Funeral services for Rhonda Marline Tharp, 74, West Plains, Missouri, will be held at 10:00 a.m., Monday, October 13, 2025, at Langston Street Chapel of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.
Mrs. Tharp passed away at 4:04 a.m., Wednesday, October 8, 2025, at Ozarks Healthcare.
She was born May 31, 1951, at Hartshorn, Missouri, to Leland and Dorothy Plummer Stoops. On June 20, 1970, she was married at Birch Tree, Missouri, to Larry Richard (Dick) Tharp, who preceded her in death on May 31, 2019. Before her retirement, Rhonda worked many years at International Shoe Company and Regal Beloit. She loved quilting, reading and word searches. She thought the world of her grandkids and her dog, Elvis. Mrs. Tharp was a faithful member of the Church of God of Prophecy for many years.
She is survived by two children, Larry Tharp, Jr., and wife, Christy, West Plains, Missouri and Wendy Leonard and husband, Coley, Caulfield, Missouri; two grandchildren, Lilly and Jackson Tharp; two brothers, Steven Stoops and wife, Janet, Ellington, Missouri and Rick Stoops and wife, Sheila, West Plains, Missouri; one sister-in-law, Pat Stoops, West Plains, Missouri; and many nieces and nephews.
Her parents, husband and one brother, Paul (Junior) Stoops, preceded her in death.
Visitation will be held from 6:00 until 8:00 p.m., Sunday, at Langston Street Chapel. Burial will be in Elk Creek Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Elk Creek Cemetery, and may be left at or mailed to Robertson-Drago Funeral Home, 211 W. Main St., West Plains, Missouri.
Funeral services for Lillie Eudene Adkisson Holt, 97, West Plains, Missouri, will be held at 2:00 p.m., Saturday, October 11, 2025, in the Rose Chapel at Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.
Mrs. Holt passed away at 11:46 a.m., Monday, October 6, 2025, at West Vue Nursing Center.
She was born June 27, 1928, at Lunenburg, Arkansas, to Willie and Lillie Shannon Smith. On January 18, 1947, she was married at Melbourne, Arkansas, to Ernest Willie Adkisson, who preceded her in death on April 9, 1992. On May 28, 1997, she was married at Mountain Home, Arkansas, to Donald Raymond Holt, who preceded her in death on May 31, 2009. She worked for over 30 years at International Shoe Company in West Pains, as a floor lady in the fitting department. Reading was a favorite pastime; she also pieced and quilted many beautiful quilts. Mrs. Holt was a charter member of United Freewill Baptist Church, where she played a guitar for a church group, The Gospel Chords.
She is survived by her four children, Venita Fritz and husband, Joe, Arnold, Missouri, Geneva Andrews and husband, Gordon, West Plains, Glennis Adkisson, Lancaster, Missouri and Dennis Adkisson, West Plains; nine grandchildren, Kim and husband, Adam, Kelly, Cindy, Jared and wife, Melanie, Keely and husband, Steve, Kinsey and husband, Dustin, Mandi and husband, Brandon, Jodi and Michael and wife, Lindsey; nineteen great-grandchildren, Luke and wife, Cassie, Eli, Lydia, Kaige, Gracie, Halie, Payton, Gianna, Blake, Lyndi, Braden, Selleck, Archer, Mallorie, Lily, Andrew, James, Selby, Bailey and Brody; five great-great-grandchildren, Holland, Sawyer, Atlas, Noble, Bo and two on the way with one in December and one in April; her three adult step-children and their families were enjoyable visitors to her home; and many nieces and nephews who she got to see at family reunions.
Her parents, husbands, two daughters-in-law, Sheila Adkisson and Janice Adkisson, one great-grandson, Brody, and nine brothers and sisters, preceded her in death.
Mrs. Holt will lie in state from 6:00 until 8:00 p.m., Friday, at Robertson-Drago Funeral Home and visitation will be held from 1:00 until 2:00 p.m., Saturday. Burial will be in Howell Memorial Park Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to United Freewill Baptist Church, and may be left at or mailed to Robertson-Drago Funeral Home, 211 W. Main St., West Plains, Missouri.
A memorial service for Dale D. McKee, 84, Willow Springs, Missouri, will be held at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, October 11, 2025, at Langston Street Chapel of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.
Mr. McKee passed away at 6:24 p.m., Friday, October 3, 2025, at his home.
He was born November 19, 1940, at Dormas, Ozark County, Missouri, to Carl McKee and Ruby Russell McKee. On June 30, 1967, he was married at Willow Springs, Missouri, to Patricia Murrell. Mr. McKee graduated from Bakersfield High School in 1958. He loved his horses and his life on the dairy and beef farm. He enjoyed spending time at Cloud 9 Ranch with his cousins, grandkids and his dog, Yodi. He also enjoyed visiting with his friends at “the University” and going with his wife to listen to music at Roy’s Store in Dora on Tuesday nights and prior to that to the American Legion in Willow Springs to listen to Sherry Lovan, Alan Strickland and others. His family was his life. He had many fond memories from working out west with family and friends. Mr. McKee was baptized and gave his life to Christ at Pomona Christian Church.
