Wednesday, March 31, 2010

Blanche Lee (Long) Beydler

Blanche Lee Beydler, 91, Jerico Springs, passed away Wednesday, March 31, 2010, at the home of her daughter. Blanche was born Nov. 4, 1918, to Charles Edward and Nettie Elizabeth (Lee) Long.

She had an older brother, Cleo, and a younger brother, Clifford, who both preceded her in death. Blanche was the last member of that generation of the Long family. Her sisters-in-law, Thelma and June, also preceded her in death. On June 6, 1945, she married Arthur Jacob “Hap” Beydler of Jerico Springs. He preceded her in death in 2007. They had one daughter, Edna Sue.

Survivors include her daughter; four grandchildren, seven great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandson.

A graveside service, conducted by the family, and burial under the direction of Brumback Funeral Home, Stockton, was held in
Brasher Cemetery north of Jerico Springs, Friday, April 2.

Eddie M. Wasson


Eddie M. Wasson, 90, of Lancaster, CA, formerly of El Dorado Springs, passed away March 31, 2010. She was born Nov. 24, 1919, to Charles and Kate McMillian in Cedar County.

Eddie was raised in the El Dorado Springs area, going to school here and graduating in 1939-40. She was very active in sports, especially in basketball. She worked in local restaurants as a waitress before moving to California in 1950. In California, she worked in the Lockheed Defense Plant. After the war, she met and married Chet Wasson. They had two sons, Gary and Joe.

She was a loving, giving person, always dressed and carried herself well, and her personality drew people to her. This helped her as she worked for a time in real estate sales. She was a current member and had been a very active member of both Eastern Star and Rebecca for over 40 years.

Preceding her in death were her husband, Chet; and four sisters - Neva, Ella Margaret, Goldie and Katherine.

Survivors include two sons, Gary Wasson, and fiancee, Danette Smith, and Joe Wasson.

Eddie will be greatly missed by her family and friends.

Services were held on Tuesday, April 6, at Bland-Hackleman Chapel with Rev. James Coleman officiating. Interment followed in Roscoe Cemetery under the direction of Bland-Hackleman Funeral Home.

Pallbearers were - Gary Wasson, Danette Smith, Clete Hopkins and Ken Hopkins.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Eastern Star.

Monday, March 29, 2010

Kevin Dean Beard

Kevin Dean Beard, 52, Fort Scott, KS, died Monday, March 29, 2010, at the Mercy Health Center in Fort Scott, KS. He was born Feb. 18, 1958, in Roswell, NM, the son of James Beard and Zelma Ruth Ingle Beard.

Kevin served with the United States Army from 1976 to 1980. He worked for a time at the Hinton Dairy farm north of Fort Scott.
He enjoyed playing the guitar as well as hunting and fishing.

Survivors include his wife, Carol Hites, of the home; two sons, Skyler Beard – Nevada, and Kristopher Beard – El Dorado Springs; three daughters – Jessica Beard – Nevada, Jorja Beard – Osawatomie, KS, and Tasha Martin – of Texas; a brother, Marty Beard – Carthage; a sister, Gail Williams – Jerico Springs; and a grandson.

Rev. Dusty Drake will conduct services beginning at 11:30 a.m. Thursday, April 1, in the Cheney Witt Memorial Chapel. Burial will follow in the U.S. National Cemetery where military honors will be provided by the Olson Frary Burkhart Post #1165 Veterans of Foreign Wars.

Memorials are suggested to the Kevin Beard Memorial Fund and may be left in care of the Cheney Witt Chapel, 201 S. Main, P.O. Box 347, Ft. Scott, KS 66701. Words of remembrance may be submitted to the online guestbook at www.cheney witt.com.

Elmer James Osburn

Elmer James Osburn went to the Great Trail Ride in the Sky on March 29, 2010, his dues had been paid, a place set at the chuckwagon table and the Great Trail Master welcomed him with open arms. Elmer lived his life with kindness, trust, forgiveness and love with a heart as big as Texas. He practice this art for 83 years, 10 months and 19 days, being born May 10, 1926. He shared his birthday with his closest friend and coon-hunting buddy, Eddie Tarrant. They had a weekly ritual of phone calls on Sunday for over 45 years. They had met and worked together at Swift’s processing plant in Fort Worth, TX, and spent countless hours in the woods with Walker, Red Bone and Black and Tan coon dogs as well as many coon-hunting experiences.

