Brenda of Imboden, Arkansas; and numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Fred and Cynthia Phillips; his parents, Frandell and Ethel Risner; his two sons, Chad Clark Risner and Rodney Dale Risner; and his sister, Janise Marie Davis.

Services will be officiated by Brother Darrell Mitchell. Pallbearers will be Jimmy Marler, Jonathan Mayler, Dennie Yarber, Ronnie Risner, Aubrey Risner, and Joe Flynn.

Visitation will be Tuesday, September 9, 2025, at 1:00 p.m. at the Carter Funeral Home Chapel of Thayer, Missouri.

Funeral will be Tuesday, September 9, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. at the Carter Funeral Home Chapel of Thayer, Missouri.

Burial will be Tuesday, September9, 2025, at Shiloh Grand Gulf Cemetery of Koshkonong, Missouri.

Services under the care of Carter Funeral Home Inc., – Thayer, Missouri

Howard Dethrow

Howard Dethrow was born the son of Orville Dethrow and Sadie (Brewer) Dethrow on October 24, 1936, in Myrtle, Missouri, and departed this life in Alton, Missouri, on September 4, 2025, at the age of 88 years.

He was united in marriage on June 22, 1957, in Thayer, Missouri, to Linda Martin.

He is survived by one daughter, Janet Bennett and husband, Clifton of Couch, Missouri; two granddaughters, Andrea Nicholson and husband, Dennis of Couch, Missouri and Krystal Wiersma and husband, Brian of Cumming, Georgia; four great grandchildren, Dalton and Carter Nicholson, Emilynn and Madalynn Wiersma; other relatives and many friends.

He was preceded in death by his wife Linda Dethrow, and parents, Orville and Sadie Dethrow.

Howard was a member of the United Baptist Church in Alton, Missouri. He was a lifelong farmer and spent many days enjoying and working on the family farm.

He will be remembered as a loving and caring husband, father, pappy, and a friend to all. He will truly be missed by his family and the community in which he lived.

Special thanks to Shepherds View Assisted Living Facility and Three Rivers Hospice, for the love and care they gave Howard.

Memorial contributions can be made in lieu of flowers to The Gideons International or Three Rivers Hospice.

Officiation will be Brother Junior Andrews and Brother Paul Haddock. Music will be by Kathleen Crigler and Holly Hart. Pallbearers will be Carter Nicholson, Dalton Nicholson, Dennis Nicholson, Brian Wiersma, Mark Dethrow, Jeff Lawrence. Honorary Pallbearers will be Andy Crigler, Travis Hollis, Gary McGhee, Dale Combs, Austin King.

 

Visitation will be Monday, September 8, 2025, at 1:00 p.m. at the Carter Funeral Home Chapel of Thayer, Missouri. 

Funeral will be Monday, September 8, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. at the Carter Funeral Home Chapel of Thayer, Missouri. 

Burial will be at the Thayer Cemetery of Thayer Missouri on Monday, September 8, 2025.

 

Alma Ruth Sanders

Alma Ruth (Early) Sanders, 85, of Salem, Arkansas, passed away on September 4, 2025, in Salem, Arkansas.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, September 6, 2025, from 2:00 p.m. until 4:00 p.m. at Barker Funeral Home in Salem, Arkansas. Memorials may be made to the Mt. Calm Cemetery in Viola, Arkansas. Arrangements are under the direction of Barker Funeral Home in Salem, Arkansas.

Alma will be remembered for her love of family, her kind heart, and the joy she brought to those around her.

 

Audrey Elsie Coats

Audrey Elsie Coats, 78, formerly of Thayer, Missouri, passed on August 29, 2025, in Aurora, Missouri.

Visitation will be Sunday, September 7, 2025, at 1:00 p.m. at the Carter Funeral Home Chapel of Thayer, Missouri.

Funeral will be on Sunday, September 7, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. at the Carter Funeral Home Chapel of Thayer, Missouri.

Interment will be Sunday, September 7, 2025, at the Thayer Cemetery of Thayer, Missouri.

Services in care of Carter Funeral Home Inc., – Thayer, Mo

 

Jerry L. Rutledge

Jerry L. Rutledge, 73, of Couch, passed away on September 4, 2025.  Arrangements are pending.

Always Faithful Memorial Services, West Plains, Mo

 

Lawrence Bruce Womack

A Celebration of Life service for Lawrence Bruce Womack, 65, West Plains, Missouri, will be held from 3:00 until 5:00 p.m., Friday, September 5, 2025, at Langston Street Chapel of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.

Mr. Womack passed away Sunday, August 31, 2025, at University Hospital, Columbia, Missouri.

He was born December 10, 1959, at Phoenix, Arizona, to Lawrence Calvin Womack and Rose Teresa Crisitelli Womack.  Mr. Womack graduated from West Plains High School in 1978.  He was an avid motorcycle and dirt bike rider.  Mr. Womack was very interested in the weather and spent some time as a storm chaser.  He was the Co-founder of Riders Helping Children with Dreams from 2015 to Present and was a member of South Central Freedom of Road Riders from 2016 to Present.  He also volunteered at American Red Cross from 2012 to 2017.

He is survived by two sisters, Linda Keys and husband, Bryan, Colorado Springs, Colorado and Anna Hendershot, Mountain View, Missouri; two nieces and two nephews.

His parents preceded him in death.

Burial will be in Oak Lawn Cemetery.  Memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital, and may be left at or mailed to Robertson-Drago Funeral Home, 211 W. Main St., West Plains, Missouri.

 

Steven Ford

Steven Ford, age 58 of Alton, MO was born October 20, 1966 and passed away August 30, 2025 at his home.

Survivors include his wife Miranda, his mother Barbara Abbott, three children, Terena, Scott Allen and Journey Ford, 2 step-children, Dayton and Harley Crebtree, brother Scott Ford, sister LaDonna Adcok, grandchildren Maddison Ford and Steven Embry.

His was preceded in death by his father Folis Ford and son Christopher Ford.

Shawn Tune

Shawn was born August 6, 1980 in Farmington, MO and departed from this life on August 29, 2025 at the age of 45.

He was the son of Loretta Tune. Shawn spent his childhood and his school years in Alton, MO. He most recently resided in West Plains, MO.

Shawn is survived by his son Mathias of the family home, and his life partner, Yvonne Dunn, also of the family home. He is also survived by three uncles, Harold Tune and Carl Tune, both of Alton, MO, and Gary Tune and wife Juanita of West Plains, MO. He is also survived by cousins Christy Parrott of St Louis MO, Rob Tune and Jeff Tune, both of West Plains, MO and Rhonda Cremer of Norwood, MO, as well as many other family members and close friends.

Shawn was preceded in death by his mother, Loretta Tune, his grandparents, and two aunts, Debra Tune and Laura Tune.

Mary Jane Baxter

Mary Jane (Metz) Baxter, age 75, of Viola, Arkansas, passed away peacefully on September 1, 2025, at her home surrounded by love. She was born on June 14, 1950, in Dexter, Missouri, to Alvin Metz and Elizabeth (Metz) Stuart.

Mary lived a life full of compassion, kindness, and devotion to others. Her greatest passion was caring for children, and she spent many years working in childcare, where she touched countless young lives with her gentle heart and patient spirit. She believed every child deserved love and guidance, and she gave that freely.

Family was the center of Mary’s world. She treasured every moment spent with her husband, children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Her warm smile, comforting words, and unconditional love will forever be remembered by those who knew her best.

On July 13, 2007, Mary married the love of her life, William R. “Bill” Baxter, in Hoxie, Arkansas. Together they built a life of love, laughter, and cherished memories.

Mary leaves behind her loving husband, William “Bill” Baxter of Viola, Arkansas; her son, Terry Dwayne Turner (Jackie) of Wynne, Arkansas; two daughters, Jennifer Kay Turner of Batesville, Arkansas, and Nikki Schlinker of Springdale, Arkansas; three beloved grandchildren, Kennedie, Abeni, and Ethan; and two precious great-grandchildren, Wrenley and Knoxly. She is also survived by her sister, Alice Crites (Brad) of Poplar Bluff, Missouri, and her brother, Robert Metz of Dexter, Missouri.

She was preceded in death by her parents.

Mary’s family finds comfort in knowing she left this world as she lived in it—with love, grace, and faith. Her memory will continue to live on in the hearts of all who were blessed to know her.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Elite Hospice of Mountain Home, Arkansas. No services are scheduled at this time. Arrangements are under the direction of Barker Funeral Home in Salem, Arkansas.

Judy Ann Stewart

Judy Ann Stewart, 78, went home to be with the Lord on Monday, August 25,2025.

She was born in Jonesboro, Arkansas, on October 14,1946 to James and Opal (Manis) Gyngard. On April 16, 1981, she married Dale Stewart, Sr. in Milligan Ridge, Arkansas, and they spent 44 years together as husband and wife, best friends, and partners.

Judy was a soldier for Christ, a prayer warrior and a member of the Horseshoe Bend First Baptist Church. She was a faithful contributor to St. Judes Hospital and other charities. She loved to fish, was talented in art and decorating, and enjoyed reading Gods word and witnessing to others. Her favorite times were reminiscing with family, watching the snow fall and the Christmas season. She loved and was a mother to many children who were not her biological children, but her children just the same.

Judy is survived by her husband of 44 years, Dale Stewart Sr. of the home, one son, Jerry McQuay of Cotter, Arkansas, one daughter, Julie Ann McQuay-Metheny and Nicholas Metheny of Horseshoe Bend, Arkansas, step children, Dale Stewart, Jr. and Jodie and Joe Edison of Mt. Ida; one brother, Jerry Gyngard of Caraway, Arkansas; one sister, Mary Syer of Cherokee Village, Arkansas; grandchildren include, Joseph and Dillon Edison of Fayetteville, Arkansas, Brandon James and Julia McQuay of Paragould, Arkansas, Marc Dittman of Colorado, Kailey McQuay of Brookland, Arkansas, Zachary and Paige McQuay of Florida, Kody McCullar, Olvia Grace Isleman, Sevin Henry, Seth and Anna Kay Rose, J.D. Henry, and Heaven Ipina all of Jonesboro, Arkansas, Haley and Oliver Hamblen of Mountain Home, Arkansas, Mackinley Metheny and Nicholas Metheny, Jr. both of Trumann, Arkansas; many great grandchildren; cousins; nieces; nephews and countless friends.

She is preceded in death by her parents, James and Opal Gyngard; daughter, Melinda McQuay and sister, Betty Killough.

 

Shirley Cunningham

Shirley Cunningham, 86, of Oxford, Arkansas, passed from this walk of life on Monday, September 1, 2025, at her home in Oxford.

She was born on August 30, 1939, in Oxford, Arkansas, to the late Lawrence and Treva (Parish) Wood. Shirley was united in marriage to Bobby J. Cunningham on March 17, 1956, in Mammoth Spring, Arkansas, and from this union three children were born. Shirley worked for the Tri County Shirt Factory in Salem, Arkansas, for 45 plus years. She was there from the time the factory opened until it closed in 2001. After her time at the shirt factory, Shirley worked for White River Area Agency on Aging for 20 years until her retirement. She was a member of the Oxford Cumberland Presbyterian United Methodist Church in Oxford, Arkansas. Shirley enjoyed being outside, taking care of her yard, working in her garden and flowers. She loved her family and loved spending time with them especially her grandkids and great grandkids.

Shirley is survived by her daughter, Denise Russell and husband Jerry of Melbourne, Arkansas; brother, James Wood and wife Tammy of Oxford, Arkansas; sister, Janet Reynolds and husband Darrell of Rogersville, Missouri; six grandchildren, Jeremy, Jody, Brandon, Cameron, Krissy and Lauren; seven great grandchildren, Emma, Jackson, Jeffery, Abbie, Grace, Olivia and Bridger; daughter-in-law, Vonda Cunningham of Oxford, Arkansas and other family members and friends.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Bobby Cunningham; son, Bobby L. Cunningham; daughter and son-in-law, Brenda and Terry Gilbert; parents and sister, Kathryn Grimmett.

Pallbearers include: Tristin Wood, David Thomas, Glendon Everett, Kountry Shields, Shane Kinion and Doc Warden

Honorary Pallbearers include: Jackson Russell, Jeffery Russell, Darrell Reynolds, Chase Walker, Brett Burns and Alfred Grice

Funeral services will be Wednesday, September 3, 2025, beginning at 2:00 PM at Doty Family Funeral Service Chapel in Salem, Arkansas. Visitation will be prior to the service beginning at 1:00 PM. Burial will follow in the Oxford Cemetery in Oxford, Arkansas.

Arrangements entrusted to Doty Family Funeral Service of Salem, Arkansas.

 

Shirley J. Moore

Shirley J. Moore, 63, of Cabool, passed away at her home on September 3, 2025.  Arrangements are pending.

Always Faithful Memorial Services, West Plains, MO

Lisa Jean Belt

Graveside services for Lisa Jean Belt, 61, West Plains, Missouri, will be held at 2:00 p.m., Thursday, September 4, 2025, at Elijah Cemetery, under the direction of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.

Mrs. Belt passed away at 11:20 p.m., Tuesday, August 26, 2025, at her home.

She was born February 9, 1964, at Gainesville, Missouri, to Onard Hambelton and Elma Friend Hambelton.  On January 2, 1981, she was married at Gainesville, Missouri, to Sidney Belt.  Lisa enjoyed painting, being outdoors, going to the river or lake, gardening, fishing, collecting and painting rocks and looking for arrowheads.  She loved helping others.  Lisa was a great mom and the best Nana.  She lived a life full of love and adventure.  Lisa was a strong and determined woman, who loved her family dearly; to know her was to know love.

She is survived by her husband, Sidney Belt, of the family home; three children, Michael Belt and wife, Sara, Bakersfield, Missouri, William Belt, Caulfield, Missouri and Bethany Stone and husband, Darren, Rock Bridge, Missouri; three grandchildren and one on the way, Andrea Fowler and husband, Nathan, Moody, Missouri, Brandy Belt and fiancé, Jacob Brashear, West Plains and Gunner Pate Stone, Rock Bridge, Missouri; her mother, Elma Hambelton; two brothers, Guy Hambelton and wife, Doris and Floyd Hambelton, all of Gainesville; two sisters, Nora Perry and husband, Lonnie, Salem, Arkansas and Teresa, Caulfield, Missouri; and many nieces and nephews.

Her father and one brother, David Hambelton, preceded her in death.

Traute Emma Orth

Traute Emma Orth, 86, of Horseshoe Bend, Arkansas, passed away Saturday, August 23, 2025, in Mountain Home, Arkansas.

She was born in Berlin, Germany, on February 13, 1939, daughter of the late Franz and Anna (Bengel) Wirzberger. Traute was united in marriage to the late Beryle John Orth. During her working years, Traute worked in tech photography. She belonged to the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Germany.

Traute enjoyed reading, classical music and traveling. She loved nature, wood, rocks and animals, especially dogs and cats. She was an active member of Friends of the Library in Horseshoe Bend, Arkansas.

Above all, Traute dearly loved her family. She cherished her role as a devoted mother, mother-in-law, and grandmother, sharing an especially close bond with her son, Frank. She loved the United States and was very patriotic.

Traute is survived by her son, Frank Orth; daughter-in-law, Tanja Orth; and granddaughter, Lisa-Marie Orth.

She was preceded in death by her husband, parents, and brother, Werner Wirzberger.

Graveside memorial services will be held on Tuesday, September 2, 2025, beginning at 11:00 AM at the Arkansas State Veterans Cemetery in North Little Rock, Arkansas.

Arrangements entrusted to Doty Family Funeral & Memorial Service of Horseshoe Bend.

Danny Bond

Danny Bond, age 69, born in Prairie Grove, Arkansas, passed away peacefully on August 30, 2025, in Thayer, Missouri, surrounded by his loving family.

Danny lived a joyful and full life. He had a deep love for the outdoors and spent many happy hours hunting, fishing, and working on race cars with his brother. He was also an avid fan of NASCAR and enjoyed watching wrestling on TV. Danny had a quick wit and a warm smile, and his presence brought laughter and light to those who knew him.