He is survived by his wife, Pat McKee, of the family home; two children, Brad McKee and wife, Cathy, Willow Springs, Missouri and Stacy Bart and husband, Brian, Billings, Missouri; five grandchildren, Chelsea Gwaltney and husband, Michael, Hannah Stolba, Brody McKee, Tucker McKee and Greyson Bart; four great-grandchildren, Benjamin Gwaltney, Reid Gwaltney, Eli Stolba and Callie Stolba; one brother, Jim McKee, West Plains, Missouri; one sister, Mary Ann Joyce and husband, Bill, West Plains, Missouri; one sister-in-law, Jeanne Murrell; many nieces and nephews; and cousin, Steve McKee and wife, Linda.
His parents, one infant brother, Junior McKee and two sisters, LaVelle Robinson and Patsy McKee, preceded him in death.
Visitation will be held from 10:00 until 11:00 a.m., Saturday, at Langston Street Chapel. 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 W. Main St., West Plains, Missouri.
Graveside services for Bobbie Keith Ragon, 91, West Plains, Missouri, will be held at 2:00 p.m., Thursday, October 9, 2025, at South Fork Cemetery, under the direction of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.
Mr. Ragon passed away at 5:53 a.m., Monday, September 29, 2025, at Springfield, Missouri.
Bob Ragon was born Bobbie Keith Ragon, the youngest of eight children of Vonnie Ragon and Inez Alexander Ragon, in Hunt City, Illinois, on December 12, 1933. Bobbie spent his childhood mostly in the Willow Hills area of Southern Illinois. He attended a small, one-room rural school where his older brother, Bill, was also his teacher one year. “Bob”, to his family & friends, graduated from Oblong High School, Oblong, Illinois, with the Class of 1950, where he met and later married his wife of seventy-one years, Joan Wilson Ragon. He joined the United States Air Force, spending most of his military career in Spain, Okinawa, and California. One of the highlights of his tour in Spain was he was chosen to be an “Extra”, portraying a British Soldier with his blonde hair and blue eyes, in the filming of Lawrence of Arabia. He also was present in Hawaii when former Senator and Vietnam POW John McCain was brought home after years of capture. Another highlight was Bob met singer and actress Debbie Reynolds while on a USO Trip to Okinawa. Therefore, the next girl child born was named Debbie. While serving twenty-two years in the Air Force, he held a variety of jobs, made lots of friends, and learned how to play Pinochle. He retired as a Master Sergeant. After retiring from the Air Force, Bob owned a successful well drilling business. He also turned his hobby of raising cattle into a full-time business, living in Madera, California, in the San Joaquin Valley. Bob and Joan relocated to West Plains, Missouri, (South Fork area) around 1990, shipping the household items and two livestock trucks filled with his Charolais Cattle. Bob and Joan built Ragon Ranch, raising cattle, baling hay, and “Living the Good Life in Paradise.” Bob continued to work his cattle until his death September 29, 2025, at the age of ninety-one.
Bob was preceded in death by his parents, siblings, Harold, Willie (Bill), Henrieta, Leon, Lois, Ilene, and Iola Mae, and his youngest daughter, Janice Odom, of West Plains, Missouri.
Bob is survived by his wife, Joan; two daughters, Nancy Jaye, Crestview, Florida, and Debra Ayres, Conway, Arkansas; five grandchildren; and twelve great-grandchildren.
Visitation will be from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., Wednesday, at Robertson-Drago Funeral Home. Memorial contributions may be made to Moody Volunteer Fire Department 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 Judy Kay Tackitt, 75, Dora, Missouri, will be held at 11:00 a.m., Thursday, October 9, 2025, at Ball Church of Christ.
On Tuesday, September 30, 2025, Judy Kay (Tallon) Tackitt, a loving wife, mother, grandmother, and homemaker passed away at the age of seventy-five. Judy was born on April 2, 1950, in Bakersfield, California, to Lizzie (Raglan) Tallon and Jerry Price Tallon Jr. In 1968, Judy graduated high school at Wasco Union High in Wasco, California. In 1967, she married Jerry Tackitt. They shared life together for fifty-seven years. From their marriage they had two children. Judy worked as a teacher’s assistant for several years. She was the publicist for Heritage Christian University and took classes in theology for two years. She worked in banking, auto manufacturing (nine years for Toyota), Kimball International, and was the secretary for the Huntingburg Church of Christ from 1998 – 2017. Judy’s support enabled her husband to pursue full-time ministry in the Lord’s church. The impact of her life may not be realized fully on earth, but heaven knows. She loved the Lord and helped many come to know Him more fully.
She is survived by her husband, Jerry Tackitt; one daughter, Lorie Tackitt; and one son-in-law, Wes Roberts. She leaves behind eleven grandchildren, Jay (Kim) Roberts, Taylor (Mandi) Collins, Olivia (Scott) Mackey, Emilie (Aaron) Anderson, Bobbi Roberts, Alli (Tyler) Huffman, Austin Roberts, Matthew Roberts, Kaylee Roberts, Stacy Roberts, and Silas Roberts. She is also survived by two sisters, Joan Bonham and Naomi Grontkowski; one brother, Lowell Tallon; eleven great-grandchildren; and many nieces, nephews, and friends.
