John Milford Koelling, 78, West Plains, Missouri, passed away at 9:55 a.m., Thursday, May 23, 2024, at his home.
He was born January 24, 1946, at West Plains, Missouri, to Art Milford Koelling and Eunice Marie Roberson Koelling. On January 20, 1999, he was married at Denver, Colorado, to Karri Gerstenkorn. Before his retirement, Mr. Koelling was a truck driver. He was an avid outdoorsman, a horse trainer and farrier. He enjoyed hunting and fishing. He loved the Colorado Mountains. John truly loved his family and the family dog, Mo. Mr. Koelling was of the Baptist faith and knew God.
He is survived by his wife, Karri Koelling; four children, Jonathan Koelling and wife, Jecholia, Dusti Lynn Callo and husband, Fred, Weslea Goble and husband, Allen and Vandi Koelling; six grandchildren; one sister, Brenda Thompson and husband, Tommy; and several nieces and nephews.
His parents and one brother, Don Koelling, preceded him in death.
Arrangements under the direction of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.
John David Collins, 69, West Plains, Missouri, passed away Tuesday, May 21, 2024, at his home.
He was born June 17, 1954, at Landstuhl, Rheinlanf, Germany, to Robert Eugene Collins and Una Nadine Farris Collins. On January 22, 1977, he was married at Philadelphia, Mississippi, to Brenda McGee. Mr. Collins was a veteran, having served with the United States Air Force. He enjoyed gardening, fishing and video games. He loved his wife and loved spending time with his grandchildren.
He is survived by his wife, Brenda Collins; two children, Michael Collins and wife, Carrie and Rebecca Hutchings and husband, Kirk, all of West Plains; five grandchildren, Kyle Addison, Shonti Addison, Morgan Collins, Lucas Collins and Shelby Hutchings; his mother, Una Nadine Collins; one brother, Robert (Bob) Collins, St. Louis, Missouri; and several nieces and nephews.
His father and one brother, James (Jim) Collins, preceded him in death.
Arrangements under the direction of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.
Graveside services for Don Ray Baysinger, 84, West Plains, Missouri, will be held at 10:00 a.m., Saturday, May 25, 2024, at Homeland Cemetery, under the direction of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.
Mr. Baysinger passed away at 4:00 a.m., Thursday, May 22, 2024, at NHC HealthCare.
He was born December 1, 1939, in Howell County, Missouri, to Arvil and Ida Mae Baxter Baysinger. On July 24, 1971, he was married at Salem, Arkansas, to Cora Ann Collins, who preceded him in death on April 18, 2006. Mr. Baysinger was a veteran, having served with the United States Army. Before his retirement, Don was a deputy with the Howell County Sherriff’s Office. He loved to go fishing and travel.
He is survived by four children, Steve Mason and wife, Glenda, of the State of Oklahoma, Ann Moran and husband, Rick, State of Texas, Leland Mason and wife, Julie, State of Utah and Sandy Evans, West Plains; fifteen grandchildren; thirty-four great-grandchildren; fourteen great-great-grandchildren; three brothers, Jerry Basinger and wife, Donna, Springfield, Missouri, Roger McCord, West Plains and Ervin McCord and wife, Debbie, West Plains; one sister, Mona Basinger and husband, Tod Jones, West Plains; and many nieces and nephews.
His parents, wife, one son-in-law, Mike Evans, two grandchildren, Scott Evans and Ricky Durham, two brothers, Bill and Charles Basinger, two sisters, Sue Henry and Jan Laremore, preceded him in death.
Visitation services will be held from 6:00 until 8:00 p.m., Friday, at Robertson-Drago Funeral Home. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital and may be left at or mailed to Robertson-Drago Funeral Home, 211 West Main, West Plains, MO 65775.
A memorial service for William Joseph Bergman, 72, West Plains, Missouri, will be held at 2:00 p.m., Friday, May 31, 2024, at First Christian Church, 422 W. Main St., West Plains, MO 65775.
Mr. Bergman passed away Thursday, May 16, 2024, at Ozarks Medical Center.
He was born September 18, 1951, at Litchfield, Illinois, to Joseph Bergman and Mary Lou Stogsdill Bergman. On November 1, 2000, he was married at Hillsboro, Illinois, to Joyce Hooper. Bill had an associate’s degree in technology and maintained a career as a navigator for Mobile Oil Search in Houston, Texas, where he traveled all over the world. Also known as PaPa Bill, he loved telling stories about his adventures to his two grandsons. He loved his family very much.