He would not want his family or friends to mourn, but instead to celebrate his life and take comfort in knowing that he is now rejoicing in Heaven with many loved ones who went before him.

Danny was preceded in death by his parents, William and Floie Mae (Payne) Bond; his siblings, Joseph Bond, Christine Marler, and Carole Bohlen; and his brothers-in-law, David Decker and Dee Marler.

He is survived by his brother, Billy (Joyce) Bond of Springdale, Arkansas; his sister, Mary Ann (Bond) Decker of Farmington, Arkansas; his sons, William (Daniel) Decker (Leah) of Harrison, Arkansas, Timothy Decker of Harrison, Arkansas, and John (Stacy) Bond of Thayer, Missouri; his daughter, Mary (Steven) Snapp of Mt view, Oklahoma; and his cherished grandchildren, Colton Poor, Rebekah Poor, Devan Decker, Remington Bond, Harvey Bond, Austin Maynard, Miguel Vazquez, and Mario Vazquez. Danny was also blessed with a great-grandson, Grady Maynard, who brought him much joy.

Danny’s life was one of love, family, and simple pleasures. His memory will live on in the hearts of all who loved him.

A celebration of Danny’s life will be held at 1 pm on September 20, 2025, at Silent Grove Cemetary in Springdale, AR, and the family welcomes all who knew him to join in honoring his memory. In lieu of flowers please make donations to Silent Grove Cemetary 3863 Silver Fox Street Springdale, AR 72726.Arrangements are under the direction of Barker Funeral Home in Salem, Arkansas.

Ted Eugene Harris

Funeral services for Ted Eugene Harris, 96, West Plains, Missouri, will be held at 2:00 p.m., Friday, August 29, 2025, in the Rose Chapel at Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.

Mr. Harris passed away at 11:45 a.m., Saturday, August 23, 2025, at NHC Healthcare.

He was born May 31, 1929, to Ted S. Harris and Willie Agnes Campbell Harris in Howell County, Missouri.  Ted was busy during his 96 years of life with his schooling, jobs, hobbies and family.  As a young man, Ted earned a seven-year Sunday school perfect attendance pen from the Methodist church he attended.  Ted attended Rock Valley Elementary school and was a graduate of West Plains High School in May of 1947.  He earned his Bachelor’s of Science Degree in Industrial Arts Education in May of 1952 at the Central Missouri State Teachers College, Warrensburg, Missouri.  He also had high school level coursework that allowed him to teach chemistry, agriculture and mathematics.  Mr. Harris was president of the square dance club during his college days.  Ted joined the United States Navy in March of 1952 and was a Naval Aviation Cadet.  He graduated from pre-flight school in October of 1953 in Pensacola, Florida.  The 15-week course prepared the recruits to be Officer Candidates as well as to fly airplanes.  He was part of the ZP 4 airship squadron in Elizabeth City, North Carolina and also worked with blimps while in the Navy.  He earned the National Defense Service Medal and his gold wings.  Mr. Harris served part of his enlistment at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, where his grandson was also stationed many years later.  Ted loved to tell stories about his time in the military, especially flying planes.  He continued to fly for several years after his honorable discharge while serving eight years as part of the local civil air patrol.  In 1954 Ted started his Masters and graduated with his Masters of Science in Education Industrial Arts Professor with his principalship in August, 1960 at Central Missouri State College, Warrensburg, Missouri.  On December 24, 1955, Ted was married at West Plains, to Norma Sue Stephens.  This year would have been their 70^th wedding anniversary.  To this union, three children were born:  Janice, Douglas and Kathy.   He was very proud of his children.  He taught industrial arts in West Plains, Collins, Alton and Willow Springs schools, all in Missouri.  He was a principal at Collins, Missouri.  Ted developed many lifetime friendships with former students from his 13 years as an educator.  He designed and built many houses and barns during his lifetime, including one for his parents and his final 5 level split level home.  Ted acted as the architect and contractor as he oversaw the masonry, plumbing, electrical, finishing and framework of these homes and barns.  Mr. Harris was a farmer raising horses, cattle and pigs; he always had a love for animals.  He belonged to the Pioneer Saddle Club.  He owned and operated the Harris Trucking Company for many years; his 8 trucks hauled livestock mainly out of the Central Ozark Livestock Barn south of West Plains.  Ted was a lifetime member and a Chaplin at the Am Vets Post 98 in West Plains; he spent many hours working on the beautiful memorial wall at Post 98.  Even in his later years, you could find Ted with gloves in his hand, ready to work.  He and Norma put together many puzzles in the last few years.  He spent time on his various hobbies, such as making wooden frames, benches and other beautiful wooden items.  Ted was still logging and designing house plans until recently.  He always enjoyed spending time with his family and having a good meal with them.

Ted is much loved by his family and will be greatly missed.  He is survived by his wife, Norma, of the family home; children, Janice, Douglas and Kathy (Carson); grandchildren, Stephanie, Staci, Lauren (Jerome), Nathaniel, Ashley (Chris) and Riley (Whitney); great-grandchildren, Lennon, Donovan, Lilah and Rowyn, all of whom brought a big smile to his face.

His parents, brothers, Winifred and Sidney Harris, his sister, Louise Callahan, as well as many aunts, uncles and cousins, preceded him in death.

Visitation will be held from 6:00 until 8:00 p.m., Thursday, at Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.  Burial will be in Evergreen Cemetery where seven generations of Ted’s family are buried.  Memorial contributions may be made to Evergreen Cemetery or American Cancer Society, and may be left at or mailed to Robertson-Drago Funeral Home, 211 W. Main St., West Plains, Missouri.

Ella Faye Phelps Presley

Mrs. Ella Faye Phelps Presley, age 88, of LaGrange, passed away on August 23, 2025. Mrs. Presley was born on January 19, 1937 in Heart, Arkansas to the late Farce Phelps and Lydia Joanne “Annie” Murphy Phelps. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband of 64 years, Troy Eugene Presley and grandsons, Jeremiah Taylor and Kasey Estell.
Survivors include her children, Steven Grant Presley, Connie Denille Estell (Mike) and Kevin Wayne Presley (Bethany); brother, Willis Phelps (Glynda); grandchildren, Nicholas “Nick” Landrum (Jessica), Josh Presley, Lauren Presley and Halle Presley; great-grandchild, Hayden Estell.

Faye was a member of the church of Christ for 57 years. She was baptized into Christ in May, 1968 and remained steadfast in her Christian walk. She died as she lived: with an unwavering faith in Christ and the hope of eternal life. She was a wonderful and hospitable homemaker and considered the care of her husband and children her earthly vocation. Faye suffered many physical hardships and some heartaches in her life but was pressed forward. Among other serious health issues throughout her life, she was a 40-year survivor of breast cancer, and had more surgeries nearly than you can count. She was determined to overcome and live a long life, and that she did. Despite great chronic pain, she attended church as regularly as she could up to the time of her final illness and passing. She was a caring and loving woman who leaves a long legacy of friendships all across the country, and a reputation of faith, hope, and love that has inspired many along the way.

Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, August 26, 2025 at 2:00 pm at the Four Oaks Church of Christ in LaGrange with Bob Loudermilk officiating. Family will receive friends on Tuesday at the church beginning at 1:00 pm. Interment will be held at the Agnes Church of Christ Cemetery in Salem, Arkansas. The graveside service will be conducted by Don Pruitt.

Services at Salem, Arkansas will be as follows, visitation will be 11:00 A.M. until 12:30 P.M. Friday, August 29, 2025, at Barker Funeral Home in Salem, Arkansas. Graveside services will be 1:00 P.M. Friday, August 29, 2025, at the Agnos Cemetery in Ash Flat, Arkansas.

 

Dranda Delene Lawing

A graveside service for Dranda Delene Lawing, 60, Bakersfield, Missouri, will be held at 2:00 p.m., Wednesday, August 27, 2025, at White Oak Cemetery, Tecumseh, Missouri.

Mrs. Lawing passed away Wednesday, August 20, 2025, at her home.

She was born April 6, 1965, at Helena, Arkansas, to Archie William Peters and Martha Ellen Williams Peters.  Dranda enjoyed writing church hymns, being outdoors and spending time with her family.  She was a light for the Lord for everyone around her.  Dranda truly loved the Lord and her family.

She is survived by one daughter, Tiffany Todd and husband, Douglas; one grandchild, Jensen Todd; one brother, Jason Peters and wife, Denesa; one sister, Tauna Jewell; five nephews, Tyler, Gabe and Isaac Peters and Darius and David Jewell; and four nieces, Trish, Kaylei and Lola Jewell and Aubrey Peters.

Her parents, one son, Joshua Hobbs, one sister, Terry Peters and two aunts, Francine Williams and Mable Leonard, preceded her in death.

Arrangements under the direction of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.

 

Flossie Jackman

Flossie Jackman, age 70, devoted wife, mother, granny and aunt went to be with the Lord in the early morning hours of August 23, 2025.

Flossie was born on June 28, 1955 in Troy, MO. to Sylvester and Velma (Stuckey) Hammett. She was one of nine children growing up in a close family where love shaped her into the woman she became.

On September 17, 1988, Flossie was united in married to Fred Jackman. Together they shared 44 years of love and devotion, enjoying camping trips, serving faithfully in many church events, a memorable family trip to Nevada and most of all the joy of loving and spoiling their grandchildren.

Flossie will be lovingly remembered for her servants heart, especially through her devotion to helping with Operation Christmas child shoeboxes. She also enjoyed crafting, sewing, and sharing her fun loving, joking sense of humor with all who knew her. Above all, one of her greatest joys in life was being “Granny” to her beloved grandchildren.

Flossie leaves behind her loving and devoted husband, Fred, of the home. She is also survived by her daughters: Jeannette Carrell (Arthur) and granddaughter Kaylynn Stevens of West Plains, MO; Sandy Sisco of Mtn. View, AR. sons Marvin and Cheyenne Sisco and daughter Shania Sisco (Chester) along with grandsons Chester (III), Jordan, Zaxton and Cam Croney. She is also survived by her son, Randal Comia of West Plains, MO.

In addition, she is survived by her stepdaughters: Juanita Fry (Dennis) of Piedmont, MO, and their children Chad, Becky, Bobbie and Amanda; and Melinda Flores (Jesse) of Lake Charles, LA, and their sons John and Nathaniel.

Flossie was blessed with numerous great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren, as well as many nieces and nephews who will cherish her memory.

She was preceded in death by her parents Sylvester and Velma Hammett, two sisters, Lois Ann Hoffman and Elizabeth Gregory, one brother Edward Hammett; her stepson, Randy Jackman and three precious granddaughter Skylynn Sisco, Promise Sisco and Faithlynn Croney.

Services will be 11:00 am Tuesday, August 26, 2025 at the Macedonia Baptist Church with Bro. Jobe Steele officiating, visitation Monday 6-8:00pm at the church. Burial will be in the Cave Springs Cemetery under the direction of the Clary Funeral Home, Alton, MO.

George Mithies Owens

George Mithies Owens, 75, stepped out of this life and into the light of eternity on August 22, 2025, surrounded by family and lifted in prayers and love. He was a devoted husband, loving father, and proud “Poppa.” George was born to Alvin and Francis Owens on March 15, 1950 in Alton, Missouri.

Upon completion of high school, he enlisted in the United States Navy, where he served faithfully as a Machinist Mate for four years. During his time in uniform, George earned several commendations, including the National Defense Service Medal, the Vietnam Service Medal, the Vietnam Campaign Medal, and the Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal (Korea).

On September 27, 1976, George married the love of his life, Neda née Campbell. Together they built a home filled with love and raised their family in Kilgore, Texas, where George worked diligently in the oilfield to provide for those he cherished. Known for his steady patience, quiet strength, and quick wit, George carried himself with kindness and humility. Though not a man of many words, when he spoke, his humor and wisdom left a lasting impression. He also had a masters touch on the grill bringing family and friends together around the table creating many unforgettable meals and memories.

George placed a committed faith in Jesus Christ at the center of his life. His walk with the Lord was never loud or showy, but rather steady and enduring. It was a faith marked by a quiet trust and steadfast devotion which continues to echo through the legacy he leaves. That faith gave him strength in difficult times and served as a living testimony of God’s grace to his family, his friends, and all who knew him. George found a deep joy in reconnecting with extended family and church community especially when he and Neda moved back to Alton, Missouri, in January 2024. His presence brought peace and laughter to those around him, a reflection of the gentle heart he carried throughout his life. If there is a recliner in heaven, you better believe he has already found it.

George was preceded in death by his parents Alvin and Francis Owens and his brother, Robert Owens.

He leaves behind a lasting legacy through his beloved wife, Neda Owens; his children, Greggery & Melissa Johnson, Alvin & Marsha Owens, and Daniel Owens; and his grandchildren, Mikaelah “Mika” Owens, Rebekah “Bekah” Johnson, Kai Owens, and Kenneth “K.J.” Johnson. He is also survived by his siblings, Jackie Beutler, Diana Clary, and John Owens, as well as many extended family, friends, and church community who will forever remember him with love.

Services will be 10:00 Monday, August 25,2025 at the Clary Funeral Home with Bro. Roger Hoffpowier officiating, burial in the New Bailey Cemetery. Visitation will be 5-7:00pm Sunday at the funeral Home.

Ernest R. Chezem

Ernest R. Chezem, 77, of West Plains, passed away on August 18, 2025, at West Vue in West Plains.  Arrangements are pending.

Always Faithful Memorial Services, West Plains, MO

 

Mona Lee Simoneau

Mona Lee Simoneau, 71, West Plains, Missouri, passed away at 2:07 a.m., Sunday, August 10, 2025, at NHC HealthCare.

She was born March 20, 1954, at St. Louis, Missouri, to Elbert Ellis Turnbull and Wilma Ruth Gentry Turnbull Ulrich.  Mona graduated from Liberty High School, Mountain View, Missouri in 1972.  She enjoyed reading and loved to cook.

She is survived by her husband, Danny Simoneau, Sr., West Plains, Missouri; two step-children, Danny Simoneau, Jr., State of Texas and Jennifer Bradshaw and husband, Robbie, State of Arizona; and one aunt, Mary Coffey.

Her parents, step-father, Lewis Ulrich, grandparents, Larry and Agnes Gentry, cousin, Russell Coffey and two uncles, Donald and Gene Gentry, preceded her in death.

Arrangements under the direction of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.

 

Margaret Beane

A memorial service for Margaret Beane, 83, West Plains, Missouri, will be held from 10:00 a.m. until 12:00 Noon, Monday, August 18, 2025, in the Rose Chapel at Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.

Mrs. Beane passed away peacefully Tuesday, August 12, 2025, at her home.

She was born April 30, 1942, in Deming, New Mexico. Margaret was one of eleven children. She was a graduate of West Plains High School in West Plains, Missouri, and later earned her registered nursing degree at SMSU. She married Collett Beane of West Virginia and had four children while traveling with her husband during his time in the Armed Forces. After his retirement from the military the family settled back in West Plains to raise their family. Margaret worked for Marathon Electric for many years before deciding to pursue her lifelong dream of nursing at the age of 50. She remained in nursing for many years working until she was 80 years old. Marge had many loves besides nursing. She was a lady of many talents and hobbies. She loved painting, ceramics, sewing, gardening, searching for arrowheads, and being a Grandma! If you knew her, her children or her grandchildren then you probably have one of her Christmas ornaments hanging from your tree. She was loved by all who knew her and will be deeply missed! To know Marge was to love her. She was definitely one of a kind!

She is survived by her four children, Sherri Wood of Longview, Texas, Randy and Kelly Beane of Oxford, Alabama, Michael Beane of West Plains, Missouri and Robbie and Katie Beane of St. Louis Missouri; five grandsons Blake and Kellee Beane of Burleson, Texas, Jeremiah and Grace Comstock of Midlothian, Texas, Joshua Comstock of West Plains, Missouri, Dakota and Taylor Beane of Oxford, Alabama and Jordan Beane and Macy Mitchell of Oxford Alabama; seven great-grandchildren, Xara and Lorcan Comstock, Raynee and Bodie Beane, Baylor Beane, Nora and Addie Beane and Caleb Beane;  two sisters, Linda Andrews and Lynette Saunders; one brother, Melvin Marcak; and many nieces and nephews.

