Graveside services for John L Roy, 87, West Plains, Missouri, will be held at 2:00 p.m., Monday, October 26, 2020 at the Howell Memorial Park Cemetery under the direction of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.
Mr. Roy passed away at 11:55 a.m., Friday, October 23, 2020 at Brooke Haven HealthCare, West Plains. He was born February 10, 1933 in Oregon County, Missouri to Lovell Roy and Roxie Storms Roy. Mr. Roy enjoyed the outdoors and liked to visit his grandkids. He always had coffee and his favorite saying was “you all play purdy”. He loved his children.
He is survived by his special friend, Pat; four children, Jerry Roy and spouse, Cindy, Raleigh, North Carolina, Jeffrey Roy and spouse, Kathy, Joplin, Missouri, Angela Mason and spouse, John, Centerton, Arkansas and Roy Collins and spouse, Vibe, Hammond, Indiana; eleven grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; one brother, Dallas Roy, West Plains, Missouri; one sister, Joann Brown, St. Louis, Missouri; and many nieces and nephews.
His parent, three sisters and two brothers preceded him in death.
Visitation for Theodore Mark (Ted) Schram, 49, Peace Valley, Missouri, will be held from 6:00 until 8:00 p.m., Wednesday, October 28, 2020 in the Rose Chapel of the Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.
Mr. Schram passed away in Peace Valley, Missouri on October 23, 2020. He went peacefully to be with his Lord and Savior with his wife by his side as he ended a courageous fight with cancer.
Ted was born May 3, 1971, in Joliet, Illinois to Mark Schram and Laura Albrecht Schram. He attended school and grew up in this area. During those years, he made many longtime friends, most of whom he considered family. The summer before his senior year, Ted moved to Moody, Missouri with his mother. Thanks to Ted’s outgoing personality, he quickly made new friends and joined the high school football team. Ted spoke very fondly of the memories he made his senior year thanks to the friends and classmates who made him feel welcome. He received his diploma from West Plains High School in 1989. Ted joined the United States Navy after graduating high school and proudly served during the Gulf War. After his Navy discharge, he held a variety of jobs; however, he quickly found that he excelled and preferred a career as an over-the-road truck driver. Ted was very proud of his career and his wife believes he was clutching and driving his semi right up to the gates of heaven. Ted married Amy Harden on December 21, 2013. Their story actually began many years before that. Ted and Amy had dated in the mid-1990s. Ted had hoped they would be together, however it was not meant to be at that time. They were later reunited and began a life together. With this union, Ted inherited six children which he grew to love as his own and they all love him dearly. Ted also made a commitment to his family to adopt and give his namesake to Theodore Eleck William Schram. In 2016, Ted was given the honor of the birth of his daughter, Rose. Ted was a good man who worked hard to provide for his family even through his battle with cancer. He especially enjoyed working with wood and building keepsakes. He also enjoyed cooking on his grill and hosting family barbecues. Throughout his life, he was an avid fan of the Chicago Bears who are having a very good season this year just for him. Ted had a quick wit, a joke and a boisterous laugh for every occasion. He was always concerned with the welfare of others which led to his donation of tissue for research with Washington University in St. Louis, Missouri.
Ted leaves behind in the family home, his wife, Amy Harden Schram, and three children, Geneva, Eleck and Rose. Also his children, Anna Belanger, Joseph Grant, Rebecca Foster and husband, Adam, and Luke Grant, all of West Plains, Missouri; his mother, Laura Schram and his sister, Lynette Schram. He will also be missed by his grandson, Ender Belanger and many nephews and nieces.
He is preceded in death by his father, Mark Schram, maternal grandparents, Lester and Adriana Albrecht and paternal grandparents, Bill and Clara Schram; his uncles, Jim Albrecht and Tom Albrecht and a dear friend, James Oliver.
A graveside service will be scheduled at a later date for the family.
A Celebration of Life service will be held at a later date for Ella Mae Francis, 74, West Plains, Missouri.
Mrs. Francis passed away at 1:40 p.m., Wednesday, October 21, 2020, at Ozarks Medical Center.
She was born February 14, 1946, at Higden, Arkansas, to Edward Barger and Mamie Totten Barger. Ella graduated from Quitman High School. On December 7, 2007, she was married at West Plains, to George Howard Francis, who preceded her in death on May 2, 2018. Mrs. Francis had worked as a teacher at Parkway Beauty Academy. She loved being around people and was kind to everyone. She enjoyed collecting antiques and having her grandchildren around. Mrs. Francis was a member of the Church of Christ.