Elmer shared his passion for gaited horses, namely Missouri Fox Trotters, with his family, his buddy and his friends. He sent two colts to Texas with Eddie Tarrant as well as starting his grandchildren hunting and riding.

Family came first with Elmer and his word and promises were rock solid. He took pride in his children and grandchildren’s accomplishments. He often went on trail rides with his close nephew, Tim Osburn, and each enjoyed joking about the other’s horsemanship and cooking. Elmer loved to catfish the Osage River and disliked camouflaging duck blinds, especially when after doing so, hunters took knives to the native grasses put there. He could keep you entertained with his talks of work and his life. Elmer was a member of the Missouri Fox Trotting Association and United Kennel Club.

Elmer and Louise (Hendren) were married on Dec. 22, 1945, and to this union one daughter, Diane, was born. Louise preceded him in death in February 1983. He then married Paulette (Doman) Tankersley and gained another daughter, Paula “Annie” Tankersley. Elmer retired from the Missouri Conservation Department in 1988, after 16 years of service at the Schell City Wildlife Area.

He was born in Durham, AR, the son of Rosco and Rose (White) Osburn in a family of 11 children.

Elmer is survived by his wife, Paulette, of the home in Schell City; two daughters and sons-in-law, Diane and Bill Moore – El Dorado Springs, and Paula “Annie” and Duane Johnson – Schell City; four grandchildren – Waylon, Dalton, Harley and Colt Johnson – all of Schell City; one sister; Ruth Wood and her husband, Paul – Fayetteville, AR; one brother, Wade Osburn and his wife, Marge – Schell City; numerous nieces and nephews and great nieces and nephews.

Elmer was preceded in death by his parents, his first wife, Louise, eight siblings – Christopher Columbus Osburn, Frankie Jan Osburn, Ellen Frost, Clemmie Dudley, Etta Hoague, Hubert Osburn, Dall Osburn and Alice Flowers; and one great-niece, Kristina Osburn.

Live everyday one day at a time; and to every life there is a reason.

Services were held Wednesday, March 31, at the Lewis-Hoagland Funeral Home in Schell City with Brother James Damon officiating. Pallbearers were - Randy Fletcher, Jack Shatford, Roger Wombwell, Larry Dade, Loel Wilson, Dennis Vantellman, Kenny Hallam and Roger Dade Jr. Honorary pallbearers were - Quentin Walsh, Donnie Fletcher, Eddie Tarrant and Jim Bacon.
Interment was in the Pleasant Grove Cemetery near Taberville. Arrangements were entrusted to the Lewis-Hoagland Funeral Home in Schell City.

Gracie Pearl Turner

Gracie Pearl Turner, 100, Stockton, passed away Monday, March 29, in the Stockton Nursing Home.

Pearl was the wife of Brother Otis L. Turner. She was a homemaker.

A visitation was held from 6-8 p.m. Wednesday, March 31, in the Brumback Funeral Home. Services will begin at 2 p.m. Thursday,
April 1, in the Brumback Funeral Home. Burial will be in Alder Cemetery, Stockton under the direction of Brumback Funeral Home, Stockton.

Sunday, March 28, 2010

Robert J. Vantellman

Robert J. Vantellman, 78, Kansas City, formerly of Schell City, passed away at his home on Sunday, March 28, 2010.

Survivors include his companion, Jean Marshall, of the home; two sons, Robert Daniel Vantellman – Kansas City and Rodney Jay Vantellman –Bethany; two daughters, Debra Ann Crane – Kansas City, KS, and Carolyn Kay Lawson – Farley; one brother, Sam Vantellman – Schell City; two sisters, Patty Crowder – Appleton City and Carrol Bailey – Schell City.

Memorial services will begin at 10 a.m. Thursday, April 8, in the Lewis-Hoagland Funeral Home in Schell City with burial in Maus Cemetery.

Memorials may be made to the Maus Cemetery.

Friday, March 26, 2010

Viola Mae Evans Parks

Viola Mae Evans Parks, 80, Lowry City, passed away March 26, 2010. She was born Sept. 14, 1929, to James Blaine Evans and Maudie Mae Peery Evans in Humansville. She was the youngest of nine children.

Viola was married to Leonard Parks on March 12, 1950, and to this union was born four children.

