March 2011 Lawrence County Missouri Obituaries

These obituaries are reprinted from the Lawrence County Record, Mt. Vernon, MO

Oneta Elliott Crawford

Oneta Elliott Crawford, 82, Carthage, died Thursday, March 10, 2011, in St. John's, Joplin.  She was born Jan 11, 1929, in Carthage to Arthur and Lulu (Sharp) Devereaux.  She attended Carthage Public Schools and was a 1947 graduate of Carthage High School.

    She married Dee Elliott May 5, 1950, in Carthage.  He died Nov. 11, 1966.  She married Hugh Don Crawford June 11, 1976.  He died Feb. 24, 1995.

     She worked for J.C. Penny Co., Carthage from 1968 until 1975.  She then worked for the Carthage Water & Electric Plant from 1975 until 1995, when she retired.  She was a member of the First Baptist Church, Carthage.

     Survivors include one daughter, Debbie Willis, Aurora; two sons, Reggie Elliott, Joplin, and Tim Elliott, Webb City; eight stepchildren, Dawn Murrell, Amber Kirkland, Hugh Crawford, Stuart Crawford, Greg Crawford, John Crawford, Jeff Crawford and May Holman; six grandchildren;; 11 great-grandchildren; 13 step-grandchildren; and seven step-great-grandchildren.

     She was also preceded in death by one brother, A.E. Devereaux; and three sisters, Thelma Wallace, Lorraine Donovan and Chris Murphy.

     Graveside services were Monday, March 14, at Park Cemetery, Carthage, with the Rev. Ron Franklin officiating.

     Memorial donations may be made to the American Heart Association, in care of the Knell Mortuary, 308 W. Chestnut, Carthage, MO 64836

Mae Sallee Wilhoit Duckworth

Mae Sallee Willhoit Duckworth, 92, Springfield, died Friday, March 18, 2011, in St. John's Mercy Villa, Springfield.  She was born Sept. 10, 1918, in Pondfork to James Barton and Mary Ellen "Molly" (Hobbs) Sallee. She graduated from Thornfield High School, then attended Missouri State University.

     She married the Rev. Howard Willhoit Dec. 23, 1943.  They founded the First General Baptist Church in Springfield, and he served as the first pastor from 1947 to 1950.  He died April 12, 1950.

     She was a teacher for a few years, then bookkeeper for the Heur Williams Company.  In 1965, she moved to Seal Beach, Calif., and married Lerman Duckworth.  He died Feb. 25, 2008. 

     She was also preceded in death by a baby daughter, six brothers and three sisters.

     Survivors include one son, George Willhoit; one brother, Jim Sallee, Mt. Vernon; one stepdaughter, Wanda Huffman; five grandsons; and seven great-grandchildren.

     Services will be at 11 a.m. Wednesday, March 23, in Greenlawn Funeral Home East, Springfield.  Burial will be in Lutie Cemetery, Theodosia.

     Memorial contributions may be made to Lutie Cemetery, Theodosia.

Jack Nelson

Jack Nelson, 80, Verona, died Thursday, March 17, 2011, in his home.  He was born July 1, 1930, in Verona to Warner and Lucille Engledorf Nelson.

     He was a retired truck driver.

     Survivors include his wife, Rosemary; two daughters, Jackie Nelson, Verona, and Sherri Dippel, Omaha, Neb.; one brother, Jerry Nelson, Verona; two sisters, Judy Blume, Gardner, Kan., and Mary Lou Ellis, Springfield; and one granddaughter.

     He was preceded in death by one son, Jeff Nelson.

     Services were Monday, March 21, in the Peterson Funeral Chapel, Aurora.  Burial was in Spring River Cemetery, Verona.

LaQueta Jean Reynolds

Laqueta Jean Reynolds, 64, LaRussell, died at 12:50 a.m. Saturday, March 19, 2011, at the home of her son.  She was born Jan. 8, 1947, in Greenfield to Oscar and Ruby (Lewis) West.  She was a bus driver and custodian for the Miller School District for 24 years.  She was of the Baptist faith.  She married Arlis Dewayne Reynolds June 15, 1963, in Carthage.  He died Nov. 10, 2010.

     Survivors include three sons, Jerry Reynolds and Dustin Reynolds, both of Mt. Vernon, and Ronald Reynolds, LaRussell; two brothers, Dean West, Lebanon, Tenn., and Bill "Tank" West, Miller; eight grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren.

     She was preceded in death by her parents and two sisters, Maxine Dereck and Kay Brown.

    Graveside services were Tuesday, March 22, in the Red Oak Cemetery, west of Miller, under the direction of Morris-Leiman-Mosher Fueral Home, Miller.

     Memorial donations may be made to Hospice Compassus, in care of the funeral home.

Mary Marie (Galloway) Williams Tilden

Mary Marie (Galloway) Williams Tilden, 85, Galena, died Sunday, March 13, 2011, in St. John's Aurora.  She was born April 4, 1925, in Galena to Charles and Cora (Parker) Galloway.

     She married Herb Williams and moved to Crete, Neb., in 1958.  He died in December 1971.  She married Willard Tilden April 12, 1981.  He survives.

     She was also preceded in death by one daughter, Linda Eidswick-Purdy, and one brother, Robert Galloway.

     Additional survivors include one daughter, Irene Severin, Hallam, Neb.; one son, Jim Williams, Elsey; four stepchidlren, RobertTilden, Spotsylvania, Va., Bill Tilden, Marionville, Richard Tilden, Galena, and RonTilden, St. Charles; six grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; seven step-grandchildren; and five step-great-grandchildren.

     Services were Wednesday, March 16, at Galena Community Church with Doug Minton officiating.  Burial was in Galena Cemetery, under the direction of Cheatham-Stumpff Fuenral Home, Galena.

     Memorial contributions may be made to the Galena Community Church.

Jewel G. Roach

Jewel G. Roach, 87, of Mt. Vernon, passed away at 6:20 p.m. Friday, March 18, 2011, at her home.  She was born Feb. 25, 1924, in Stone County, the daughter of John Wade and Mary Pearl (Cron) Gardner.  Jewel was a member of the First Baptist Church in Mt.Vernon, and a retired licensed practical nurse.  She married Carol Francis Roach April 16, 1938, in Galena.  He preceded her in death on April 14, 1996.

     Those surviving her include five daughters, Mary Ann Johnson and her husband, Ray, of  Marionville, Dorthy Jones and her husband, Jim of Mt. Vernon, Judy Garringer of Mt. Vernon, Virginia Styron and her husband Emery, of Mt. Pleasant, Iowa, and Norma Stewart of Mt. Vernon; one son, Clyde Roach and his wife Donna, of Mt. Vernon; one daughter-in-law, Allene Roach of Joplin; one brother, John Gardner of South Haven, Miss.; 16 grandchildren; 21 great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.

     She was also preceded in death by her parents; one son, Eddie Roach; two sons-in-law, J.W. Garringer and Cleatus Stewart; three grandchildren, Scott Raoch, Merlin Jones and Cynthia Styron; one great-granddaughter, Hailey Johnson; and four sisters, Goldie Holt, ruth Bandick, Helen Ginger and Opal Rogers.