She is survived by three children, Shealia Harper and husband, Roger, West Plains, Beverly Moore and husband, Brock, West Plains and Rick Flowers, Branson, Missouri; eight grandchildren, Joseph Clayton, Kara Brown and husband, Justin, Ashton Davis and husband, Joe, Shirley Brown, Lydia Donley and husband, Jim, Morrell Flowers, Brock Logan Moore and Brittney Flowers; twelve great-grandchildren; her siblings, Imogene Davis, Jimmy Barger and wife, Guiva, Roy Barger and wife, Margaret, Carl Barger and wife, Lena and Faye Bittle and husband, Bob; and many nieces and nephews.
Her parents, husband, one grandson, Bobbie Ryan Joyce and five siblings, Harvey Barger, Chester Barger, Betty Gentry, LouDeen Schoolcraft and Willie Barger, preceded her in death.
Memorial contributions may be made to Salutes Veterans Shelter and Thrift Store and may be left at or mailed to Robertson-Drago Funeral Home, 211 West Main, West Plains, MO 65775.
Lee Olen Tackitt, 87, Howard’s Ridge, Missouri, passed away at 6:07 p.m., Tuesday, October 20, 2020 at Baxter Regional Medical Center, Mountain Home, Arkansas.
Mr. Tackitt was born August 2, 1933 at Elijah, Missouri to Willis Marion Tackitt and Martha Hill Tackitt. On October 23, 1987, he was married at Bull Head City, Arizona to Edith White. Mr. Tackitt was a farmer, boilermarker, long time musician and Colonel of the National Trail Riders Association. He was a member of the Clarks Ridge Church of Christ.
He is survived by his wife, Edith Tackitt, Howard’s Ridge, Missouri; four children, Leland Tackitt, West Plains, Missouri, Keith Tackitt and wife, Brenda, Springfield, Missouri, Kevin Tackitt and wife, Madonna, West Plains, Missouri and Lisa Bownds and husband, David, Purdon, Texas; his blended family, Gean Leisey and husband, Steve, Cotter, Arkansas, Theresa Green and husband, Frank, Kennett Square, Pennsylvania and Christine Plymale and husband, Dave, Harrison, Arkansas; many grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren; one brother, Billy Joe Tackitt and wife, Patsy, Caulfield, Missouri; two sisters, Blanche Langston-Harden, Caulfield, Missouri and Myrtle Hensley, Elijah, Missouri; and several nieces and nephews.
His parents, two sons, Rick Philpott and Robert Philpott, three grandchildren, L. J. Tackitt, Bailee Blevins and Stacie Crow, one brother, J. B. Tackitt and six sisters, Jewell Tackitt, Snowie Spoon, Esther Langston, Katherine Tackitt, Dorris Bonham and Pauline Bean, preceded him in death.
Interment in the Elijah Cemetery will be held at a later date. Memorial contributions may be made to the Fair Haven Children’s Home or Paragould Children’s Home and may be left at or mailed to Robertson-Drago Funeral Home, 211 West Main, West Plains, MO 65775.
Graveside services for Fred Thomas York, 94, West Plains, Missouri, will be held at 2:00 p.m., Sunday, October 25, 2020 at Howell Memorial Park Cemetery, under the direction of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.
Mr. York passed away Monday morning, October 19, 2020 at Progress West Hospital, O’Fallon, Missouri.
He was born August 5, 1926 in Sherman, Texas to James Maurice “Marney” and Margaret York. They moved to New Mexico, where his brothers and sister were born in following years. He was the oldest of four children. At 17 years of age and during World War II, Fred joined the United States Navy. He was an electrician aboard the USS Cummings destroyer. During this time, his ship escorted President Franklin D. Roosevelt to Alaska for a historic meeting with world leaders and then served as the backdrop for the President’s national broadcast at the Puget Sound Naval Shipyard. In the following months, the USS Cummings returned to battle and was near Iwo Jima as the war ended. Fred was discharged after the war on March 9th, 1946. On March 5, 1947, he was married in Arkansas City, Kansas, to Helen Flottman. Fred began his civilian life by using his electrical and mechanical skills to repair and build, which led him to large construction projects. He enjoyed teaching others and lived many places including Kansas, California, Louisiana and South America. Fred and Helen moved their family to Missouri in 1970 with the purchase of a farm in Pomona. Fred’s unique work with raising feeder pigs led him to earning the Missouri Farm Family of the Year Award in 1974. In 1977, Fred worked with son Gary to build the Glass Sword Theatre, calculating down to the exact block on the materials they needed. Fred was also a 7th degree Mason. Fred and Helen were married 73 years until Helen’s recent death on October 1st.