Margaret was preceded in death by her parents, Joseph Marcak and Louise Frerich, five brothers Robert Marcak, Joe Marcak, Bennie Marcak, George Marcak and Howard Marcak, and two sisters, Helen Perkins and Judy Hudlow.

Jimmie Howard Conley

Jimmie Howard “Jim” or “Pops” Conley, was born December 20, 1943, in Palo Alto, CA, to Gladys May Denney. He was married to his wife, Meda Irene Phenix, on June 10, 1977.

Jim is survived by: his children, Crissie, of the home, Jimmie Conley II (Janet), Janie Conley, and Jamie Conley; grandchildren, Amanda Voyles (Cody), Amber Johnson (Cole), James Conley, April Conley, Jessica Conley, Delia Conley, William Conley, David Conley, and his reason for fighting so long, Kasey (Abby) Conley; great-grandchildren, Victoria, Haley, Braxton, Mason, Jackson, Ashe, Elliot, Adalynn, and his pride and joy, Remington; sisters, Pamala Keeton (Virgil), Betty Wilkerson, and Becky Koontz (Ted); best bud, Pam Dees; son-in-law, Joey Elliott.

He was preceded in death by: his wife, Meda; his mother, Gladys Denney; his grandparents, James and Anna Denney, John and Lena Conley; his brother, Denney Conley; sister, Janet Conley-Smith; 3 children, Ricky, Donna, and Kathy; several brother & sister-in-laws.

Funeral services will be 2pm Wednesday, August 20, 2025, at the Clary Funeral Home in Thayer, MO, with burial following in the Riverside Cemetery in Mammoth Spring, AR. Visitation will be 6pm-8pm Tuesday, August 19, 2025.

 

Betty Anne Garrison 

Betty Anne Garrison, 83, of Thayer, Missouri passed away on August 14, 2025, in West Plains, Missouri. 

A full obituary will be available at a later date.  

Visitation will be at the Carter Funeral Home Chapel of Thayer, Missouri on August 18, 2025, from 5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. 

Funeral will be at the Carter Funeral Chapel of Thayer, Missouri on August 19, 2025, at 10:00 a.m.

Burial will be at the Thayer Cemetery of Thayer, Missouri.

Services under the care of Carter Funeral Home Inc., – Thayer, Missouri

Otis “Buzz” Preston Busby, Jr

Otis “Buzz” Preston Busby, Jr., 81, of Salem, Arkansas, passed away on August 13, 2025, in Salem.

A funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday, August 20, 2025, at Barker Funeral Home in Salem, Arkansas, with Bro. John Hodges officiating. Visitation will begin at 1:00 p.m. prior to the service at the funeral home.

Interment will follow at Camp Cemetery in Camp, Arkansas.

Memorials may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project.

Arrangements are under the direction of Barker Funeral Home in Salem, Arkansas.

 

Robert Phillip Richardson

Robert “Bob” Phillip Richardson Sr., age 84 of Alton, Missouri, passed away August 9, 2025, in West Plains, Missouri. He was born July 16, 1941, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, to Luther and Gladys (Roeder) Richardson.

Bob married Paula Heitzmann Flick in 1995. They were together for over thirty years. Bob cherished Paula and she was so dear to his heart, that he always called her “Dear”.

Bob enjoyed riding his Harley, he loved the sound of the roaring pipes and the wind in his face. His hobby was collecting eagles. Bob retired from AOSmith after 35 years as an electrician. He was a member of the Amvets Post 98 in West Plains, Missouri and  will be greatly missed by all that knew him.

He is survived by his wife, Paula “Dear”; two sons Robert Richardson Jr. and Joe Richardson; one daughter Jennie Richardson; one stepson Sean Flick (Jamie); seven grandkids Kaylee, Erick, Jessica, Josh, Fiona, Karina, and Paxton; one great-grandkid Niko; and many friends and other family members.

He is preceded in death by his parents; two brothers Glice “Dick” Richardson and Clifford Richardson; one son James Richardson; one daughter Lynette Richardson.

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

 

 

Greg Whitsell

Greg Whitsell, 57, West Plains, Missouri, son of the late Phil and Susie (Cherry) Whitsell,  passed away at his home August 9, 2025 at his home.

Funeral services for Greg Whitsell will be held on Tuesday, August 19, 2025 at 2:00 p.m. at Carter Funeral Home Chapel, West Plains.

Burial will be at Oak Lawn Cemetery, West Plains, Missouri, under the direction of Carter Funeral Home, Inc., West Plains, Missouri.

 

Danny S. Basham

Danny Sylvester Basham, a beloved father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend, left this world on August 14, 2025, at the age of 78 at his home in Winona, Missouri. Danny was born on April 1, 1947, in Bend Oregon to Jack and Betha (Huddleston) Basham.

Danny proudly started serving his country. In 1964, he completed his automotive maintenance helper course at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri, then went on to complete basic training in Fort Knox Kentucky. Danny served as a tank mechanic in Germany during the Vietnam War. He completed his service in 1966 at the age of 19.

Danny was blessed with four kids, Danny Scott, Sonja, Rondal, and Charles “Luke”. He had a lifelong love for trucking, hot rods, and racing. Danny was particularly fond of the 55 Chevy. He found joy in the roar of an engine and the thrill of the open road. His knowledge of cars was matched only by his skill as a mechanic, a trade which he honored. Over the years Danny provided for his family by working as a logger, truck driver, and mechanic. He enjoyed working in the log woods with his boys, and spending time with his only girl “Sis”. Danny’s hands were always busy, whether he was repairing a vehicle or crafting memories with his loved ones.

Family was the cornerstone of Danny’s life. He cherished the time spent with his children and grandchildren, instilling in them the values of hard work, integrity, and the importance of following one’s passions. His laughter and warmth will be deeply missed, but his spirit will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

Danny is survived by his children Danny Scott (Karen) Basham, Sonja (Brock) Vermillion (from a previous union with Carol Pelliccio), his life partner Sandra Kile and son Rondal (Melissa) Kile, and daughter-in-law Andrea. His Grandchildren Steve (Delhia) Voyles, Brandon (Sara) Voyles, Olivia (Waylon) Tuttle, Caitlyn (Danny) Woods, Chaise (Rikki) Vermillion, Blake Kile, Danny Ann Kile, Jemma Kile, Brileigh Kile, Nickolas Iler, Addison McNabb, his heart nieces, Michaela (Cameron) Ward and Caillie (Aiden) Kile as well as his only sister Phillis Baker. Danny also leaves to mourn many great grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

Danny is preceded in death by his parents Jack and Bertha Basham, his son Charles “Luke” Kile, his brothers Jack, Truman, Ron, and Jerry Basham, his heart niece Caitlin Kile, and many other loved ones. As we celebrate his life, we remember a man who was not only a veteran and a skilled tradesman but also a devoted family man whose legacy will continue to live on in those he loved.

In honor of Danny’s life, a memorial service will be held at a later date to be determined. The family will announce it and it will be updated on the website and Facebook.

Rest in peace, Danny. Your love and passion will forever be a part of us.

Arrangements by Always Faithful Memorial Services, West Plains, Mo.

Bessie Ruth Chappell

Graveside services for Bessie Ruth Chappell, 95, West Plains, Missouri, will be held at 2:00 p.m., Saturday, August 16, 2025, at Cureall Cemetery, under the direction of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.

Ms. Chappell passed away Monday, August 11, 2025, at West Vue Nursing Center.

She was born January 26, 1930, at Cureall, Missouri, to Walter Jackson Chappell and Bertha Houser (Cook) Chappell.  Ms. Chappell’s mother died when she was 18 months old.  Her uncle and aunt, Bill and Vira Chappell moved in to help her father with four children until their death.  Aunt Vira taught the girls to cook, clean, raise a garden and can.  After her death the three girls had to do these things on their own with the oldest girl being only 12 years old.  Bessie graduated from Bakersfield High School in 1949 and went on to graduate from Draughn’s Business School, Springfield, Missouri.  After moving to Kansas City, she attended Rock Hurst College.  Ms. Chappell was a personnel secretary for various companies in Kansas City, Missouri.  After her retirement, she became bored and started a second career as a checker at Wal-Mart.  After returning to West Plains, she continued her work at Wal-Mart until she was nearly eighty years old.  Ms. Chappell was a member of First Baptist Church.

She is survived by three nieces, Connie Davidson and husband, Jim, West Plains, Carolyn Warden and husband, Larry, Ferguson, Missouri and Linda DeVaul, West Plains; and many great-nieces and great-nephews.

Her parents, two sisters and one brother, Lee R. Cook and wife, Lorene, Ruby Baxter and husband, Hobert and Opal Collins and husband, Floyd, two nieces and one nephew, Gary Collins, Cathy Hawkins and Betty Sue Cook, preceded her in death.

Memorial contributions may be made to Cureall Cemetery, and may be left at or mailed to Robertson-Drago Funeral Home, 211 W. Main St., West Plains, Missouri.

 

Jamie Scott Terrebonne

Jamie Scott Terrebonne, affectionately known to some as “Red Eye,” was born on June 26, 1966, in Galliano, Louisiana. He departed this life on August 12, 2025, in Fayetteville, Arkansas, leaving behind a legacy of love, craftsmanship, and cherished memories.

Throughout his life, he devoted himself to his work as a carpenter in the construction industry, showcasing his talent and passion for building and woodworking. Jamie found immense joy in his hobbies, which included fishing, bow hunting, and riding his cherished Harley Davidson. He took pride in creating beautiful handmade items for his family and friends, reflecting his thoughtfulness and caring nature. Jamie also loved working with his chickens and listening to his music.

In addition to his many talents, Jamie served in the U.S. Army National Guard, where he demonstrated his commitment to his country. His strong sense of loyalty extended beyond his military service to encompass his relationships with family and friends, who he loved deeply.

Jamie is survived by his son, Jaycob Galbraith and his wife Allyna Reynolds-Galbraith, of Aiken, South Carolina; his daughter, Renae Sousa and her husband, Jeff, of Urbandale, Iowa; as well as five grandchildren, including River, Lucas, Skylynn Denise, and others. Jamie also leaves behind four brothers and one sister, along with numerous nieces and nephews, including Rebecca (William), Sidney (Monica), and Amanda (Gregg); great nieces and nephews, Willow, Lana, Leahanna, Lindsey, Esbon “Ezzy”, and Roux Dustin; lifelong friends, Rowdy and Betty Albers. Alongside many other nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends who will forever hold him in their hearts.

Preceding him in death were his soulmate, “Little Neicy” Denise Galbraith, as well as his parents, a sister, and a granddaughter, Skylynn Michelle.

Jamie’s legacy will live on in the many lives he touched, and though there will be no services at this time, his family and friends will gather in spirit to honor his memory and the love he shared.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to Barker Funeral Home to help offset the funeral expense. Arrangements are under the direction of Barker Funeral Home in Salem, Arkansas.

Carl Langle

Carl Langle, age 84, of Viola, AR, passed away on Monday afternoon, August 11, 2025 at Baxter Regional Medical Center, Mountain Home, AR.

Funeral service will be held Friday, August 15, 2025 at 10 am at Barker Funeral Home, Salem, AR with Bro. Alan Talburt officiating. Visitation will be at 9 am the same day. Burial will follow at Liberty Cemetery in Viola.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to Legacy Hospice of North Arkansas, 111 N Main St., #1B, Salem, AR. 72576. Arrangements are under the direction of Barker Funeral Home in Salem, Arkansas.

 

James Donald Holt

James “Tadpole” Donald Holt, 62, of Pineville, Arkansas, passed away on August 11, 2025, in Pineville. He was born on February 22, 1963, in Trumann, Arkansas, to James Elmer Holt and Julia Ann (Judy Foshee) Holt.

Tadpole married the love of his life, Deborah Ann Burgess, on September 8, 2007, in Izard County, Arkansas. A hardworking man, he spent eight years as a boilermaker with JVIC and more than two decades building boats for Cobra/Viper and Ranger Boats. He was known for being a good old man—tough, loyal, and kind. He had a big heart for dogs, motorcycles, and most of all, his family. He was a proud grandfather, lovingly known as “Pip,” and a true friend to many.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Deborah Holt of Pineville; children, Erica Michelle Holt-Brandon (Chris) of Calico Rock, Aaron James Thomas Holt (Ashley) of Dolph, Sunshine Vickery of Pineville, Cortland Neal of Mountain Home, Ethan Shattuck (Ashley) of Old Joe, Heaven Willhite (Shane) of Mountain Home, Adrienne Sherwood of Dover, and Johnna Thresher (Lyle) of Evening Shade.

He is also survived by his parents, James Holt and Anita of Jonesboro, and stepfather, Jimmy Dale Stapleton of Calico Rock; 14 grandchildren; 5 great-grandchildren; brothers, Robby Holt of Calico Rock, Wayne Beard of Calico Rock, Jim Wayne Stapleton (Challene) of Wideman, Jim Jr. Stapleton (Jandel) of Wideman, Jamie Stapleton (Renee) of Salesville, Andy Deason (Dawn) of Jonesboro, Robby Deason (Shannon) of Trumann, Gary Beard of Trumann and Mark Beard of Trumann; sisters, Diane Holt of Elkhart, Indiana, Kaye Burns of Mountain Home, Angel Duncan (Ricky) of Cabot, Mindy Holt-Hudson of Pocahontas, Anita Marie Stapleton of Calico Rock, Dea Holt of Jonesboro, and Heather Knight (Gary) of Jonesboro and a whole lot of family and friends who loved him.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Julia Ann (Judy) Stapleton, brother, Ronnie Roland, sister, Sandra Beard, and a few great friends.

A memorial service will be held at 2:00 P.M. on Saturday, August 16, 2025, at Barker Funeral Home in Salem, Arkansas, with Dub Holt officiating.

Memorials may be made to an animal rescue organization of your choice, in honor of Tadpole’s love for animals.

Arrangements are under the direction of Barker Funeral Home in Salem, Arkansas.

 

Robert William Stewart

Funeral services for Robert William (Bill) Stewart, 81, Pottersville, Missouri, will be held at 2:00 p.m., Friday, August 15, 2025, at Union Grove General Baptist Church, under the direction of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.

Mr. Stewart passed away peacefully Saturday, August 9, 2025, at Ozarks Healthcare.

He was born October 22, 1943, in Norfork, Arkansas, to Howard and Ruby (Killian) Stewart, and grew up knowing the value of hard work, resourcefulness and always lending a hand when someone needed it.  On September 25, 1976, Bill married the love of his life, Rita (Fox) Stewart.  For nearly 49 years, they built a life full of love, laughter and simple joys – from raising their family to enjoying popcorn dates and evenings on the porch.  Bill spent most of his working life in construction, where his skill and work ethic earned the respect of everyone who knew him.  He also enjoyed driving a school bus for Fairview School for many years.  He loved gardening, working puzzles, reading old westerns and putting his ingenuity to work finding creative ways to fix just about anything.  In earlier years, he enjoyed riding his motorcycle.  One of his favorite recent accomplishments was finishing a remodel with Josh, a project they were proud to complete together.  Bill was a man of few words, but his grin – especially when watching his grandkids or sharing a laugh, spoke louder than anything he could say.  He served faithfully as a deacon at Union Grove General Baptist Church, leading with kindness, humility and generosity.  Bill will be remembered for his steady presence, his quiet strength and the way his smile lit up around those he loved most.  His legacy will live on through the family he cherished and the many lives he touched.

Bill was a proud dad to Joshua Riley Stewart and wife, Rachel, and to his late son, Jeremiah Stewart.  He was “Papa” to Jakob Stewart and wife, Montanna, Symin Stewart and fiancée, Kynslee Burgess and Sheppard Stewart – and he was over the moon about meeting his first great-grandson, Tommie Stewart, due soon to Jakob and Montanna.  He is also survived by his brother, Dick Stewart, and sisters-in-law, Norma Stewart and Linda Sanders.