     Services were Tuesday, March 22, at the Fossett-Mosher Funral HOme, Mt. ernon, with burial in the Campground Cemetery at Chesapeake.

     Memorial donations may be made to the Alheimer's Association or the campground Cemetery, in care of the Funeral home.

     Online condolences may be shared at http://www.fossettmosherfuneralhome.com/  

Master Sergeant Donald L. Sifferman

Master Sergeant Donald L. Sifferman, 79, Republic, passed to his heavenly home on Monday, March 14, 2011, in Cox South, Sprinfield, with his family by his side.  Donald was born Feb. 24, 1932, in Burton Township, Mich., the son of John W. and Laura M. (Smith) Sifferman.

     Donald served his country in the United States Air Force until his retirement in 1973.  Preceding Donald in death were a daughter, Ceann McGowan; his parents; and an infant brother.

     He is survived by his loving wife of more than 56 years.  Mary Ernestine (Alms) Sifferman; two sons and their wives, Carl and Cathy Sifferman, and Craig and Tricia Sifferman, all of Springfield; one daughter and her husband, Cathy and Gordon Rausch, and a son-in-law, Wayne McGowan, all of Republic; seven grandchildren; two step-grandchildren; four great-grandchildrn; one brother and his wife, John W. and Miriam Sifferman, Grand Blanc, Mich.; nieces, nephews, cousins and a host of friends.

     Services were Friday, March 18, in Calvary Baptist Church, Republic, with the Pastor Randy Johnson officiating.  Burial with military honors, was in Rock Prairie Cemetery, Halltown.

     Memorial donations may be made to the Calvary Baptist Church Building Fund, or the charity of the donor's choice.



2011 Lawrence County Missouri Obituaries

These obituaries are reprinted from the Lawrence County Record, Mt. Vernon, MO

Ferle Pauline Parsons Barker

Ferle Pauline Parsons Barker  93, Aurora, died at 10:10 p.m. Saturday, March 12, 2011, at St. John's, Springfield.  She was born Nov. 22, 1917, in Turley to Samuel and Anna (Turner) Walker.  She was a 1935 graduate of Aurora High School and a member of the Aurora Fundamental Methodist Church.  She worked for Juvenile Shoe Company and retired from the Aurora School District, where she worked as the head cook.  She married Edward Barker June 5, 1976.  He died March 8, 1998.

     Survivors include one daughter, Joanne Michel, Aurora; three sons, Samuel Parsons, Springfield, James Parsons, Aurora, and William Parsons, Skiatook, Okla.; one stepdaughter, Betty Neely, Springfield; one stepson, Raymond Gibson, Kansas City; 10 grandchildren; and nine great-grandchildren.

     She was preceded in death by three sisters, Edith Seburn, Hazel Walker and Evelyn Marks; and two brothers, Howard and Ernest Walker.

     Services will be at 2 p.m. Wednesday, March 16, at the Crafton-Cantrell Funeral Home, Aurora, with burial in Maple Park Cemetery, Aurora.

     Memorial donations may be made to the Aurora Fundamental Methodist Church, in care of the funeral home.

     Dorothy (Rickman) Harris

Dorthy (Rickman) Harris, 89, Marionville, died Saturday, March 12, 2011, in her home.  She was born Jan. 20, 1922, in Crane to Off and Ethel Rickman.

     Survivors include her husband, Lowell; two sons, Danny Harris and Stanley Harris; seven grandchildren; 15 great-grandchildren; and seven great-great-grandchildren.

     Graveside services were Monday, March 14, in the Crane Community Cemetery, under the direction of Peterson Funeral Home, Aurora.

David L. Lay, M.D.

David L. Lay, M.D., 59, Springfield, died Sunday March 6, 2011, at his home.

     He was a former resident of Herber Springs, Ark.  He was the son of George D. and Sarah Chesbro Lay of Herber Springs.  He was preceded in death by his parents.

     He was a 1977 graduate of the University of Arkansas Medical School and won the United States Navy Scholarship.  He was a lieutenant commander in the Navy and served for 11 years.

     He ran a medical practice in Herber Springs for 11 years, before moving to Springfield in 1993.  He had been a physician in the Springfield area for 18 years.  Nine and a half of those were spent working at the Gene Taylor VA Outpatient Clinic in Mt. Vernon.

     Survivors include his wife of 24 years, Carol; and two daughters, Savannah and Cheryl, Springfield.

     A memorial service will be held in Springfield at a later date.  Arrangements are under the direction of Herman H. Lohmeyer Funeral Home, Springfield.

Troy James Engler

Troy James Engler, 48. Fort Myers, Fla., passed away at 11:43 a.m. Tuesday, March 8, 2011, while he was waiting to deliver a load at a Publix Grocery Store in Deerfield Beach, Fla.

     Troy was born Oct. 17, 1962, in Sedalia to Larry J. and Elverta M. (Davis) Engler.

     Survivors include his father and stepmother, Larry J. and Sandy Engler, Richmond; his grandmother, Georgia Davis, Sedalia; one brother and sister-in-law, Pastor Mark and Maria Engler, two nephews, Kelby Engler, all of Mt. Vernon; and several uncles, aunts and cousins.

     He was preceded in death by his mother, Elverta M. Forsyth, grandfather Harley Davis, grandfather Lawrence Engler and grandmother Frances Engler.

     Troy was employed by Bailey Farms, Bonita Springs, Fla.  He spent much of his life on the road as a truck driver.  As he traveled throughout the United States over the years, he gained friends from many different areas who loved and cared for him.

     Funeral services will be held at Parkview Christian Church in Sedalia at 11a.m. Saturday, March 19, with Pastor Rodney Brown officiating.

     The family suggests memorials to the chairty of the donor's choice.

Donald Robert Maupin

Donald Robert Maupin, 71, Mt. Vernon, died at 2:35 a.m. Wednesday, March 9, 2011, in the Lawrence County Manor, Mt. Vernon, after a long illness.  He was born Jan. 1, 1940, to Wilmer Morris Maupin and Ima Jean Thorne in Marmaduke, Ark.  He married Barbara Ann Borucki Sept. 8, 1962, in Doniphan.  They were married 46 years.

     Donald graduated from Riverview Gardens High School in St. Louis in 1957 and continued his education at Arkansas State University, where he graduated with a degree in secondary education.  He earned his master's degree in secondary administration from Drury University.  Don taught history and driver's education and coached football, basketball and track at Kennett, Ozark, Republic, Willard, Thayer, Iberia, Monett and Hillcrest in Springfield.  He was proud to be a teacher.  He retired from teaching after 28 years and spent hours working on his farm and on building projects.

     Donald was an active member of the Natrional Education Association, working passionately for teachers' rights, several Democrat organizations and the Lawrence County Democratic Central Committee.  He was appointed Lawrence County clerk by Gov. Bob Holden in 2002.  Donald was very patriotic and loved to analyze politics.  He was a lifelong Arkansas Razorback fan and loved to attend their games.  He enjoyed designing plays and sent them to coaches such as Lou Holtz and Houston Nutt and long leters to Bill Bidwill, owner of the St. Louis football Cardinals.  He spent hours creating his ideal football team rosters and writing draft list picks in great detail for his favoite teams.  He was a member of Solomon Masonic Lodge #271, Springfield Scottish Rite and Abou Ben Adhem Shrine.