Judy is preceded in death by her daughter, Marcie Roberts, her parents, and one sister, Ramona Belt.
Visitation will be held prior to the service, from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m., Thursday, at the church. Memorial contributions may be made to Elijah Cemetery and may be left at or mailed to Robertson-Drago Funeral Home, 211 West Main, West Plains, MO 65775.
Graveside services for Carolyn Jane Luck, 82, Cabool, Missouri, will be held at 10:00 a.m., Monday, October 6, 2025, at Howell Memorial Park Cemetery, under the direction of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.
Mrs. Luck passed away at 1:44 p.m., Tuesday, September 30, 2025, at her home.
She was born January 26, 1943, at Huntington, West Virginia, to Gene Hearald and Gladys Ferguson. On February 19, 1972, she was married to Ernest Luck, who preceded her in death on November 10, 2002. Mrs. Luck loved arts and crafts. She was passionate about helping others and would take them in as her own. Her nickname was Grandma of Willow Springs. Mrs. Luck loved her family and God.
She is survived by six children, John Michael Sheehan, Houston, Missouri, Anita Michelle Burton, Lomita, California, Ouida Marcellas Malmskog (Glen), Houston, Missouri, Benson Burton, Phoenix, Arizona, Charmaine Luck (Kenny Turnbull), West Plains, Missouri, and Kimberly Luck, Houston, Missouri; twenty-five grandchildren; many great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.
Her parents, husband, one daughter, Devbra Luck, one grandson, Kenneth Brauer, one brother Marvin, one sister, Brenda, and two aunts, Nelie Duggal and Pearl Severin, preceded her in death.
Visitation will be held prior to the service, from 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m., Monday, at Howell Memorial Park Cemetery.
Funeral services for Scott Frank Kosemund, 57, will be held at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, October 4, 2025, at Ball Church of Christ, under the direction of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.
Mr. Kosemund lost his battle with bile duct cancer and passed away at 5:13 p.m., Thursday, September 25, 2025, at his home.
He was born February 20, 1968, at Iowa City, Iowa, to Frank and Elsie Marie Trail Kosemund. He was a veteran, having served his country in the United States Army. Mr. Kosemund was a long-time resident of West Plains. He was a big sports fan. The Kansas City Chiefs and the St. Louis Cardinals were his favorite teams.
He is survived by two sisters, Rita Smith and husband, Robert, and Valdean Kosemund; several nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews; and many aunts, uncles, and cousins
His parents preceded him in death.
Visitation will be held prior to the service, from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m., Saturday, at Ball Church of Christ. Burial will be at Ball Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Ball Cemetery and may be left at or mailed to Robertson-Drago Funeral Home, 211 West Main, West Plains, MO 65775.
Funeral services for David Bruce Tompkins, 86, West Plains, Missouri, will be held at 2:00 p.m., Thursday, October 2, 2025, at Spring Creek Church, under the direction of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.
Mr. Tompkins passed away at 11:02 a.m., Thursday, September 25, 2025, at his home surrounded by his loving family.
He was born July 17, 1939, at Cornwall Hospital, Cornwall, New York, to David Hammond Tompkins and Madeline Edith Cosman. Dave was a licensed water well driller in New York, New Jersey and Missouri. He worked for over 65 years in the water well drilling and well service. He started a well service business in Missouri with his son, Rip Tompkins, who continued the business until 2023. Dave was proud of his military service with the United States Navy and was aboard the USS Forrestal where he worked launching planes and made three Mediterranean cruises. Dave met Judith Louise Eckert in June of 1963 and they were married the following June at Montgomery, New York. They enjoyed over 61 years together and had three children, Michell (Shelly) Cannon and husband, David, David (Rip) Tompkins, Jr. and wife, Lisa and Carrie Siegman and husband, Gregg and six grandchildren, David J. Cannon, Zachary Cannon and wife, Maggie, Marisa Rickard and husband, Cliff, Ryan Tompkins, Abigail Siegman and fiancé, Justin and Nathan Siegman. Dave loved his family and was very proud of them.
He is survived by his wife, Judy, of the family home; his children; grandchildren; one brother, Rick Tompkins; and many nieces, nephews, family and friends.
His parents, and one sister, Joan Denardo, preceded him in death.
Visitation will be held from 6:00 until 8:00 p.m., Wednesday, in the main room at Robertson-Drago Funeral Home. Burial will be in New Hope Cemetery.
James Gordon Thompson, 86, Willow Springs, Missouri, passed away at 9:20 p.m., Tuesday, September 23, 2025, at Willow Care Nursing Home.
He was born November 20, 1938, at Elk Creek near Rover, Missouri, to James Walter Thompson and Mary P. Keltner Thompson. Mr. Thompson was an avid quail hunter and loved riding horses. He was a lifetime member of Missouri Foxtrot Horse Breeders Association, was a 33rd degree Mason at the Masonic Lodge in Joplin, Missouri, where he was a member for over fifty years.
