It is with deep sorrow that the family of Lester Dale Martin announces his passing on December 22, 2025, at the age of 57. He was born on March 2, 1968, to Joe Martin and Velma Gaffga.
Lester attended Mountain High School in Mountain Home, Arkansas, where he graduated in 1986. He had a passion for fishing, and brought joy to those who knew him. Although his passing leaves a void in our lives, Lester will always be remembered for his kind heart and infectious laughter. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
Lester leaves behind his loving daughter, Kayla Corp; two grandchildren, Atticus Angelo and Gabriel Farrar; two sisters, Lou Watson and Opal Wensel, both of El Dorado, Arkansas; and one brother, Lonnie Martin of Gassville, Arkansas.
He is preceded in death by his brothers, Larry Joe and Lawrence Martin, and his sister, Loretta Daniel.
A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.
Funeral services for Cledith Norma Hise, 85, West Plains, Missouri, will be held at 10:00 a.m., Monday, January 5, 2026, in the Rose Chapel of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.
Mrs. Hise went home to be with the Lord on December 23, 2025, while residing at Pleasant Valley Manor.
She was born on November 19, 1940, at East Prairie, Missouri, to Jim and Luona Buttrey, a close- knit family, whose bond and values shaped her entire life. She learned early the joy of caring for others, a calling that would guide her both personally and professionally. In 1976, Cledith became a licensed practical nurse, beginning a career that would span more than thirty years. Throughout her time in nursing, she treated her patients and coworkers with deep compassion, as though they were members of her own family. Her kind heart, gentle humor, and dependable presence made her not only a skilled professional, but also a source of comfort and strength to those who worked beside her.
On October 12, 1966, Cledith married the love of her life, J. T. Hise, and their marriage became a testament to mutual devotion and shared faith. Together, they built a life rich in love, laughter, and service to others. They worshiped side-by-side and enjoyed traveling across the states with their grandchildren, family, and friends, making memories that will be cherished forever. Music was a special joy in their lives. Cledith, a self-taught pianist, played for her church in Brandsville, Missouri, and accompanied her husband as he led worship and sang praise songs. Their shared love of faith and music touched many hearts through the years. She loved her home church at Word of Life Tabernacle in Hardy, Arkansas, where she was a beloved member of the congregation.
Outside of her work, Cledith found beauty in the simple blessings of life. She loved to garden, paint, and crochet, and her home reflected the creativity and warmth that she brought to all she did. Her hands were rarely idle until she got to where she could no longer do those things. Then she became our prayer warrior.
A devoted wife, mother, sister, and friend, Cledith leaves behind a legacy of love, service, and faith that will be remembered by all who had the blessing of knowing her. To meet Cledith was to love her, and she loved everyone dearly. She will be loved and remembered for her grace, her faith, and her unwavering care for others. Though she will be dearly missed on this earth, her family and friends find peace in knowing she now rests in eternal joy with the Lord she faithfully served.
Cledith is survived by her devoted husband J. T. Hise; her beloved daughter, Cheryl Denise Harlan and husband, James; one son-in-law, Bill Pool Sr.; daughters-in-law, Joyce Quertermous and Karen Quertermous; one sister, Evelyn Rose Buttrey-Allen; many, many grandchildren and great grandchildren; and nieces and nephews which are too numerous to say here.
She is preceded in death by her parents, six children, Frank Wesley Quertermous , Keith Eugene Quertermous , Kimberly Dawn Quertermous , Toma Eugenia Lee, Steven Dwayne Lee, and J. T.Hise Jr., five sisters, Margaret Buttrey Allen, Mildred Buttrey Allen, Geneva Buttrey Thurman, Bessie Lee Buttrey-Brock, and Ethel Mae Buttrey, one brother Jimmy Dale Buttrey, as well as many, many more nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends,
Visitation will be held prior to the service, from 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m., at Robertson-Drago Funeral Home. Burial will be at South Fork Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to South Fork Cemetery and may be left at or mailed to Robertson-Drago Funeral Home, 211 West Main, West Plains, MO 65775.
Funeral services for Lowell Wayne Mangrum, 86, West Plains, Missouri, will be held at 2:00 p.m., Saturday, January 3, 2026, in the Rose Chapel of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.
Mr. Mangrum was born on May 20, 1939, in Catoosa, Oklahoma, and passed away on December 22, 2025. His life was a testament to faith, craftsmanship, integrity, and devotion to family. From his earliest years to his final days, Lowell lived with purpose, integrity, determination, and a quiet strength that left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him.
From a very young age, Lowell understood responsibility. As a boy, he mowed yards and caddied at the local golf course to help his mother pay the bills. Those early experiences shaped his character and set the foundation for a life defined by reliability, perseverance, and doing things the right way.
Lowell graduated from Catoosa High School and later served his country in the National Guard. Early in his working life, he learned the trade of rebuilding wrecked vehicles at East Side Auto Salvage, where he also drove a wrecker. With those skills, he went on to open his own business rebuilding wrecked vehicles, earning a reputation for quality workmanship, honesty, and fairness.