Mom was a hard working, loving woman and she enjoyed the outdoors. She loved to fish and get out on her deck and watch the animals and listen to the birds sing. You could talk to her about anything and she would take time to listen and, if advice was needed, it would be there. She loved music and singing. She was kind, loving and the best mother in the world. She never had a bad thing to say about anyone or anything. She was a poor woman but her thoughts were rich in kindness and love. We will always cherish what she has shared and given to each of us.

Mom was just the best and we know in our hearts that she is in heaven with all of her family and friends that went before her and she is in no more pain. She is happy there. Mom always said, “We live hell on earth.” Now she is at peace.

Viola is survived by her four children, 11 grandchildren and 22 great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews. She loved them all. Also surviving are two step-sons, great nieces and nephews and great-great nieces and nephews. God be with her and all of us – Myra, Jeannie, Lennie and Jody.

Services began at 11 a.m. Wednesday, March 31, in Bland-Hackleman Chapel. Burial was in Parks Cemetery under the direction Bland-Hackleman Funeral Home.

Pallbearers were – Jeff Hughes, Gabe Gilbert, Chris Parks, Eric Stonehocker, Brad Stonehocker and Darrell Link. Honorary pallbearers were Leonard Parks and Charlie Jacobs.

Memorial donations may be made to the Diabetes Association.

Wednesday, March 24, 2010

Kenneth King Woods

Kenneth King Woods, 93, Oak Grove, passed away Wednesday, March 24, 2010, at Oak Grove Nursing and Rehab Center. He was born June 7, 1916, in Cole, MO, the son of Ezra E. and Nora May (King) Woods. He was known as “Woody” or “Ken” by his friends

Kenneth grew up in El Dorado Springs where he was a high school athlete, an actor and a class officer. His future wife, Geraldine, a cheerleader, was his high school sweetheart. They were married May 6, 1936, and moved to Kansas City in 1939.

After working at a Safeway Grocery and serving briefly during World War II, he worked at the Independence Post Office for 33 years where he provided services to the public at the stamp and parcel post window.

Kenneth raised his family and held positions of leadership at the Rockwood Baptist Church where he served as Sunday School Director for 15 years. He was an ordained deacon and, at various times, served as Recreation Director, Sunday School teacher and coach of a highly successful young women’s basketball team. He enjoyed bowling, boating, fishing and watching the Kansas City Royals. He was active on a recreational bowling team until the age of 91. He was currently a member of the First Baptist Church of Oak Grove.

Kenneth is survived by his wife of 73 years, Geraldine “Jerri” Woods, of the home; son, Michael Woods and wife, Emily – South Portland, ME; daughter, Barbara Durnin and husband, Thomas – Wentzville; three grandsons – Brad, Bryan and Bryce Durnin and their wives; two granddaughters, Janet Woods Maza and Carol Woods and their husbands; 10 great-grandchildren; niece, Linda Ward and husband, Steve; and two cousins, Lucille Hardison and Irma Jean Pickell, both of El Dorado Springs. His firstborn child, daughter, Saundra Sue, died as an infant.

Services were held Monday, March 29, at the First Baptist Church of Oak Grove. Interment under the direction of Royer Funeral Home, Oak Grove, was in the El Dorado Springs City Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to mental health associations, First Baptist Church of Oak Grove, the Salvation Army or Crossroads Hospice.

Monday, March 22, 2010

William Allen Carter


William Allen Carter, 65, El Dorado Springs, was born Sept. 9, 1944, in Russell, KS, the fifth of six children of William Harvey and Lula Mae Wilson Carter. He departed this life on March 22, 2010, after a short battle with lung cancer.

Allen was a hard working man and loved his family very much. He was the go-to man for the entire family. If anyone needed help doing something, Allen was the one everyone called. His mother-in-law, Goldie, always told him he could never get sick because he was the one that everyone depended on.

Allen grew up and spent his life in the El Dorado Springs area. He graduated from El Dorado Springs High School in 1963. Shortly after graduation he joined the Army and served two years at Ft. Hood, TX.

In 1971 Allen married Janice Lyn Thornton. In 1990 their three children Christopher Allen, Jennifer Lyn and Eric J. Carter came into their lives and made their family complete. In April of last year, grandson Gabriel Allen joined the family and was the light of Allen’s life.