His parents, one infant son, Jeremiah Stewart, in-laws, Virginia and Allen (Dall) Fox and one brother, Fred Stewart, preceded him in death.

Visitation will be held from 1:00 until 2:00 p.m., Friday, at Union Grove General Baptist Church.  Burial will be in Union Grove Cemetery.  Memorial contributions may be made to Union Grove Cemetery, and may be left at or mailed to Robertson-Drago Funeral Home, 211 W. Main St., West Plains, Missouri.

Letha Lamar Collins

Letha Lamar “Lou” Collins (Clements), age 78, passed away peacefully on August 10, 2025 at NHC in West Plains, Missouri. Born on June 13, 1947, in Ravenden, Arkansas,

Letha lived a life centered around family, tradition, and the simple joys of home.

Letha was known for her deep devotion to her children and grandchildren. Her love for family was the heart of her world and guided everything she did. She found joy in the kitchen—cooking meals and canning with care—always eager to share her creations with those she loved. Her home was a place of warmth and nourishment, where generations gathered to enjoy her food and company and lots of card games.

She is lovingly remembered by her children: Lisa Clements of Imboden, Arkansas; Liz Orr of West Plains, Missouri; and Andy Collins (Tiffany) of Alton, Missouri. Letha’s legacy continues through her thirteen grandchildren: Jeremey Clements, Aaron Clements, Archie (Natalie), Laura, April (Jamey), Brandon, Cleo, Seth, Jaylynn, Bentley, Darrell, Derek and Mykah. She also leaves behind twelve great-grandchildren, two brothers, Connie Clements of Imboden and Lynn Clements of Arlington, TN; three sisters, Elsie Hausman of Pocahontas, Shirley Nettles of Alicia, who were truly the light of her life.

Letha was preceded in death by her mom and dad, Emmett and Florence Clements; many brothers and sisters; one daughter Janet Bridges, and two sons Dewayne Clements, and Stevie Collins and special friend Edward (Lee) Collins.

Her days were filled with the things she loved most, preserving food from the garden through canning, preparing meals that brought everyone together around the table, lots of card games, and spending time surrounded by her family. These simple yet profound joys defined her life and left lasting memories for all who knew her.

May Letha’s memory bring comfort to those who knew and loved her.

Larry Dean Green 

Larry Dean Green, 74, West Plains, Missouri passed away August 9, 2025 at Mercy Hospital in Springfield, Missouri.

Funeral services will be held Saturday, August 16, 2025 at Carter Funeral Home Chapel, West Plains, Missouri at 11:00 a.m.

Visitation will be Saturday, August 16, 2025 at 10:00 a.m.

Burial will be in New Hope Cemetery, Peace Valley, Missouri under the direction of Carter Funeral Home, Inc. West Plains, Missouri.

Debra Ann Wacker

Debra Ann Wacker, 71, of West Plains, Mo, passed away at her residence on August 11, 2025.  Arrangements are pending.

Always Faithful Memorial Services.

James William Hurtt

James William Hurtt (JW) was born July 5, 1947, to James Cecil and Mary Emma Curry Hurtt at his home in Thayer Missouri. He met the love of his life, Elizabeth Vaughn in 1964 when he was just 16 and she was 14.

JW is survived by: his wife, Elizabeth of Thayer; his son, James and wife Rebecca of Thayer; Grandsons, Dillyn (Chloe) and Traben of Thayer. He had one beautifully perfect great-granddaughter, June Elizabeth Carter Hurtt. He is also survived by: his sisters, Silvia Childers and Yvonne Cagle, both of Thayer; Brother-in-law, Everett Vaughn of Grove, OK; and sister-in-law, Dee Vincent of Booneville, MO; as well as countless nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews.

JW was proceeded in death by both parents, his step-father Elmer Riggs, brothers in law JD Childers, Lonnie Cagel; Mother and father in-law Ernest and Marie Vaughn; Brother in law Joe Vincent, sisters in law Corina Vaughn and Lella Vaughn.

Funeral services will be held 10am Tuesday, August 12, 2025, at the Clary Funeral Home in Thayer, MO, with burial following in the Riverside Cemetery in Mammoth Spring, AR. Visitation will be 5pm-7pm Monday, August 11, 2025.

JW proudly served his country, going into the army on August 9th, 1966. On December 27, 1966, he was deployed to Vietnam only to return home a year later in December of 1967. On March 12, 1968, he and Elizabeth were married and on March 22nd, 1974, the happy couple would welcome their son, James William Hurtt II into the world.

JW managed a series of different grocery stores beginning in 1971 and extending through 1990 with the final store he managed being Town and Country in his hometown of Thayer Missouri. After leaving the grocery store business, the remainder of his working years were spent in Auto Parts.

In his free time, JW enjoyed bird hunting, bowling, golfing, fishing, and most of all, music. He created a family band with his son James and Elizabeth and True Country was born. Over the years they played with many musicians, bringing joy to the town and surrounding communities.

In June of 2002 he welcomed his daughter-in-law, Rebecca Tackitt, into his family with open arms. On September 29, 2004, his world got a lot bigger when his first grandson was born. Dillyn James became the center of his and Elizabeth’s universe. He would often comment as he stared down at Dillyn, “Boy it just doesn’t get better than this. Look, he’s already trying to talk to me.” Little did he know, on September 21st, 2010, they would welcome their second grandson, Traben Michael, and JW’s heart just grew that much more. JW loved his grandsons with everything he had and was the living embodiment of a loving and doting grandfather, father, and husband. June 8, 2024, he welcomed Chloe Thompson into the family as granddaughter in law, married to Dillyn. He finally got his granddaughter when June Elizabeth Carter Hurtt made her grand entrance into the world on May 2, 2025.

JW, a member of the First Assembly of God Church in Thayer Missouri, was a God-fearing man who took comfort in knowing where he was going when it was his time, He left an impact on everyone he met and never met a stranger. To know him, was to love him. While he may be gone from this earth, he left a legacy behind that ensures he will never be forgotten!

Funeral services will be held 10am Tuesday, August 12, 2025, at the Clary Funeral Home in Thayer, MO, with burial following in the Riverside Cemetery in Mammoth Spring, AR. Visitation will be 5pm-7pm Monday, August 11, 2025.

Lindsay R. Latrasse

Lindsay R. Latrasse, 43, of West Plains, passed away on August 9, 2025, at Mercy Hospital in Springfield, MO.

Arrangements are pending.

Always Faithful Memorial Services, West Plains, MO

Bob France

Charles Allen “Bob” France
November 10, 1940 – August 9, 2025

Charles Allen “Bob” France stepped into the gates of heaven on August 9, 2025, at the age of 84. He was born November 10, 1940, in Fontana, California, to Charles Lane France and Juanita Faye Allen France.

In 1958, Bob married Joyce Chambers in Chino, California. Together they raised three daughters, Linda, Carrie, and Teresa. Life with Bob was never short on stories. In 1962, he and Joyce bought a farm in Thomasville, Missouri completely sight unseen. With a dream of being a farmer and enough courage to back it up, Bob moved his young family to the Ozarks.

The farming years gave way to public service and in 1963, Bob joined the West Plains Fire Department, prompting the family’s move from Thomasville to West Plains. A year later, he became a deputy for the Howell County Sheriff’s Department under Sheriff Brack Pace, serving until 1968. In the midst of it all, Bob also started the first rural fire department in Howell County.

In 1967, Bob founded France Fire Extinguisher Company with $100 and a few fire extinguishers in the trunk of his car. He traveled the region making sales calls and servicing extinguishers. Bob’s mix of determination, resourcefulness, and charm grew into a business that remained family owned and operated as France Fire Extinguisher for 56 years. Today it still serves the community under a new name, carrying on the work Bob began.

Bob eventually “retired” from France Fire Extinguisher in 1999, with Joyce then taking over the day to day operations, but sitting still never suited him. Soon Bob’s Handyman Service was born, keeping him busy and connected to people for nearly 20 more years.
Outside of work, Bob’s life was full. He began flying fixed-wing planes in the late 1970s and later took to the skies in gyrocopters in the mid-80s. He was a lifelong Civil War history buff, a devoted collector of guns and knives, and a man who never lost his curiosity for how things worked.

Bob was preceded in death by his parents and his beloved grandparents. He is survived by the mother of his girls, Joyce France; daughters Linda France, Carrie McFarland, and Teresa Skinner; grandsons Chris Herbolsheimer, Holt Skinner, and Luke Skinner; brothers Leon France and Mickey France; and several nieces and nephews.

A celebration of Bob’s life will be held at 6 p.m. on August 21 at the Historic Post Office in West Plains.

Bob’s story is one of hard work, taking chances, and investing in people. Whether you met him as a young fireman or deputy, a determined salesman, a pilot in the open sky, the handyman who could fix almost anything, or the teller of a truly questionable joke, you knew you had crossed paths with someone unforgettable.

He will be fondly remembered and sorely missed.

Arrangements by Always Faithful Memorial Services, West Plains, Mo

 

 

Lenisa Gay Branscum

Lenisa “Nanaboo” Gay (Ward) Branscum, age 65, of Salem, Arkansas, passed away on August 7, 2025, in Little Rock, Arkansas.

Visitation will be held from 6:00 to 8:00 P.M. on Sunday, August 10, 2025, at Barker Funeral Home in Salem, Arkansas. Funeral services will be held at 10:00 A.M. on Monday, August 11, 2025, at the funeral home, with John Ed Welch and Jay Nelson officiating. Interment will follow in the Salem Cemetery in Salem, Arkansas.

Memorials may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or Arkansas Children’s Hospital.

Arrangements are under the direction of Barker Funeral Home in Salem, Arkansas.

Mary B. Henson

In Loving Memory of Mary B. Henson

It is with heavy hearts and deep respect that we announce the passing of Mary B. Henson, who departed this world peacefully on August 7, 2025, at the age of 71. Surrounded by the love of her family and the warmth of cherished memories, Mary’s journey on earth came to a gentle close at her home, but the legacy of her kindness, strength, and unwavering spirit will endure through the countless lives she touched.

Mary was devoted to her family, friends and her Church of Christ of the Latter-Day Saints. She would do anything for anyone and had heart of gold. In life, the most astounding gift and her most successful achievement was her three beautiful children and grandchildren.

Mary was a loving mother to Scott Willeford (wife Shari), Angel Henson, Kristina Seifert (husband Spencer Simpson), four grandchildren: Sarah Willeford, Carter Wescoat, Spencer Simpson Jr, Hunter Simpson, and her ornery sister, Bobbi Jackson, niece Misty Langston and family, Jessica Bush and family. She delighted in the accomplishments and adventures of her children & grandchildren. Mary celebrated their successes and enjoyed their phone calls. Those who knew Mary will remember her as a beacon of kindness and generosity.

Her family wishes to express their heartfelt thanks to the caregivers, neighbors, and friends who supported Mary with such compassion and dedication. Their kindness brought comfort and solace when it was needed most.

A private Celebration of Mary’s life will be held where loved ones are invited to gather, share stories, and honor Mary who enriched our lives beyond measure.

As we bid farewell to Mary B. Henson, we do so with both sadness and profound gratitude. Her life was a testament to the power of love, the strength of family, and the enduring impact one person can have on the world. Though she is gone from our sight, she will live on in the hearts and memories of all who were privileged to know her.

May her soul find peaceful rest, and may we honor her legacy by living with the same kindness, courage, and grace that she so beautifully exemplified.

Forever remembered, forever missed, forever loved.

Arrangements by Always Faithful Memorial Services, West Plains, Missouri.

 

 

Ellis David Brewer

Graveside services for Ellis David Brewer, 87, Siloam Springs, Arkansas, formerly of West Plains, will be held at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, August 16, 2025, at Union Grove Cemetery, under the direction of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.

Mr. Brewer passed away Tuesday, July 1, 2025, at Siloam Springs, Arkansas.

He was born March 23, 1938, in Gainesville, Missouri, to Mildred and Henry Brewer; he was one of eight children. He was known to most by his middle name, David. David was married in West Plains, Missouri, to Christine Downen. He and Christine had one daughter together, Heather. Ellis had two other daughters, Linda and Sharon, and three stepdaughters, Charlene, Cylene, and Carlene. Ellis had a passion for cars, fishing, and spending time with his grandchildren. He and Christine were longtime members of First Baptist Church in West Plains, Missouri, where they ministered to others by serving in the nursery. They also enjoyed spending time together camping and gardening, and David particularly enjoyed eating the vegetables and the goodies that Christine canned from the garden. David worked many years at the West Plains Shoe Factory, and retired from Missouri State University-West Plains as a member of the maintenance team. Ellis had sixteen grandchildren and several great-grandchildren.

He is survived by his wife, Christine, two children, Heather Mulford and husband John, and Sharon Bacon and husband John; fifteen grandchildren; his siblings, Don Brewer, Edith Little and Elsie Morgan; three stepdaughters and their families; and several nieces and nephews.

His parents, three brothers, Ed, Earl, and Everett Brewer, one sister, Evelyn Correll, one daughter, Linda, and one grandson, Jerrod, preceded him in death.

Your prayers and support for our family through this time is much appreciated. Memorial contributions may be made to Northwest Arkansas Circle of Life Hospice and may be left at or mailed to Robertson-Drago Funeral Home, 211 West Main, West Plains, MO 65775.

 

Beverly Jane Somerville

Beverly Jane Somerville, 90, West Plains, Missouri, passed away at 4:00 p.m., Monday, August 4, 2025, at Brooke Haven Healthcare.

She was born November 1, 1934, at Randolph, Vermont, to Jasper Harrington and Alberta (Bert) Hacket Harrington.  In January, 1955, she was married at San Diego, California, to George t. Somerville, who preceded her in death in 2016.  Beverly was a member of Mt. Pisgah Church in Cabool, Missouri for nine years.

She is survived by two children, Judy Grantham and husband, Robert (Sonny), Cabool, Missouri and Scott T. Somerville and wife, Lana, Helena, Montana; six grandchildren; fourteen great-grandchildren; one sister, Joan Kenison and husband, Marshall (Peanut), Sharon, Vermont; one sister-in-law, Ruth Harrington, N. Pomfert, Missouri; and many nieces, nephews and cousins.

Her parents, husband, two brothers, Richard and Dwayne Harrington and one sister, Marilyn Rhoads, preceded her in death.

Arrangements under the direction of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.

George Leslie Welch

September 8th, 1946 – August 2nd, 2025

Hardy, AR

Memorial Service
2pm Wednesday, August 13, 2025
Baker Cemetery – Hardy, AR

Shirley Minick

Matt David Reihm

Matthew David Reihm was born June 10th, 1991, at West Plains, Missouri to Matthew W. Reihm and Sharon May Burns. Matthew passed away at his home on the evening of August 3rd, 2025, he was 34 years old.

Matthew is survived by his fiancé Kaitlynn Young. His children Matthew, Jayden, Heavenly, Aubree and Brantley Reihm. His Father, Matt Reihm and stepmother Deanna West Plains, MO. His mother, Sharon Burns and stepfather Walter “Bubba” Burns, Winona, MO. One sister, Brittany Fettig and husband Bradley, Alton, MO. Stepsister Deshay Schnell, Torgtion, Wyoming. Two brothers: Austin Reihm and wife Jessica Oldtown, Florida and Lane Reihm and fiancé Kiersten Enid, Oklahoma. Two stepbrothers: Josh Sims, West Plains MO and Ryan Burns, Winona, MO. As well as several nieces & nephews and many friends.