     Donald is survived by his mother, Jean T. Ochsner, Chesterfield; one daughter, Deborah Ann Garner and her husband Rick, and their children, Arron and Elizabeth Garner, Mtr. Vernon; one son, Donald Robert MAupin Jr., and Linda Gayton and their daughter, Amanda, Halltown; several cousins; nine brothers-in-law, eight sisters-in-law; and many nieces and nephews.

     He was preceded in death by his wife; his father; one brother, Morris Wilmer Maupin; and one sister, Wilma Jean Bledsoe.

     A Masonic funeral was held Friday, March 11, in Fossett Mosher Funeral Home, Mt. Vernon.  The funeral was Saturday, March 12, in St. Susanne Catholic Church, Mt. Vernon, followed by burial in Rock Prairie Cemetery, Halltown.

     In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Huntington's Disease Society of America, in care of the funeral home.

Margaret A. Habhab

Margaret A. Habhab, 68, Miller, died Thrusday, March 10, 2011, in her home following a lengthy battle with cancer.  She was born Jan. 20, 1943, in Portis, Kan., to Anthony and Ueweda (Cole) Alvey.  She was a retired x-ray technician in Fort Dodge, Iowa.  She married Joseph Habhab Sr. in Fort Dodge in 1966.  He died in 1990.

     Survivors incldue two sons, Joseph Habhab Jr. Miller, and Shaffee Habhab, Houston, Texas; one daughter, Stephanie Caldwell, Boston, Mass.; one brother, James Alvey, Arlington, Texas; and four grandchildren.

     She was also preceded in death by one sister, Janis Porter, and one brother, Jerry Alvey.

     No services are planned.

     Memorial donations may be made to the charity of the donor's choice.

GC Emmett Kinder

GC Emmett Kinder, 50, Mt. Vernon, died at 8:10 p.m. Thursday, March 10, 2011, at Mt. Vernon Place Care Center, Mt. Vernon.  He was born July 4, 1960, in Hayti to Gilbert Cecil and Faye Louise (Modglin) Kinder. He was a 1978 graduate of Mt. Vernon High School and a lab technician for Schreiber Foods.  He was of the Baptist faith.

     Survivors include three sisters, Patsi Bryson, Springfield, Vicki Bonnett, Holts Summit, and Dean Wood, Mt. Vernon.

     He was preceded in death by his parents; one brother, Michael Kinder; and his stepmother, Clorese Kinder.

     Private graveside services were Monday, March 14, at the Memorial Gardens Cemetery in Kennett, under the direction of Fossett-Mosher Funeral Home, Mt. Vernon.

Lee O. Noblitt

Lee O. Noblitt, 89, Republic, died Wednesday, March 9, 2011, at his home.  He was born March 4, 1922, in Pleasant Hope to Jessie O. and Edna J. (Smith) Noblitt.

    He married Ruth Baldwin April 2, 1948.  She died June 25, 2003.  He married Maxine Hamilton Aug. 6, 2005.  She survives.

     He served in the European Theater during World War II with the 17th Airborne Division, earning the Combat Infantry Badge and three Bronze Star medals.  He later joined the Missouri National Guard and retired as a sergeant first class, with 20 years of service.

     He was also preceded in death by one brother, Bill, and one sister, Marybelle Scoffield.

     Additonal survivors include two daughters, Carol Bilyeu, Republic, and Sharon Perkins, Marionville, one stepson, Basil Hamilton, Republic, and six grandchildren.

     Services were Monday, March 14, in Meadors Funeral Home, Republic, with Pastors Gary Collins and David Garrison officiating, Burial, with military honors, was in White Chapel Memorial Gardens, Springfield.

     Memorial donations may be made to  St. John's Hospice or the Ozarks Food Harvest, in care of the funeral home.

Samuel David Parker

Samuel David Parker, 86, Mt. Vernon, died at 7:56 p.m. Monday, March 7, 2011, at the Ozark Community Hospital, Springfield.  He was born Sept. 23, 1924, in Boone County, Ark., to John W. and Ruth Pearl (Bills) Parker.

     He was a World War II Army veteran.  He worked at Jumping Jacks Shoe Factory in Monett and was an over-the-road truck driver.

     Survivors include one son, John David Parker, Wausau, Wis,; four grandchildren; and nine great-grandchildren.

     He was preceded in death by his wife, Patricia Thomas, and one sister, Pauline Fritts.

     No services are planned.  Arrangements were under the direction of Crafton-Cantrell Funeral Home, Aurora. 

The Rev. David Jonathan Shank

The Rev. David Jonathan Shank, 58, Portland, Ore., died March 3, 2011, in his home.  He was born Nov. 21, 1952, in Independence to Robert L. and Marybelle (Sutton) Shank.

     He was a 1970 graduate of Mt. Vernon High School and graduated from the University of Missouri-Columbia in 1975 with degrees in English and physics.  In 1995, he was ordained a priest of the Orthodox Church in America, and served as associate pastor at the Church of the Annunication in Milwaukie, Ore.  He also served mission churches in Ashland, Ore., as well as Poulsbo and Redmond, Wash.  In addition to his work in the ministry, he was employed as a technical writer at Welch Allyn and was promoted to manager of the technical publication department in 2003.

     He married Connie Eden July 27, 1985.  She survives.  Additional survivors include two children, Gabriel Shank and Maria Shank, both of Portland, his mother, Marybelle Shank, Mt. Vernon; one brother, Walter Shank, Jefferson City; and two sisters, Mary (Shank) Aslin, Mt. Vernon, and Martha (Shank) Moore, Glenwood Springs, Colo.

     Services were Saturday March 12, in the Church of the Annunciation, Milwaukie.  Burial was in Molalia, Ore.

     Memorial donations may be made to a domestic violence shelter at Raphael House, 4110 S.E. Hawthorne Blvd. #503, Portland, Or 97214-5246, or to a Guatemalan Orphange at Freinds of the Hogar Rafael Ayau, in care of Harriet Stratis, 3150 N. Lake Shore Drive, #27A, Chicago, IL 60657.

Army Spec. Christopher Glenn Stark

Army Specialist Christopher Glenn Stark, 22, Monett, was killed in action Monday, Feb. 28, 2011, in COP Tangi, Afghanistan.  He was born Aug. 18, 1988, in Joplin to Teresa (Brown) and Jeffrey Allen Stark.

     He graduated from Monett High School in 2007.  While in school, he participated in football, basketball, baseball and soccer.  He was among the first group of cadets to launch the JROTC Program at the Southwest Area Career Center in Monett.  Following graduation, he enlisted in the United States Army in August 2008.  He served with the 63rd Explosive Ordnance Disposal Battalion 20th Support Command.  He was stationed at Ft. Polk, La.  He was a member of the First Baptist Church in Cassville.

     He was preceded in death by his father, Jefrey Allen Stark.