Allen began working when he was only 12 years old to make his own spending money and many times held two or three jobs at the same time. Most of his adult life was spent working with the railroad where he became a locomotive engineer.

“Ace” Carter was his railroad nickname, as he was a top-notch engineer. His work ethic was to be admired as he was a dedicated employee that missed only one call in his entire railroad career of over 40 years. He spent many Christmas and Thanksgiving holidays alone in a motel room away from home. When his wife, Janice, would tell him how sorry she was that he was not home with the family, his reply was always the same, “I am just glad that I have a job.” One particular Thanksgiving there were five dinners, one of which was just for him—and he missed all five of them. You don’t find employees like that every day.

After the railroad years slowed down, Allen began helping his father-in-law, J., in the carpentry trade and with the family farming. They both enjoyed the time working together and developed a very close bond over the years.

Allen loved family times and taking the kids camping and boating at the lake. He was a father figure for many kids over the years, including his niece, Gina, and nephew, Aaron. He sacrificed much to be sure that his family was well taken care of—many times being gone for months at a time to make extra money.

He loved spending time outdoors doing yard and garden work. And his favorite saying was always that he was “goin’ to go fishin’ at Caplinger.”

Allen was the kind of friend that was devoted. He once spent three days with a neighbor sitting at his hospital bedside, holding his hand, because he said that no one should ever die alone.

Allen spent his last days and hours surrounded by all of the family that he loved so much. In his younger years, when he was known for driving much too fast, he always said that God was riding with him and liked to drive fast; so now they are driving fast in Heaven.

Allen was saved as a young man at a revival meeting at Baptist Hill. Even though he did not attend church regularly he had a strong faith in God.

Allen was preceded in death by his mother, Lula Mae Carter; his dad, William Harvey Carter; and two brothers: Arthur Clyde and Floyd Ray Carter.

He is survived by his wife of 38 years, Janice Lyn; his son, Christopher Allen; his daughter, Jennifer Lyn; his son, Eric J; and his grandson, Gabriel Allen Carter, all of El Dorado Springs. Also surviving are: his brother, Lloyd Ralph Carter - Excelsior Springs; two sisters: Shirley Cargill, and husband, Mervin, and Sharlene Houk, and husband, Roy Lee - all of Stockton; his father-in-law and mother-in-law, Bernard J. and Goldie Thornton, El Dorado Springs; his brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Bernard J. and Linda Thornton of Manchester, MI; his sister-in-law, Sharon Kennon, El Dorado Springs; and a host of nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews and many friends.

He will be greatly missed by many.

Visitation was held at Bland-Hackleman Funeral Home from 6-8 p.m. on Wednesday, March 24. Services will begin at 2 p.m. Thursday, March 25, at Bland-Hackleman Chapel with Rev. James Coleman officiating. Interment will follow in Clintonville Cemetery under the direction of Bland-Hackleman Funeral Home.

Pallbearers will be: B. J Thornton, Aaron Blystone, Mackenna Blystone, Zachery Allison, Chandler Allison, Marvin Rickey, Peyton Poore and Randy Carter. Honorary pallbearers will be: David Houk, Donnie Houk, Billy Carter, Ron Duvall, Tom Webber, Tom Hartley, David Dockins and Jeff Jenkins.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to High Hopes.

Friday, March 19, 2010

Dorothy Irene Brockmeyer


Dorothy Irene Brockmeyer was born on Jan. 20, 1924, in Ravenwood and passed away March 19, 2010, in Kansas City.
Dorothy worked in health care until she retired.

Dorothy was preceded in death by her husband, Henry; and son, John; her father and mother; three brothers and four sisters.

She is survived by three daughters - Mary Hibler - Bates City, Catherine Harper - Excelsior Springs, and Elizabeth Parrish - Kansas
City; two sons, Edward Brockmeyer and wife, Shirley - Lucerne, and Henry Brockmeyer Jr. and wife, Correna - Independence; 16 grandchildren; five great-grandchildren and seven great-great-grandchildren.

Services were held Tuesday, March 23, at St. Elizabeth Catholic Church, El Dorado Springs, with Father Basil Doan officiating. Music was How Great Thou Art and Amazing Grace. Pianist was Carol Stubock. Interment was in El Dorado Springs City Cemetery under the direction of Sheldon Funeral Home, El Dorado Springs. Her grandsons were the casketbearers.