He is survived by his three children, Linda York Greer and husband Dorance, Rock Hill, South Carolina, Gary York and wife, Regina, West Plains, Missouri and Amy Iven and husband, Dean, Saint Charles, Missouri; as well as eight grandchildren; and ten great-grandchildren.
Graveside services for Wilfred Rieck, 90, West Plains, Missouri, will be held at 1:00 p.m., Saturday, October 24, 2020 at Howell Memorial Park Cemetery under the direction of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.
Mr. Rieck passed away October 5, 2020 at West Vue Green House Homes.
Wilfred was born in West Plains on December 28, 1929 to Frank and Lena Rieck. His grandparents were immigrants who came from Germany to Birch Tree, Missouri in the 1880’s. He attended school in West Plains, graduating West Plains High School with the Class of 1947. Wilfred was married in 1948 to Lorene Castle in West Plains, they had four children, Sherry, Steve, Cindy and Chris.
He began working early in life, first for a time at the Model Drug Store, then for Padgett Hardware in 1945. He worked as the store manager for Padgett’s for 26 years. During this time he also enjoyed flipping commercial and residential properties. After leaving the Padgetts in 1980 he began his own business, Rieck’s Water Works, selling hardware and plumbing supplies and working as a Master Plumber and Master Electrician. For many years he spent winters in the warm sunshine of Patzcuaro, Michoacon, Mexico. He was a long time member of the First Baptist Church in West Plains faithfully attending the Emmaus Sunday School Class of Charles Phelps.
He is survived by his wife, Velma Mustion Rieck, of West Vue Green House Homes; four children, Sherry Doty, Portland, Oregon, Steve Rieck (Glenda) Springfield, Missouri, Cindy Jones, Springfield, Missouri and Chris Talbott (Brad) Nashville, Tennessee; six grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren; and one sister, Betty Mannbeck ( Don) of St Charles, Missouri.
He is preceeded in death by his parents, one brother Frank Rieck, Jr, two sisters, Mary Carver and Ruth Butterfield and one step-son, Gary Mustion.
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.
Visitation for Jacqueline Marie (Jackie) Layman, 55, Caulfield, Missouri, will be held from 4:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., Friday, October 23, 2020 at Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.
Mrs. Layman died 1:46 p.m., Tuesday, October 20, 2020 at her home. She was born February 28, 1965 at St. Louis, Missouri to Sam E. Martin and Evelyn Vermillion Martin. Mrs. Layman enjoyed cooking and gardening; she loved her pets.
She is survived by her significant other, Ewell Worsham; four children, Brandon Layman, Jennifer Wickham and husband, Dennis, Jodie Prichard and husband, Rob and Matthew Worsham and wife,Wendy; nine grandchildren, Drew, Jack, Luke L., Colt, Grady, Kelby, Luke P., Peta and Emma; two great-grandchildren; one brother, Brian Martin; two sisters, Evanna Koogler and Ronna Cinciripini; and several nieces and nephews.
Her parents and one brother, Clinton Martin, preceded her in death.
Celebration of Life Services for Donna Mae Cooper, 69, West Plains, Missouri, will be held at 2:00 p.m., Friday, October 23, 2020 at West 160 Church of Christ, under the direction of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.
Mrs. Cooper passed away at 2:57 p.m., Friday, October 16, 2020 at her home.
She was born July 10, 1951 at West Plains, Missouri to Raymond Lindeman and Evelyn Youngblood Lindeman.
She was married to Raymond Williams and to this union two children were born, Patricia and Mike. On July 9, 1992, she was married at Mammoth Spring, Arkansas to Harold Cooper who preceded her in death on March 29, 2019. Mrs. Cooper had been employed at the International Shoe Company. She loved quilting, sewing, gardening and was a member of the Gammill Janome Sewing Club. Mrs. Cooper liked to fish and enjoyed using a metal detector with her late husband. She loved her dog, Bear.