     Survivors include his mother, Teresa Stark, Nevada; one brother, Trenton Stark, Nevada; maternal grandparents Max and Maxine Brown, Webb City, and paternal grandparents Bill and Mary Johnson, Hemet, Calif.

     Services were Saturday, March 12, in Jolly Mill Park, Monett.  Burial, with full military honors, was in the IOOF Cemetery, Monett, under the direction of Buchanan Funeral HOme, Monett.

     Memorial contributions may be made to the Christopher Stark Memorial Fund, in care of the funeral home.

Judy Jane Stoll

Judy Jae Stoll, 63, Aurora, died Tuesday, March 8, 2011.  she was born April 8, 1947.

     Survivors include one son, Jacob Stoll, and three grandchildren.

     She was preceded in death by two husbands, Henry E. Reidenhauer Jr., and Istell A. "Gus" George.

     Private services will be held Friday, April 8.  Local arrangements are under direction of Crafton-Cantrell Funeral Home, Aurora.

Sarah Whiteley

Sarah Whiteley, 92, Aurora, died Sunday, March 13, 2011, in the Aurora Nursing Center, Aurora.  She was born May 31, 1918, in Garber to Martin and Mary Evans May.

     Graveside services were Tuesday, March 15, in Maple Park Cemetery, Aurora, under the direction of Peterson Funeral Home, Aurora.

Lloyd "Jay" Wilson

Lloyd "Jay' Wilson, 83, Springfield, died Monday, March 7, 2011, in the Missouri Veterans' Home/Mt. Vernon.  He was born Feb. 9, 1928, in Ann Arbor, Mich., to Lloyd A. and Lillian (Detwiler) Wilson.

     He married Christing Lackie Dec. 9, 1950.  She survives.

     He served in the United States Navy during the Korean conflict.  He was employed with Outdoor Advertising Sales for more than 40 years.  He was a member of the Glendale Christian Church, Springfield.

     Additioanl survivors include two children, Brian Wilson, Nixa, and Brenda Stegeman, Jefferson City; and five grandchildren.

     Services were Saturday, March 12, in Gleenlawn Funeral Home South, Springfield.  Burial will be at a later date in the Missouri Veterans' Cemetery Springfield.

     Memorial donations may be made to Ozarks Honor Flight, P.O. Box 3500, Springfield, MO 65808, or in care of the funeral home.

Jeanette Muckey

Jeanette Muckey, 87, Aurora, died Thursday, March 10, 2011, in the Aurora Nursing Center, Aurora.  She was born March 23, 1923, in Tarsney Lake to Millard and Hester Estes Jenkins.  She was a retired business owner.

     Survivors include one son, Dan Snow, Lees Summit.

     Graveside services were Friday, March 11, in Maple Park Cemetery, Aurora, under the direction of Peterson Funeral Chapel, Aurora.

March 2011 Lawrence County, MO Obituaries

These obituaries are reprinted from the Lawrence County Record, Mt. Vernon, MO

Tammie Rae Haley

Tammie Rae Haley, 48, Aurora, died Sunday, Feb. 27, 2011, in her home.  She was born Jan. 26, 1963, to Morris and Georgia Toalson.  She was a 1981 graduate of Aurora High School. 

     Survivors include her mother; three sons, Joey Brown, Jeff Haley and Jon Haley, all of Aurora; one sister, Judy Matney, Witchita, Kan.; and four grandchildren.

     Memorial services were Saturday, March 5, a the First Christian Church, Aurora.

Esther L. Painter Harrison

Esther L. Painter Harrison, 76, Exeter, died Thursday, March 3, 2011, at her home.  She was born Dec. 18, 1934, in Bakersfield, Calif., to William and Bessie (Andrews) Painter.  She was a longtime resident of Barry County and a 1951 graduate of Cassville High School.  She served with the United States Air Force during the Korean conflict.  She was a licensed manicurist and previous employee of Litton Industries in Springfield.  She retired from Fasco Industries in Cassville after 10 years of service.

     Survivors include two sons, Jim Dossett, Cassville, and Wes Harrison, Aurora; one daughter, Bobby Branham, Exeter; one sister, Martha Creason, Rogers, Ark; and several grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

     She was preceded in death by one daughter, Honey Marie Singletary; eight brothers; and two sisters.

     Services, with military honors, will be at a later date at the Maplewood Cemetery, Exeter, under direction of White Funeral Home and Crematory, Cassville.

Gerald "Buck" Meese

Gerald "Buck" Meese, 79, Clever, died Friday, March 4, 2011, in his home. He was born Aug. 7, 1931, to Milo and Lora (Keller) Meese.

     He was a United States Navy veteran of the Korean conflict.  He was a shear and press-brake operator at Paul Mueller for 30 years.  He was also a farmer.  He was a member of Riverdale Baptist Church, Nixa.

     He married Vera Goans-McClanahan July 3, 1971.  She survives.

     Additional survivors include four children, Gary Meese, Mt. Vernon, Rickey Dale McClanahan and Reta Fitzpatrick, both of Clever, and Rickey Wayne Meese, Nixa; one brother Gene Meese, Bolivar; 11 grandchildren; and 10 great-grandchildren.

     He was preceded in death by two brothers, Don Meese and Alfred "Frost" Meese; and one grandson.

     Services were Tuesday, March 8, in Adams Funeral Home, Nixa, with the Rev. Jamie Bilyeu and Dave Stockland officiating.  Burial was in Manley Cemetery, Nixa.

     Memorial donations may be made to the Manley Cemetery.

Clary L. "Bus" O'Neal

Clary L. "Bus" O'Neal, 95, Springfield, died Tuesday, March 1, 2011, at the Missouri Veterans' Home/Mt. Vernon.  He was the son of Alfred and Opal Clary O'Neal.

     He served in the United States Army during World War II in China-Burma-India theatre.  He was a survivors of the HMS Roha and received a Purple Heart.  He was a 48-year member of the Dowtown Kiwanis, Springfield, an Abou Ben Adhem Shriner, deacon of the Bible Baptist Church for more than 40 years and a member of the Show-Me Model T Ford Club.

     He was preceded in death by his wife of 69 years, Virginia; and four sisters, Blanche Myers, Mayme Inman, Mary Jo Hilmus and Jane Dayton.

     Survivors include one son, John David O'Neal; one daughter, Beverly Swearingin; one sister, Marjorie Davidson; one brother, A.L. "Bud" O'Neal; seven grandchildren; and eight great-grandchildren.

     Services were Friday, March 4, in the Klingner-Cope Family Funeral Home, Springfield.  Burial was in White Chapel Memorial Gardens, Springfield.

     Memorial donations may be made to the Springfield Boys & Girls Club, 1410 N. Fremont, Springfield, MO 65802, or Mt. Vernon Emergency Services for Children, 902 McVey, Mt. Vernon, MO 65712

Betty Catherine Seaburg

Betty Catherine Seaburg, 88, Springfield, died Wednesday, March 2, 2011.  She was born April 19, 1922, in Broken Arrow, Okla., to George and Mary Wendlandt.

     She was preceded in death by her husband, Harold Seaburg; one sister, Anna; and one brother, Harold.