Matthew grew up on his parents’ farm in Rover, Missouri and graduated from Alton High School. Throughout his childhood his years Matthew was ornery and “all boy” and he enjoyed riding his dirt bikes and four wheelers and especially picking on his siblings. From a young age Matthew was a hard worker, and he enjoyed working from helping his father in the hayfield and cutting firewood to working at Rivers Edge Restaurant in Thomasville, MO as his first job. What Matthew enjoyed doing most though was working in the woods as logger as he had done throughout his entire adult life. In his free time Matthew enjoyed working on the farm alongside his beloved friend and mentor Scotty Redman. Aside from working which brought him the most fulfillment, Matthew also enjoyed bow hunting, being at the lake fishing, spending time with his family, attending church at Rocky Creek Worship Center and building his relationship with his Savior Jesus Christ.

Matthew is proceeded in death by his grandparents Owen Reihm and David and Virginia May.

A Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, August 23, 2025, at the Church of God of Prophecy, Winona, Mo, beginning at 2 pm.

Arrangements by Always Faithful Memorial Services, West Plains, MO

 

Mary Lee Vender

Mary Lee Vender, 89, of Horseshoe Bend, Arkansas, passed away, Wednesday, July 30, 2025, in Mountain Home, Arkansas.

She was born in Brooklyn, New York, on September 9, 1935, daughter of the late, Harold and Anna (Glatzmayer) Shroeder. Mary was united in marriage to the late Donald Vender on July 20, 1956, in Brooklyn, New York. During her working years, Mary worked for the New York Telephone Company. Mary was a member of St. Mary of the Mount Catholic Church in Horseshoe Bend, Arkansas, and she loved her church. She enjoyed travelling, especially going on cruises. Mary traveled all over but on one trip, she was able to travel to Rome and see The Pope up close. She loved to care for people; she found great joy in helping others and taking care of her grandchildren. Mary loved living in Horseshoe Bend where she spent thirty-three years. Her cats were her faithful companions for many years, and she loved them dearly.

Mary is survived by her son Donald Vender (Kimberly) of Tomah, Wisconsin; daughter Christine Wilson (Jeff) of Horseshoe Bend, Arkansas; grandchildren Kevin Vender, Ryan Vender, Mary Buswell, Nicole Organ, Eric Vender, Paul Vender, Melissa Langle and Michael Wilson; 12 great grandchildren and one great great grandchild.

She was preceded in death by her husband; parents; brothers, Harold Schroeder, William “Bill” Schroeder and Frank Schroeder and sister, Margaret Baum.

Memorial services will be held at a later date at St. Mary of the Mount Catholic Church in Horseshoe Bend, Arkansas.

Maylo Marie Sauter

Maylo Marie Sauter, 73, of Salem, Arkansas, passed away on August 1, 2025, at her home in Salem. She was born on June 28, 1952, in Sheridan, Oregon, to Helen King.

Maylo was a woman of deep love, creativity, and strength. She ran her own daycare, nurturing countless children over the years with patience and care. Her passions were many—she was an avid fan of stock car racing and was a member of a racing team. She also found great joy in the outdoors, especially fishing and camping.

Maylo had a true artist’s heart and loved to draw. She was of the Christian faith, and her life reflected the values of compassion, devotion, and grace. Her greatest joy, however, came from time spent with her family. She married Roy Kenneth Sauter on March 2, 1993, in Hillsboro, Oregon, and together they built a life full of adventure, love, and laughter.

She is survived by her devoted husband, Roy Sauter of Salem, Arkansas; two sons, Ben Sauter of Salem, Arkansas, and Lee Louge of Seattle, Washington; two daughters, Kadi Hurlburt (Michael) of Salem, Arkansas, and Michelle Jones (Greg) of Kansas City, Missouri; five grandchildren, Justin Hunter, Jason Husing, Alex Cardwell, Harmony Johnson, and Kevin Hurlburt; and three great-grandchildren, Tiya Husing, Silas Hunter, and Lily Mae Johnson. She is also remembered fondly by many other relatives and friends.

Maylo was preceded in death by her parents, her brother Jim Acklin, and her sister Pam Acklin.

The family will hold memorial services at a later date to celebrate Maylo’s life.

Memorials may be made to an animal shelter of your choice. Arrangements are under the direction of Barker Funeral Home in Salem, Arkansas.

 

James Crowe

James Eric Crowe, 47, of Camp, Arkansas, passed away on August 2, 2025, in Camp, Arkansas.

Graveside services will be held at 10:00 A.M. on Tuesday, August 5, 2025, at Camp Cemetery in Camp, Arkansas, with Bro. Jerry Barnes officiating.

Memorials may be made to Arkansas Children’s Hospital in Little Rock, Arkansas.

Arrangements are under the direction of Barker Funeral Home in Salem, Arkansas.

 

Paige Michelle Cooper

Paige Michelle (Green) Cooper, 55, of Glencoe, Arkansas, passed away on July 31, 2025, in Mountain Home, Arkansas. She was born on August 14, 1969, in Batesville, Arkansas, to “J.R.” Garland Green and Dana (Ivy) Green.

On August 18, 1997, Paige married Donald Loyd Cooper in Melbourne, Arkansas, and together they built a loving family. She was a dedicated professional who worked as the Assistant Business Office Manager at Ash Flat Healthcare and Rehab. Over the years, she also served as a bank manager for FNBC, a correctional officer, and at McDonnell Douglas (Boeing).

Paige was of the Christian faith and found her greatest joy in her family. Known for her vibrant personality and sense of humor, she loved playing jokes and was a true prankster. She enjoyed spending time at the beach, riding side-by-sides, and being surrounded by those she loved—especially her grandchildren and her dog, Lucy.

She is survived by her husband of 27 years, Donald Cooper of Glencoe, Arkansas; sons Joey Cooper (Christina) and Jesse Cooper, both of Glencoe; daughter Crystal Moody (John) of Salem; grandchildren Dylan Dunavant, Kaylee Cooper, Jayden Cooper, Kimber Moody, and River Cooper; brother James Green (Linda) of Trumann, Arkansas; sister-in-law Jennifer Green of Imboden, Arkansas; sister-in-law Treva Horwitz (Jeff) of Austin, Texas; as well as many other cherished relatives and friends.

Paige was preceded in death by her parents, J.R. and Dana Green; her brother, Kenny Green; and her granddaughter, Shelby Cooper. Visitation will be held from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Monday, August 4, 2025, at Barker Funeral Home in Salem, Arkansas.

Memorial donations may be made to Humphries Cemetery or the American Cancer Society.

Arrangements are under the direction of Barker Funeral Home in Salem, Arkansas.

Joan Opal Vaughan

A memorial service for Joan Opal Vaughan, 81, Spokane, Missouri, formerly of West Plains, will be announced at a later date.

Mrs. Vaughan passed away at 10:08 p.m., Monday, July 28, 2025, at her home.

She was born March 22, 1944, at Moody, Missouri, to Emlis Clayton (Mike) Strickland and Grace Opal Deatherage Strickland.  On April 6, 1963, she was married at Moody, Missouri, to Harold Dee Vaughan, who preceded her in death on April 15, 2025.  Joan was a hairdresser for many years in West Plains.  She loved doing hair and sewing.

She is survived by two children, Sherri Foster and husband, Kenny, Spokane, Missouri and Rodney Vaughan, Province Town, Massachusetts; one granddaughter, Stephanie Waltrip and husband, James, Springfield, Missouri; two great-grandchildren, Charley and Jack Waltrip; two step-grandchildren, Tanner and Dylan Foster; four step-great-grandchildren, Hayden, Briar, Finley and Montgomery Foster; four sisters, Hope  Heselton, West Plains, Faith Wilson and husband, Virgil, Nixa, Missouri, Doan Vaughan and husband, Howard, West Plains and Virgie McCannon and husband, Marion, Liberty, Missouri; and many nieces and nephews.

Her parents, husband, three brothers, James, Clayton and Raymond Strickland and one sister, Lela Langston, preceded her in death.

Memorial contributions may be made to Mercy Integrity Hospice, and may be left at or mailed to Robertson-Drago Funeral Home, 211 W. Main St., West Plains, Missouri.

Beverly Ann Cope

Funeral services for Beverly Ann Cope, 79, Republic, Missouri, Missouri, will be held at 2:00 p.m., Saturday, August 2, 2025, in the Rose Chapel at Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.

Mrs. Cope passed away Thursday, July 24, 2025, at Cox South Medical Center, Springfield, Missouri.

She was born November 9, 1945, at West Plains, Missouri, to Lonzo Haring and Rachel Louise Jolliff Haring.  On April 15, 1961, she was married in West Plains, to John Cope.  Beverly was a hairdresser for many years, a career that she loved.  She enjoyed watching and feeding birds. She loved flowers, the color yellow and enjoyed watching home shopping shows, especially QVC.  Beverly always wanted to look her best, including hair and jewelry.  Mrs. Cope loved her family and her husband.

She is survived by her husband of sixty-four years, John Cope, of the family home; one son, Mike Cope and wife, Lisa, Republic, Missouri; four grandchildren, Brittany Morris and wife, Mindi Schlinm, Ozark, Missouri, Layce Rockholm and husband, Gregory, Springfield, Missouri, Jordan Garcia and husband, Bryan, Springfield, Missouri and Ashlywn Cope, Springfield, Missouri; six great-grandchildren, Shelby, Blake, Avery, Everleigh, Conan and Ronin; one brother, Bob Haring and wife, Kelli, Rogersville, Missouri; one sister, Jan Welch, Jonesboro, Arkansas; and several nieces and nephews.

Her parents and two sisters, Betty and Gail, preceded her in death.

Visitation will be held from 1:00 until 2:00 p.m., Saturday, at Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.  Burial will be in Howell Memorial Park Cemetery.  Memorial contributions may be made to the St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital, and may be left at or mailed to Robertson-Drago Funeral Home, 211 W. Main St., West Plains, Missouri.

Joseph Lee Hoyt

Joseph Lee Hoyt, age 76, was born 2 Dec 1948 to James Ard Hoyt and Thelma Irene Rolen Hoyt in Thayer, Mo.  He departed this world at his home in Thayer, Mo on 27 July 2025.  Joe was married to his first wife, Cheri Lynn Gray Quackenbush (Alan) from June 1977 to July 1988. Joe married Shelia Marie Heilig on 3 Nov 1990 and lived a full, blessed life with her until his passing.

Joe is survived by his wife, Shelia, children, Christy Newland (Peter) of Berlin, NH, Brandon Hoyt (Nicki) of Hampton, VA, Austin Hoyt (Sarah) of Killeen, TX and Justin Hoyt of Mammoth Spring, AR, Destini Thompson (Jared), West Plains, MO, Cruz McDermott (Lauren) of Jonesboro, AR,  grandchildren, three sisters Ruth Stevens and Janet Bowers (Calvin) of Thayer, MO, Cynthia Holloway of South Pekin, IL and two brothers Garry Hoyt (Barbara) of Paducah, Kentucky and Paul Hoyt (Emily) of Columbia, TN.

Joe was preceded in death by his parents, one son, Bryan Cody Hoyt, one brother James Henry Hoyt, one sister, Dorothy Ann Hoyt, and three brothers-in-law Dr. Elmer H. Shaw, Earnest (Bud) Holloway and Rex Stevens.

Joe was a faithful loving husband and father who worked hard for his family and his community. Joe worked as a Sprinkler Fitter for over 30 years and was a member of the Road Sprinkler Fitter Union for 50 years. He loved the land, enjoyed making hay, and taking care of his cattle. Joe frequently volunteered his time and money with multiple local and international communities. He moved to Ecuador from 2016-2020 and helped to build houses on the coast. He also served locally in Cuenca, Ecuador. Joe was a strong, vocal man of faith, who attended church for many decades and tried to live in accordance with scripture in a manner with his thoughts, words, and deeds according to the truth he had attained. In 2021, as Joe studied the scriptures, he came to be a follower of The Way and came to deeper truth of what it meant serve YaHUaH/ יהוה and to follow Yahushua/יהושוע, and tried to walk as the Messiah walked, keeping New Moon days, Shabbats, and Feast days EX 12:14, Lev 23, Zech 14:16, 1 Cor 5:8. He loved keeping the feast and fellowshipping with other believers.

In lieu of flowers family has asked for memorial contributions to be made to:

Grindstone Ministeries  Proverbs 27:17

701 McBeth Avenue

Wister, Oklahoma, 74966

DONATE | Grindstone

Pallbearers will be Justin Aichele, Michael Bowers, Matthew Bowers, Jeremy Bowers, Kyle Bowers and Jacob Bowers. Honorary Pallbearer will be Zayden Hoyt.

Visitation will be August 2, 2025, at 12:00 p.m. at the Carter Funeral Home Chapel.

Guest Speaker will be Saturday, August 2, 2025, at 2:15 p.m. at the Carter Funeral Home Chapel.

Graveside Service will be on Saturday, August 2, 2025, at 4:00 p.m. at the Pleasant Hill/Ary Town Cemetery of Thayer, Missouri.

Jo Marie Taylor

Jo Marie Taylor, 62, of Mountain Home, Arkansas, passed away on Monday, July 28, 2025.

She was born in Greenville, Mississippi on August 18, 1962, daughter of Joseph Orr and Shirley Pike.

Jo Marie loved her children and grandchildren deeply. She found peace outdoors, where she lovingly cared for her plants and spending time with her dog. A strong, independent woman with a fiery spirit, Jo Marie knew Jesus and always spoke her mind. She loved music, and especially loved Pink Floyd, Dwight Yoakam, and ZZ Top. Her vibrant personality and love for her kids will always be remembered.

Jo Marie is survived by her sons, Phillip Michael Taylor (Erin) of Glencoe, Arkansas and Tony Hathaway (Brooke) of Indianapolis, Indiana; daughters, Davian Taylor of Cleveland, Mississippi and Lacey Jo Taylor (Logan Borgman) of Viola, Arkansas; brothers, Don Orr (Pat) and Jackie Orr (Cher); sister, Susan Holland (Carl); and grandchildren, Logan Hathaway, Brynlee Hathaway, Chloe Taylor, Jackson Taylor, Sophie Taylor, Bryson Taylor, Madison Marie Goeken, Drake David Goeken, Louis Alec Soliz, Clint Brewer, Kadance Brewer, and Keira Thompson.

She was preceded in death by her parents.

Memorial services will be Sunday, August 3, 2025, beginning at 2:00 PM at Salem First Baptist Church in Salem, Arkansas, with Bro. Tyler Fox officiating.

Memorials may be made to Doty Family Funeral Services in honor of Jo Marie.

 

Debra Biffle

September 17th, 1951 – July 27th, 2025

Vistitation

1-2:00 pm Sunday
August 10, 2025
Alton Church of Christ
Alton, MO

Funeral

2:00pm August 10, 2025
Alton Church of Christ
Alton, MO

Smith Cemetery
Alton, MO

 

Alice Gay Combs

Alice Gay Case Combs, daughter of Clarence and Loretta Case was born November 18, 1935, at Couch, Missouri. She departed life and went to be with the Lord on July 27, 2025, at the age of 89, with her family gathered around her.

On March 20, 1956, she was united in marriage to Donald W. Combs at her parent’s home in Myrtle, Missouri. Donald passed away November 19, 2020.

She is survived by her sons, Randall Combs and wife Beckie of Alton, Missouri, Kendall Combs and Pat and Michael Combs and wife Sandy all of Branson, Missouri. Seven grandchildren, Ashley Stiles and husband Brett of Ozark, Missouri, Austin Combs of Alton, Missouri, Chris Combs and wife Molly of Rogersville, Missouri, Craig Combs and wife Bess and Carolyn Clark and husband Aaron of Branson, Missouri, Kayli Price and Dustin, Kelsey Howerton and husband Jared of Branson, Missouri. Also 20 great-grandchildren and her brother Winfred Case of Myrtle, Missouri.

Her mother and father, Clarence and Loretta Case, brother Charles Case and sister Jeanie Croney preceded her in death.

Alice stayed at home to care for her sons until they were all in school. Then she was a teacher’s aide for one year and a secretary to the principal for four years at the Thayer High School.

She and her husband moved to Ellsinore, Missouri in 1973 when Donald accepted the Presidents position at the Bank of Grandin. She then worked part-time at her sons’ stores as a clerk in Ellsinore and Grandin. She enjoyed helping and visiting with customers that came in.