A master with a welder, Lowell was a true craftsman and problem-solver. His shop was more than a workplace—it was a place of creativity, fellowship, and laughter. He loved creating things, helping others, and staying active. Though he often said he was retiring, it never seemed to last; before long, he would be back in the shop working on another project or lending a hand.
In later years, Lowell took great pride in helping see the vision through for Trashwagon Express. He was a man of his word—steady, honest, and dependable—and those who knew him knew they could count on him.
Faith played a central role in Lowell’s life. He was saved and baptized at Lynn Baptist Church and later worshiped at Bethel Church and China Church, carrying his faith with him not only in words, but in how he lived and treated others.
Lowell never missed a chance to tell a good story or pull a good-natured prank. His humor and storytelling were well known among family and friends. In his younger years, he enjoyed playing a round of golf, getting behind the wheel of a race car or dune buggy, sucker grabbing, and taking hunting trips with friends. No matter what he was working on, there was always country music playing in the shop and a cold Mountain Dew waiting in the fridge.
Above all else, the greatest joy of Lowell’s life was his family. He and Jennie Mangrum shared 57 years of marriage, building a life rooted in love, faith, and commitment. He especially treasured time with his grandchildren, never rushing a moment and never missing an opportunity to teach life’s lessons—both good and hard—always leading by example.
Lowell was preceded in death by his parents, Charles and Donna Mangrum; his daughter, Shelly Johnson; five sisters; and two brothers.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Jennie Mangrum; his daughters, Sandy Stanton of Tulsa, Oklahoma, Vickie Bradford of West Plains, Missouri, and Cindy Williams of West Plains, Missouri; his brother, Kenneth Mangrum of Muskogee, Oklahoma; his sisters, Julie Cowdrey of Tulsa, Oklahoma, Carolyn Lewis of McAlester, Oklahoma, and Janice Morris of Fort Smith, Arkansas; five grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren, all of whom will forever carry his love, lessons, and legacy with them.
Though his hands now rest, the things Lowell built—with metal, with tools, with faith, and with love—will continue to stand as a testament to a life well lived.
Visitation will be from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., Friday, at Robertson-Drago Funeral Home. Burial will be at Evergreen Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, 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.
Funeral services for Lois Edna Ellison, 88, West Plains, Missouri, will be held at 10:00 a.m., Wednesday, December 31, 2025, at Calvary Pentecostal Tabernacle Church, under the direction of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.
Lois Edna Ellison passed away peacefully on December 24, 2025, at Pleasant Valley Manor.
Lois was born on August 9, 1937, in Missouri to the late Crawford and Gertha Hicks. In her early teenage years, Lois suffered the loss of both of her parents due to sickness. Following their passing, she was lovingly raised by her grandparents, Johnny and Stella Gilbert, alongside her siblings Velma and Johnny Ray.
Lois was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. She was affectionately known as Memaw, Grandma, and Meme, and was a dedicated keeper of the home who treasured her family deeply and genuinely loved people.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Bill Ellison; her sister, Velma Robinson; her brother, Johnny Ray Hicks; her half-sister, Allie Hicks Butcher; and her half-brothers Chester Hicks, Lewis Hicks, and Norman Hicks.
She is survived by her children: Joyce (Dennis) Vonallmen, Michael (Sondra) Ellison, Sherri (Chris) Orr, and Melissa (Jason) Heath.
She leaves behind her grandchildren: Ricky, Randy, Cynthia, Seth, Mika, Kelsie, Christian, and Jarissa; and her great-grandchildren: Madyson, Taylor, Luke, Ashton, Jordann, Zack, CharliAnne, Brayden, Ellis, Silas, and one great-grandchild expected in February.
She is also survived by her brothers- and sisters-in-law Bob Robinson, Gary (Bev) Pliler, Sue Hicks, and Mildred Young, as well as several nieces and nephews.
Lois was a strong, mighty, and tough woman whose endurance marked her life. She was an excellent cook, well known for her chicken and dumplings and raisin pie, and considered herself a true food connoisseur, famously disliking “leather bacon.” She worried, wondered, and always kept up with her children.
Lois worked as a cook for the WP R-7 School District. She volunteered at OMC for 30 years and was actively involved in the Texas Street Neighborhood Care, where she collected donations for neighborhood needs. As well she was known as a devoted “people watcher,” especially during trips to Wal-Mart. She proudly earned the title of Yard Sale Queen, always on the hunt for a good bargain.
Lois dearly loved the staff and friends at Pleasant Valley Manor, which had become her home.
She was a charter member of Calvary Pentecostal Tabernacle, where she attended for many years. She loved going to church and being involved with her church family.
Lois Edna Ellison will be remembered for her strength, her generosity, her watchful care over others, and the deep love she poured into her family and community. Her legacy lives on in the many lives she touched.
Visitation will be held from 6:00 until 8:00 p.m., Tuesday, at Calvary Pentecostal Tabernacle. Burial will be in Howell Memorial Park Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Calvary Pentecostal Tabernacle, and may be left at or mailed to Robertson-Drago Funeral Home, 211 W. Main St., West Plains, Missouri.
Funeral services for Eva Lois Todd, 82, Moody, Missouri, will be held at 10:00 a.m., Friday, January 2, 2026, at Free Union Church of Christ, under the direction of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.