She is survived by two children, Patricia Lentz and husband, Bennie, Bay, Arkansas and Mike Williams, West Plains, Missouri; step-son, Brett Cooper, State of New Jersey; two grandchildren, Brittany Bergman and Ian Bergman and wife, Kayla; one brother, Larry Lindeman and wife, Sherry, West Plains, Missouri; many nephews; her special friend, Ronald McDowell; and many close friends.
Her parents and husband preceded her in death.
Memorial contributions may be made to the West 160 Church of Christ and may be left or mailed to Robertson-Drago Funeral Home, 211 West Main, West Plains, MO 65775.
Cora Jane Strathearn, 83, West Plains, Missouri, passed away at 7:30 p.m., Sunday, October 18, 2020, at her home.
She was born April 27, 1937, to James Case and Letha Lichtenthaler Case. On November 29, 1984, she was married in Boone County, Arkansas, to Robert Strathearn, who preceded her in death on May 7, 2007. Jane was an avid gardener and a wonderful cook. She was a member of First United Methodist Church. Mrs. Strathearn helped spearhead the Columbarium, was active in the Lunch Bunch and Joy at the Church.
She is survived by one daughter, Michelle Wilson and fiancé Robert Stirewalt; two grandchildren, Bryce Condra and Katie Altic; and Phil Rogers, who was like a son.
Her parents, husband, one son, Greg Wilson, one daughter, Marla Geary and eleven brothers and sisters, preceded her in death.
A Celebration of Life Service will be held at a later date. Memorial contributions may be made to First United Methodist Church and may be left at or mailed to Robertson-Drago Funeral Home, 211 West Main, West Plains, MO 65775.
Visitation services for Anita Heflin, 64, West Plains, Missouri, will be held from 6:00 until 8:00 p.m., Wednesday, October 21, 2020, at the Langston Street Chapel of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home. A private burial will be held at Howell Memorial Park Cemetery, under the direction of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.
Mrs. Heflin passed away at 9:07 a.m., Sunday, October 18, 2020, at Phelps Health, Rolla, Missouri.
She was born April 4, 1956 at Rockford, Illinois, to Irvin Hickman and Amelia Alfaro Hickman.
Anita attended school at Koshkonong and graduated from West Plains High School with the Class of 1974. After graduation she moved to St. Louis, Missouri where she worked at Farmers Home Administration for several years. In 1977 she began a new adventure and moved to Albuquerque, New Mexico. During her time spent in St. Louis and Albuquerque, she met many people and made lifelong friendships. Anita returned home to her farm near West Plains to be closer to her parents in 1987. On November 18, 1989, she was married at Township Line Church, to Steve Heflin, who preceded her in death on September 10, 2012. Anita loved animals and spent many years raising miniature horses; she also enjoyed working in her yard, traveling, going to casinos, reading, playing games and spending time with her friends. Anita was a loving, courageous and giving person, often helping others silently or giving shelter and offering assistance to those in need. She was loved by many and her presence will be deeply missed.
She is survived by her companion and care giver, Max Benavidez and many friends, including her chosen sister, Missi Johnson.
Her parents, husband, several aunts and uncles and a special cousin and friend, Terri Senger, preceded her in death.
Memorial contributions may be made to West Plains Regional Animal Shelter and may be left at or mailed to Robertson-Drago Funeral Home, 211 West Main, West Plains, MO 65775.
Graveside services for Helen Jean Sharp, 90, West Plains, Missouri, will be held at 2:00 p.m., Tuesday, October 20, 2020 at Oak Lawn Cemetery, under the direction of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.
Mrs. Sharp passed away at 6:50 a.m., Friday, October 16, 2020, at NHC Healthcare.
She was born September 5, 1930, at Oneida, Tennessee, to Horace Davidson and Gertie Thomas Davidson. On October 27, 1947, she was married at Knoxville, Tennessee, to James Venus Sharp, who preceded her in death on October 31, 2010. Mrs. Sharp worked together with her husband as the owner of several businesses over the years. She took great pride in being a mother.
She is survived by four children, Linda Davis and husband, Charlie, Bobbye Wiesler, Rick Sharp and wife, Robyn and Robin Carroll and husband, Kenny; eleven grandchildren, Todd Davis, Jason Davis, Jessica DiBernardo, Heather Wiesler, Jennifer Stout, Lauren Kelly, Ritchie Sharp, Beth Collins, Jamie Johnson, Amanda Pool and Jacob Carroll; twenty-six great-grandchildren; several great-great-grandchildren; one sister, Shirley Barker; one brother, Vanis Davidson and wife, Christine; two sisters-in-law, Mildred Miller and husband, Bill and Irene Davidson; and many nieces and nephews.