Her greatest joy was spending time with her family, whom she dearly loved. She looked forward to the holidays when everyone gathered. She loved watching her grandchildren playing many sports, especially basketball games.

She accepted Jesus as her personal Savior at a young age of 13 and continued to live a dedicated life until the Lord called her home. She touched the lives of many people as she taught children’s Sunday School classes at Thayer Freewill Baptist before moving to Ellsinore where she taught an adult Ladies class for many years. She enjoyed studying her bible.

After retirement she and Donald moved to West Plains and joined United Freewill Baptist Church of West Plains. She will be remembered as a loving devoted Christian wife, caring mother, grandmother, neighbor, and friend to all. Now she has gone on to be with the Lord.

Special thanks to Shepherds View Assisted Living Facility for the care and love they gave to Alice Gay for the two years she lived there.

Memorial contributions can be made to the:

United Freewill Baptist Church

607 Lanton Road,

West Plains, Missouri, 65775

 

Services will be officiated by Gale Wooten and Dennis McGinley. Pallbearers will be Chris Combs, Craig Combs, Austin Combs, Aaron Clark, Dustin Price, Brett Stiles, and Jared Howerton. Honorary Pallbearers will be Molly Combs, Bess Combs, Ashley Stiles, Kayli Price, Kelsey Howerton and Carolyn Clark.

Visitation will be on Thursday, July 31, 2025, at 1:00 p.m. at the Carter Funeral Home Chapel of Thayer, Missouri.

Funeral Service will be on Thursday, July 31, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. at the Carter Funeral Home Chapel of Thayer, Missouri.

Burial will be at the Thayer Cemetery of Thayer, Missouri on Thursday, July 31, 2025.

Services in care of Carter Funeral Home Inc., – Thayer, Missouri

 

Leroy Cameron

Funeral services for Leroy Cameron, 89, Viola, Arkansas, will be held at 11:00 a.m., Tuesday, July 29, 2025, at Moody Church of Christ, under the direction of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.

Mr. Cameron passed away at 4:43 p.m., Wednesday, July 23, 2025, at Baxter Medical Center, Mountain Home, Arkansas.

He was born June 22, 1936, at Viola, Arkansas, to Bedford Oden Cameron and Mable Marie McElmurry Cameron.  On August 10, 1957, he was married at Salem, Arkansas, to Jewel Sigler.  Leroy was an avid Cardinals fan and enjoyed watching westerns and coon hunting.  He built many homes and businesses in his community and was a hard worker, as long as a Cardinals game was not on.  Mr. Cameron loved his family and was a member of Viola Church of Christ.

He is survived by his wife, Jewel Cameron, of the family home; two children, Regina Duncan and husband, Owen and Robin Burden and husband, Andy, all of Viola, Arkansas; six grandchildren, Jason McKee and wife, Kelli, Pottersville, Missouri, Casey McKee and wife, Victoria, Caulfield, Missouri, Tessa Lowrance and husband, Lane, Moody, Missouri, Tristan Burden and significant other, Logan Kimbrough, Peace Valley, Missouri, Stuart Duncan and wife, Jessica, and Evan Duncan; eleven great-grandchildren, Wyatt, Mattie, Jaylee, Lathan, Lainey, Alaina, Autumn, Ryker, Colton, Caleb and Colby; special cousin, Henry Cameron, West Plains; and several nieces and nephews.

His parents, two sisters, Wanda Minge and Irene Judd and one brother, Charles Cameron, preceded him in death.

Visitation will be held from 10:00 until 11:00 a.m., Tuesday, at Moody Church of Christ.  Burial will be at Moody Cemetery.  Memorial contributions may be made to Moody Cemetery, and may be left at or mailed to Robertson-Drago Funeral Home, 211 W. Main St., West Plains, Missouri.

 

Leroy Erzinger

Funeral services for Leroy Erzinger, 89, West Plains, Missouri, will be held at 2:00 p.m., Monday, July 28, 2025, at New Liberty Church, under the direction of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.

Mr. Erzinger passed away at 11:27 p.m., Wednesday, July 23, 2025, at his home.

He was born July 13, 1936, at West Plains, to Edmund Erzinger and Virda Huffmann Erzinger.  On July 2, 1957, he was married at Milan, Missouri, to Evalena Ann Bryan, who preceded him in death on July 16, 2018; they shared sixty-one years of marriage.  Leroy was a Minister, taught Sunday school and made the church bulletins for every congregation he was a part of.  He wrote poetry and songs, often using Bible verses in them.  Mr. Erzinger enjoyed making cabinets and fishing.  He lived in Palm Bay, Florida most of his adult life before moving back to Missouri in 2019.  While in Florida he was the owner and operator of a construction company for over forty-two years; he hired troubled people in the area and was a mentor to them.  Leroy loved his family.  He was a member of South Fork Community Church.

He is survived by two children, Alan Erzinger, Palm Bay, Florida and Linda Erzinger and husband, James May, Louisville, Kentucky; one grandson, Jarred Erzinger; three brothers, Paul Erzinger and wife, Opal, St. Louis, Missouri, George Erzinger and wife, Linda, West Plains, Missouri and John Erzinger and wife, Beverly, Sullivan, Missouri; one sister, Julia Hopkins, West Plains, Missouri; and many nieces and nephews.

His parents, wife, one brother, Phill Erzinger and one sister, Laura Peterman, preceded him in death.

Visitation will be held from 1:00 until 2:00 p.m., Monday, at New Liberty Church.  Burial will be at Lone Pine Cemetery.  Memorial contributions may be made to Lone Pine Cemetery, and may be left at or mailed to Robertson-Drago Funeral Home, 211 W. Main St., West Plains, Missouri.

Gregory Allen Grogan

A memorial service for Gregory Allen Grogan, 70, West Plains, Missouri, will be held at 1:00 p.m., Sunday, August 31, 2025 at Van Patten Woods, Wadsworth, Illinois.

Mr. Grogan passed away at 12:58 p.m., Saturday, July 5, 2025, at Ozarks Healthcare.

He was born October 19, 1954, at Waukegan, Illinois, to Granville Grogan and Cynthia Bouwens.  Mr. Grogan enjoyed fishing, ice fishing, watching drag races and sprint car races.  He loved working; he worked for many years as a cement mason before working in construction, remodeling houses, landscaping and tree services.  He enjoyed helping people and would give anything to help those in need.

He is survived by the mother of his children, Paula Bell; three children, Amy Rice and husband, Dan, Jamie Grogan and significant other, Daniel and Phillip Jendrey and wife, Patti; thirteen grandchildren; one great-grandchild on the way; two brothers, Leo Grogan and wife, April and Larry Grogan and wife, Theresa; one sister, Dawn Larson; and several nieces and nephews.

His parents and two brothers, Granville (Granny) Grogan, Jr. and Gary Grogan, preceded him in death.

Arrangements under the direction of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home

Waymon Roy Watson

Waymon Roy Watson, 83 of Thayer, Missouri departed this left on July 22, 2025, at his home. He was born December 21, 1941, in the Big Apply Township to Amos and Leatha (Crews) Watson.

He was united in marriage to Ruth Robbins on June 13, 1965, at Brandsville Pentecost Church in Brandsville, Missouri. They just celebrated 60 years together and raised three children.

He spent 25 years working for Hanrahan Asphalt Paving Company in Kansas City, Missouri as a paving Superintendent. After moving back home he and Ruth ran Pony Express Delivery Service for 6 years while also being in the dairy business for 15 years. Dad gave his life to the Lord in 1982, where he rarely missed a Sunday service. He enjoyed being on his farm “Black Jack Ridge” working or just piddling around on something.

He is survived by his wife Ruth of Thayer, MO; one brother Gene Watson (Marsha), of Belton, MO; his three children Treva Sutherland (Terry) of West Plains, MO, Pam Hackert (Bob) of Macon, IL and Jeff Watson (Jennifer) of Monticello, AR; ten grandchildren, Tanai Devine (Mike) of West Plains, MO, Kelcie Askren (Ryan) of Stuttgart, AR, Taler Sutherland (Anna) of Walnut Grove, MO, Joshua Watson of St. Louis, MO, Kiara Palmer (Ryan) of Monticello, AR, Alli Hackert of Macon, IL, Abbi Hackert of Macon, IL, Kylee Watson of Monticello, AR, Layla Hackert of Macon, IL, and Josie Hackert of Macon, IL; seven great-grandchildren, Lynnden, Tinley, Scout, Harrison, Isaiah, Hayes, and Harlow; and many extended family and friends.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Amos and Leatha Watson; eight sisters Viola Ganley, Naomi Holman, Leta Watson, Ella Crews, Lucille Brewer, Marie Keltner, Ruth Herring, and Alice Watson; four brothers, Elvin Watson, Wayne Watson, Paul Ray Watson, and Carl Watson.

We are Heartbroken, but also deeply grateful for the time we had with him and the memories we now hold close. We will miss his steady presence, orneriness, and his unwavering support more than words can express.

Thank You for keeping our family in your thoughts and prayers.

Graveside services will be held on Saturday, August 2, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. at Union Hill Cemetery, Brandsville, Missouri. Funeral Arrangements by Carter Funeral Home, Inc. in Thayer, Missouri.

 

Charles Hamilton Whitledge

Charles Hamilton Whitledge “Whit”, longtime Salem resident, passed away on Monday July 28, 2025, at Sycamore Spring Senior Living in Mountain Home, Arkansas.

Whitledge was born November 10, 1924, in Vandalia, Missouri to Charles Boyd and Marguerite (Hamilton) Whitledge. A child of the Great Depression, he, along with his mother and sisters relocated from Missouri to California where he worked on a farm and later graduated from Los Angeles High School.

He entered the army during World War II and was stationed in Burma and India. He served as an American Soldier with the British. Later he became an officer with the Transportation Corps.

His military career continued after the war through his service during Korea, Vietnam, and WWII. He retired a full colonel after 28 years.

He earned his doctorate degree in education from Florida Atlantic University after retiring from the military and taught at the university before fulfilling a lifelong dream of moving to the Ozarks. As a child, an uncle told him repeatedly that the best life a man could hope for was to live on his own farm in the Ozarks, where his son and daughter-in-law, Hugh and Jane Whitledge maintain the property.

He married Angeline “Ann” Coleman, who he still lovingly describes as a military brat. The two were married more than 50 years, retiring to Salem in 1977. She passed away in 2009.

He and his mother, Marguerite Whitledge, Ann and Hugh all were baptized at Salem church of Christ after locating here. He and Ann later became members of Wheeling church of Christ where he often taught Sunday School.

As to living to be 100, Charles was surprised. He had expected to be called home earlier. “I don’t know why I’m still here,” he said, confessing that he prays to the Lord daily to go home to the next life.

He was in good health for someone 100. He had quite the reputation at Sycamore Springs for his love of Hershey bars and Baskin-Robbin’s ice cream. He kept a cup full of Hershey pieces with him at all times.

His son and daughter-in-law, grandsons Nate Whitledge of Frisco, Texas and Will Whitledge of North Little Rock, and longtime friends Mary and Howard Burris of Salem enjoyed a roast beef birthday lunch and joined the staff and residents in singing Happy Birthday as his cake was wheeled out to the table to celebrate his 100th birthday in November 2024.

After eating a big piece of cake and opening one present, Whitledge asked to look at his many cards and other gifts in his room. He seemed a bit overwhelmed.

He had received cards and letters from many people, including distant friends and family, the adult class and the children’s class of Salem Church of Christ, Fulton County Judge Kenneth Crow and the Fulton County Road Crew.

He leaves to mourn his passing son, Hugh Whitledge (Jane) of Salem, Arkansas; two grandchildren, Nathaniel Whitledge of Frisco, Texas and William H. Whitledge of Little Rock, Arkansas; many other relatives and friends. He is preceded in death by his parents and two sisters (Rosalie and Elaine).

Funeral services will be 1:00 P.M. Saturday August 2, 2025, at Barker Funeral Home in Salem, Arkansas with Bro. Mike Yates officiating. Visitation will be 12:00 P.M. until time of service on Saturday August 2, 2025, at Barker Funeral Home in Salem, Arkansas. Interment will be in the Salem Cemetery in Salem, Arkansas. Memorials may be made to the Agape Food Room in Salem, Arkansas. Arrangements are under the direction of Barker Funeral Home in Salem, Arkansas.

 

Juanita Teeple

Juanita Teeple, 91, West Plains, Missouri passed away July 19, 2025 at West Vue Nursing Center, West Plains, Missouri. Local arrangements under the direction of Carter Funeral Home, Inc., West Plains, Missouri.

 

James William Woodby

A Celebration of Life service for James William Woodby, Jr., 63, Dora, Missouri, will be held from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., Monday, July 28, 2025, in the Main Room of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.

Mr. Woodby passed away at 2:14 a.m., Monday, July 21, 2025, at his home.

He was born March 13, 1962, at Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, to James William Woodby Sr. and Joan Luella Pearcey Woodby.  On May 8, 2007, he was married to Simah Bat Emunah.  Mr. Woodby was a truck driver for over thirty years and was proud of his work.  He was devoted to his family and cherished spending time with his wife and kids.  Mr. Woodby enjoyed shooting and reloading his guns and working on his yard, and he loved studying Scripture.

He is survived by his wife Simah Bat Emunah, of the family home; eleven children, Jessica Woodby (Nick), James Woodby III (Noel), Jenifer Woodby, Simcha Woodby, Tseidle Woodby, Aviyah Woodby, Ethan Woodby, Eli Woodby, Gabriel Woodby, Matthew Woodby, and David Titman; three grandchildren, Jacob Woodby, Nicholas Ott, Jr. , and Vanellope Wolfe; one brother, Daniel Woodby (Rebecca); two sisters, Lamesha Hurley (Tyrone) and Patricia Woodby; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

His parents preceded him in death.

Memorial contributions may be made to Saint Louis Children’s Hospital and may be left at or mailed to Robertson-Drago Funeral Home, 211 West Main, West Plains, MO  65775.

Patricia Ann Henderson

Funeral services for Patricia Ann Henderson, 82, West Plains, Missouri, will be held at 10:00 a.m., Friday, July 25, 2025, in the Rose Chapel of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.

Mrs. Henderson passed away at 8:28 p.m., Saturday, July 19, 2025, at her home.

She was born May 22, 1943, at Marshfield, Missouri, to Delmer Vernon and Anna Lou Silkey.  On July 10, 1959, she was married at Ozark, Missouri, to Robert Henderson.  Mrs. Henderson enjoyed crocheting, boating, and gardening, and she loved getting to know people.  She was a devoted wife and mother, and she enjoyed raising her family and being involved with all of their sports.  Mrs. Henderson was of the Christian faith and attended Hill Top Chapel for many years.

She is survived by her husband, Robert; four children, Robert Henderson, Jr., Stanley Henderson (Brandy), Donald Henderson (Julia), and Tammy Lynn Lewis (Kenton); eighteen grandchildren; forty-nine great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandchild; and many nieces and nephews.

Her parents, in-laws, Lester and Mildred Henderson, one son, Kevin Henderson, and one granddaughter, Ashley Kay Henderson, preceded her in death.

Visitation will be from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., Thursday, at Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.  Burial will be at Evergreen Cemetery.  Memorial contributions may be made to Evergreen Cemetery and may be left at or mailed to Robertson-Drago Funeral Home, 211 West Main, West Plains, MO  65775.

 

Peggy Sue Newman

Peggy Sue Newman, 70, of Salem, Arkansas, passed away peacefully on July 22, 2025. She was born on April 20, 1955, in Pine Bluff, Arkansas, to Mary Ellen Campbell Ply and G. L. Ply.

Peggy spent her life working in various roles, including as a medical clerk, always bringing dedication and a caring spirit to whatever she did. She married the love of her life, Thomas Lee Newman, on December 12, 1998, in Byron, Arkansas, and together they built a life rooted in love and family.

She was a woman of many passions—she adored Elvis Presley, spent countless joyful hours creating diamond art, and loved playing games on her phone. Peggy had a big heart and an even bigger presence. Her kindness, warmth, and love for her family touched everyone who knew her. She was a proud Christian and lived her life guided by her faith.