Mrs. Todd passed away passed away peacefully at her home at 8:30 a.m. on December 27, 2025.
She was born November 6, 1943, at Moody, Missouri, to Minus Ray Deatherage and Vada Louise (Hoggatt) Deatherage. She was raised in the Moody community she would love and serve all her life. Eva graduated from West Plains High School with the Class of 1961. On July 1, 1967, she was united in marriage to Leon Todd in Moody, Missouri. Together they shared many years of devotion and partnership until Leon’s passing on August 8, 2014. Eva was a woman of deep faith, generous hospitality, and steady service. She loved Scripture and committed much of God’s Word to memory, a reflection of her lifelong devotion to Christ. She faithfully served as a Sunday School teacher and attended Free Union Church of Christ for many years, later worshiping at Moody Church of Christ. Creatively gifted and endlessly industrious, Eva found joy in quilting, embroidery, gardening, fishing, and cooking—and she especially loved feeding people. Her kitchen was a place of welcome and warmth. She also loved music and was known for her strong alto voice. She sang with her siblings and even recorded a CD, a treasured legacy for her family. Eva was actively involved in her community. She served as Superintendent of the Home Economics Department at the local fair, took pride in her work as a polling judge during elections, and was a faithful member of the Helping Hand Club of Moody and an active member of the Amy Club. Eva will be remembered as a woman of quiet strength, steady faith, and generous love—a servant-hearted presence whose life pointed others to goodness, hospitality, and the Word of God. Her legacy lives on in the lives she nurtured, the meals she shared, the songs she sang, and the Scripture she loved.
She is survived by her son, Baty Todd and wife, Alisha; two grandchildren, Annastasia Chloe and Isabella; one daughter-in-law, April Todd Flournoy; one brother, Randall Roe Deatherage; one sister, Isabelle Yeager and husband, Steve; one sister-in-law, Betty Deatherage, and several nieces and nephews.
Her parents, husband, one son, Robert (Bobby) Todd, two brothers, Lawrence and Kenneth Deatherage, and one sister, Cathy Deatherage, 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 Free Union Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Free Union Cemetery and may be left at or mailed to Robertson-Drago Funeral Home, 211 West Main, West Plains, MO 65775.
Funeral services for Barbara Lou Gunter, 87, West Plains, Missouri, will be held at 3:00 p.m., Wednesday, December 31, 2025, in the Rose Chapel at Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.
Mrs. Gunter passed away at 9:45 a.m., Sunday, December 28, 2025, at her home.
She was born November 18, 1938, at West Plains, Missouri, to Homer Ingram and Nellie Brotherton Ingram. Barbara Lou, lovingly known as Maw-Maw or Sis by all who knew her, lived a life of devotion and care to her family and friends and her many neighbors and all the children she had a hand in raising. She was faithfully married to the man who adored her above all else, Bobby Dean Gunter (Bob) for 68 years. They raised one son whom they had upmost pride in, Dennis Ray Gunter. She had three beautiful granddaughters, Amy, Amber and Jami, who were the center of her world. She would have done anything for those girls. She had an unbreakable bond with her sister, Pamela Sue. They spent many summers in Branson going to shows, shopping, and chasing after her granddaughters, niece and nephew. She ran a daycare out of her home for nearly 30 years and watched most of the communities’ children and then their children grew up. She continued to check in on them throughout their lives and kept their pictures in her hutch. Her grilled cheese, buttered toast, ham ‘n beans and dumplings are fondly remembered by those children and their parents. You did not have to be her child for her to make you feel like you were. She loved her poodles and had a handful through the years. Pepper was always by her side.
She is survived by her husband, Bob Gunter; one son, Dennis Ray Gunter and wife, Cindy; three granddaughters, Amy Lee Vonallmen, Amber Wynette Hollis and Jami Lynn Biggers and husband, Justyn; ten great-grandchildren, Alexis Bryan, Kamren Bryan, Avree Barks, Kaleb Herring, Madison Hollis, Jaxson Hollis, Jayden Smith, Julyauna Biggers, Jaelynn Biggers and Jamstyn Biggers; one sister, Pamela Sue Cawvey-Kompare and husband, Charles; one niece, Kayla Cawvey, one nephew, Carson, Cawvey; and her beloved dog, Pepper.
She is preceded in death by her parents, Nellie Ladine Brotherton and Homer Bert Ingram, whom she loved dearly and her brother-in-law, Richard Dale Cawvey, whom she adored.
MawMaw made you feel important. She listened when you talked. She cooked your meals when you were hungry and stuffed those brown paper sacks till you couldn’t fold the top down. She cared about everyone who passed through her doors and never met a stranger. She is certainly walking through Heaven’s gates with a perfectly done beehive and shoes to match her outfit. Barbara was greatly loved, and her presence will be sorely missed by all who knew her.
Visitation will be held from 6:00 until 8:00 p.m., Tuesday, at Robertson-Drago Funeral Home. Burial will be in Howell Memorial Park Cemetery. 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
Bowen Anthony Tompkins, stillborn infant son of Cody and Taylor Tompkins, went to be with the Angels on December 20, 2025.