Her parents, husband, one sister, Marcie Blankenship and four brothers, Junior, Jay, Jamie and Paul Davidson, preceded her in death.
Mrs. Sharp will lie in state from 5:00 until 9:00 p.m., Monday, 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.
Graveside services for Naomia Ruth Hutchings, 66, West Plains, Missouri, will be held at 10:00 a.m., Tuesday, October 20, 2020 at Union Grove Cemetery, under the direction of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.
Mrs. Hutchings passed away at 3:27 p.m., Thursday, October 15, 2020, at Mercy Hospital, Springfield, Missouri.
She was born May 10, 1954, at Wichita, Kansas, to William Joe Romans, Sr. and Marylene Wade Romans. On September 22, 1985, she was married at Pottersville, Missouri, to Cal Hutchings. Mrs. Hutchings was an LPN. She enjoyed gardening, flowers and canning. Ruthie loved listening to and playing bluegrass music with the Romans Family; she played the bass fiddle and was a great pianist. She was a member of HOBA and served as a board member of a number of years. Her grandchildren and great-grandchildren brought her great joy; she loved being surrounded by her family and friends. Mrs. Hutchings was a Christian and was always offering comfort or a helping hand to others.
She is survived by her husband, Cal Hutchings, of the family home; three children, Tara Wilbanks and husband, Kurt, West Plains; Kirk Hutchings and wife, Becky, West Plains and Lanette Estill and husband, Dan, State of Kansas; seven grandchildren, Jacob, Kyle, Shonti, Shelby, Nolan, Maguire and Sadie; two great-grandchildren, Carlee Belle and Bexlee Klaire; her parents, William Joe Romans, Sr. and Marylene Wade Romans, West Plains; three brothers, Delbert Romans, Randall Romans and wife, Teresa, all of West Plains and Bill Romans, Jr. and wife Chrissy, Republic, Missouri; three sisters, Mary Jo Croney and husband, Jerry, Trena Parker and husband, Lee and Teresa Jolliff and husband, Jim, all of West Plains; and numerous nieces and nephews.
Her grandparents, Clyde and Elsie Wade and Clinton and Lola Romans, father-in-law and mother-in-law, Alfred and Mina Grace Hutchings, one brother, William Clyde Romans, one nephew, Samuel Paul Romans and one niece, Elizabeth Croney, preceded her in death.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Family and may be left at or mailed to Robertson-Drago Funeral Home, 211 West Main, West Plains, MO 65775.
Trina Anne Campbell, 59, Willow Springs, Missouri, passed away at 8:49 p.m., Friday, October 16, 2020, at Mercy Hospital, Springfield, Missouri.
She was born July 16, 1961, at Ashtabula, Ohio, to Thomas Campbell and Betty Wise Campbell. Trina loved her nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews. She enjoyed writing letters, crossword puzzles and doing things for others.
She is survived by one sister, Cheteena Huey; and many nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews.
Her parents and one sister, Tomasina Talfeski preceded her in death.
Funeral services for Janet Delores Redburn, 82, Dora, Missouri, will be held at 10:00 a.m., Monday, October 19, 2020 in the Langston Street Chapel of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.
Mrs. Redburn passed away at 7:20 a.m., Wednesday, October 14, 2020, at Brooke Haven Healthcare.
She was born March 9, 1938, at Pottersville, Missouri, to Wayne Orville Walker and Ina Lavada Fox Walker. On September 30, 1956, she was married at West Plains, Missouri, to William (Bill) Elijah Redburn and to this union two children were born. She and Bill spent most of their lives residing on their farm in Crider, Missouri. Mrs. Redburn worked for many years at Roho and Marathon Electric. She enjoyed many hobbies and activities, including going to auctions, collecting glassware, gardening and canning. Mrs. Redburn was of the Church of Christ faith and was baptized.
She is survived by her husband, Bill Redburn, of the family home; two children, Curtis Redburn and family, Caulfield, Missouri and Janice Redburn, Dora, Missouri; and other family and friends.
Her parents, two brothers, Elbert Lee Walker and Charles (DeWayne) Walker and her father-in-law and mother-in-law, Marion Lee and Iris Irene Dunkin Redburn, preceded her in death.