The family’s wishes are for donations to Kansas City Hospice House.

Thursday, March 18, 2010

Kenneth Woodcook

Kenneth Woodcook, 81, Montevallo, passed away on Thursday, March 18, 2010, at Cedar County Memorial Hospital in El Dorado Springs following a brief illness. He was born Nov. 20, 1928, in Helena, MT, to David Wilmont Woodcook and Cleo Heberling Woodcook.

He married Estoal Mae Stepp on March 11, 1951, in Reno, MV, and she survives of the home.

Kenneth was raised in Seattle, WA. He served in the U.S. Marines during WWII spending part of his service in Pearl Harbor.
Following his time in the service, he made his living as a Civil Engineer, living in a variety of locales. He came to this area in November of 1983 and has resided here since. He most recently had worked for the county assessor’s office in Nevada.
He enjoyed woodcarving, blacksmithing and silvers-mithing. He was a member of the Assembly of God Church.

He was preceded in death by two children, Douglas Brett Woodcook and Kelly Evans Woodcook; one grandchild, Delbert Crews Salcideo; one brother, Donald Woodcook; and one sister, Lucy Mae Rinck.

Survivors, in addition to his wife, Estoal, of the home, include three sons – Kenneth Lee Woodcook – Vermont, Roger Spencer Woodcook – California, and Charles Robert Woodcook–– Nevada, MO; two daughters, Dixianna Vallaire – Gautier, MS, and Lorea Lynne Salcideo – California; 12 grandchildren; five great-great-grandchildren; two brothers, David Woodcook – Redding, CA, and Billy Woodcook – San Diego, CA; three sisters – Rosemary Barnes – Oregon, Nadine Senke – Oregon and Nancy Kay Woodcook – Redding, CA.

Graveside services began at 1:30 p.m. Wednesday, March 24, in Ft. Scott National Cemetery, Ft. Scott, KS, with Rev. Frank Wann officiating under the direction of Ferry Funeral Home, Nevada.

Tuesday, March 16, 2010

Bonnie Jene (Huff) Miller Sibley


Bonnie Jene (Huff) Miller Sibley, 83, El Dorado Springs, passed away March 16, 2010. Bonnie Jene was born on April 19, 1926, to George Graham and Clara (Kennedy) Huff.

Bonnie Jene graduated from El Dorado Springs High School. She was a baptized member of the El Dorado Springs United Methodist Church.

She moved to Los Angeles to aid in the war effort at Lockheed Aircraft Corporation where she met and later married Robert Miller in 1944. They had five children. In 1953, she and Robert moved to Granby, Quebec, Canada, where they lived for seven years.

She enjoyed roller skating, sewing, needlework, painting, square dancing, volunteering, Camper Club and travel. She enjoyed her Red Hat Late Bloomers group and the United Methodist Women’s group. She attended her church faithfully as long as her health permitted.

Bonnie Jene was preceded in death by two husbands, Robert Miller and Ronald Sibley; three brothers - Willis Huff, Kenneth Huff and Eldon Huff; and one sister, Doris Treat.

She is survived by three siblings: Ettamae Mays - El Dorado Springs, Joe Huff - El Dorado Springs, and Sue Brown - Bolivar; five children - Jo Carole and husband, William Mauk - Miami, FL, Donald Craig Miller and wife, Tina - El Monte, CA, Robert Stanley Miller and wife, Susan - Irving, TX, Lynda Jene and husband, Kenneth Shepherd - Lutz, FL, and Lissa Kay and husband, Jeffery Peterson - Aurora, CO; eight grandchildren - Peggie Burdick, Karol Guerra, Greg Mauk, Halley Mauk, Penny Johnson, Ryan Shepherd, Kelsey Shepherd and Garrett Peterson; and four great-grandchildren - Sabrina Burdick, Nico Guerra, Enzo Guerra, and Marco Guerra.

Services were held on Friday, March 19, in Bland-Hackleman Chapel with Pastor Patty Smith officiating and Peter Chei providing music. Interment followed in El Dorado Springs City Cemetery under the direction of Bland-Hackleman Funeral Home.

Pallbearers were - Don Miller, Bob Miller, Bill Mauk, Ken Shepherd, Jeff Peterson and Joe Huff.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Shriner’s Hospitals for Children.