He is survived by his wife, Joyce Bergman, West Plains; one daughter, Leslie Hooper, West Plains; two grandchildren, Zeith and Zyler McKinney; his mother, Mary Lou Bergman, Hillsboro, Illinois; one brother, Jim Bergman and wife, Emma; two sisters, Luanne Stewart and husband, Greg and Jeanie Roth and husband, Doyle; and many nieces and nephews.
His father preceded him in death.
Arrangements under the direction of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.
Graveside services for Kenneth Charles (Ken) Bauer, 58, West Plains, Missouri, will be held at 10:00 a.m., Friday, May 24, 2024, at Howell Memorial Park Cemetery, under the direction of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.
Mr. Bauer passed away at 3:30 a.m., Tuesday, May 21, 2024, at Barnes-Jewish Hospital, St Louis, Missouri.
He was born January 7, 1966, at Cabool, Missouri, to Ronald Valentine and Margret McMahan Bauer. On April 17, 2004, he was married at West Plains, Missouri, to Kathy Whitmire. Ken was a maintenance supervisor at Jasper Engines. He also worked as a volunteer for Habitat for Humanity for many years. He was a kind-hearted man and loved helping others any way he could. Ken was creative and hardworking. He was a very talented wood carver and enjoyed building things, whether it was furniture or a house. He was an outdoorsman and enjoyed hunting and fishing, especially with his dog, Doc. Ken was a Christian, and he truly loved the Lord, his family, and his friends. He enjoyed listening to Christian music and he really enjoyed playing piano in church. He was a wonderful husband, father, and brother. There are no words to express the love he had for his family.
He is survived by his wife, Kathy, of the family home; one child, Valerie Bauer-Matheson and husband, Andrew, New Town at St. Charles, Missouri; one sister, Lesa Bauer, Cabool, Missouri; his mother-in-law, Louise Whitmire, West Plains, Missouri; one brother-in-law, Bobby Whitmire and wife, Kristen, Billings, Missouri; one niece, Caitlan Whitmire and husband, Phani, state of Texas; two nephews, Jordan Whitmire and wife, Mindy, Highlandville, Missouri, and Dalton Day, Nixa, Missouri; several aunts, uncles, and cousins; and his best fishing buddy, Doc..
His parents, maternal and paternal grandparents, and several aunts and uncles preceded him in death.
Memorial contributions may be made to Hope Lodge and may be left at or mailed to Robertson-Drago Funeral Home, 211 West Main, West Plains, MO 65775.
Martha Sue Patterson, 87, West Plains, Missouri, passed away at 11:50 p.m., Monday, May 20, 2024, at Ozarks Healthcare.
She was born October 7, 1936, at Willow Springs, Missouri, to Rollind Brownfield and Belva Brown Brownfield. In 1952, she was married at Hardy, Arkansas, to Ben Patterson, who preceded her in death on August 18, 2013.
She is survived by three children, Elizabeth King and husband, Ron, Browning, Missouri, Bob Patterson and wife, Debbie, West Plains, Missouri, and Travis Patterson and wife, Casie, Bates City, Missouri; twelve grandchildren; many great-grandchildren; and several great-great-grandchildren.
Her parents and her husband preceded her in death.
Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.
Dedie Ellen Sanders, 79, West Plains, Missouri, passed away at 3:05 a.m., Sunday, May 19, 2024, at NHC HealthCare.
She was born February 18, 1945, at Sycamore, Missouri, to Charles Sanders and Iva Marie Carter Sanders. Mrs. Sanders was a proud mother and grandmother. She enjoyed riding motorcycles, camping, spending time at the river and visiting the water mills; she loved shopping, especially for gifts for her friends and family. Dedie was a kind hearted and giving person; she truly loved her family, friends and her dog, Felix. Her biggest accomplishment was raising her son (grandson), Pino. She was an activist and loved politics and protesting. Mrs. Sanders was of the Christian faith.
She is survived by four children, Debra Wilson Valdez and husband, Miguel, Odessa, Missouri, David Wilson and wife, Adriana, Belton, Missouri, Travis Puckett, West Plains, Missouri and Doug Carter and wife, Denise, West Plains, Missouri; six grandchildren; two sisters, Madonna Birdsong and husband, Jarret, Dora, Missouri and Kathy Hensley and husband, Randy, West Plains, Missouri; and several nieces and nephews.