He is survived by his son, Byron Thompson and wife, Marj, Columbia, Missouri; four grandchildren and one great-grandchild, Jacob Thompson and wife, Amy and their child, Hadley Thompson, Overland Park, Kansas, Zachery Thompson, Anderson, Missouri, Allyison Thompson, Kansas City, Missouri and Madison Thompson, San Ramone, California; one sister, Linda Coursey, Springfield, Missouri; and one nephew, Brad Coursey, Springfield, Missouri.
His parents and one brother, Richard (Rick) Thompson, preceded him in death.
Arrangements under the direction of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.
Funeral services for Marilyn Sue Surritte, 81, West Plains, Missouri, will be held at 10:00 a.m., Tuesday, September 30, 2025, at His Place House of Worship, under the direction of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.
Mrs. Surritte passed away at 4:08 p.m., Wednesday, September 24, 2025, at her home.
She was born December 30, 1943, in Harrison County, Missouri, to Harvey Raymond Christie and Edith Mae Damon Christie. Sue graduated high school in Bethany, Missouri in 1961. She was married to Edwin Earl Wilson in June of 1961 and to this union three daughters were born, Kim, Beverly and Cheryl. On June 1, 1971, she was married to Ralph Warren Surritte, who preceded her in death in August of 2019. Sue worked for many years as a server at Skillet’s. She enjoyed making candy, embroidery, bowling and listening to gospel music. She loved to travel with her family. Mrs. Surritte was a born again Christian and was a current member of His Place House of Worship.
She is survived by three daughters, Kim Wilson, West Plains, Beverly Dye and husband, Tim, Bakersfield, Missouri and Cheryl Walker, West Plains; four grandchildren, Lacy Mill and husband, Michael, Caulfield, Missouri, Joshua Dye and wife, Sabrina, West Plains, Keenan Walker and significant other, Lyndsi, West Plains and Cheylyn Smith and husband, Dillin, West Plains; five great-grandchildren; two brothers, Dwight Christie, Appleton City, Missouri and Herb Christie, State of Iowa; one sister, Lillian McCully and husband, Ron, State of Illinois; and several nieces and nephews.
Her parents, one sister, Eva Christie and two brothers, Raymond and Harold Christie, preceded her in death.
Mrs. Surritte will lie in state from 5:00 until 8:00 p.m., Monday, at Langston Street Chapel. Burial will be in Howell Memorial Park Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to His Place House of Worship, and may be left at or mailed to Robertson-Drago Funeral Home, 211 W. Main St., West Plains, Missouri.
A private celebration of life service for Sue Ellen VanHorn, 79, West Plains, Missouri, will be held at a later date.
Mrs. VanHorn passed away Monday, September 22, 2025, at her home.
She was born March 15, 1946, at Columbia, Missouri, to Robert Louis Jones and Elizabeth Suzanne Beck Jones. On March 1, 1986, she was married at Centralia, Missouri, to Mike VanHorn. Sue worked at Hubbell Power Systems for 39 years. After retiring, she worked as a licensed insurance agent in the State of Missouri. She was a good example of what a wife, mother and grandmother truly should be. Sue was an avid reader and an excellent cook. She enjoyed collecting recipes, cross stitching, collecting antique furniture, glassware and dishes. She enjoyed traveling and camping with her husband, Mike. Sue had a heart for helping others and loved doting on her grandchildren.
She is survived by her husband, Mike VanHorn, of the family home; one son, Aaron Sydow and wife, Sara, West Plains, Missouri; two granddaughters, Grace Green and husband, Hayden, Memphis, Tennessee and Sophia Sydow, West Plains, Missouri; and many nieces and nephews.
Her parents and one brother, Larry Jones, preceded her in death.
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 W. Main St., West Plains, Missouri. Arrangements under the direction of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.
A Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, September 27, 2025, to honor Wanda Chritton, formerly of West Plains, Missouri. The service will begin at noon at the West Plains Opera House, with food and beverages to be served following the service. In accordance with her wishes, Wanda was cremated. The family will gather for a brief graveside service at Mt. Zion Cemetery at 10:00 a.m. on the morning of the memorial celebration. Friends are warmly welcome to attend. Guests are encouraged to wear Wanda’s favorite color—pink.
Wanda Lee Weatherford was born October 31, 1933 in the West Plains area. She was the only daughter of Pearl and Nova Weatherford, and was raised with three brothers on a farm near Siloam Springs, Missouri. She passed away on September 6, 2025, at her home in Las Vegas, Nevada, with her children and their spouses by her side. She was 91 years old.
Wanda graduated from West Plains High School in 1951, and moved to St. Louis to work as a secretary. Two years later, she married Bill Chritton, Jr., also of West Plains. They first met at a softball game between their one-room schoolhouses. Bill was pitching, and Wanda hit the winning home run. (He never got over it).
Bill had been drafted into the U.S. Army two years before they got married. Over the next 28 years, they moved 24 times, living in Missouri, Kansas, Texas, Georgia, Virginia, as well as three years in Italy. They settled for the final decade of his career in Springfield, Virginia, where Bill worked at the Pentagon and in the Office of Congressional Liaison. While Bill was serving his country, Wanda was holding down the fort at home—no easy task with four children who were only six years apart in age.