Monday, March 15, 2010

Violet Olive 'Sally' Coale


Violet “Sally” Coale, 84, Marshfield, passed away at her home on March 15, 2010. She was born Nov. 2, 1925, to Robert and Anna (Cannon) Griffiths, in Regina, Saskatchewan, Canada.

Sally was a former beautician and homemaker. Although born in Canada, she moved to the United States in the 1940’s and became a US citizen.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Richard T. Coale; her brother, Albert; three sisters - Kay, Netta and Mildred; and a daughter, Debbie Guthrie.

Survivors include Violet’s daughter, Sally Ramirez, and her two children, Lisa and Lenny Ramirez; daughter, Kathryn Brummett, and her husband, Wayne, and her two children, Michael and Melissa, and stepchildren, Colby and Patricia; son, Steven Nelson, and his daughter, Ashley; son Richard Coale and his two children, Jacob and Emily Coale; son Robert Coale and his three daughters, Summer Webb and Candace and Crystal Coale; daughter, Beth Adams, and her husband, Neil, and her three children, Devon and Brett Cruise and Melanie Templeton; the daughters of the late Debbie Guthrie, Amber Guthrie and Amy Strickland; Violet’s brother, Bobby Griffiths; a sister, Terri Prickett; and by loving great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews and friends.

Graveside services were held on Monday afternoon March 22, at the Hackleman Cemetery south of Cedar Springs, with Neil Adams officiating. Arrangements were under the direction of Bland-Hackleman Funeral Home.

Honorary pallbearers were - Rob Coale, Richard Coale, Brett Cruise, Klinton Cowan, Neil Adams, Denny Howard and Steven Nelson.

Mary Francis Lawe

Mary Francis Lawe, 89, of El Dorado Springs, passed away at Cedar County Memorial Hospital on Monday, March 15, 2010. She was born in Alta, IL, on July 26, 1920.

Mary Francis was a homemaker and raised her children and grandchildren.

She enjoyed watching TV and movies with her granddaughter, Leslie, and munching on “crunchies.” Mary had many friends in this area and always enjoyed the visits with them.

She had many a good time listening to Leslie sing and Kevin play the drums.

Mary was a strong lady and enjoyed her life in El Dorado Springs.

Mary Francis is survived by her granddaughter and husband, Kevin Dray, and Leslie Smith of El Dorado Springs; two sons, Larry and Dean; four daughters - Sylvia, Linda, Rosie and Sherry; and numerous grandchildren.

She will be greatly missed.

Arrangements are under the direction of Bland-Hackleman Funeral Home.

Friday, March 12, 2010

Naomi Faye (Reynolds) Janes

Naomi Faye (Reynolds) Janes, 84, of El Dorado Springs, passed away Friday, March 12, 2010, at Cedar County Memorial Hospital. Naomi was born on Nov. 30, 1925, to C.E. and Maggie (Lloyd) Reynolds in her family home at Vista.

Naomi attended grade school in Vista. She was baptized in El Dorado Springs. She had many talents that she loved and shared. She loved flowers, made clothing for herself and others and made many quilts which she sold or gave away. She enjoyed gardening which led to freezing and canning an abundance of her produce. She also loved the outdoors and especially fishing.

Naomi married Don Lane in 1953 and she assisted him when she could in his blacksmith shop in El Dorado Springs. After Don’s passing she married Lloyd Janes in El Dorado Springs.

Preceding her in death were her husband, Don Lane; her parents, C.E. and Maggie Reynolds; an infant brother; four sisters - Hazel Hurd, Eva Wheeler, Thelma Dade and Gladys Burrow; three brothers - Albert Reynolds, Vernon Reynolds and Bob Reynolds; and two stepsons, Joseph Janes and Glenn Lee Janes.

Survivors include her husband, Lloyd Janes; one stepdaughter, Nancy McIntire; three stepsons - Lonnie Janes and wife, Susie, Jim Janes and wife, Bev, and Ed Janes and wife, Kelly; and two sisters-in-law, Della Reynolds and Elaine Reynolds; 30 grandchildren; 39 great-grandchildren; 16 great-great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews who loved her dearly and a host of friends.

Services were held on Monday, March 15, at Bland-Hackleman Chapel with Rev. Kenneth McIntosh officiating. Ron Hubbard and Emma Eason provided music. Interment followed in El Dorado Springs City Cemetery under the direction of Bland-Hackleman Funeral Home.