Her parents, two brothers and one sister, preceded her in death.
Arrangements under the direction f Robertson-Drago Funeral Home. Online condolences may be left at www.robertsondrago.com
Funeral services for Ina Gay Lair, 72, Moody, Missouri, will be held at 2:00 p.m., Wednesday, May 22, 2024, in the Rose Chapel at Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.
Mrs. Lair passed away at 8:47 p.m., Friday, May 17, 2024, at her home.
She was born March 20, 1952, at Mountain Home, Arkansas, to George Oral Kerley and Adah Mae Kerley. On November 6, 1971, she was married at West Plains, Missouri, to Jerry Lair. Gay had a love for camping and yardsaling. For 30 years she worked side by side with the love of her life running their store. Ina was a loving wife, grandma, and sister. She will be missed by so many, but will never be forgotten.
She is survived by her husband of 52 years, Jerry Lair; two children, Heath Lair and wife, Krista and Heather Williams and husband, Donald; eight grandchildren, Brett Lair, Arieona Smith and fiancé, Logan Jewell, Evan Smith, Connor Lair, Mason Webb, Jax Lair, Tyler Williams and wife, Jaden and Nate Williams and wife, Morgan; two great-grandchildren, Kabella and Kreed Williams; three sisters, Georgia Frost, Barbara Bozich and husband, Mike and Donna Shelley and husband, Larry; two sisters-in-law, Janice Mead and Venita Hollingshad and husband, Jim; and many nieces and nephews.
Her parents; four brothers, O.G. Kerley, Richard Kerley, Keith Kerley and Wayne Kerley; three sisters, Ozerah Friend, Nonda Wassmann and Sharon Goode, and one infant sister; and sister-in-law, Alberta Cunningham, preceded her in death.
Visitation services will be held from 5:00 until 7:00 p.m., Tuesday, at Robertson-Drago Funeral Home. Burial will be in Lair-Williams Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital and may be left at or mailed to Robertson-Drago Funeral Home, 211 West Main, West Plains, MO 65775.
Kayla Elizabeth Baker, 35, West Plains, Missouri, went home to be with the Lord May 13, 2024. Please join us in celebrating the life of Kayla at 2:00 p.m., Friday, May 17, 2024, at First Baptist Church, under the direction of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.
Kayla deeply loved her family and enjoyed spending time with them. At family gatherings, Kayla especially loved hearing and laughing at stories being told about her Grandpa Ken, her brother, Austin and the funny things that she did and said as a child. She was looking forward to being an aunt to baby Camri Lynn Cook. Kayla graduated from West Plains High School with the Class of 2007 and attended one semester of college at MSU, West Plains. She enjoyed attending community events, festivals, community theater and was a member of the Wonderfully Made class at First Baptist Church. She lived in an ISL home for many years and had close, loving relationships with many of her past and current caregivers. Those especially important to her were Danielle Bauchmann, Donna Hester and Lori Falwell. The family will be forever grateful for their dedicated care and love for Kayla. Kayla was a special young woman who was a gift to the world. All who knew her were blessed by her sweet, spunky, sassy personality. Her radiant smile could light up a room and her life brought great joy to her family and friends. Kayla faced many challenges in her life and she met each with a strength and resiliency that is to be admired. It has been an honor and a privilege to be Kayla’s family and we are all better people because of her. Though there is an emptiness and a hole left in our hearts, we are full of her love and memories. We know without a doubt that she is now healed, complete and truly living her best life in the presence of God.
She is survived by her devoted mother, Kenya Cook, West Plains; grandmother, Kay Collins, West Plains; one brother, Austin Cook and wife, Bayli, Summersville, Missouri; aunt, Karla McDuffey and husband, Tim, Osage Beach, Missouri; uncle, Kenny Collins and wife, Shelly, West Plains; cousins, Taran Collins, Jamie Collins, Tyler MDuffey, Sara McDuffey, Emma Roberts, Sophie Roberts and Ryleigh Wilkerson; special family friend, Samantha Oaks; Uncle Ted and Aunt Vicky Deatherage; Samantha Kelly, Corey Warford, Jazlynn Deatherage; and a host of other aunts, uncles and cousins.
Her grandparents, Kenneth Collins and Ace and Mary Jo Baker, and great-grandparents, Fuzz and Wilma Smith and Fred and Maxine Collins, preceded her in death.