He is survived by his parents, Cody and Taylor Tompkins; one brother, Fallon Andrew Tompkins; grandparents, Johnny and Dana Tompkins; great-grandparents, Rosemary Tompkins and Brenda Mantooth; Aunts and uncles, Steve Tompkins, Colt and Sarah Mantooth, Skyler and Kasandra Tompkins and Cassidy Haviland; and cousins, Caspian, Naomi, Annaliya and Liberty.
His great-great-grandmother, Beulah Jackson and great-grandfathers, Johnny Ray Tompkins and Dale Mantooth, preceded him in death.
Arrangements under the direction of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.
We will never stop wondering what our lives would be, if you were still here with your family. Though our hearts were not ready, your sings had to fly… We will see you again someday, little angel. Our love for you will never die.
Graveside services for Miss Melanie Ann Pritchett, 51, of St. Louis will be held at 10:00 a.m., Tuesday, December 30, 2025, at Mackey Cemetery.
Melanie was born January 14, 1974, in St. Louis, Missouri, to Jesse E. Pritchett and Lillian Kay Pritchett. She entered into eternal rest on December 23, 2025.
She was reunited with her family who preceded her in death, her parents and brother, Jacob Pritchett. She was also preceded in death by her uncles, John Kildow and Jim McMuller, and her grandparents.
As a child Melanie was a happy, easy going girl who loved music and dancing. She enjoyed attending school in Special School District, where she made many friends. She loved going to summer camp and swimming, and also participated in many Special Olympic events. Melanie also loved attending prom each year at “Night to Shine”.
The last several years Melanie lived in a group home ran by Easter Seals. We are thankful for the wonderful and kind staff at Forman House and Brookfield House in St. Louis. They were such a blessing for all of us.
Melanie is survived by her stepmother, Carol Pritchett of St. Louis; her uncle, Bob Kildow of Florida; her uncle Gorden and aunt Lois Drumright, of West Plains; Her cousin Craig Drumright and wife, Julie of West Plains; Her cousin Jessica Adams of Willow Springs, and numerous cousins in Texas.
Memorial contributions should be made to Easter Seals of St. Louis, and may be left or mailed to Robertson-Drago Funeral Home, 211 W. Main St., West Plains, Missouri 65775.
Betty Jo Mitchell of West Plains, Missouri passed away peacefully at the age of 93 years on December 23, 2025, at West Vue Nursing Center. Her funeral will be at 10:00 a.m. on January 3, 2026, in the Rose Chapel of Robertson Drago Funeral Home. Burial is at Amy Cemetery.
She was born on July 2, 1932, in Brinkley, Arkansas, to Robert and Addie Adkins. She married Roy Mitchell on August 20, 1955, in Hernando, Mississippi. She is survived by her son, Jerry Mitchell, and wife Kumiko, of Yonkers, New York, as well as nieces and nephews. She is preceded in death by her husband, parents, and sisters Dotty Jean Taylor and Ann Boyd, and brother Robert Adkins.
Betty was caring, thoughtful, curious, and deeply spiritual. A graduate of the Arkansas School for the Blind, she evinced a lifelong passion for reading and learning. Every evening, for nearly 60 years, Roy and she discussed the meaning of a Bible passage. She often visited local public schools to teach children how Braille was imprinted and read. Some of her other interests included listening to classic Broadway musicals, cooking, and taking long walks in nature. She was always up for a get-together with friends to chat, laugh, and feel the bond that comes with shared joy. She especially loved to spend time with Sue Kimberlin and Jackie Wright. With a wonderful vibrancy, hers was a life lived to the fullest, guided by God’s grace.
Memorial contributions should be made to Amy Cemetery and may be left or mailed to Robertson-Drago Funeral Home, 211 W. Main St., West Plains, Missouri 65775.
Graveside services for Vera May Hall, 95, of West Plains, Missouri, will be held at 2:00 p.m., Monday, December 29, 2025, at Ball Cemetery, under the direction of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.
Vera passed away peacefully on December 21, 2025, at 9:55 a.m. in West Plains.
She was born on May 18, 1930, in Dora, Missouri, to Court Canady and Lydia Bell Canady. She grew up in the Ozarks, where she developed a lifelong love for the outdoors and the simple joys of country life. On June 7, 1947, she was united in marriage to James Windell Hall in Baxter County, Arkansas. Together, they shared many years of life, family, and cherished memories.
Her greatest earthly love was her family, whom she treasured deeply. Fishing was a close second, and she spent countless happy hours on the water with her fishing buddies. Among those she especially enjoyed fishing with were Joy Rieger and her son-in-law, Rich Collins. These moments brought her great joy and peace.
Vera was an excellent cook and well known for her homemade meals. Her specialties included homemade pie crusts and chicken noodles, dishes that became family favorites and lasting memories around the table. She also possessed many creative talents, she was a skilled artist who painted beautiful works and a good singer who enjoyed sharing music with others.
An avid lover of the outdoors, Vera delighted in growing flowers, especially roses, and found joy in hunting mushrooms. Whether tending her garden, fishing, or creating art, she approached life with quiet skill, patience, and appreciation for God’s creation.