Pallbearers were Edgar Janes, Cody Janes, Mark Janes, Brandon Jennings, Dustin Eason and Steven Huckaby.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Council of the Blind.

Selma Helen Williams

Selma Helen Williams, 84, of Joplin, formerly of Dederick, passed away Friday, March 12, 2010, at Freeman Hospital in Joplin. She was born Nov. 11, 1925, to Walter and Zuma (Bates) Jokel in Vernon County.

For many years, Selma worked as a Nurses Aide for area doctors and hospitals. She enjoyed visiting, gardening and sewing. Her hospitality was well known to friends and family. Her cooking skills were enjoyed by many as she entertained them in her home.
She also was active in Bible studies.

Preceding her in death was her husband, Thomas E. Williams.

Selma is survived by four children - Donald Williams - Russellville, AR, Linda Burns - Joplin, Sandra Shaver and husband, Dewey - Joplin, and David Williams - Macks Creek; six grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren; three great-great-grandchildren; one sister, Dorothy Eaves - Dederick; and one brother-in-law, Elmer Hopkins - El Dorado Springs; and several nieces and nephews.

Services were held at Dederick Christian Church on Tuesday, March 16, with Virgil Eubanks of Blendville Christian Church in Joplin officiating. Music was provided by Connie Gerster and Margaret Charbonneau. Interment followed in Mount Vernon Cemetery under the direction of Bland-Hackleman Funeral Home.

Pallbearers were Jason Shaver, Adam Falberg, Roger Eason, Lloyd Corbin, Harvey Gerster and Ronnie Brown.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Show Me Christian Youth Home.

Thursday, March 11, 2010

Richard L. Gilbert


Richard L. Gilbert, 59, Pomona, passed away March 11, 2010. Richard was born Aug. 19, 1950, to Otis and Donis (Budd) Gilbert.

After graduating high school, Richard joined the US Navy and served on the Battleship USS New Jersey during the Vietnam Conflict. Upon returning, he went to Wyoming and worked several years on a Cadastral survey crew and eventually took a job in electric line construction until ill health forced retirement.

Richard enjoyed hunting, fishing and traveling. It seemed there was always some place new to explore, fish to catch and things to hunt. Although always on the move, Richard never forgot friends and family and would pop in for a visit when possible.

Richard was preceded in death by his father and mother and a brother, Ronald.

He is survived by his children - Christian, Gayla, Shana, Rachel and Zack; his brothers - Terry, Kenneth and Curtis; his sister, Judy; and numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, nephews and nieces.

Services were held Sunday, March 14, in Sheldon Chapel in El Dorado Springs with Rev. James Coleman officiating. Music was I Did It My Way by Frank Sinatra and Jesus and Mama Always Love Me by Confederate Railroad. Final Disposition was cremation under the direction of Sheldon Funeral Home El Dorado Springs.

Monday, March 8, 2010

Billy Ray Grimsley


Billy Ray Grimsley, 80, Fulton, passed away at Fulton Nursing and Rehab on Monday, March 8, 2010. He was born May 7, 1929, in
El Dorado Springs the son of the late John Benjamin and Myrtle (Bybee) Grimsley. 

Billy worked with his father and brothers in their family owned masonry business. He retired as a foreman with Union Pacific Railroad. He was an avid St. Louis Cardinals fan. He enjoyed fishing and collecting railroad memorabilia.

His parents; infant daughter, Sharon Jean Grimsley; two brothers, Orville and John Grimsley; and one sister, Clara Grimsley, preceded him in death.

He will be sadly missed and lovingly remembered by one daughter, Shirley (Michael) Mox - Kansas City, KS; one grandson, Jared A. Rankin - Kansas City; Caleb Rankin and Allen Michael Rankin - Emporia, KS; and many dear friends.

Graveside services will begin at 11 a.m. Friday, March 12, in the El Dorado Springs City Cemetery with Pastor Bruce Williamson officiating. Memorial contributions may be made to the American Diabetes Association, c/o Maupin Funeral Home, 301 Douglas Boulevard, Fulton, MO 65251. Condolences may be sent to the family at www.maupin funeralhome.com

Sunday, March 7, 2010

Rev. Comadore Fay Croy


Comadore Fay Croy, 96, El Dorado Springs, the second of eight children of Comadore and Emma Latisha Croy was born on Oct. 12, 1913, in Bucklin and passed away on March 7, 2010, in El Dorado Springs.