Visitation services will be held from 6:00 until 8:00 p.m., Thursday, at the Langston Street Chapel of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home. Burial will be in Howell Memorial Park Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Wonderfully Made Class at First Baptist Church and may be left at or mailed to Robertson-Drago Funeral Home, 211 West Main, West Plains, MO 65775.
Funeral services for Melvin Albert Barks, Sr., 82, West Plains, Missouri, will be held at 2:00 p.m., Thursday, May 16, 2024, in the Rose Chapel at Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.
Mr. Barks passed away at 9:44 a.m., Saturday, May 11, 2024, at Ozarks Medical Center.
He was born February 27, 1942, at Cureall, Missouri, to Clarance Raymond Barks and Flora Alice Wheat Barks. On August 24, 1963, he was married at Olden, Missouri, to Mary Johnston. Mr. Barks was a veteran, having served with the United States Army. Melvin worked for the City of West Plains for over 30 years and was a volunteer firefighter. He was an avid hunter and fisherman and loved sharing his passion with his grandchildren.
He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Mary Barks; four children, Roger Carter, West Plains, Teresa Fultz, West Plains, Melinda O’Malley and husband, Mike, Palm Bay, Florida and Melvin “Chuck” Barks, Jr., West Plains; ten grandchildren, Joshua Johnson and wife, Katrina, Melvin (Cody) Barks and wife, Jennifer, Dustin Barks, Jacob Barks and wife, Meagan, Maddison Fultz, Amanda Wymer, Ronnie Fultz, Michael O’Malley and wife, Yoshi, Justin O’Malley and wife, Becca and Austin O’Malley and wife, Brittney; bonus granddaughter, Kenya Morris; fifteen great-grandchildren, Ceira O’Malley, Landon Fultz, D’Layne Allison, Aurora Barks, Tara Barks, Kinnley Barks, Leia Barks, Ella Barks, Yuri Davis, Daxton Fultz, Estella Johnson, Adam O’Malley, Bridgette O’Malley, Gracie O’Malley and Addlyn Howell; two bonus great-grandchildren, Lilly and Nemo Morris; one sister, Mildred Warren and husband, Verdon, one brother-in-law, Steve Johnston and wife, Tammy, one sister-in-law, Lillian Barks; and numerous nieces and nephews.
His parents, mother-in-law and father-in-law, Mary Edith Smith and John Lewis Johnston; four brothers, Vanis, Kenneth, Orville and Trueal, four sisters, Mary, Ona, Dora and infant, Lois, two sons-in-law, Keith Baker and Anthony Fultz, in-laws, Leroy and Cecil Johnston and Ann and John Shannon, preceded him in death.
Visitation services will be held from 6:00 until 8:00 p.m., Wednesday, at Robertson-Drago Funeral Home. Burial will be in Oak Lawn Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital and may be left at or mailed to Robertson-Drago Funeral Home, 211 West Main, West Plains, MO 65775.
Erin Marie Heinz, 43, West Plains, Missouri, passed away Sunday, May 5, 2024, at her home.
She was born February 16, 1981, at Chardon, Ohio, to Richard W. Heinz and Lauren C. Krause Heinz. Erin enjoyed spending time with friends, family and listening to music.
She is survived by her parents, Richard and Lauren Heinz, State of Ohio; two beloved daughters, State of Missouri; and her faithful service dog, Ollie.
Her maternal and paternal grandparents preceded her in death.
Private services will be held at a later date in Ohio. Arrangements under the direction of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.
Frances Bracken, 95, West Plains, Missouri, passed away at 6:30 p.m., Wednesday, May 8, 2024, at her home.
She was born August 25, 1928 at Rector, Arkansas, to Claud Hardin and Iris Hancock. Frances enjoyed farming and gardening. She loved her flowers.
She is survived by one son, Robert Bracken, Paragould, Arkansas; four grandchildren, Sarah Ledbetter and fiancée Chad French, West Plains, Missouri, Lee J. Matthews, West Plains, Brandon Bracken and wife, Aimee, State of Tennessee and Jordan Bracken, Paragould, Arkansas; eight great-grandchildren; four sisters, Irene Snyder, Rector, Arkansas, Corrine Eagle, Rector, Arkansas, Ella Chronister, Piggott, Arkansas and Tommie Pennie, State of Ohio; and many nieces and nephews.
Her parents, father of her children, Merle Bracken, one daughter, Shirley Edgeller, two sons, Joe and Robert Bracken, six brothers and four sisters, preceded her in death.
Arrangements under the direction of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.