Mrs. Redburn will lie in state from 6:00 until 8:00 p.m., Sunday, in the Langston Street Chapel of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home. Burial will be in the Union Grove Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Union Grove Cemetery or American Diabetes Association and may be left at or mailed to Robertson-Drago Funeral Home, 211 West Main, West Plains, MO 65775.
Graveside services for Eva Michelle (Shelly) Lovins, 56, West Plains, Missouri, will be held at 2:00 p.m., Monday, October 19, 2020 at Hope’s Rest Cemetery, under the direction of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.
Mrs. Lovins passed away at 6:30 a.m., Wednesday, October 14, 2020, at Ozarks Medical Center.
She was born August 21, 1964, at West Plains, Missouri, to Lloyd Franklin Drumright and Helen Kaye Croney Drumright. On December 1, 1983, she was married at West Plains, to Timothy Lee Lovins, who preceded her in death on June 6, 2020. She enjoyed camping and fishing and loved her family and grandchildren. Mrs. Lovins was of the Baptist faith.
She is survived by three children, Jessica Kenslow, West Plains, Missouri, Mitch Lovins and wife, Jolene and Tyler Lovins and wife, Jessica, all of Caulfield, Missouri; nine grandchildren, Emily, Kelsey and Ellie Kenslow, Ruhstyn, Traityn, Brixtyn, Jaxxon and Brycen Lovins and Braidyn Schultz; and two sisters, Sharon Bussard and husband, John David and Sheila Ochoa and husband, Junior, all of West Plains, Missouri.
Her parents, husband and grandparents, Albert and Betty Drumright and Odie and Alberta Croney, preceded her in death.
Mrs. Lovins will lie in state from 5:00 until 8:00 p.m., Sunday, at Robertson-Drago Funeral Home. Memorial contributions may be made to Hope’s Rest Cemetery and may be left at or mailed to Robertson-Drago Funeral Home, 211 West Main, West Plains, MO 65775.
On Sunday, October 11, 2020, James Floyd (Pard) Eades, age 77, received his ultimate promotion and joined all those waiting and rejoicing with open arms in heaven. James was brought into the world on May 4, 1943 at Christa Hogan Hospital in West Plains, MO by his parents, Melvin James (Chick) and Dollie Eades (Bryson). James grew up south of West Plains and attended Lost Spring School during his elementary years. He fondly recalled memories of the school and made lifelong friends from those times. Invaluable lessons and knowledge was gained through his dad and uncles. He learned to hunt, fish, cut timber, run a sawmill, a bulldozer and fix almost anything without spending a dime. He graduated from West Plains High School with the Class of 1961. James met the love of his life on a hay ride in 1962, knew she was the one and married her on March 8, 1964 at China Union Church south of West Plains. With life by the tail and all their belongings in a ’57 Ford Fairlane, he moved them to Kansas City. There he worked for Greenwell Tractor Supply, Great Northern Electric and Allis-Chalmers. Longing for country life, they moved back to West Plains in 1968 where he partnered with his dad at Eades’ and Son Sawmill. He built his log home in the woods using the trees from the land he loved so much. It was also there James and Linda would work side by side for the remainder of his days. In the early 1970’s James worked and learned the machine shop trade at his father-in-law’s business, Bates Machine Shop. In 1974 James found his calling and began Eades’ Machine Works. With just a high-school diploma, he was self-taught to become one of the most respected machinists in the area. After his retirement in 2010, James returned to the land and his farm. He loved all things fishing, bulldozing, combining seed, tractors, welding and sawmills. But, most of all, he cherished his family.
He is survived by his wife, Linda, of the family home; two daughters, Jalynn Meidell and Cynthia Lee and husband, Troy, of West Plains. He was PawPaw to 5 grandchildren: Keegan Osborne, Lathan Osborne, Melinda Lee, Carly Osborne and Morgan Lee and one great-grandchild, Ellie Jo Osborne. He leaves one sister, Margret Wiltfong of DeSoto, Kansas; and a brother-in-law, Clifford Bates of Marshfield, MO. He was Uncle Pard to his Nephews; Paul Wiltfong (Regina) of Olathe, Kansas, Doug Wiltfong (Pam) of Kansas City, MO, Scott Bates (Brandie),of Erin, Tennessee, and nieces; Elaine Cornman (Wes) of Marshfield, Missouri and Candy Bates of Durant, Texas, and as well as several cousins, great nieces and nephews. He also leaves behind so many kind neighbors and friends.