After Bill’s retirement in 1980, the couple returned to West Plains, where they operated a strawberry farm for several years. In the late 1980’s, Wanda took her first ride in a hot-air balloon. She had so much fun, Bill bought the balloon. Bill already was a licensed pilot. Wanda studied and trained, and earned her pilot’s license at the age of 55. Over the next few years, they took hundreds of area residents on balloon rides.
In 1985, Bill and Wanda, along with a handful other area residents, bought a helicopter and started an air ambulance service, based West Plains. Bill was their original chief pilot and director of operations, and later became company president. When Air Evac Lifeteam was sold in 2004, it had 41 bases in fourteen states.
When Bill retired from Air Evac, Wanda decided it was time to get out of the house. In July 2004, at the age of 70, Wanda offered to help her daughter run a wine store and cafe she had just purchased. Wanda soon took over the full-time management of Grapevine Wine Store and Cafe. She loved talking with customers and helping them pick out bottles of wine. She acquired a great deal of knowledge about wine and developed a refined palate. (Bill complained because she no longer would drink his homemade wine.) She finally took off her boss-hat at the age of 86 to be a caregiver to Bill, and to play an occasional game of golf.
She remained by Bill’s side until he passed in July 2021, after 67 years of marriage. In April 2025, Wanda surprised her family by moving, at 91, to Las Vegas, Nevada, where her eldest son Mike lived. Her youngest daughter, Toni, lived with her as caregiver. In July, Wanda suffered a fall that left her with a fractured neck and spine. Though she initially seemed to be recovering, she developed an infection that led to pneumonia.
Wanda is survived by two of her four children, Mike Chritton (Sonia) of Las Vegas, and Toni Johnson (Dennis) of West Plains, along with her brothers Dale, Jerry and Raymond Weatherford. She also leaves behind six grandchildren and ten great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Bill; her parents; her son, Dan Chritton; and her daughter, Vicki Chritton-Myers.
Her family will always remember her as an intelligent, witty, feisty, unselfish and dedicated mother who always put the needs of her family before her own needs. She was a physically and mentally strong woman who met challenges head-on and was never afraid to tackle a difficult task or learn something new. She taught her children that they could accomplish just about anything they set their mind to doing. She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.
A celebration of life service for Ronnie Watkins, 78, Dora, Missouri will be held at 2:00 p.m., Saturday, September 27, 2025, at Family Life Church, Dora, Missouri, under the direction of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.
Ronnie peacefully passed away in his home on Saturday, September 20, 2025 after a courageous 5 month battle with complications following heart surgery. The son of Bernie and Geneva (Lane) Watkins, Ronnie was born in Oakdale, California on November 9, 1946. His family returned to Dora when he was six years old and he graduated from Dora High School with the class of 1964. He worked at Hallmark in Kansas City, and was a supervisor at Foremost Dairy in Kansas City until he joined the Kansas National Guard in 1966. He served 6 years in the National Guard, with 2 ½ years being on active duty, during this time he was stationed in Fort Carson, Colorado.
On September 3, 1966, Ronnie married the love of his life, Wanda Lovan, and they enjoyed 59 years of marriage. While stationed in Colorado, Ronnie and Wanda fell in love with the Colorado mountains. They developed a love for travelling, especially out west, and they enjoyed taking many, many trips together over the years. Ronnie felt that he knew the roads and towns of Colorado better than Missouri. Coming back from a vacation, he always said “it was good to travel, but it’s good to come home too!”
Ronnie was a true embodiment of a “salt of the earth man”. His commitment to his cattle farm was unwavering. He was well-known in the cattle industry and made many friends over the years through farming. He ran background steers for 46 years and replacement heifers for 3 years. He owned and operated Watkins Fertilizer for several years as well doing custom hay baling. He was also a cattle buyer for several Kansas feed lots. Ronnie was always busy, whether checking fence, working cattle, baling hay, or taking a drive to check on pastures. Ronnie and Wanda could be found every morning at Roy’s Store drinking coffee before doing the daily chores.
Ronnie had a lifelong love of softball. He began playing fastpitch at the age of 23, and was a well-respected pitcher in southern Missouri and Arkansas. All summer long, he played league four nights a week, in two different towns, and he loved every single inning. He later transitioned to slow-pitch softball, where he was known as a homerun hitter and a “tough out”, even while playing with much younger guys. He played his last game at the age of 57. Ronnie instilled the love of the game into both his children and his son-in-law, Brian. Some of his best memories were of his kids playing ball, then later, his granddaughters, Kelsi and Keeli. He once said that he could have bought another farm for what he had spent following the girls all over the country to softball tourneys. He never once regretted a penny of it and he’d do it all over again. He enjoyed assistant coaching Tara’s high school fastpitch team and was proud of Lance’s softball accomplishments over the years.
Ronnie was a humble and respectful competitor in all he did. He worked hard, played hard, and enjoyed his life. His biggest victory was accepting Christ on September 17, 2025. He was baptized on September 18, 2025 by his friend of 68 years, Don Hamby.