Graveside services for Howard Eugene Stubbs, 71, West Plains, Missouri, will be held at 2:00 p.m., Saturday, May 11, 2024, at South Fork Cemetery, under the direction of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.
In happy memory of Howard Eugene Stubbs who passed peacefully surrounded by loving family on May 7th, 2024 in West Plains Missouri.
Howard Eugene Stubbs was born on September 12, 1952, in Provo, UT, to Merrill Eugene Stubbs and Betty Jean White. He married the love of his life, Pamela Dee Thomas, on June 1, 1974 and the pair were inseparable for fifty years. They were blessed with eight children: Amy Dee (Kyle) Marchant, Scott Eugene (Megan) Stubbs, Shanalee (James) Madsen, Thomas Howard (Alice) Stubbs, Jeremy James (Rikki) Stubbs, Shane Michael (Allaree) Stubbs, Rebecca Jean (Nathan) Houston, and Kari Hansen. Howard was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather, leaving behind 23 cherished grandchildren.
Howard lived his life in service to others, embodying the principles of love and compassion taught by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Through his kindness, generosity, and unwavering support, Howard made a profound impact on the lives of those around him. He was always looking for a way to serve. Whether it was shoveling snow off walkways, using his tractor and tools to help out a neighbor, assisting a stranded traveler, or just sharing a smile and friendly conversation, Howard was the first to see a need and fill it.
Howard has always had an extraordinary work ethic. He worked for the BYU custodial department for 25 years. He and Pam then created a family Dutch Oven catering business serving delicious food to thousands of people. Howard also loved farming. His family has so many memories of working together hauling hay, weeding the gardens, changing sprinkler pipe, picking up acres of potatoes, and feeding cows. Two of Howard’s family mottos were: “more hay” and “when life gets too tough for everyone else, it’s just right for you and me”!
His family will be eternally grateful for this giant of a man who continually taught through example, words, and love. Howard Eugene Stubbs will be dearly missed but never forgotten.
Funeral services for Joyce Lee Surface, 88, West Plains, Missouri, will be held at 10:00 a.m., Saturday, May 11, 2024, at China Union Church, under the direction of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.
Mrs. Surface passed away at 11:00 p.m., Saturday, May 4, 2024, at her home.
She was born October 20, 1935 in Howell County, Missouri near West Plains. Joyce received her education in and near West Plains graduating from West Plains High School in 1953. On January 11, 1955 she was married to Lawrence Surface at China Union Church and was married for 67 years before his passing. Joyce was saved at China Union Church under Kenneth Chapman’s preaching at the age of eleven. She spent 32 years in banking working in a variety of positions and retired under Boatman’s Bank in 1997. She was well known for her love of cooking for other people and always hosted Sunday dinners bringing her family together with home-cooked meals and cookies in her cookie jar. She had a love for music, playing piano and organ, singing and teaching music. She played for many funerals, weddings, and churches. Her love for life also included sewing, traveling, camping, and cooking meals for missionaries, preachers, family and friends. She taught Sunday School classes for juniors and teenagers for many years in church and at Hammonds Mill Bible Camp. Joyce also taught piano to several students including her grandchildren and great-grandchildren and harmonica to her grandson. After her retirement she made each member of her family a hand sewn quilt and sewed many things for her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Camping with her husband, friends, and family was a delight to her and she loved to do the cooking. Joyce enjoyed family gatherings at holidays and family reunions. Early morning Bible readings and church brought her much joy and her son and his family around her table was her favorite. She enjoyed writing poetry and songs, and passing her wisdom and love to her family and friends. After retirement, she enjoyed traveling the United States and Canada, spending quiet peaceful times with her husband on their farm and being a grandma and a great-granny. She got her strength from God who she communed with daily.
Joyce is preceded in death by her husband Lawrence Surface, a son Calvin Lynn Surface, her parents Alfred and Letha Eades, her brother Roland Eades, her maternal grandparents James and Eliza Crow, her paternal grandparents Tom and Nancy Eades.
She is survived by a sister Peggy Coopman, husband Dave, son Stacey Surface, daughter-in-law Kaye Surface, five grandchildren, Jessica Schmitt, husband Isaac, Logan Surface, wife Summer, Karissa Surface, Cordell Surface, wife Alicia, Landen Surface, and four great-grandchildren, Miles, Lisa, Aysia, and Ronin.