James is preceded in death by his parents, son-in-law, Mike Meidell; brothers-in-law, Ronald Bates and David Wiltfong, sister-in-law, Renee Bates and a niece, Vicki Bates. Certainly not to be forgotten are his special fishing buddies that will be waiting with fishing poles in heaven: Mark Newman, Eddie Kimes, and Ernie Armstrong.
Mr. Eades will lie in state from 5:00 until 8:00 p.m., Friday, at the Langston Street Chapel of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home. Funeral Services will be held on Saturday, October 17, 2020 at 10:30 a.m. at the Eades’ Family Farm located 11 1/2 miles south on JJ Highway in West Plains. Markers will be posted. The dress will be very casual. Interment will be held immediately following the ceremony at Evergreen Cemetery.
Donations can be made in James’ name to Evergreen Cemetery, The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research or Autism Speaks and may be left at or mailed to Robertson-Drago Funeral Home, 211 West Main, West Plains, MO 65775.
Graveside services for Patricia Paulette (Driskell) Tindall, 76, Chesterfield, Missouri, will be held at 2:00 p.m., Saturday, October 17, 2020 at Howell Valley Cemetery, under the direction of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.
Mrs. Tindall entered into the kingdom of Heaven Thursday, October 8, 2020.
She was born July 29, 1944 in Dora, Missouri. She owned and operated Pat’s Hickory House, was a member of the West Plains Am Vets, worked with the hospital auxiliary and was a volunteer at the Ozark bluegrass festivals at HOBA Park. She leaves behind many extended family members and friends in the Howell county area and also in and around Wilder, Idaho.
She is survived by two daughters, Sandrea (Vince) Lenzini of Arnold, Missouri and Paula Howell of Chesterfield Missouri; one son, Robert (Sue) Howell of Colcord Oklahoma; two grandsons, SFC John(Melissa) Schmidt US Army and Micheal Howell of West Plains; three granddaughters, Desiree McAfee, Ashley (Paul) Bradshaw and Allie (Tray) Whitsell all of West Plains; she was also the proud great-grandmother of five great-granddaughters and two great-grandsons; two brothers, Clifford (Kathy) Driskell of St. Peters Missouri and Marion(Janie) Driskell of Rover, Missouri; two sisters, Rebecca (Darrell) Davis and Liz (Earl) Anderson both of West Plains; and many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews and one great-great-nephew.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Leroy Tindall, her parents, Clifford and Julia Driskell, two brothers, Eugene and Paul and one granddaughter, Dr. Nature Valendez.
Mrs. Tindall will lie in state from 5:00 until 9:00 p.m., Friday, at Robertson-Drago Funeral Home. Memorial contributions may be made to American Diabetes Association and may be left at or mailed to Robertson-Drago Funeral Home, 211 West Main, West Plains, MO 65775.
Funeral services for Mary Ellen Stanley, 83, Pomona, Missouri, will be held at 11:00 a.m., Friday, October 16, 2020 at Pomona Assembly of God Church, under the direction of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.
Mrs. Stanley passed away peacefully at 11:06 a.m., Sunday, October 11, 2020, at her daughter’s home, surrounded by her family,
She was born in Mitchell, Arkansas and grew up in Viola with three brothers whom she remained close to for the entirety of their lives. In 1955, she married the love of her life, J.R. Stanley, and their happy union lasted more than 50 years until his passing in 2005. She raised three daughters whom she was incredibly proud of, had six grandkids who were the apple of her eye, and to her delight in 2019 she became a great-grandmother. Mary lived for her family and they brought her more happiness than anything else in her life. She had a zest for life that inspired all who knew her, and having been raised with three older brothers, she was a talented athlete. She was a Chiefs fan, an avid reader and travelled every time she had an opportunity. She had an endless spirit of adventure and could boast that she had visited 48 states and numerous countries. Her work was also very important to her. She was a respiratory therapist at Ozarks Medical Center in West Plains for many years, even returning after retirement to help in other capacities. She made a great many friends there who remained in her life until her passing. The cornerstone of Mary’s life was her faith. This was made evident through her attendance in and service to her church, Pomona Assembly of God. She worked as the church secretary and helped clean the church for many years. In 2006 she was part of a missionary group to Guatemala. There is no question that Mary will be deeply missed by her countless friends and family, but there is a sense of peace knowing she is in the arms of her Savior. A relationship with Christ was always the most important thing in her life.