Peggy is survived by her loving husband, Tom Newman of Salem, Arkansas; her son, Daniel Newman (Kaylee) of Mountain Home, Arkansas; two daughters, Dana Newman of Salem, Arkansas, and Renee Cook of Camden, Arkansas; six grandchildren and thirteen great-grandchildren. She is also survived by four sisters: Mary Ann Ringo (Thomas) of Conway, Arkansas, Ellen Beard of Conway, Arkansas, Debra Sellers of Mountain Home, Arkansas, and Betty Pennington of Camden, Arkansas.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her daughter, Mary Cornett; her brother, J.G. Ply; and her sister, Joyce Ply.

A memorial service to celebrate Peggy’s life will be held at 10:00 A.M. on Saturday, July 26, 2025, at the Byron Community Building in Byron, Arkansas.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the family to help offset funeral expenses. Donations can be sent to FNBC, c/o Kaylee Newman.

Peggy will be remembered always for her generous heart, her joyful spirit, and the deep love she had for her family.

Arrangements are under the direction of Barker Funeral Home in Salem, Arkansas.

 

Kinsman Charles Kosin

Kinsman Charles “Al” Kosin, 90, of West Plains, passed away peacefully on July 5, 2025, at home under the care of Ozarks Healthcare Hospice. 

 Mr. Kosin was born in Geneva, Illinois, the eldest son of Rev Wesley and Gladys Kosin. He graduated from Wheaton Academy (now Wheaton Christian High School) in 1953. He married Mary Ann Lammers on October 29, 1955, and the two had three children together, Sheila, John, and Sandy. Early on Kinsman worked for Zenith and later worked as an auto mechanic. He retired as a union carpenter. 

 On June 25, 1977, Al married Rebecca Kyser (nee Grimm) in Galena, Illinois. Rebecca had four sons from a prior marriage, Tom, Rodney, Donald and Steve. Shortly thereafter, they made their home in West Plains, until Rebecca’s death in 1998. 

 On May 25, 2000, Al married Mona Ragsdale (nee Harris) of West Plains. During their marriage they enjoyed traveling and tending their garden until Mona’s passing in 2019. 

 Al was active in the Elks at both Wheaton Lodge 2258 and West Plains Lodge 2418. He served as an Exalted Ruler in both lodges. He enjoyed fishing and camping in his earlier years

He was preceded in death by spouses Mary Ann, Rebecca, and Mona; son, John; stepson, Rodney. He was also preceded in death by his parents and sisters, Mary (Michael) Hards of Sidney, Australia; and sister Beatrice Kosin, who died in November 1972, while serving as a missionary in Laos. 

 He is survived by a brother, Rev. Frederick Kosin (Jenny) of Darlington, South Carolina; Daughters Sheila Willer (Craig) of Bartlett, Illinois, and Sandra Gallimore (Mark) of Ferryville, Wisconsin.  He is also survived by stepsons, Thomas Damm (Theresa), Donald Kosin, of West Plains, and Steve Kosin of Merrillville, Indiana. 

 A memorial service is planned for September 5, 2025, 10:00 a.m. at Spring Creek Community Church, 3432 E State Route K, West Plains, Missouri. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations are appreciated and may be left at or mailed to Robertson-Drago Funeral Home, 211 West Main, West Plains, MO  65775.

Robert Lee Sermon

Robert Lee Sermon, 81, West Plains, Missouri, passed away at 6:15 a.m., Saturday, July 19, 2025, at Pleasant Valley Manor.

He was born October 25, 1943, at Saint Louis, Missouri, to Clarence and Emily Poteet Sermon.  On August 17, 1963, he was married at Cassville, Missouri, to Shirley Woods, who preceded him in death on March 16, 2025.  Mr. Sermon was an avid hunter and fisherman.  He loved his family, friends, and his dogs.  He was a Mason for more than fifty years, and a Shriner for more than thirty-five years.  Mr. Sermon was a member of First Baptist Church of West Plains for over twenty years.

He is survived by one son, Robert Sermon; one brother, Billy Sermon and wife, Sandy; one sister, Ruby Dodson and husband, Woody; and many nieces and nephews.

His parents, wife, three brothers, Herbert, Thomas, and Sam Sermon, and two sisters, Catherine Whittington and Marcella Durbin, preceded him in death.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to First Baptist Church and may be left at or mailed to Robertson-Drago Funeral Home, 211 West Main Street, West Plains, MO, 65775.

 

Lindy Wood-Russell

Lindy Wood-Russell, beloved mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away on July 17, 2025, in West Plains, Missouri. She was 63 years old.

To capture the life of someone so deeply loved feels nearly impossible—but Lindy’s warmth, strength, and spirit will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.

Born in Lynwood, California, on September 24, 1961, Lindy dedicated her life to caring for others, both personally and professionally. As a registered nurse, her compassion and intelligence touched the lives of many. But above all else, her deepest passion was her family—especially her grandchildren, whom she adored endlessly.

Lindy spent her time between Atascadero, California, and West Plains, Missouri, always putting family at the center of her world. She is survived by her children Jared Russell, Janna Stone, and Jamie Ganster, and her treasured grandchildren Jayden, Journey, Jaycie, Brooke, Jackson, and Valerie. She is also survived by her sister Nancy Wood, and her nieces and nephew: Katy, Sarah, and Justin.

She was preceded in death by her husband and the love of her life, Jeff Russell.

Lindy will be remembered for her sharp wit, warm heart, and unwavering dedication to the people she loved. Her absence leaves a space that cannot be filled, but her spirit and memory will forever live on in the hearts of those who knew her.

A burial will take place at Pine Mountain in Atascadero, California. The date and details will be announced at a later time.

 

 

Stephanie Dawn Snell

Stephanie Dawn Snell illuminated this world at UAMS on February 6, 1990, and departed this world on July 22, 2025, at UAMS, having come full circle. Stephanie lived a life overflowing with family, friends, and most profoundly, her Jesus. She never hesitated to give her testimony and let people know Jesus was coming back for her.

Stephanie was a lover of all things Spiders, Mario Cart, 3 stooges, and most recently Hello Kitty, thanks to her dear friend and fellow bowler of 20 years Linda. She also loved everything about Halloween and to dress up. Stephanie was a quiet soul, silent observer, but deep thinker, who would astonish us all at times with her profound knowledge of subjects. She had a memory like an eagle, especially for names and directions.

Stephanie’s biggest supporter was her mom, who pushed for inclusion for Stephanie from a young age, empowering her to gain essential life skills. Her mom’s vision was for Stephanie to thrive in this world, even if her mom was no longer by her side. Stephanie had a team of Direct Support Staff who helped her achieve remarkable independence. Stephanie’s lifelong hobby was bowling, and she bowled with the Don Hill Thunderbirds for over 20 years. Her most cherished team members were Linda and Bryon, and she would often lovingly tell Bryon that she was going to kick his butt at bowling.
Stephanie is survived by her Mom and Step Dad Andy and Renee Watts of Salem Arkansas. Dad Lesley Mark Snell. Sister Megan (Seth) Kaiser of Arnold Missouri, Hannah (Casey ) McCullough of Melbourne Arkansas . Step sister Kristen (Michael) Cauthon and kids of Kansas. Her Niece Khloe Kaiser, Nephews Demo and Kai McCullough. She adored her time with Khloe Demo and Kai and loved for them to visit her house. Her Uncle Michael Hill of Horseshoe Bend Arkansas. Uncle Len(Kim) Snell of Batesville Arkansas, and a numerous amount of cousins. She was predeceased by her poppy and Mamaw, Gw and Bobbie Sue Snell, Grandparents Claudius and Shirley Hill and 3 Other Uncles and one Aunt.

Funeral services will be 2:00 P.M. Saturday, July 26, 2025, at Barker Funeral Home in Salem, Arkansas with Bro. Mike Haney and Bro. Michael Hill Officiating. Visitation will be 1:00 P.M. until time of service on Saturday, July 26, 2025, at Barker Funeral Home in Salem, Arkansas. Interment will be in the Salem Cemetery in Salem, Arkansas. Pallbearers are Casey McCullough, Daniel Snell, Seth Kaiser, Marc Snell, Michael Plummer, and Bro. Holden Phillips. Memorials may be made to the Salem Library in Salem, Arkansas. Arrangements are under the direction of Barker Funeral Home in Salem, Arkansas.

 

Stephen Alan Mitchell

A celebration of life service for Stephen Alan Mitchell, 69, West Plains, Missouri, will be held at 2p.m. Saturday, August 16, 2025, at First Presbyterian Church of West Plains.

Mr. Mitchell passed away Wednesday, July 16, 2025, at Ozarks Healthcare.

He was born February 29, 1956, at Frankfurt, Germany, to George Mitchell and Mabel Bostick.  On August 28, 2010, he was married at Branson, Missouri, to Elizabeth Laporre.  Stephen dedicated much of his life to serving others as a paramedic and volunteer firefighter. He had a strong sense of duty and compassion, always willing to help those in need. He enjoyed shooting guns, sailing, and was an exceptional cook. His dry wit and love of laughter endeared him to all who knew him. Mr. Mitchell loved his family deeply and found great joy in caring for others.

He is survived by his wife, Elizabeth Mitchell, of the family home; one daughter, Gewel Niebaum and husband Brian of Lee Summit, Missouri; three stepchildren, Ezmeralda Niebaum, Uston Delos Santos, and Remali Delos Santos; 1 former daughter-in-law, Cassie Delos Santos; two sisters, Patricia Trout of Colorado, and Julia Azua of Las Vegas, Nevada; one aunt, Deloris Cantwell; two nieces, Carroll, and Jennifer; four nephews, William, Raymond, Nicholas and wife Erin, and Benjamin; and eleven great nieces and great nephews.

His parents preceded him in death.

Memorial contributions may be made to any charity of choice, and may be left at or mailed to Robertson-Drago Funeral Home, 211 W. Main St., West Plains, Missouri.  Online condolences may be left at www.robertsondrago.com

Janice Lorraine Adkisson

Funeral services for Janice Lorraine Adkisson, 61, West Plains, Missouri, will be held at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, July 26, 2025, in the Rose Chapel of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.

Mrs. Adkisson passed away at 2:52 a.m., Thursday, July 17, 2025, at her home.

She was born on October 3, 1963, in Rota, Spain, to George and Barbara Anson Hurd.  One of four children, she grew up with her siblings David, Helen, and James (Jimmy) Hurd.  Her father, a Petty Officer 1^st Class in the United States Navy, moved the family to several locations before settling in West Plains, Missouri, in 1975.  Janice graduated from West Plains High School in 1981.  On November 26, 1982, Janice married Dennis Adkisson, joining the Adkisson family with love and warmth.  Together, they raised two daughters, Mandi Graham (husband, Brandon Graham) and Jodi Adkisson.  They were blessed with two granddaughters, Mallorie and Lillian, who brought immense joy to Janice’s life.  She was a devoted dog-mom to Daisy, and also adored her three grand-dogs – Macie, Chief, and Ranger – who filled her home with love and joyful spirits.  Janice was a committed member of the United Free Will Baptist Church for many years before finding her spiritual home at Faith Chapel.  Her faith was a guiding light throughout her life, exemplified by her kindness, compassion, and unwavering support of friends and family.

Janice was preceded in death by her beloved grandparents, George and Francis Hurd and Wilfred and Esther Anson, her parents, George and Barbara Hurd, her father-in-law, Ernest Adkisson, her stepfather-in-law, Donald Holt, brothers, David and Jimmy Hurd, sister-in-law, Sheila Adkisson, and nephew, Roy Glen Sexton, Jr.

She is lovingly remembered and survived by her devoted husband, Dennis; daughter, Mandi and son-in-law, Brandon, daughter, Jodi; granddaughters, Mallorie and Lillian; mother-in-law, Eudene Holt; sisters-in-law, Venita Fritz (and husband, Joe), Geneva Andrews (and husband, Gordon); brother-in-law, Glennis Adkisson; and numerous nieces, nephews, and dear friends who will forever cherish her memory.

Janice’s life was a testament to faith and family.  She will be deeply missed but fondly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Visitation will be held prior to the service, from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m., Saturday, at Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.  Burial will be at Howell Memorial Park Cemetery.  Memorial contributions may be made to Glenwood School and may be left at or mailed to Robertson-Drago Funeral Home, 211 West Main, West Plains, MO  65775.

 

Floyd Barton Bench, Jr.

Funeral services for Floyd Barton Bench, Jr., 94, West Plains, MO will be held at 2:00 p.m. Friday, July 25, 2025, in the Rose Chapel of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home with visitation from 1:00-2:00. 

 He was born December 28, 1930, at Koshkonong, Missouri, to Floyd and Hazel (Helmer) Bench and grew up in Lanton, Missouri, with his three sisters (Jean, Irene, and Clara Zell) and one brother (Bob).  He graduated from West Plains High School in 1949. He served in the US Navy from 1951-1955 during the Korean War. He was married to Vadna Fore August 30, 1956.  He went to work at the International Shoe Company in 1956 and retired in 1993 along with Vadna.  Jr and Vadna spent 20-plus years in southern Texas during the cold Winter months in West Plains in which they met and became friends with so many people from all over the U.S. and Canada. 

 He was a member of the Pottersville Baptist church. He was a testament to being one of God’s servants that shone brightly with his love of family, community, and the outdoors. 

 The Lord called Floyd, Jr. home at 4:30 a.m., Monday, July 7, 2025, at West Vue Nursing Home to be with his wife, Vadna and son, Steven. Also, to be with his parents, his four siblings and their spouses, Thelma Jean Hogan and husband Vance, Bobbie Leland Bench and wife Mary, Ellen Irene Cherry and husband Dennis, and Clara Zell Cherry and husband James. He was also preceded in death by his nephew, Gary Vance Hogan. 

 He is survived by his daughter and husband Brenda and Brad Bergeson, Prairie Village, Kansas, his granddaughter and husband Cassie and Derrick Mitchell, and great-granddaughters Addison and Noelle Mitchell, all of Lenexa, Kansas. Also, he is survived by nephews Neal Hogan (Linda), Randy Hogan (Sheila), Tim Cherry (Brenda) and Gary Hogan’s wife Vicki and nieces Renee Hastert (Terry), Cindy Doss (Jack), Stephanie Raines, Pam Kenney (Albert), Tammy Keith (Jeff), Charisse Bench, and Lisa Riggs (Ralph) and their families.  

Memorial contributions may be made to Gideon Bible Society or American Heart Association and may be left at or mailed to Robertson-Drago Funeral Home, 211 West Main, West Plains, MO  65775.

 

 

Roberta Louise Maguffee

Funeral services will be 11:00 A.M. Wednesday, July 23, 2025 at Barker Funeral Home in Salem, Arkansas with Bro. Tyler Fox officiating. Visitation will be 10:00 A.M. until time of service on Wednesday, July 23, 2025 at Barker Funeral Home in Salem, Arkansas. Interment will be in the Stateline Cemetery in Moko, Arkansas. Memorials may be made to St. Jude Children’s Hospital in Memphis, Tennessee. Arrangements are under the direction of Barker Funeral Home in Salem, Arkansas.

James A. Shea

James A. Shea, 85, of Wasola, Mo, passed away at his home on July 17, 2025.  Arrangements are pending.

Always Faithful Memorial Services, West Plains, MO

Libby Alderman Benson

Libby Alderman Benson was born on October 29, 1947 in Natchez Mississippi. She is the daughter of Edwin and Rosalie Alderman. She is survived by her husband of 57 years Randy Benson, son and wife Shane & Kotona, son and wife Andy & Jenny, daughter and husband Leann and Garry Finke. Also survived by nine grandchildren, Cassie and her husband Kyle Willard, Chase Benson, Haleigh and her fiancee Mitchell Mullen, Celsie and her husband Blane Morrow, Avery and his wife Kolbi, Ellie Benson, Lena, Lucy, and Lily Finke. She had seven great grandchildren Kayden Willard, Chrissy Willard, Kynlee Willard, Benson Morrow, Bretlee Morrow, Cialyn Morrow, and Cali Willard. She was preceded in death by her parents and sister Linda Horn.