Visitation services will be held from 6:00 until 8:00 p.m., Friday, at Robertson-Drago Funeral Home. Burial will be in Evergreen Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Evergreen Cemetery and may be left at or mailed to Robertson-Drago Funeral Home, 211 West Main, West Plains, MO 65775.
Graveside services for Brian O’Neal Richardson, 50, Pottersville, Missouri, will be held at 2:00 p.m., Wednesday, May 8, 2024, at Oak Mound Cemetery, under the direction of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.
Mr. Richardson passed away at 8:00 a.m., Saturday, May 4, 2024, in Ozark County, Missouri.
He was born February 24, 1974, in Canton, Illinois, to William Richardson and Deborah Burke Richardson. Brian was an avid mechanic; he could fix and do anything. His family and friends meant the world to him. Brian rescued everybody; he was always available to help anyone under any circumstances. He loved Jesus Christ above all else.
He is survived by three children, Paydon Guernsey, Samantha Kent and husband, Aaron and Kalie Cole; two grandchildren, Buddy Shelton and Eleanor Kent; one brother, Brett Richardson; one sister, Shan Richardson; three nieces, Brittany Major, Makayla Hensley and Laiken McKinney; two great-nephews, Jameson Major and Isaiah Velarde; many aunts, uncles and cousins; and very special friend, Tammy Sigman.
His parents, one nephew, Justin Brown, special friend, Jessica Cole and two best friends, Jamey Hensley and Angie Brown, preceded him in death.
Memorial contributions may be made to the family and may be left at or mailed to Robertson-Drago Funeral Home, 211 West Main, West Plains, MO 65775
A Celebration of Life Service for Lyndel Wayne Brown, 75, Pomona, Missouri, will be held from 6:00 until 8:00 p.m., Tuesday, May 7, 2024, in the Rose Chapel at Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.
Mr. Brown passed away at 5:59 a.m., Saturday, April 27, 2024, at his home.
He was born on January 15, 1949, to Paul Lawrence Brown and Ruby Gayle Henry Brown at the family home. On October 13, 1995, he was married to Lucille Sweigard Brooks; they were married for 25 years before her passing on November 7, 2020. Mr. Brown was a veteran, having served with the United States Navy. He drove a bus for SMTS for several years, providing rides to the Ozarks Sheltered Workshop and medical appointments. Mr. Brown was a career truck driver and worked for several companies including, Tri-Lake Petroleum and Cabool Transport. He loved animals, gardening and reading books. He was most often found sitting on his front porch watching the animals and people go by.
He is survived by eight children, Michael “Mike” Brown and wife, Mary, Carmen Brown Bentley and fiancée, Tim Gentry, Travis Brown and wife, Joanne, Burl Brooks, Michael Brooks, Becky Brooks McAfee and husband, Mike, Richard Brooks and wife, Stephanie and Joseph “Ben” Brooks and wife, Sasha; twenty-six grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; and one sister, Wanda Earlene Brown Beltz.
His parents, wife, grandparents and one brother-in-law, Jerry Beltz, preceded him in death.
Memorial contributions may be made to West Plains Regional Animal Shelter or Howell County Sheltered Workshop and may be left at or mailed to Robertson-Drago Funeral Home, 211 West Main, West Plains, MO 65775.
Funeral services for Larry Oren McMurtrey, 80, West Plains, Missouri, will be held at 10:00 a.m., Saturday, May 4, 2024, at Bethel Baptist Church, under the direction of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.
Mr. McMurtrey passed away at 9:51 p.m., Saturday, April 27, 2024, at his home.
He was born April 15, 1944, in Douglas County, Missouri, to Lawrence Oren McMurtrey and Reca Collins McMurtrey. On May 25, 1965, he was married at Pomona, Missouri, to Marcella Brower, who preceded him in death on July 13, 2019. Larry graduated from West Plains High School with the Class of 1962 and worked for West Plains Bridge for thirty-two years, having retired in 2003. He was a 32nd degree Mason. Larry enjoyed hunting, fishing, gun shows, arrowhead hunting and watching WWI, WWII, Vietnam and Korean war documentaries. Mr. McMurtrey was a member of Bethel Baptist Church where he served as Deacon and formerly Second Baptist (Providence) Church.