Ronnie’s legacy lives on through his family that he loved so much. Ronnie and Wanda built a beautiful life together over their 59 years of marriage. He is survived by his wife, Wanda, his two children: Lance Watkins and wife, Jessi, and Tara Land, and husband, Brian, all of Dora, grandchildren: Autumn Miller (Nathan), Brian Collins, Jordan Arnett, Drake Arnett, Blaine Watkins, Sydney Watkins, Kelsi Earls (Braitton), Keeli Holden (Barent), and one great-granddaughter, Emma May Miller, siblings: Randy Watkins, Connie Williams (Jack), Becky Smith (Phillip), brothers-in-law: Stan Lovan (Judy), Brant Lovan, and Terry Luna, sisters-in-laws: Brenda Kinney (Bob), Evelyn Thornton (Jay), Carmen McCarty, and several nieces and nephews.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Bernie and Geneva Watkins, in-laws Claude and Vera May Lovan, and one sister, Amy Luna.
Visitation will be held from 6:00 until 8:00 p.m., Friday, at Robertson-Drago Funeral Home. Memorial contributions may be made to American Heart Association, and may be left at or mailed to Robertson-Drago Funeral Home, 211 W. Main St., West Plains, Missouri.
Charles Herbert Montgomery, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on September 18, 2025, at 4:30 AM, at the age of 79, near West Plains, Missouri. His life will be celebrated during graveside services on Thursday, September 25, at 2 PM at the Thayer Memorial Cemetery in Thayer, MO, under the direction of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.
Born on August 12, 1946, near West Plains, Charles was the son of Herbert and Eva Montgomery. His early education began in a one-room schoolhouse near Peace Valley, MO, before he continued his studies at Junction Hill School and ultimately graduated from West Plains High School in 1964. During his high school years, he excelled in the Vo-tech Carpentry class, earning numerous awards for his dedication and skill. He furthered his education at SMSU-WP for two additional years, laying a strong foundation for his future endeavors.
On June 1, 1968, Charles married the love of his life, JoBeth Thomas, in Thayer, MO. His commitment to service was evident as he proudly served two terms in the Army National Guard, completing basic training at Fort Leonard Wood.
Charles’s carpentry skills were put to good use as he worked alongside his father, Herbert, building many prominent homes in the West Plains area. He specialized in kitchen and bath countertops, showcasing his craftsmanship and attention to detail. Later, he transitioned from construction to help Shanna expand the retail business that JoBeth had started, dedicating his time and energy to its success. In his later years, he found joy building rentals for himself and farming alongside his son, Garel. Empowering those around him was a staple of Charles’s professional career.
A man of deep faith, Charles was a devoted member of several local churches at different stages of his life, including Victoria Mission, Endurance, and His Place. His faith was reflected in his generous spirit, as he often contributed his time and resources to support various church building projects and mission ministries.
Charles was a devoted family man, whose love for his wife, children, and grandchildren was boundless. He took great pride in empowering and supporting his family, and his grandchildren brought him immense joy in his later years.
He is survived by his loving wife, JoBeth Montgomery; his children, Son Garel Montgomery and wife Leslie, daughter Shanna Head and husband Jay and his cherished grandchildren, Dalton Head, Lauren Head, Jed Montgomery, Evin Montgomery, and Jon Montgomery. He is also survived by his in-laws, Bob Anderson, Michael and Bonnie Thomas; nieces and nephews, Rodney and Brooke Anderson, Seth and Janette Atkinson, Bill and Autumn Thomas, Christina Thomas; and close friends, Bill Pierce, Gary Simpson, Bob Wright, and Bob Riley.
Charles is preceded in death by his parents, Herbert and Eva Montgomery; his in-laws, William and Marjorie Thomas; and his sister, Martha Anderson.
Mr. Montgomery will lie in state from 6:00 until 8:00 p.m., Wednesday, at Robertson-Drago Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Rover Fire Department and/or Thomasville Fire Department, and may be left at or mailed to Robertson-Drago Funeral Home, 211 W. Main St., West Plains, Missouri.
Charles Herbert Montgomery will be remembered for his unmatched work ethic, unwavering faith and his dedication to family. His legacy will live on in the hearts and lives of those he touched.
A celebration of life service for Paisley Grace Quinn, one year old daughter of Larmey Head and Richard Quinn, West Plains, Missouri, will be held from 5:00 until 7:00 p.m., Tuesday, September 23, 2025, at Langston Street Chapel of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.
Paisley went to be with the Angels at 4:28 p.m., Friday, September 12, 2025, at Mercy Hospital, Springfield, Missouri.
She was born at 3:17 a.m., Saturday, July 27, 2024 at Ozarks Medical Center, West Plains, Missouri, to Richard Quinn Jr. and Larmey Head. Paisley resided with her parents and was a healthy and happy little girl with a passion for the unknown and the sweetest soul.
She is survived by her parents, Richard Quinn and Larmey Head, of the family home; grandparents, Keith and Shawna Head, West Plains; great-grandmother, Ann Paschal, Pomona, Missouri; uncles and aunts, Desmond, Rebecca, Russell, Layton, Zayden, Teagan and Lainey; and bonus uncle and aunt, T.J. and Jordan.
Her great-grandparents, Gary Rosenbum and Gary and Carolyn Head and grandparents, Richard and Mildred Quinn, 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 W. Main St., West Plains, Missouri.