Libby was a devoted follower of Christ who showed her love for the Lord by loving others. She was a social butterfly who loved deeply. Her truest love was demonstrated by her commitment to Randy and her family. Libby was a tenacious and competitive person who loved competing in numerous half and full marathons after the age of 60. Her goal was to always win her age division and she did on many occasions. These qualities are evidenced in the attitudes of her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren through their passion to do their best in any endeavor.

Libby leaves a legacy of showing love to people who stretch all over the world. She has devoted her life to uplifting anyone she thought may be struggling. She was a master encourager. Libby encouraged her elementary students through loving words from the heart. She would feed, hug, and uplift anyone having a bad day or in need. She continued her ministry with daily texts that reached at least 400 people in seven countries. She sent each of these texts individually so anyone would feel free to ask for prayer.

Libby was outgoing and always spread joy and positivity. She was devoted to her Lord and Saviour, her husband and her family. The best gift she gave was a firm belief that her body and mind are fully restored as she enters into the presence of Jesus Christ in Heaven.

Services to celebrate her Home Going will take place at Pomona Christian Church at 1pm on Saturday, July 19, 2025. Family and friends are invited to share memories of Libby following.

 

Arrangements by Always Faithful Memorial Services, West Plains, MO

Arlene Nancy Durrett

A memorial service for Arlene Nancy Durrett, 88, West Plains, Missouri, will be held at a later date.

Mrs. Durrett passed away Sunday, July 13, 2025, at her home.

She was born January 26, 1937, at Sacramento, California, to Allen and Edith Sparry Whitney.  On November 23, 1956, she was married at Carson City, Nevada, to Herbert O. Durrett, who preceded her in death.  Arlene loved people and enjoyed talking with others.  She loved the Lord and was passionate in doing mission work.  She served the Lord in Rescue Mission in San Francisco, The Lord’s Land, Albian, California and Bridges for Peace in Jerusalem.  Mrs. Durrett was a member of Covenant Reformed Church of West Plains.

She is survived by two children, Michele Morton and Christine Chan and husband, Edward, all of West Plains; four grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandchild; one brother, Lewis Whitney and wife, Linda, Sacramento, California; and eight nieces and nephews.

Her parents, husband and one granddaughter, Lynda Logue, preceded her in death.

Memorial contributions may be made to Bridges for Peace, and may be left at or mailed to Robertson-Drago Funeral Home, 211 W. Main St., West Plains, Missouri.

 

Noble Paul McAfee

Funeral services for Noble Paul McAfee, 100, West Plains, Missouri, formerly of Birch Tree, Missouri, will be held at 11:00 a.m., Wednesday, July 16, 2025, in the Rose Chapel at Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.

Mr. McAfee passed away Sunday, July 13, 2025, at Ozarks Healthcare.

He was born February 14, 1925, at Mill Creek, Shannon County, Missouri, to Homer McAfee and Cassie Norris McAfee.  On March 31, 1957, he was married at Birch Tree, Missouri, to Evelyn Laveda Martin.  Paul retired from Smith Flooring after working for thirty-eight years; his employer has stated to the family they never met a man like him, he never asked for anything, worked every day only missing one day the entire thirty-eight years.  Mr. McAfee enjoyed hunting and fishing and loved attending church.

He is survived by his wife of sixty-eight years, Evelyn McAfee, West Plains, Missouri; five children, Retha Evans and husband, Mike, Caulfield, Missouri, Steve McAfee and wife, Diane, Summersville, Missouri, Fred McAfee and wife, Joyce Birch Tree, Missouri, Sheila Dunn, Mountain View, Missouri and Bruce McAfee, West Plains; four grandchildren, Amber Evans Carr and husband, Brandon, Springfield, Missouri, Kayla Moyer and husband, Wade, Springfield, Missouri, Jeri Stroburg, Salem, Missouri and Clayton Brown, St. Louis, Missouri; two great-grandchildren, Austin Moyer and Jasmine Osburn; two sisters, Crystal Taber and husband, Bob, Mountain View, Missouri and Terresa Baker, Kansas City, Missouri; and several nieces and nephews.

His parents, one brother, Herb McAfee and two sisters, Goldie Vermillion and Bessie Akers, preceded him in death.

Visitation will be held from 10:00 until 11:00 a.m., Wednesday, at Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.  Burial will be in Oak Lawn Cemetery.  Memorial contributions may be made to any charity of choice, and may be left at or mailed to Robertson-Drago Funeral Home, 211 W. Main St., West Plains, Missouri.

 

Danny Charles Sullins

Danny Charles Sullins, 72, of Salem, Arkansas, passed from this life on Wednesday, July 9, 2025, at Calico Rock, Arkansas. Danny was born to Cleo Saul Sullins and Margaret Freda Lavinnia (Hitchcock) Sullins November 20, 1952, in Trumann, Arkansas.

Danny was united in marriage to Reba Faye Moore in Salem, Arkansas. Danny spent ten of his working years at Goodyear Tire and Rubber in Union City, Tennessee and twenty years as an over the road self-employed truckdriver. He served his country in the United States Army during the Vietnam War. In his free time Danny enjoyed mowing his lawn, deer hunting, fishing, and spending time with his grandchildren. He was a loving son, brother, husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, friend, and was of the Baptist faith.

He leaves to mourn his passing wife, Reba Faye Sullins of Salem, Arkansas; two sons, Danny Joe Sullins of Mayfield, Kentucky and Gary Wayne Sullins (Amanda) of Clinton, Kentucky; two daughters, Mendi Knox of Clovis, New Mexico and Kallye Screen of Water Valley, Kentucky; eleven grandchildren and five great grandchildren; two brothers, Michael Ray Sullins (Tina) of Elizabeth, Arkansas and Terry Glenn Sullins of Southfork, Missouri. He is preceded in death by his parents (Cleo and Margaret Sullins) and three brothers.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. Memorials may be made to a charity of your choice. Arrangements are under the direction of Barker Funeral Home in Salem, Arkansas.

 

Donna Rae Phelps

Funeral services for Donna Rae Phelps, 90, West Plains, Missouri, will be held at 2:00 p.m., Monday, July 14, 2025, in the Rose Chapel at Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.

Mrs. Phelps passed away Wednesday, July 9, 2025, at West Vue Nursing Center.

She was born October 22, 1934, in Howell County, Missouri, to Clara Collins Fox and Adam Edward Fox.  On May 22, 1955, she was married at Kansas City, Missouri, to Elmer (Bud) Phelps, who preceded her in death on September 11, 2008.  Donna was a huge part in raising her sister, Peggy, after their mother, Clara, had to obtain employment outside of the home after the death of her husband, Adam.  One of Donna’s proudest days occurred when she received her high school diploma after years of working at the Shoe Factory.  She loved making quilts and collecting dolls.  Mrs. Phelps attended Union Grove Baptist Church and enjoyed her church friends.

She is survived by two children, Michael DeMoss and wife, Carol, West Plains and Donna (Midge) Dawson and husband, Ron, West Plains; six grandchildren, Michelle Blake and husband, Bert, Warrenton, Missouri, Rusty Shipley and wife, Karen, Gassville, Arkansas, Jaime McGhee and husband, Darrell, Ethan DeMoss, all of West Plains, Earl Maynard Phelps, Carlsbad, New Mexico and Brandi DeMoss, State of Utah; seven great-grandchildren, Tristan, Tucker and Turner Blake, Myles and Alexis (Madi) McGhee, Candace Shipley and Jax DeMoss; her sister, Peggy Wright; her brother, Darrell (Bub) Kelley; and several nieces and nephews.

Her parents, step-father, William Earl (Pop) Kelley, her son, Buddy, two brothers, Hershel and Herlin Fox and a beloved nephew, David Lee Fox, preceded her in death.

Visitation will be held from 1:00 until 2:00 p.m., Monday, at Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.  Burial will be at Union Grove Cemetery.  Memorial contributions may be made to Union Grove Cemetery, and may be left at or mailed to Robertson-Drago Funeral Home, 211 W. Main St., West Plains, Missouri.

 

Janet R. Johnson

Janet R. Johnson, 73, of West Plains, passed away at Mercy Hospital in Springfield, MO, on July 11, 2025.  Arrangements are pending.

Always Faithful Memorial Services, West Plains, MO

 

Martha Jean Sims

Funeral services for Martha Jean Sims, 80, Pottersville, Missouri, will be held at 2:00 p.m., Thursday, July 10, 2025, in the Rose Chapel at Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.

Mrs. Sims passed away at 6:55 p.m., Sunday, July 6, 2025, at her home.

She was born December 5, 1944, at Bakersfield, Missouri, to John Homer Davis and Sallie Ann Teverbaugh Davis.  On December 8, 1962, she was married at Pottersville, Missouri, to Victor Edward Sims, who preceded her in death on December 19, 2012.  They were married for 50 wonderful years.  Martha graduated from Bakersfield High School with the Class of 1962.  She retired from the Missouri Highway Patrol as a driving examiner.  Mrs. Sims was a member of Love Thy Neighbor Homemaker Extension Club and was a member of Crider Church of Christ.

She is survived by three children, Lesa Harris, Lance Sims and Aaron Sims and wife, Christy; four grandchildren, Rachel Shomshor and husband, Andy, Trey Harris and wife, Molly, Derek Riddle and Nathan Sims and wife, Savannah; four great-grandchildren and one on the way; one brother, Jerry Davis; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Her parents, husband, four brothers, Mack, Burl, Jim and Darel Davis and five sisters, Mary Fienhold, Sue Brown, Patsy Talbott, Freda Bridges and Helen Marie Davis, preceded her in death.

Burial will be at Pottersville Cemetery.  Memorial contributions may be made to Pottersville Cemetery, and may be left at or mailed to Robertson-Drago Funeral Home, 211 W. Main St., West Plains, Missouri.

Chester Marshall

Chester Marshall age 86 of Alton, MO was born June 21, 1939 in Fresno, CA and passed away July 7, 2025 at his home.

Survivors include his wife Fern Williams Marshall of the home, numerous nieces, nephews, and other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Charles William Marshall and Juanita Moyer Marshall, a brother Charles Marshall and a son.

Graveside services will be 10:00am Wednesday, July 9th, 2025 at the Cotton Creek Cemetery. Arrangements under the direction of the Clary Funeral Home, Alton, MO.

 

Janie Mae Hutson

Janie Mae Hutson, 69, of Viola, Arkansas, passed from this walk of life on Sunday, July 6, 2025, in Mountain Home, Arkansas.

She was born on February 16, 1956, in Mountain Home, Arkansas, to the late Hershel Wayne and Leta (Bell) Lucy. She was united in marriage to Vernon Dean Hutson on August 31, 1974, in Calico Rock, Arkansas. During her working years, she worked as a tax preparer. Janie attended Impact Faith Church in Mountain Home, Arkansas. She enjoyed painting and taking pictures. Janie was an excellent writer. She was friendly and never met a stranger. Janie loved her family and spending time with them always brought her joy. Christmas was Janie’s favorite holiday; she loved to decorate and buy her family gifts.

Janie is survived by her husband, Vernon Hutson of Viola, Arkansas; sons, Bill “Brad” Hutson (Carla Hambelton) of Mountain Home, Arkansas and Jayme Dean Hutson of Viola, Arkansas; brothers, David Wayne Lucy (Sue) of Violet Hill, Arkansas and Roger Lynn Lucy of Mountain Home, Arkansas; sisters, Anna Bell Martin of Salem, Arkansas and Mary Ellen Miller of Salem, Arkansas; grandchildren, Macayla Ann Hutson, Madison Jane Hutson, Shelby Buck Hutson, Roxie Speirs, Clayton Orr and Coby Orr; one great grandchild and aunt, Rhea Ducker.

She was preceded in death by her parents and niece, Fran Hurst.

Pallbearers include: BJ Humphries, Justin Shrable, Steven Bolka, Marshall Morris, Jeremy Witt and Gary Wayne Hutson

Funeral services will be Wednesday, July 9, 2025, beginning at 2:00 PM at Doty Family Funeral Service Chapel in Salem, Arkansas, with Pastor Monte Neal officiating. Visitation will be prior to the service beginning at 1:00 PM. Burial will follow in Sublett Cemetery in Viola, Arkansas.

 

Patricia Lee Neal

Patricia “Patty” Lee Neal, 70, of Sturkie, Arkansas, passed from this life on Thursday, July 3, 2025, at Springdale, Arkansas. Patty was born to Charley Coleman and Irene Lorene (Brown) Short on February 28, 1955, at Salem, Arkansas.

A Celebration of Life will be 3:00 P.M. until 5:00 P.M. Friday, July 11, 2025, at the Salem United Methodist Church in Salem, Arkansas with John Ed Welch speaking at 4:00 P.M.. Memorials may be made to the Salem United Methodist Church in Salem, Arkansas or Old Main School House in Salem, Arkansas. Arrangements are under the direction of Barker Funeral Home in Salem, Arkansas.

Bob R. Bowling

Bob R. Bowling, 84, of West Plains, Missouri, passed away on Wednesday, July 2, 2025 at Brooke Haven Healthcare, West Plains, Missouri. Bob was born on July 6, 1940, to John Tollie Bowling and Mary Ethel (Chadwick) Bowling in Salem, Arkansas.

After high school graduation Bob served in the United States Air Force for four years, being stationed in Puerto Rico. Bob spent most of his working years in real estate sales, and then a commercial real estate title examiner for Lincoln Evans Land Title Co. Bob retired in 2005. His hobbies included relief woodcarving, fishing, and golfing. He loved spending time on Bowling Hill, his beloved home place in Salem, Arkansas surrounded by his brothers, sisters and many nieces and nephews. He was a loving son, brother, husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, friend, and was a member of the church of Christ.

Bob is survived by his wife, Wanda (Killion) Bowling of Caulfield, Missouri; daughter, Jessica Rudd of Thayer, Missouri; son, Damon Bowling of Tulsa, Oklahoma; step-daughter, Teresa Dove (Ricky) of Caulfield, Missouri; four grandchildren, Alexis Bowling, Samantha Roller (Zach), Mackenzie Bowling, and Maddison Shrable (Alec); step grandchildren, Jessica Wallace and son Quinn, Dustin Rudd and Tyler Dove; great grandchildren, Kaiden Martin, Dean Roller, and Braylee Shrable; sister Nadine Rough of Kansas City, Missouri; many nieces and nephews; many other relatives and friends. He is preceded in death by his parents (John and Mary Bowling), seven brothers (C.P., John, Coy, Clarence, Shelby, James Bradley, Buddy), and four sisters (Frances, Nova, Ola Faye, Betty).

Memorial services will be at a later date. Memorials may be made to a charity of your choice. Arrangements are under the direction of Barker Funeral Home in Salem, Arkansas.

Tessa Joy Tahira Newman

Tessa Joy Tahira Newman, 19, of Salem, Arkansas passed from this walk of life on Thursday, July 3, 2025, at her home surrounded by her loving family.

She was born in Evanston, Illinois, on September 11, 2005, the daughter of Michael Todd and Dana Lynn Newman. Tessa was a child of God and a member of Faith Country Church in Salem, Arkansas. She loved riding horses, Christian music, and reading especially her Bible. Tessa was a St. Jude survivor. She loved her family and spending time with them made her happy. Tessa was an inspiration to many throughout her life.

Tessa is survived by her parents, Michael and Dana Newman; brothers, Samuel Newman, John Newman, Hank Newman, William J. Downs and Cody S. Scrivener; sisters, Madeline Newman, Katherine Dobbs (Kyle), Annie Grace Newman, Sophie Newman and Ella Newman and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her brother, Matthew Newman; sister, Emmalie Newman and loving horse, “Rowdy”.

Services will be Tuesday, July 8, 2025, at Faith Country Church in Salem, Arkansas, beginning at 11:00 AM with Bro. Bill Yancey officiating.