     Survivors include six children, Judi, Patty, Sadie, Jan., Joan and Steve; 12 grandchildren; and 32 great-grandchildren.

     Memorial services were Friday, March 4, in Klingner-Cope Family Funeral Home at Rivermonte Chapel, Springfield.  Graveside services will be at 1 p.m Friday, March 18, in Maple Grove Cemetery, north of Freistatt.

James "Steve" Stephen Walker

James "Steve" Stephen Walker, 51, Cassville, died Saturday, Feb. 26, 2011, in St. John's Springfield.  He was born April 24, 1959, in Monett to Loyd T. and Carolyn (Scott) Walker.

     He married Marylon "Kay" Tate Aug. 15, 1979, in Russellville, Ark.  She survives.

     He graduated from Verona High School.  He served in the United States Air Force, where he was an air cargo specialist.  He was employed with VB Hall, as a warehouse night shift foreman.

     Additional survivors include two sons, Billy Walker, Exeter, and Tommy Walker, Purdy; his father, Loyd Walker, Verona; his mother, Carolyn Forester and her husband, Leon, of Lillian, Ala.; one brother, Richard Walker, Frankfurt, Ind.; one sister, Julie Antle, Marionville; and four grandchildren.

     Memorial services, with military honors, were Tuesday, March 1, in Fohn Funeral Home, Cassville, with the Rev. Lee Miller Officiating.

Salena Marie Goodin

Salena Marie Goodin, 29, Mt. Vernon, passed away at 10:10 p.m. Tuesday, March 1, 2011, at St. John's, Springfield.  She was born April 18, 1921, in Springfield, the daughter of Leonard and Phyllis Lynnette (Pedigo) Ruckman.  Salena was a 1999 graduate of Sarcoxie High School and was a homemaker and full-time mom.

     Thoses surviving her include her son, Zachary Ryan Goodin, and her daughter Adelyn Kay Goodin, both of Mt. Vernon; her sister, Lynnette Ruckman of Surf City, N.C.; her brother, David Ruckman of Springfield; the family of Win and Susie Osterloh, Kurtis and Connor, of Mt.Vernon; and several aunts, uncles and cousins.  Her parentes preceded her in death.

     Services were Saturday, March 5, at Fossett-Mosher Funeral Home, Mt. Vernon.  Burial will be at a later date at the Ruckman Cemetery, southwest of Halltown.

     Memorial donations may be made to the American Heart Association, in care of the funeral home.

     Online condolences may be shared at http://www.fossettmosherfuneralhome.com/.

February 2011 Obituaries, Lawrence County MO

These Obituaries are reprinted from the Lawrence County Record, Mount Vernon, MO

Patricia Louise (Ballard) Batson

 Patricia Louise (Ballard) Batson, 72, Aurora, died Tuesday, Jan. 25, 2011, in Freeman Hospital, Joplin.

She was born June 25, 1938, in Aurora to Fenton and Mabel Ballard.  She married Glen H. Batson Nov. 16, 1953, in Aurora.  He preceded her in death.

     She was a retired school bus driver.

     Survivors include two daughters, Cindy Owens, Webb City, and Glenda Hudson, Aurora, three brothers, Bob Ballard, Nixa, Bill Ballard, Aurora, and Larry Ballard, Ozark; two sisters, June McCaleb, Jefferson, Texas, and Helen Benson, Springfield; nine grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandchild.

     She was also preceded in death by two sons, Mitchell and Timothy; and one brother, Charles.

     Graveside services were Saturday, Jan. 29, in Maple Park Cemetery, Aurora, under the direction of Peterson Funeral Chapel, Aurora.

Mary L. Cleveland

Mary L. Cleveland, 89, Aurora, died at 1:25 a.m. Wednesday, Jan. 26, 2011, at St. John's, Aurora.  She was born Aug. 17, 1921, in Atchison, Kan., to Herbert and Ruth (Crosswhite) Townsend.  She was a 1939 graduate of Atchison High School and graduated from Emporia State Teachers College, Emporia, Kan.  She was a charter member and deaconess at the Oak Grove Christian Church in Kansas City, Kan.  While in Kansas, she taught kindergarten at several schools and was president of the parent-teacher association.  She owned and operated a tax preparation service for more than 30 years.

     She married Loren Cleveland Sept. 21, 1946, in Kansas City.  He died Oct. 26, 1965.

     She was also preceded in death by one sister, Lucille Miller, and one stepson, John Cleveland.

     Survivors include four children, Virginia Gaston and Nancy Asay, both of Aurora, Freda Ogburn, Shawnee, Kan., and Herb Cleveland, Huntsville, Ala.; two stepsons, James Cleveland, Brookfield, and Charles Cleveland, Marshall, Texas; one sister Dorothy Huitt, Monore, Tenn.; 22 grandchildren; and 29 great-grandchildren.

     Graveside services were Saturday, Jan. 29, at the Maple Hill Cemetery, Kansas City., under the direction of Crafton-Cantrell Fuenral Home, Aurora.

     Memorial donations may be made to a youth organization at the church of your choice, in care of the funeral home.

Robert Douglas Egbert

Robert Douglas Egbert, 43, Verona, died at 9:35 p.m. Monday, Jan. 24, 2011, at his home.  He was born Dec. 3, 1967, in Taipai, Taiwan, to Melvin L. and Candance (Risse) Egbert.  He was a 1986 graduate of Bettendorf  High School in Bettendorf, Iowa, and served in the United States Navy during Desert Storm.  He worked many years as a diesel mechanic and most recently as an over-the-road truck driver.  He has been in the Lawrence County community for the past 16 years and was a member of the Pleasant Ridge Baptist Church.

     He married Cheryl Southard Dec. 19, 2009, in Verona.  She survives.

     Additional survivors include four daughters; Dalyn Egbert, Verona, Jasmine Johnson, Carthage, Brittania Johnson, Monett, and Caitlin Banks, Illinois; two sons, Dusty Southard, Joplin and Nicholas McKever, Crane; his parents, Melvin and Candance Egbert, Carthage; one brother; four sisters; and eight grandchildren.  He was preceded in death by his grandparents and one borther, Loren Charles Holder.

     Services were Saturday, Jan. 29, at the Fossett-Mosher Fuenral Home, Mt. Vernon.  Burial will be in the Missouir Veterans' Cemetery, Springfield, at a later date.

     Memorial donations may be made to the ALS Association, in care of the funeral home.

Otis Emanuel Fulbright

Otis Emanuel Fulbright, 86, Mt. Vernon, died at 12:35 a.m. Wednesday, Jan. 26, 2011, at St. John's Springfield. He was born Jan. 5, 1925, in Parma to Marshall Otis and Mary Marie (Rhoades) Fullbright.  He was a resident, farmer and rancher in the Mt. Vernon community for the past 63 years and attended the First Baptist Church in Mt. Vernon.  He married Gertrude Bert Etheridge Jan. 13, 1951, in Mt. Vernon.  She survives. 

     Additional survivors include one daughter, Sharon McDuffie, Knoxville, Tenn.; one brother, Emery Fulbright, Belvidere, Ill.; two grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren.