Vera May Hall will be remembered for her love of family, her many talents, her warmth, and her enduring connection to the outdoors she loved so dearly.
She is survived by her three children, Cynthia Morrison and husband, Rayburn, Barry Hall and wife, Rita, Sue Lynn Collins and husband, Rich; five grandchildren, Shaun Gentry, Nick Gentry, Kristi Huff, Misty Davis, and Richelle Collins; two step-grandchildren, Mike Morrison and Rebecca Shelden; Eleven great-grandchildren, 1 great-great-grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews.
Her parents, husband, one brother, Lee Canady, and one sister, Ruth Grayson preceded her in death.
Memorial contributions may be made to Ball Cemetery and may be left at or mailed to Robertson-Drago Funeral Home, 211 W. Main St., West Plains, Missouri.
Graveside services for Cora Lee (Lester) Sell, 92, Springfield, Missouri, will be held at 2:00 p.m., Tuesday, December 30, 2025, at Fore Cemetery, under the direction of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.
Cora Lee passed away on December 21, 2025, at Mercy Hospital in Springfield, Missouri.
Cora Lee was born August 15, 1933, on the family farm in Fulton County, Arkansas to Roy Lester and Johnnie Pemberton Lester. She graduated from Bakersfield High School and moved to Springfield where she attended Draughan’s Business College. For many years she worked as a teller at Bell Savings & Loan where she made lifelong friendships. January 19, 1975, Cora Lee married Dwain Sell. They spent the next 43 years working, traveling, and enjoying life together. Dwain passed away in 2018, at which time she moved into the Montclair in Springfield, where she lived for the rest of her life. Although Cora never had children of her own, she was a stepmom to Dwain’s two children and a Mawmaw to his grandchildren. She was also a special aunt to her nieces and nephews as well as her great and great-great nieces and nephews. She will be greatly missed by those who knew and loved her.
Cora Lee will be remembered as a classy lady who dearly loved her family and made each on feel valued. Her special chocolate pie and yummy lemonade were the best. She was a very intelligent woman with a quick wit, southern drawl, and nicknames for lots of folks. Fond memories with her family include playing games, special adventures, and lots of laughter. Cora was generous and wise. She enjoyed life and maintained her independence until she passed away. She attended High Street Baptist Church for many years.
She is survived by nephews, Lee, Peter, John, and David; Nieces, Karen Lester, and Louisa Hudson; Great and great-great nieces and nephews; and special friends, Mildred Hayter, Jan Holt, Dennis Slane, and Brent Slane.
Cora Lee is preceded in death by her parents, husband, brothers, Roy Jr., and Bill Lester, along with sisters-in-law, Pattye and Eva, and a special friend Catherine Slane.
The family would like to extend a special thanks to Donna Miles and Brent Slane for all of their help to Cora Lee through the years. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital, or Fore Cemetery and may be left at or mailed to Robertson-Drago Funeral Home, 211 W. Main St., West Plains, Missouri.
Funeral services for Patricia Ann Sloan, 65, West Plains, Missouri, will be held at 2:00 p.m., Saturday, December 27, 2025, in the Rose Chapel of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.
Mrs. Sloan passed away at 1:53 p.m., Monday, December 22, 2025, at her home.
She was born February 23, 1960, at Springfield, Missouri. On June 15, 1990, she was married at Bakersfield, Missouri, to Jack Sloan. Pat loved her family. She served as a firefighter for twenty years in the Caulfield community. She also conducted medical runs for the fire department.
She is survived by her husband, Jack Sloan; three children, Pam Ryan, Christopher Martinez and Michele Sese; five grandchildren, Tyler, Lacie, Whitnie, Trayton and Elias; five great-grandchildren, Gannon, Nolan, Kane, Phoebe and Mavis; three brothers, Roger Brumley and wife, Phyllis, John Oetting and wife, Mary and Aaron Oetting and wife, Bethany; and several nieces and nephews.
Her mother, Bertha Lee Lister Brumley, step-father, Wilfred Alfred Brumley, one granddaughter, Winter Wright and one sister, Rose Oetting, preceded her in death.
Visitation will be held from 6:00 until 8:00 p.m., Friday, at Langston Street Chapel. Burial will be in Fowler Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Fowler Cemetery, and may be left at or mailed to Robertson-Drago Funeral Home, 211 W. Main St., West Plains, Missouri.
Funeral services for Loretta Mae Jones, 82, West Plains, Missouri, will be held at 2:00 p.m., Friday, December 26, 2025, at First General Baptist Church, Willow Springs, Missouri, under the direction of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.
Loretta Mae Jones was born June 18, 1943, at Garwood, Missouri, to John Woodrow Howard and Eunice Rayfield Howard. On June 9, 1961, she was married to James L. Jones, who preceded her in death on October 21, 2020.