Funeral services for Janet Louise Russell, 80, West Plains, Missouri, will be held at 10:00 a.m., Monday, September 22, 2025, in the Rose Chapel at Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.
Mrs. Russell passed away at 10:36 a.m., Monday, September 15, 2025, at Ozarks Healthcare.
She was born August 7, 1945, at Cleveland, Ohio, to Jack Nesbit and Viola Margaret Merritts Nesbit. On February 24, 1974, she was married at West Plains, to Jackie Dean (Jack) Russell, who preceded her in death on August 25, 2015. Janet loved using yarn, making crafts, doing puzzles and playing Bingo. She was very social and loved visiting people; she also enjoyed the Curry Street Church of Christ services at Pleasant Valley Manor.
She is survived by three children, Jeffrey Russell and wife, Jennifer, Athens, Alabama, Michael Cockrum and wife, Marilyn, West Plains, Missouri and Kellie Woody and husband, Steven, Peace Valley, Missouri; eight grandchildren, Olivia Brownlee, Bailey Brownlee, Mason Cockrum and wife, Tiffany, Myles Cockrum and wife, Mandy, Marcus Cockrum, Korey Woody and wife, Klassie, Kaitlynn Nunally and husband, Justin ad Kameron King and husband, Travis; four great-grandchildren and two on the way, Keaton, Lainey, Brooks and Kase; two nieces and one nephew.
Her parents, husband, one son, Jason and all of her siblings, preceded her in death.
Visitation will be held from 5:00 until 7:00 p.m., Sunday, at Robertson-Drago Funeral Home. Burial will be at Howell Memorial Park Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Pleasant Valley Manor Activity Fund or American Heart Association, and may be left at or mailed to Robertson-Drago Funeral Home, 211 W. Main St., West Plains, Missouri.
Carole Appel, 90, West Plains, Missouri, passed away Sunday, September 14, 2025, at West Vue Nursing Center. A family graveside service will be held at a later date.
She was born October 13, 1934 at Higgins, Texas to Verl D. and Leila Glisan Litchfield. Carole attended school in Higgins, Texas. As a young teen she helped her mother and sisters run the town telephone office. Carole and her family survived the Higgins tornado of 1947, which destroyed most of the town and blew away their house. On December 23, 1950, she was married at Higgins, Texas, to Harry Leroy Appel. Carole lived the life of a Navy wife as Harry served in the Navy for twenty years. They lived near Navy bases across the country. Carole was responsible for keeping the home life going as Harry was often deployed on a ship for months at a time. She was a homemaker most of her life, but worked briefly at a fabric store and a shirt factory. Two children were born to the family – Linda Kay Hobbs and Thomas Lee Appel. After Harry retired, they moved to a farm near Marshall, Arkansas where she helped raise cattle, put up hay and care for the farm. She was a wonderful cook. Carole loved raising flowers and a big garden. She enjoyed canning, sewing (making most of her and Harry’s clothes), piecing quilts and hand quilting them and creating crafts. After forty years on the farm, the couple moved to West Plains to be closer to their daughter and family. Harry passed away on December 25, 2022, just after they had celebrated 72 years of marriage.
She is survived by her daughter, Linda Hobbs and husband, Danny; daughter-in-law, Laverne Appel Weems; grandchildren, Bethany Kunz, Jason Appel, Brianne Hobbs and Travis Appel; great-grandchildren, Griffin, Garrett, Maya, Conner, Owen, Reece, Evan, Jacob and Avie; siblings, Dale Litchfield and Verna Beth Morrow; and many nieces and nephews.
Her parents, husband, one son, Tom Appel, sisters, Norma Brooks, Nona Gray, Gaydean Bucher and Jony Thomas and brother, Don Litchfield, preceded her in death.
Arrangements under the direction of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.
Funeral services for Zela (Fern) Harris, 86, West Plains, Missouri, will be held at 10:00 a.m., Saturday, September 27, 2025, in the Rose Chapel at Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.
Mrs. Harris passed away Saturday, September 13, 2025, at Cox South, Springfield, Missouri.
She was born February 24, 1939, at Koshkonong, Missouri, to the late Hobert Miller and Gertrude Judd Miller. On December 23, 1961, she was married at Camarillo, California, to Claude Kenneth Harris, who preceded her in death on January 5, 2014. When she was young, Fern sang at church with her sister, Peggy. She played varsity volleyball from Junior High until she graduated from Thomasville High School in 1957. Fern moved to Camarillo, California, to marry Ken, who was serving in the United States Navy. They welcomed their three children during their time in California. Once Ken completed his tour they moved back to Missouri and settled in Sedalia in 1971. After Ken’s passing, she fulfilled their retirement plans and moved back home, settling in West Plains in 2019. Fern retired from Best Western in Sedalia, Missouri. She became known for her fried chicken which was frequently requested by country music artists performing at the Missouri State Fair. Fern enjoyed spending time with her grandkids, going to sporting events and 4-H shows, working in her flower gardens, going antiquing, family gatherings and watching baseball and football.