     He was preceded in death by two sisters, Roxie Easton and Juanita Miller; and three brothers, Clifford, Ray and Kenneth Fulbright.

     Services were Friday, Jan. 28, at the Fossett-Mosher Funeral Home, Mt. Vernon, with burial in the Mt. Vernon IOOF Cemetery.

     Memorial donations may be made to the First Baptist Church, in care of the funeral home.

Ted Joe Herron II

Ted Joe Herron, II, 65, Rogersville, died Monday, Jan. 24, 2011, in the Missouri Veterans' Home/Mt. Vernon.  He was born Jan. 27, 1945, in Butler to Ted Joe and Reeda Jane Herron.

     He served in the United Stgates Army during the Vietnam War.  He received his master's degree in history from Lincoln University, Jefferson City.  He worked for the past 20 years for Osborn and Associates Insurance Company.

     He was preceded in death by his parents and one daughter, Thea Jo Herron.

     Survivors include one son, Reed Smith Heron, Nixa, and one brother, Marshall Herron, St. Cloud, Minn.

     Memorial visitation was Thrusday, Jan. 27, in Greenlawn Funeral Home North, Springfield.  Memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer's Association.

Maxine French Johnson

Maxine French Johnson, 91, Mt. Vernon, died at 4:45 a.m. Friday, Jan. 28, 2011, at her home. She was born Dec. 31, 1919, to Frank and Myrtle Head French on a farm near McKinley. She married A.B. Johnson Oct. 9, 1937, in Monett. He died July 30, 1998. She was also preceded in death by one son, Capt. Ronald D. Johnson, Feb. 9, 1967.
     She was a homemaker and a member of the First Christian Church, with membership at the Park Avenue Christian Church in Tucson, Ariz.
     Survivors include one sister, Grace Schmidt, Aurora; two grandchildren; and two great-grandaughters.
     Private family services will be held at a later date.  Arrangements are under the direction of Crafton-Cantrell Funeral Home, Aurora.

David Alan O'Neal

David Alan O'Neal, 33, Crosby, Texas, formerly of Billings, died Saturday, Jan. 22, 2011, at the Memorial Hermann Hospital in Houston, Texas.  He was born Aug. 31, 1977, in Springfield to Steve O'Neal and Ann Koehler.  He was a 1996 graduate of Billings High School and lived in Lawrence County prior to moving to Texas in 2009.  He worked as a pipe fitter for Jacobs Engineering in Houston.

     He married Shannon Harter Sept. 7, 2007, in Springfield, She survives.
     Additional survivors include three children, Makenna O'Neal, Lincoln, Neb., and Holden and Ethan O'Neal, both of Crosby; his mother, Ann Riggs, and her husband, Bill, Aurora; his father, Steve O'Neal and his wife Carolyn, Republic; six sisters, Judy O'Neal, Billings, Shawn Gorman, Idaho, Kim Moore, Monett, Jenny Doke, Republic, Dawn Riggs, Dadeville, and Shelly Wright, Republic; three stepsisters, Suzie Willet and Julie Gill, both of Republic, and Robin Holder, Sparta; one stepbrother, Donnie Willet, Illinois; and his maternal grandmother, Margaret Koehler.
     He was preceded in death by his paternal grandparents, Irene and John O'Neal, and his maternal grandfather,Ernest Koehler.
     Services were Friday, Jan. 28, at Crafton-Cantrell Funeral Home, Aurora.  Burial was in the Calvary Cemetery in Verona.
     A memorial fund has been established at First Independent Bank, Aurora.  Checks should be made in care of "Maria Harter for Daivd O'Neal".  Donations will be received at the bank or at the funeral home.

Cathy Robinson

Cathy Robinson left for heaven on Friday, Jan. 21, 2011, from the Winfield (Kan) hospice after a long battle with cancer.  Cathy was born June 11, 1953, in Winfield to Boyd and Leila Robinson, the youngest of five children.  She moved to Mt. Vernon at the age of 7 and graduated from MVHS in 1971.  After graduation, she attended Pittsburg State University, majoring in math.  Cathy spent several more years in Mt. Vernon, moving back to Winfield around 30 years ago.

     Cathy loved animals.  She trained and raised show dogs.  She also worked for the Winfield Red Cross.

     Cathy was preceded in death by her parents and two brothers, Gerald and Boyd "Gene" Robinson.

     She is survived by two brothers, Cecil of Mt.Vernon and Larry of Joplin; numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and all her dog show friends.  Cathy will be sorely missed by her best friend of over 50 years, Anna Gann.

     Memorial services will be held at a later date.  An address for memorials will also be published at a later date.

Mildred Belle Shelton

Mildred Belle Shelton, 101, Mt. Vernon, died at 3:11 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 29, 2011, at the Mt. Vernon Place Care Center, Mt. Vernon.  She was born July 13, 1909, in Lawrence County to E.L. and Bertha (Underwood) Shelton.  She was a 1927 graduate of Mt. Vernon High School.  She retired in 1973 as a bookkeeper for the United States Department of Agriculture (ASC Office) in Mt. Vernon and was a member of the Mt. Vernon First Presbyterian Church.

     Survivors include one niece, Shirley Botts, Mt. Vernon.

     She was preceded in death by one sister, Elizabeth Smith, and one brother, Marshall Shelton.

     Graveside services were Monday, Jan. 31, at the Mt. Vernon IOOF Cemetery, under the direction of Fossett-Mosher Funeral Home, Mt. Vernon.

     Memorial donations may be made to the Mt. Vernon Emergency Services for Chidlren, Inc. in care of the funeral home.

Robert "Bob" Glen Shelton

Robert "Bob" Glen Shelton, 76, Aurora, died Monday, Jan. 24, 2011.  He was born Feb. 14, 1934, in Council Bluffs, Iowa, to Glen W. and Opal Street Shelton.

     He was a hospital administratior and a United States Army Veteran.

     Survivor include his wife, Karen, and one son, Robert Shelton, Aurora.

     Memorial services were Thursday, Jan. 27, in Grace Lutheran Church, Aurora, with the Rev. Cliff Lohman officiating.

Elma Williams

Elma Williams, 96, Aurora, died Saturday, Jan. 29, 2011, in the Aurora Nursing Center, Aurora.  She was born Sept. 8, 1914, in Osa to Ira and Alice Larkin Wilson.  She was a homemaker.

     Survivors include one daughter, Sherry Farris, Aurora, one brother, Warren Wilson, Springfield; one grandson; and one great-grandchild.

     She was preceded in death by her husband, Elbert; one brother, Bud Wilson; and three sisters, Wilma Burbridge, Opal Ray and Nola Burbridge.

     Graveside services will be at 2 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 3, in Maple Park Cemetery, Aurora, under the direction of Peterson Funeral Chapel, Aurora.  



February 2011 Obituaries Lawrence County, MO

These Obituaries are reprinted from the Lawrence County Record, Mount Vernon, MO

Denver Dale Beers

     Denver Dale Beers, 71 Miller, died Monday, Feb. 21, 2011, in the Dad Copunty Nursing Home, Greenfield.