Mrs. Jones passed away peacefully on Sunday, December 21, 2025, at Cedarhurst of West Plains. Before moving to West Plains in 2021, Mrs. Jones was a resident in Willow Springs, Missouri for 46 years. Her passion was working in her yard and tending to her flower beds at the family home in Hickory Hills. She was very active in the community in her later years in life, taking care of flower beds downtown, being on the Hometown Pride board and active with the Willow Springs Chamber of Commerce, where she received the “Woman of the Year” award in 2003 and the Willow Springs “Community Spirit Award” in 2014. Loretta loved and cherished her two sons and her three grandchildren. She loved spending time with Ryan, Tucker and Ellie every chance she had.
She is survived by her two sons, Len Jones, West Plains, Missouri and Randy Jones, Kansas City, Missouri; three grandchildren, Ryan Jones of Iowa, Tucker Jones of Maryland and Ellie Jones of South Carolina; and numerous nieces and nephews.
Her parents, husband, one sister, Emma Lee Price and one niece, Glenda Potter, preceded her in death.
Visitation will be held from 1:00 until 2:00 p.m., Friday prior to the service. A private burial will be in Howell Memorial Park 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.
After nearly 70 years of love, family and marriage, Steve and Bonabeth Thompson went to meet the Lord just shy of three months of each other.
Steven Arthur Thompson, 87, born March 29, 1938 to Arthur and Mary Thompson, passed away on December 17, 2025. Steve spent much of his time outdoors hunting, fishing or exploring the woods on his 4-wheeler with his dogs.
Bonabeth Maxine Eudy Thompson, 87, born on July 1, 1938 to Elmo and Gladys Eudy, passed away on September 29, 2025. Bonnie enjoyed being outdoors in the garden and could often be found there. She was an avid reader and loved listening to Southern Gospel Music.
Steve and Bonnie were married on December 22, 1955 and built a family including three children: Doug (wife, Janet), Clay (wife, Vonnie) and Sherri (late husband, Jeff). They were blessed to be the wonderful grandparents to seven grandchildren and fourteen great-grandchildren.
Steve and Bonnie were both generous, kind and loving people who valued the importance of family. As Christians, Steve and Bonnie had the certainty of knowing that they had accepted the promise of eternal peace when they accepted the Lord Jesus Christ as their Savior. The family takes comfort in knowing they are now in the presence of God.
Private burial will be in Howell Valley Cemetery. Arrangements under the direction of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.
Funeral services for Travis Bearden, 48, West Plains, Missouri, will be held at 10:00 a.m., Tuesday, December 23, 2025, at the Langston Street Chapel of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.
Travis Garrett Bearden was born on December 20, 1976, to David and Patricia Bearden in Jacksonville, Arkansas. He was a beloved son, brother, husband, father, and friend. Travis led a life devoted to his family and to our heavenly Father until December 18, 2025, when it was cut short just days before his 49th birthday in a tragic motor vehicle accident just north of West Plains, Missouri.
If you met Travis, you couldn’t help loving him–he brought joy when he entered a room. He was bold and a conversation with him was never boring, rarely shallow, and always kind. He possessed a humble and generous spirit–giving his resources and time to those in his daily life or anyone who had need. His quick wit, keen intelligence and genuine love for people could turn strangers into friends with a single conversation. Although a great spinner of stories and a creator of smiles for the most sober of dispositions, he was also a serious thinker who could just as easily read ancient texts and extensively debate the fine points of history or theology. Immensely curious, Travis was insatiable in his search to understand Scripture, to discern truth and his greatest desire was to pass eternal truths to his children, family, and as many as possible in order to live forever–all together–one day in God’s Kingdom.
Travis grew up and graduated high school in Ledyard, Connecticut. He received his bachelor’s degree from Harding University in Searcy, Arkansas, and was 5 credits shy of earning his master’s in Marriage and Family Counseling when he was offered a job to work at National Oilwell Varco–a pipeline company based in Houston, Texas. Accepting the position proved to be a crossroads not just in his career but in life when a little girl wandered into his office and stole his heart, shortly followed by her mother.
Mariana Cortez and Travis married on October 10, 2015, in Stoystown, Pennsylvania, where they lived with daughter Gabriella and added three more children to their family with the births of Garrett and twins, Jacob and Evalene. Family was Travis’ priority, and they fulfilled his lifelong desire to be a father. He was their rock and they were his delight. He is predeceased by his father, David. He is survived by his wife; four children; mother, Patricia; sister, Vanessa Bearden; and numerous beloved pets, including Asher and Zebedee.
Visitation will be held from 6:00 until 8:00 p.m., Monday, at Langston Street Chapel. Although flowers are appreciated, 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.
A memorial service for Sharon Lee Waldrop, 85, Bonne Terre, Missouri, formerly of West Plains, Missouri, will be held at 1:00 p.m., Saturday, December 27, 2025, at Bismarck United Methodist Church, Bismarck, Missouri.
Sharon passed away December 2, 2025, at her home.
She was born November 29, 1940, at Saint Louis, Missouri, to Marvin and Norma Oliver. Sharon attended Lindbergh High School and had some college education. On December 4, 1962, she married the love of her life, John Waldrop, and the two started their new lives together. Sharon was a devoted Christian and was very active in her church. She volunteered for many meals and food drives. She enjoyed Bible studies and spending time with her church family. Sharon loved antiquing and thrifting. She had several booths in local businesses and enjoyed meeting people. Sharon will be remembered for her dedicated, caring heart and love for her family. We couldn’t have asked for a better mom and Mama Sharon. She will be missed every day. Her memory will live on in the hearts of all those who loved her.