Brother Croy spent most of his life in ministry of the Church of God (Holiness). Across 60 years he was involved in every aspect of the general work. His pastoral ministries included 11 different churches. He served on the publishing board and as Editor and Business Manager of the “Church Herald” and”“Holiness Banner.” He was a member of the Board of Directors of the Foreign Mission Board for 25 years. He served on the Board of Directors of the Kansas City College and Bible School for 14 years. His ministry has been a blessing to people across this country and in foreign lands. He ministered in the Virgin Islands, Anguilla, Haiti, Mexico, Jamaica, Cayman Brac and Bolivia. His travels have taken him to 30 different countries, including a month of studies in the Bible lands. With his wonderful wife at his side, he has directed the lives of four daughters toward Christ, teaching them by example and integrity. He has led dozens to Christ across the United States and across the waters. His special gift of preaching the truth and living an exemplary life of forgiveness and holiness touched the lives of many.

On a beautiful, sunny Sabbath morning, Comadore fought his last battle of the flesh. He left us and made a triumphant entrance into a world not made with human hands and into the presence of his sovereign God.

He was preceded in death by the love of his life, Viola, and one daughter, Maxine, his parents and two brothers and three sisters.

Comadore is survived by three daughters - Charlotte and husband, Ross Baumgartner - Denver, CO, Thelma and husband, Kenneth Smith - El Dorado Springs, and Shirley Adamson-Wiens – Branson. Comadore adored 14 grand children; 28 great grandchildren; 17 great-great-grandchildren, and how they loved Grandpa Croy. Also surviving are two brothers and three sisters-in-law and a host of nieces, nephews and wonderful friends and colleagues in ministry and missions.

Services were held Monday, March 15, at Olinger-Crown Hill, Wheat Ridge, CO, with Rev. Kenneth Smith officiating. Music was by Heartsong Quartet – Ross Baumgartner, Dave Baumgartner, Debbie Baumgartner, Kris Adamson and Bob Reynolds.

Interment was in Olinger-Crown Hill Cemetery, Wheat Ridge, CO. Casketbearers were Ron Smith, Kevin Wiens, Kari Wiens, Kent Wiens, Kris Adamson, David Baumgartner and Daryl Baumgartner.

Arrangements were by Sheldon Funeral Home El Dorado Springs.

Tuesday, March 2, 2010

Susan Ara (Murphy) Koca


Susan Ara Murphy Koca, 78, was born Nov. 28, 1931, in Virgil City to Mora Jones Murphy and Burl O. Murphy. She passed away March 2, 2010, at Cedar County Memorial Hospital, El Dorado Springs.

Susan grew up in the farm home west of Virgil City, attending grade school at Oak Grove and graduating from El Dorado Springs High School in 1949.

In 1945 Susan was saved at Liberty Baptist Church, Virgil City. She has been a member of Union Hall Baptist Church since 1952.

On Oct. 7, 1952, in El Dorado Springs, Susan was united in marriage to Glen L. Koca. To this union a son, Michael Louis Koca, was born in 1965.

Susan worked 15 years at International Shoe Factory in El Dorado Springs. Glen and Susan partially retired from farming in 1984 and moved from the farm home to El Dorado Springs.

Susan was preceded in death by her parents, two brothers, George and John Murphy; one nephew, Jesse Murphy; and one great niece, Vickie Flaterich.

She is survived by her husband of 58 years; Glen, of the home; her son, Michael; granddaughter, Raynea ReAnne Koca; two great grandchildren, all of El Dorado Springs; nieces, Mora Ann (Murphy) Dunfield and husband, George, and their children, Lola B. (Murphy) Dunfield and husband, Joe, and their children; great niece, Georgia Murphy; cousins; other relatives and many friends.

Services were held Friday, March 5, at Sheldon Chapel with Pastor Elbert Ford officiating. Music was What A Day that Will Be and When We All Get To Heaven with Soloist Linda Eckard and Pianist Barry Witt. Interment was in Virgil City Cemetery under the direction of Sheldon Funeral Home, El Dorado Springs.

Casketbearers were – Mark Koca, Edward Koca, Zande Eckard, Danny Eckard, Kent Renfro and Linn Windle.