Mary is survived by her brother, Levi Mason, of Warrensburg, Missouri; her daughters, Mary Ann Risla and husband Jan, Billings, Montana, Patricia Stoops and husband, Tim, West Plains, Missouri and Carla Trick and husband Jerry, West Plains, Missouri; her grandchildren, Danielle Webb and husband Rob, West Plains, Missouri, Ethan Stoops, West Plains, Keara Risla, West Plains, Charlie Trick and wife, Ellie, Fayette, Missouri, Karsten Risla, Billings, Montana and Lorin Trick, West Plains great-granddaughter, Preslee Webb, West Plains; and many nieces, nephews, brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, whom she adored.
She is preceded in death by her parents, two brothers, Paul Mason and Roland Mason, her daughter, Susan Stanley, her husband, J.R. Stanley and one great-grandson, Jaden Webb.
Mrs. Stanley will lie in state from 5:00 until 7:00 p.m., Thursday, at Robertson-Drago Funeral Home. Burial will be in the Mackey Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Assembly of God’s Children’s Missions and may be left at or mailed to Robertson-Drago Funeral Home, 211 West Main, West Plains, MO 65775.
Graveside services for Junior Francis Pettyjohn, 78, West Plains, Missouri, will be held at 2:00 p.m., Friday, October 16, 2020 at New Hope Cemetery, under the direction of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.
Mr. Pettyjohn passed away at 5:35 p.m., Thursday, October 8, 2020, at his home.
He was born March 8, 1942, at Peace Valley, Missouri, to Ollie Francis Pettyjohn and Maymie Ellen McFarland Pettyjohn. Mr. Pettyjohn was a veteran, having served with the United States Army. Before his retirement he worked at DRS, formerly Southwest Truck Body. He enjoyed fishing, playing pool and making deals. Mr. Pettyjohn attended Church of the Brethren.
He is survived by one son, Scott Pettyjohn and wife, Lora, Peace Valley, Missouri; four grandchildren, Alisha Bettis and fiancé James Hood, Brandy Pettyjohn and fiancé Joseph Wheeler, Scotty Pettyjohn and fiancé Amber Brimm and Samantha Headly; fifteen great-grandchildren; four nieces, Treena Blades, Ellen Weaver, Donna Ross and Sharon Pena; one nephew, Dwayne Pettyjohn; and special friends, Brian Shrubb and Charlene (Pinky) Bales.
His parents, one sister, Lois Morgan, one brother, Wayne Pettyjohn and one nephew, Mark Shultz, preceded him in death.
Mr. Pettyjohn will lie in state from 5:00 until 8:00 p.m., Thursday, at Robertson-Drago Funeral Home. Memorial contributions may be made to New Hope Cemetery and may be left at or mailed to Robertson-Drago Funeral Home, 211 West Main, West Plains, MO 65775.
Barbara (Bobbi Jo) Gish was born in Mountain Home, Arkansas on July 30, 1953. Her parents, Joe and Peggy Estes, raised her along with her three sisters, Marsha Estes, Vicky McLaughlin, and Linda Hedeen on a farm in Gamelial, Arkansas. There, Bobbi Jo helped raise chickens, goats, horses, and cattle. They were so successful, in fact, that the Estes family won the 1979 Farm Family of the Year award for Baxter County, Arkansas. Bobbi Jo later became a CNA before marrying Leroy Gish and having two children; Loren (Odes) and Melissa. Her hobbies included gardening, hunting, painting, and riding horses.
Despite being diagnosed with MS (Multiple Sclerosis) in 1994 and a subsequent divorce, she continued to bring joy and love to those around her as she resided in nursing homes both in Neosho and West Plains, Missouri. Full of determination and perseverance, Bobbi went on to win numerous awards as she competed in wheel chair races and hog calling in the Senior Olympics. She took every opportunity to live life to its fullest and was a warrior to the very end.
On October 8th, 2020, Barbara passed away after courageously battling MS and its subsequent complications for over 26 years.
Barbara Gish was preceded in death by her parents and sisters, Marsha and Vicki.
She is survived by her sister and brother-in-law, Linda and Tom Hedeen; three nephews, Michael, Tom and Joe Bernard; two children, Loren (29) and Melissa Gish (26); and her two grandchildren, Adilynn (8) and Elliot Gish (2).
Arrangements under the d irection of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.