She is survived by three children, John Waldrop, Jr., Donna (Brian) Stobart, and Debbie (Steve) Kearns; eight grandchildren, Keith Waldrop, Joe (Chasity) Waldrop, Jessica (Broc) Gremminger, Jeremy (Rachel) Stobart, Justin Stobart, Kristopher (Jessica) Kearns, Brandon Kearns, and Renee Goehler; eighteen great-grandchildren, Cali, Taylor, William, Abbey, Ava Jo, and Mason Waldrop, Mia and Carson Gremminger, Lucas, Owen, and Emmett Stobart, Karleigh, Kyleigh, Kelby, Kip, Kason, and Bennett Kearns, and Bradley Goehler; one sister, Mary (Jesse) Williams; and one brother, Timothy (Marcia) Oliver.
Her parents, husband, one stepson, David Swanson, one daughter-in-law, Vonnie Waldrop, and one sister, Judy Oliver, preceded her in death.
Visitation will be held prior to the service, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., at the church. The address is Bismarck United Methodist Church, 906 Mulberry Street, Bismarck, Missouri, 63624.
Funeral services for Jerry Pat Wade Womack, 84, West Plains, Missouri, will be held at 2:00 p.m., Friday, January 2, 2026, at the First Christian Church. Visitation will be held from 1:00 to 2:00 p.m. prior to the service. Services are under the direction of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.
Mr. Womack passed away peacefully at his family home on December 16, 2025.
Jerry was born on May 8, 1941, in Howell County, Missouri, to Evy Newton Womack and Lottie Emeline (Hopkins) Womack. He was united in marriage to Janet Marie Smith on January 15, 1959, in West Plains, Missouri, and together they shared a lifetime of love, family, and community involvement.
Jerry proudly served his country in the United States Air Force as an Airman Second Class from 1959 to 1963. He spent one year of that time in isolation service at Thule, Greenland. Following his military service, from 1963 to 1965, he worked briefly at Jim’s Clothing before beginning what would become a remarkable lifelong career in journalism. In 1965, Jerry was hired by the West Plains Daily Quill, where he dedicated 49 years of service. He began as a news reporter, later becoming a well-respected sports editor, covering countless local sporting events and athletes. In 1986, he was named Managing Editor, a position he held until his retirement in 2014. His commitment to local journalism and storytelling left a lasting impact on the community. In 2010, Jerry co-authored the book History of West Plains 1930–1970 with Tony Aid.
Jerry was deeply involved in his community. He served as a Boy Scout leader, coached numerous youth football, baseball, and basketball teams, and was a member of the West Plains Jaycee’s, where he helped start the mighty mite football program, Industrial Development Board, West Plains Booster Club, and MSU/WP Grizzly Booster Club. He also served as Howell County Red Cross Chairman, certifying many lifeguards over the years. Jerry played on the West Plains Jays softball team for many years and operated local fireworks stands, J&J fireworks with his good friend John Gilliam, for 17 years. An avid outdoorsman, Jerry enjoyed golfing, fishing, hunting, camping, and grilling for his family. He especially loved spending time outdoors watching the deer and making memories with those he loved most.
Jerry was a devoted member of First Christian Church of West Plains, where he was baptized in 1954. He faithfully served the church as a Superintendent and Deacon, living out his faith through service and dedication.
He is survived by his loving wife, Janet Womack of West Plains; his children, Frankie Ann Harrill-Jones and husband, David, Jerry Scott Womack and wife, Anita and Angela Marie Holloway and friend, Jason all of West Plains, Missouri; his grandchildren, including Melana Ann Harrill, Jason Harrill (Ashley), Sam Womack, Jerry Jacob Womack and Levi Holloway; several step-grandchildren, including Jeremiah Jones and Mendy Hufstedler; Jerry was also blessed with several great-grandchildren, Mason Wade Harrill, Jaley Ann Harrill, Lottie Harrill; and several other great-grandchildren; his brothers-in-law, Dale Smith and wife, Carolyn and Danny Smith and wife, Alice, all of West Plains; and several nieces and nephews.
Jerry was preceded in death by his parents, Evy Newton Womack and Lottie Emeline (Hopkins) Womack; his brothers, Hervel Womack, Charles Haskell Womack, Wayman Womack and Ermel Womack; his brother-in-law, David Smith; his daughter-in-law, Carrie Womack; and his parents-in-law, Frank and Lottie Smith.
Jerry’s legacy of service, faith, family devotion, and love for his community will be remembered by all who knew him.
Burial will be in Oak Lawn Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to First Christian Church or any charity of choice, and may be left at or mailed to Robertson-Drago Funeral Home, 211 W. Main St., West Plains, Missouri.
James “Red” McLain, age 88, passed away on December 14, 2025, at his beloved farm, surrounded by his family.
Red was born on December 26, 1936, at home in Fulton County, Arkansas to James Luster McLain and Neva Emery McLain. He was raised along the South Fork River, where his love for the outdoors was formed early. Later, his family moved to southern Missouri in Howell County, a place that would become home for the rest of his life.