     Cremation arrangements were under the direction of Greenfield Funeral Chapel. Memorial services were Saturday Feb. 26, in Eaton Funeral Home in Sullivan.

Carl Cobb Groom

    Carl Cobb Groom, 98, Aurora, formerly of Darlington, died at 7:50 a.m. Thursday, Feb. 24, 2011, at the Aurora Nursing Center, Aurora.  He was born Oct. 14, 1912, in Gentry County to Frank Seth and Laura (Cobb) Groom.  He graduated from Darlington High School and farmed in the Gentry County community.  He owned all of the school buses for the Stanberry School District for many years.  He later moved to Colorado Springs, Colo., where he worked for the Colorado General Hospital as a supply clerk.  In 2005, he moved to Aurora to be with family.  He was a member of the Cameron Baptist Church.

     Survivors include one daughter, Janice M. Lewis, Aurora,; one sister, Jean Adams, Moffat, Colo.; five grandchildren; and eight great-great-grandchildren.

     He was preceded in death by his first wife, Leona Oyler Groom; his second wife, Dorothy Groom; one son, Jack Groom; one brother, H.C. Groom; one sister, Lorraine Christian; and one grandson.

     Services were Sunday, Feb. 27, at the Crafton-Cantrell Funeral Home, Aurora, with George Miller officiating.  Private buial will be at the Rouse Cemetery in Darlingron at a later date. 

     In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the First Baptist Church, in care of the funeral home.

     LaVerne "Vern" Hunter

     LaVerne "Vern" Hunter, 88, Aurora, died at 2:20 p.m. tuesday, Feb. 22, 2011, at the Missouri Veterans' Home/Mt. Vernon.  He was born Nov. 13, 1922, in Astoria to James Henry and Ada Elizabeth (Graven) Hunter.  He was a 1940 graduate of Hartville High School and graduated from the University of Missouri-Columbia in 1950.  He was a salvage and rescue diver for the United States Navy during World War II, and retired from MWM Dexter as vice president of sales after 30 years.  He was a member of the First Presbyterian Church of Aurora.  He married Patricia Janet Hayes in Branson Dec. 26, 1948.  She died Nov. 21, 1974.

     Survivors include two sons, Byron Hunter Neosho, and John David Hunter, Aurora; one daughter, Sara Whitt, Jefferson City; three sisters, Wilda Cogdill and June Speight, both of Springfield, and Joyce Coday, Columbia; and seven grandchidlren.

     He was preceded in death by two brothers, Darrell and Donald Hunter; and one sister, Berniece Coday.

     Services were Friday, Feb. 25, at the First Presbyterian Church in Aurora.  Burial was in Maple Park Cemetery, Aurora, under the direction of Crafton-Cantrell Fuenral Home, Aurora.

     Memorial donations may be made to the First Presbyterian Church, in care of the funeral home.

     Charles Vernon Lane

     Charles Vernon Lane, 86, Mt. Vernon, died Friday, Feb. 25, 2011, at the Missouri Veterans' Home/Mt. Vernon.  He had been a resident of the veterans' home since Dec. 28, 2010.  He was born Feb. 1, 1925, in Montpelier, Ohio.  His mother was Ruth Ellen Spence Routley Lane.  He retired from the United States Army as a chief warrant officer, after serving 20 years in World War II and two tours during the Vietnam War.  He and his wife were members of University Heights Baptist Church, Springfield.

     He was preceded in death by one brother, Joe, and two great-grandchildren.

     Survivors include his wife, Ruth Ellen Robertston Lane; two children, Robert Vernon Lane, Auburn Hills, Mich., and Betty Ruth Lane Fisher, Arlington, Texas; one sister, Betty Shipley; six grandchildren; 16 great-grandchildren; and two great-great-grandchidlren.

     Cremation arrangements are under the direction of Greenlawn Funeral Home South, Springfield.  Private burial will be held in the Missouri Veterans' Cemetery, Springfield.

     Memorial donations may be made to the Parkinson's Disease Foundation, 1359 Broadway, Suite 1509, New York, NY 10018.

Etta Mae Copening

Etta Mae Copening, age 83, of Sherman, Texas, formerly of Mt. Vernon, passed away at 6:05 p.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 23, 2011, at the Texas Health Presbyterian WNJ Hospital in Sherman.  She was born on Oct. 17, 1927, the daughter of Margaret Elma Meskimen in Mindenmines.

     Etta Mae was a 1945 graduate of Lamar High School and worked as a licensed practical nurse for the Lawrence County Nursing Home in Mt. Vernon. Etta Mae was a very loving and caring mother, and will be missed dearly.

     Those survivng her include; her children, Donna (Fred) Husted of Monett, Jody (Marvin) Jones of Carthage, Bonnie (Dale) Parrigon of Pierce City, Connie (Paul) Cleveland and Mike (Tracy) Copening, and Gwin Miller, all of Pottsboro, Texas; 12 grandchildren, and 11 great-grandchildren.  Her mother and stepfather, Cecil Smith, preceded her in death.

     Graveside services, under the direction of Fossett-Mosher Funeral Home in Mt. Vernon, were Saturday, Feb. 26, 2011 at the Mt. Vernon City Cemetery.

     Online condolences may be made at http://www.fossettmosherfuneralhome.com/.

Kenneth "Farmer" Boyd

Kenneth "Farmer" boyd, 61, LaRussell, passed away 10:40 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 24, 2011, at Cox South Hospital in Springfield.  He was born April 3, 1949, in Greenfield, the son of Jack and Blanch (Belcher) Boyd.  Kenneth was a 1967 graduate of Greenfield High School and was a member of the First Baptist Church of Lockwood.  He was a United States Army veteran, serving during the Vietnam War.  Kenneth worked as a diesel mechanic at Rising Fenix for over 30 years and was a cattle farmer.  On Jan. 19, 1972, he married Karla Thieman in Lockwood.  She survives him of the home.

     Additional survivors include two daughters, Shelly Foulk of Mt. Vernon, and Carrie Boyd of LaRussell; one son, Matt Boyd of Sprinngfield, two granddaughters, Kaitlyn and Kendra Foulk of Mt. Vernon; one sister, Judy Jack and her husband, Terry, and one brother, David Boyd and his wife, Zella, all of Springfield; and several nieces and nephews.  His parents preceded him in death.

     Services were Tuesday, March 1, 2011, at the Fossett-Mosher Funeral Home, Mt. Vernon, with burial at the Summit Cemetery, northeast of Mt. Vernon.

     Memorial donations may be made to the American Diabetes Association, in care of the funeral home.

     Online condolences may be shared at http://www.fossettmosherfuneralhome.com/.

Connie Jo Blackledge

Connie Jo Blackledge, 54, Aurora, died Sunday, Feb. 27, 2011.  She was born March 23, 1956, in Wichita, Kan., to Bill and Marilyn Carter.

     She was preceded in death by her mother and father, and one sister, Carolyn Johnson.

     Survivors include one son, Randy Carvale, Aurora; four brothers, Bill Sutcliffe, Clinton, Jim and Don Carter, both of Aurora and Ronnie Carter, Michigan; one sister, Kay Sutcliffe, Marionville; and three grandchildren.