He is survived by three children, Lori Thompson and husband, Leland, Lesa Garner and husband, Roger and Michelle Bales and husband, Eric; nine grandchildren, Tiffany McKee, Terry Saathof, Tony Saathoff, Teresa Saathoff, Lucinda Dewitt and husband, Trey, Taylor Garner and wife, Dawn, Jenna Wright and husband, Calvin, Jessica Bales and James Bales; several great-grandchildren, step-grandchildren and step-great-grandchildren; one sister, Dea Bailey; and many nieces and nephews.
His parents, wife, one sister, Donna Manning, one niece, Rita Bailey and two brothers-in-law, Booth Bailey and Ron Manning, preceded him in death.
The family wishes to give a special thanks to the nurses and staff of Hospice Compassus, especially Lisa, Tiffany, Karen and Roberta.
Visitation services will be held from 6:00 until 8:00 p.m., Friday, at Robertson-Drago Funeral Home. Burial will be in Howell Memorial Park Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Bethel Baptist Church Building Fund or Gideon Bible Society and may be left at or mailed to Robertson-Drago Funeral Home, 211 West Main, West Plains, MO 65775.
Graveside services for Alice Maxine Keith, 100, Leawood, Kansas, formerly of Ozark County, Missouri, will be held at 2:00 p.m., Friday, May 3, 2024, at Moody Cemetery, under the direction of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.
Mrs. Keith passed away Tuesday, April 23, 2024.
From the beginning, she was called Maxine. Maxine was born April 14, 1924, at Cushing, Oklahoma, to William Albert Coonce and Nancy Elizabeth Strong. When she was four years old, she moved with her parents back to Gainesville, Missouri, in a covered wagon. Her brother, Roy, was born in 1932. Maxine graduated from Gainesville High School. Her family lived out in the country, so during her last two years of high school she lived in town with Frank and Jesse Johnson, helping with their children while she finished school. In the summers of 1942 and 1943, she lived in Kansas City with her cousin Pearl Luna and worked at Bendix Corporation. There, she made parts and equipment for wartime military aircraft. Maxine lived in Ozark County, Missouri, until she moved to Kansas City in 1946. She worked for the Southwestern Bell Telephone Company in the billing department. One of the accounts that she handled was for the well-known Kansas City artist Thomas Hart Benton. Maxine attended the Junior College of Kansas City (Metropolitan Community College), where she earned her Associates Degree in Education. In 1948, on one of her bus trips back to Gainesville to visit family, Maxine met the love of her life, Max Keith. Max and Maxine married on September 25, 1949 and enjoyed 56 years of marriage until his passing in 2005. In 1956, they built their home in Leawood, Kansas, with the help of Max’s brother, Clarence, and their long-time friend, Carl Hoffmeister. Maxine continued to work at Southwestern Bell Telephone until Rex was born in 1959. Twelve months and 4 days later, Karan was born. Max and Maxine would continue to reside at their home in Leawood for the remainder of their lives.
Her faith in Jesus was important to her. She was a lifelong member of the Churches of Christ. When first married, they attended the 67thand Woodson Church of Christ, which later became the Overland Park Church of Christ. Maxine was a member of the Marsha Bagby Elementary School PTA and actively involved in many of her children’s activities. As Rex and Karan reached Middle School, she started selling Avon. She also began working for the Overland Park Church of Christ Sonshine School. One of her favorite memories was caring for the babies with her two friends, Maxine Rose and Virginia Butner. Maxine was an avid bowler from high school until she was 96 years old, when Covid stopped her bowling career. She was in many leagues, accumulating dozens of bowling trophies and awards. She loved working in her yard and visiting with her neighbors. She also enjoyed cooking, especially for her grandchildren. Max and Maxine loved to travel, taking the family on numerous vacations around the world. They continued their travels after Rex and Karan left home, traveling throughout most of the United States, including two trips to Hawaii, and trips to over 15 countries. Some of her favorite places that she visited were England, Ireland, Italy, Israel, and going through the Panama Canal. One of her goals in life was to celebrate her 100th birthday, which she accomplished. She was always an optimist, including in her last week of life when she made the remark, “Do you think I can make it to 110?” Maxine loved God and anticipated the day that she would be reunited with her Max.
Maxine is survived by her son, Rex (Kris) Keith; daughter, Karan Keith; granddaughters, Erin, Ainsley, Lauren; and grandson, Jaden.
She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, her brother, Roy, and his wife, Esther.
For those in the Kansas City area, a Memorial Celebration will be held at 12 p.m., Thursday, May 2nd, at Southpoint Church of Christ, Kansas City, Missouri.