A lifelong outdoorsman, Red had a keen eye for a good horse and a good hound. At just 10 years old, riding horseback, he helped relocate his family, their livestock, and their livelihood to the southern Missouri farm he would care for faithfully throughout his life—a testament to his grit, responsibility, and devotion to family.
From 1957 to 1961, Red proudly served his country in the United States Navy.
In 1971, he built the family dairy farm, where he raised his children with the same respect for hard work, stewardship, and farm life that shaped him. After retirement, he continued working the land he loved, raising quarter horses, beef cattle, and coon hounds—several of which went on to become champion coon dogs.
Hunting was one of Red’s greatest joys, especially coon hunting with his close friends Ken, Fred, Dewey, Rex, and Tex. Those friendships and shared nights in the woods were among his most cherished memories. He was a gifted storyteller with the ability to weave people, places, and moments into lasting memories.
Above all else, Red’s children were his first priority. He was a deeply loved and cherished father who taught them the value of a dollar, the importance of a strong work ethic, and the joy found in the simple things of life. His legacy lives on in the land he tended, the animals he raised, the lessons he taught, and the family who loved him dearly.
James “Red” McLain will be remembered for his quiet strength, steady faithfulness, and lifelong devotion to family, land, and way of life.
He was survived by three children, Andy McLain and wife, Bobbie, Mark McLain and wife, Nancy, and Lynn Tackitt and husband, Michael; seven grandchildren, Katie Vetter and husband, Troy, R.J. McLain, Madi Cowell and husband, Ethan, Tate Brand and wife, Michelle, Sydney McLain, Jakob Tackitt, and Maggie Tackitt; two great-grandchildren, Annalou Mae Vetter, and Hollyn Cowell; one beloved sister, Sharon Butler and husband, Randel, and many nieces and nephews.
His parents, one son, Preston McLain, one sister Pat Claridge, and infant brother Boyce McLain preceded him in death.
A visitation will be held from 5:00 until 8:00 p.m., Friday, December 26, 2025, at Robertson-Drago Funeral Home. A private burial will be at State Line Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to State Line Cemetery, and may be left at or mailed to Robertson-Drago Funeral Home, 211 W. Main St., West Plains, Missouri.
Linda Rae Neal, 64, West Plains, Missouri, passed away at 5:02 a.m., Tuesday, December 16, 2025, at her home.
She was born October 9, 1961, at Santa Ana, California, to Donald John Mills and Ellen Marie Carr Mills. On November 15, 2003, she was married at Las Vegas, Nevada, to Steven Neal. Linda enjoyed singing, shooting pool, coloring and cooking; she made the best chicken and dumplings.
She is survived by her husband, Steven Neal; three children, Sean Crossan, Shannon Wilcox and Danny Jones; five grandchildren; and four brothers, John, Don, Sheldon and Chris Mills.
Her parents preceded her in death.
Arrangements under the direction of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.
Funeral services for Wonda June Marcum, 71, Pomona, Missouri, will be held at 2:00 p.m., Monday, December 22, 2025, in the Rose Chapel at Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.
Mrs. Marcum left this world to be with her Savior on December 10, 2025.
She was born November 12, 1954 in West Plains, Missouri, to Tom and Docie Sams. Wonda was a devoted member of Immanuel Southern Baptist Church, Pomona, Missouri and dearly loved her Lord. She lived her faith daily through kindness, service and love for others. Wonda worked for Morlan-Shell F rd as the service manager for twelve years. After reuniting with John following eighteen years apart, they moved to Indianapolis, Indiana, where Wonda was employed by Quest Diagnostics. The couple later returned to Pomona, Missouri. Wonda and John were married December 30, 1999, at the home of George and Helen Marcum and shared twenty-six years of marriage together. Upon returning to Pomona, Wonda worked for Judy Eastman Insurance and together she and John owned and managed several rental properties. Wonda was an easy going and loving person who cared deeply for her family, her pets and anyone in need. She had a special love for classic cars and lived for her grandchildren and family. Wonda will be remembered for her gentle spirit, her strong faith and her unwavering love for her family and her Savior.
She is survived by her beloved husband, John Marcum, of the family home; her sons, Scott Martin, Olden, Missouri, Evan Chaffin and John’s son, Michael Marcum, Indianapolis, Indiana; her grandchildren, Nathan, Caleb, Memphis, Ayden and River Martin, Vincent and Kirsten Chaffin, Damion, Jayden, Jacob and Kayla Marcum; one great-granddaughter; sister-in-law, Sherri Sams and her daughters, Shawna and Ashley; many nieces and nephews; brother-in-law, Georgie and Cathy Martin and family; and her cherished father-in-law, George Marcum.
Her parents, her brother, Charlie Sams and her mother-in-law, Helen Marcum, preceded her in death.
Visitation will be held from 6:00 until 8:00 p.m., Sunday, at Robertson-Drago Funeral Home. Burial will be in Howell Memorial Park Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Shriners Hospitals for Children, and may be left at or mailed to Robertson-Drago Funeral Home, 211 W. Main St., West Plains, Missouri.