     Services will be at 11:30 a.m. Thursday, March 3, at Crafton-Cantrell Funeral Home, Aurora, with burial following at the Prichett Cemetery, Chesapeake, Visitation will be from 10 to 11:30 a.m. prior to the service, at the funeral home chapel.

     Memorial donations may be made to the family to assist with expenses.

Mary Ellen (Agnew) Lung

Mary Ellen (Agnew) Lung, 71, Miller, died at 4:40 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 26, 2011, after a long battle with Alzheimer's.  She was born March 29, 1939, in El Centro, Calif., to Charles Reuben and Jewell Louise (Niday) Agnew.  She married Kenneth Lung Dec.30, 1958, in San Diego, Calif.  He survives.

     She was a homemaker, but also worked as a nurse's aide at the Lawrence County Nursing Home, Mt. Vernon, in the cafeteria at Miller High School and as a volunteer at the Miller Christian Center thrift store.  She participated in Washington University's (St. Louis) Alzheimer's Research project for Aricept and Namenda.

     Additional survivors include her children, Denise Tyler, Webb City, Debra Kosky, Bolivar, Don Lung, Miller, and Donna Allen, Cassville; one sister, Cora Agnew, El Centro; three brothers, Richard Agnew, El Centro, Michael Agnew, Fauna, Wash., and Perry Agnew, Imperial, Calif.; eight grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren.

     Services will be at 10 a.m. Wednesday, March 2, at Round Grove Baptist Church, Miller, with the Rev. Bob Holman officiating.  Burial will be in the IOOF Cemetery at Custer City, Okla., at 10 a.m. Thursday, under the direction of Morris-Leiman-Mosher Funeral Home, Miller.

     In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Alzheimer's Association or Washington University's Alzheimer's research.

   Homer Alwyn Mason

Homer Alwyn Mason, 80, Marionville, formerly of Bella Vista, Ark., died 12:25 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 19, 2011, in the Ozarks Methodist Manor, Marionville.  He was born Aug. 28, 1930, in New Orleans, La., to Robert Flay and Alta Irene Burr Mason.

     He married Margaret Louise VanEgtern July 6, 1985, in Canyon Lake, Calif.  She survives.

     He was a member of the Judson American Baptist Church in Bella Vista.  He was a United States Marine Corps veteran of the Korean War, and was a configuration manager with General Dynamics.

     Additional survivors include two daughters, Pamela Dawn Jennings, Simpsonville, S.C., and Devorah Lynn Fraser, Orange, Calif., two brothers, John Mason and Newton Mason, and four sisters, Marion Wade, June Grubbs, Ann Walker and Ida Sue White, all of the state of Mississippi.

     He was preceded in death by two daughters, Kimberly Gay Mason and Shelly Hope Mason; three brothers, Robert Mason, Luke Mason and Jimmy Mason; and two sisters, Flay Ford and Grace Floyd.

     Memorial services were Thursday, Feb. 24, in the Judson American Baptist Church in Bella Vista, with Dr. Robert Box officiating.  Graveside services will be held at a later date in the Bellview Cemetery in Ontario, Calif. 

Tennie Riggs

Tennie Riggs, 99, Aurora, died Monday, Feb. 21, 2011, in St. John's Aurora.  She was born Sept. 27, 1911, in Cato to John and Virginia Brooks.  She graduated from Drury University and taught for 46 years, retiring from Cassville School System.

     She married Jake Riggs.  He preceded her in death.  She was a member of the Church of Christ in Aurora.

     Survivors include one sister, Geraldine Aldridge, Edmond, Okla.

     Graveside services were Friday, Feb. 25, in Maple Park Cemetery, Aurora, under the direction of Peterson Funeral Chapel, Aurora.

John Jasper Smith

John Jasper Smith, 89, Marionville, died at 1 a.m. Monday, Feb. 28, 2011, in the Ozarks Methodist Manor, Marionville.  He was born Oct. 30, 1921, in Baltimore, Md., to Walter and Laura McNally Smith.  He married Artie Emiline Malinda Williams Dec. 16, 1955, in Coeur D'Alene, Idaho.  She died Nov. 24, 2010.

     He retired from the United States Air Force June 1, 1963, as a technical sergeant.

     Local survivors are a brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Arthur L. and Barbara Kirby, Marionville.

     Graveside services, with full military honors, will be at 10 a.m. Wednesday, March 2, in the Missouri Veterans' Cemetery, Springfield, with Steve Maples officiating, under the direction of Williams Fueral Home, Marionville.

Imogene Sheppard Sullivan

Imogene Sheppard Sullivan, 89, Springfield, died thursday, Feb. 24, 2011.  She was born March 2, 1921, in Dardanelle, Ark., to George J. and Nora Ann (Rainwater) Sheppard.

     She was a graduate of England, Ark., High School and attended preparatory training school while working as a secretary at the Lonoke, Ark., courthouse.  After she and her husband moved to Aurora, she was a Merle Norman cosmetics dealer and co-owner of Sullivan's Jewelry.  They retired in December 1986.  She was a member of the Aurora United Methodist Church.

     She was preceded in death by two brothers, Lindle and Leon Sheppard; and one sister, Mildred Redman Kirk.

     Survivors include her husband of 71 years, Eugene Sullivan; two sons, Virgil Ray and Norman Lee Sullivan, both of Springfield; one sister, Eulene McAlexander, Helena, Ark.; and two grandaughters.

     Services will be at 2 p.m. Wednesday, March 2, in Gorman-Scharpf Funeral Home, Springfield.  Graveside services will follow in Maple Park Cemetery, Aurora.

     Memorial donations may be made to the Aurora United Methodist Church or the American Cancer Society.

Lillian E. Cody

Lillian E. Cody, 88, Carthage, died Saturday, Feb. 26, 2011, in McCune-Brooks Hospital, Carthage.  She was born Feb. 1, 1923, in Martelle, Iowa, to George and Olive (Haak) Kirkpatrick.  She grew up in Mt. Vernon and was a 1941 graduate of Mt. Vernon High School.

     She married Michael Cody Oct. 29, 1950.  He died Oct. 29, 1999.  She was also preceded in death by one sister, Bonny Graham; and two brothers, Leo Kirkpatrick and Roe Kirkpatrick.

     Survivors include one son, Steve Cody, Mt. Vernon; one daughter, Theresa Erwin, Carthage; seven grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren.

     Services were Tuesday, March 1, at St. Ann's Catholic Church, Carthage, with Father Bill Hodgson officiating.  Burial was in Park Cemetery, Carthage, under the direction of Knell Mortuary, Carthage.

Margaret N. Whitman

Margaret N. Whitman, 95, Marionville, died Monday, Feb. 21, 2011, at Lacoba Nursing Home, Monett.  She was born March 21, 1915, in Clothier, W. Va., to Herman and Emma (Auf  Dem Houel) Nunnenkamp.  She married Jack Whitman.  He preceded her in death.

     No services are planned at this time.

     Arrangements are under the direction of Bennett-Wormington Funeral Home, Monett.