She is survived by two sons, Ricky Lee Harris (Cindy), Cole Camp, Missouri and Kenneth Ray Harris (Leslie), Sedalia, Missouri; one daughter, Vicki Lynn Harris, West Plains, Missouri; six grandchildren, Elyssa Harris, Tyler Harris (Shelbi), Briar Smith, Zofia Smith, Kellough Smith and Buzz Harris; three great-grandchildren; one sister, Peggy Huddleston, West Plains, Missouri; and several nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, and seven siblings, Cecil Miller, Joe Miller, Emma Roark, Margaret Carter, Minerva McKenzie, Faye Johnston and Cora Winfrey, and three infant brothers, Carl, Ray and Harold Miller.
Visitation will be held from 9:00 until 10:00 a.m., Saturday, September 27, 2025 at Robertson-Drago Funeral Home. Burial will be at Hickory Grove Cemetery, Alton, Missouri. Memorial contributions may be made to Hickory Grove Cemetery, and may be left at or mailed to Robertson-Drago Funeral Home, 211 W. Main St., West Plains, Missouri.
A Celebration of Life service for Cynthia Sue (Cindy) Franks, 66, Peace Valley, Missouri, will be held from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m., Saturday, September 20, 2025, at First Baptist Church in the South Campus building.
Mrs. Franks passed away at 5:30 p.m., Thursday, September 11, 2025, at Springfield, Missouri.
She was born April 17, 1959, at Blytheville, Arkansas, to Kenneth Skaggs and the late Carole Kimberland Skaggs. On April 14, 1978, she was married at New Hope Baptist Church to Daniel Franks. At the age of sixteen, Cindy began volunteering at the hospital as a candy striper. She became an LPN in 1980, and an RN in 1990. She spent most of her career helping patients in critical care. Cindy worked at Ozarks Medical Center, Mercy Hospital – Springfield, and Cox Health – Springfield. She was the Director of Nursing at NHC Healthcare and BrookHaven Nursing and Rehab. She was also a travel nurse for ten years, traveling coast-to-coast and to the Virgin Islands. Cindy greatly enjoyed her grandkids. She loved her dogs and cats and would bring strays back from all over and take care of them. She was very strong-willed and wanted what was best for her patients and family. Cindy was baptized at a young age and was strong in her faith. She attended First Baptist Church in West Plains.
She is survived by her husband, Daniel Franks, of the family home; two sons, Nathaniel Franks and wife, Ashley, and Matthew Franks and wife, Kayla, all of Peace Valley; five grandchildren, Tyler, Hayden, Cooper, McKinley, and McKena; her father, Kenneth Skaggs, West Plains, Missouri; one sister, Tammy Kinder and husband, Terry, Sturkie, Arkansas; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Her mother, Carole, and brother, Kenneth B. Skaggs Jr., preceded her in death.
Memorial contributions may be made to Barnett Cemetery and may be left at or mailed to Robertson-Drago Funeral Home, 211 West Main, West Plains, MO 65775. Arrangements are under the direction of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.
Funeral services for Loretta Faye (Rita) Rogers, 80, West Plains, Missouri, will be held at 10:00 a.m., Saturday, September 20, 2025, at Calvary Pentecostal Tabernacle, under the direction of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.
Mrs. Rogers gained her Heavenly reward on September 11, 2025, surrounded by her family.
She was born October 29, 1944, at Cincinnati, Ohio, to Charles Lowery and Hazel Brumley Lowery. She was married on January 16, 1965, in the middle of a blizzard to Frank Lee Rogers. Rita was a Godly woman with a feisty spirit. Frank would warn the grandkids not to make her mad or she would get her tomahawk out. Rita believed Jesus Christ was her Lord and Savior; she received her salvation at a very young age. In 1977, s he became a Minister’s wife and was the prayer warrior behind her husband’s ministry. With much hesitation, in 1995, she went on her first mission trip for Christmas in Mexico. That was the year God gave her the burden and she never missed a year after that. Rita had a close relationship with God and would pray daily for the ministry of others. She loved her country and would encourage others, sometimes rather loudly, to vote in elections.
Rita was blessed with three children, Mark Rogers (Dianna), Michael Rogers and Shannon Rogers Collins (Kevin); thirteen grandchildren, Christopher Moore, Jordan Collins (Felicia), Kaitlin Rogers (Casey), Jacob Rogers (Leah), Kellsie Rogers Mathenia (Logan), Michaela Rogers, Julianna Rogers, Kendra Collins Romine (Charlie), Jarrett Young, Jalene Canada, Lonnie Canada, Joni Canada and Tyler Phipps; sixteen great-grandchildren
She is survived by her husband, children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, two sisters, Janet Palmer (Russ) and Sandy Treadway, one brother, Danny Lowery (Kathy), one sister-in-law, Wanda Lowery and a slew of nieces and nephews.
Her parents, two brothers, David and Ricky Lowery and one brother-in-law, Bill Treadway, preceded her in death.
Visitation will be held from 6:00 until 8:00 p.m., Friday, at Calvary Pentecostal Tabernacle. Burial will be at Union Grove Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Champion Holiness Mission, and may be left at or mailed to Robertson-Drago Funeral Home, 211 W. Main St., West Plains, Missouri.