Visitation will be from 12:30 p.m. to 1:30 p.m., Friday, at Robertson- Drago Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Moody Cemetery, Southpoint Church of Christ, or The American Heart Association and may be left at or mailed to Robertson-Drago Funeral Home, 211 W. Main, West Plains, MO, 65775.
Funeral services for Josephine Frances McAdam, 86, West Plains, Missouri, will be held at 10:00 a.m., Saturday, April 27, 2024, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, under the direction of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.
Mrs. McAdam passed away Wednesday, April 24, 2024, at West Vue Nursing Center.
She was born July 21, 1937, at Honolulu, Hawaii, to Joseph Francis Smith and Margaret Josephine Fell Smith. On November 24, 1955, she was married at Warrington, Florida, to Thomas Wells McAdam, Sr. Before her retirement, Mrs. McAdam was a Medicaid claims specialist. She loved her friends, her family and her dogs. She never met a stranger and always looked for opportunities to help others. Mrs. McAdam was a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church.
She is survived by her husband of sixty-eight years, Thomas W. McAdam, Sr., of the family home; five children, Cindy Hardy and husband, Alan, Panama City, Florida, Thomas W. McAdam, Jr., and wife, Cindy, Danbury, Texas, Mike McAdam and wife, Carol, Panama City, Florida, Joe McAdam and wife, Mae, Sunny Hills, Florida and Linda Eberle and husband, Dale, West Plains, Missouri; fifteen grandchildren; twenty-five great-grandchildren, one brother, Jack Smith and wife, Virginia, State of Tennessee; and several nieces and nephews.
Her parents, two grandsons, Patrick Jinks and Blake McAdam, one sister, Alice Ann Parslow, one niece, Donna Parslow and her father-in-law and mother-in-law, Edward and Jean McAdam, preceded her in death.
Visitation services will be held from 9:00 until 10:00 a.m., Saturday, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Mary’s Catholic Church and may be left at or mailed to Robertson-Drago Funeral Home, 211 West Main, West Plains, MO 65775.
Funeral services for Aloysius Henry Eldringhoff, 90, West Plains, Missouri, will be held at 10:00 a.m., Monday, April 29, 2024, at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, White Church, Missouri, under the direction of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.
Mr. Eldringhoff passed away at 4:12 a.m., Sunday, April 21, 2024, at NHC HealthCare.
He was born July 4, 1933, near White Church, Missouri, to Conrad H. Eldringhoff and Easter Pauline (Baser) Eldringhoff. On February 14, 1957 he married Geneva Hopkins at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, White Church, Missouri. They were married 60 years at her passing in 2017. To this union seven children were born.
Mr. Eldringhoff was a veteran, having served with the United States Army during the Korean Conflict. He was an auto and farm machinery mechanic, co-owner of a gas station and garage, farmhand, dozer operator, farm implement hauler, and spent most of his life as a dairy and beef farmer. In his early years, he was an avid coonhunter and baseball player. He played music most of his life and he and his family were some of the first members of the Heart of the Ozarks Bluegrass Association. His family band, Roger Williams & the Eldringhoffs, served as one of the association’s first charter bands. He also served many years on the board of directors of the St. Joseph’s Catholic Cemetery at White Church and was a lifetime member of St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, White Church, Missouri.
He is survived by his children and their spouses: Mark (Marilyn) Eldringhoff, Ben (Belinda) Eldringhoff, Mary (David) Mahan, Anthony (Jill) Eldringhoff, Teresa (Randall) Romans, and Estella Genise Eldringhoff (Tom Haviland); ten grandchildren: Shauna (Eric) Norris, Abby (Jerry) Burleson, Henry Eldringhoff, Kathleen (Wayne) Cahoj, Joseph (Brittany) Mahan, Dustin Mahan, Audrey Eldringhoff, Chance Eldringhoff, Matthew Romans, and Ethan Simpson; and six great-grandchildren: Crews Norris, Shayna, Kyra, and Everett Burleson, Alice and Archer Mahan; and numerous nieces and nephews.
He is preceded in death by his parents, his wife, Geneva, one daughter, Catherine, four brothers, Don, Paul, Stephen, and Maurice and four sisters, Katherine, Electa, Novella and Rosalie.
Visitation services will be held from 6:00 until 8:00 p.m., Sunday, at Robertson-Drago Funeral Home. Burial will be in St. Joseph’s Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Joseph’s Cemetery and may be left at or mailed to Robertson-Drago Funeral Home, 211 West Main, West Plains, MO 65775.
