Myron Allen Keller, 83, Caulfield, Missouri, passed away at Thursday, September 19, 2024, at his home.
He was born May 31, 1941, at Tamms, Illinois, to Leon Keller, Sr. and Ollie Marie Thompson Keller. Mr. Keller was a veteran, having served with the United States Army for four years. Before his retirement he was a mail carrier in Granite City, Illinois and West Plains, Missouri, but spent most of his life buying, selling and fixing appliances. He enjoyed buying and selling antiques.
He is survived by one daughter, Karen Lynn Keller Bennett and significant other, Dale Penechar, Blue Springs, Missouri; three grandchildren, Tony Lynn Garrison, Kilbourne, Louisiana, Mark Lee Garrison, Lebanon, Missouri and Gregory Alan Bennett, Springfield, Missouri; four great-grandchildren, Austin, Brantley, Braxtyn and Trentyn Garrison; three sisters, Mary Ann Clark, Viola, Arkansas, Pat Ehrhart and husband, Duard, Caulfield, Missouri and Charlene Giger, Caulfield, Missouri; and several nieces and nephews.
His parents, one brother, Leon Keller Jr., and wife, Sheila Ann and one sister, Martha Mize and husband, Jerry, preceded him in death.
A memorial service will be held at a later date. Arrangements under the direction of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.
Funeral services for Glen Edward Trantham, 75, Rover, Missouri, will be held at 10:00 a.m., Friday, September 27, 2024, at the Langston Street Chapel of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.
Mr. Trantham passed away at 6:20 p.m., Friday, September 20, 2024, near Thomasville, Missouri.
He was born December 14, 1948, at West Plains, Missouri, to Richard Willie Trantham and Winnie Irene Redburn Trantham. He began his education at Rover, Missouri, where he completed grades 1 through 6; he then went to Thomasville for Junior High and completed his education at Alton High School, graduating in 1966. On February 24, 1967, he was married at Thomasville, Missouri, to his sweetheart, Vivian Miller. Mr. Trantham joined the Army National Guard, completing basic training at Ft Leonard Wood; he served as a mechanic for over 17 years. In 1985 Glen helped start the neighborhood watch in Rover, Missouri which later became the Rover Volunteer fire department. Glen served as the fire chief from 1990 until 2010. He remained a captain with the department until his death. His call was Rover 5. Glen was of the Christian faith and attended Shiloh Baptist Church in Rover. Mr. Trantham was a logger, sawmiller and farmer his entire life. Many knew of his kindness and dedicated service to the community; from donating lumber to local churches, answering hundreds of service calls throughout the years, helping local farmers with difficult tasks and even helping young people with all sorts of ambitions and ideas. Glen was a devoted husband, father and grandfather who cherished his family above all else. He shared a beautiful, loving bond with his wife, who was the light of his life and his steadfast companion through all of life’s joys and challenges. His family was the center of his world and he showed love through countless acts of selflessness and care. His discipline in his work and life cannot be matched and is seconded by his sense of humor as he could laugh and joke with the best of them, always bringing levity and joy wherever he went. In his years Glen lived a life of integrity and grace. No one ever heard a bad word about him and his reputation as a kind, disciplined man who was quick to forgive and slow to judge remains unblemished. He leaves behind a legacy of love, faith and strong family bonds that will continue to inspire all who had the privilege to know him. As we grieve his loss we also celebrate the remarkable life he lived and the countless ways he touched the lives of others. May his memory be a blessing to us all.
He is survived by his wife, Vivian Trantham, of the family home; three children, Jeffery Glen Trantham, Rover, Missouri, Melissa Dawn Roush and husband, Scott, West Plains, Missouri and Misty Lea Schafer and husband, Josh, Salem, Missouri; ten grandchildren, Tyler and wife, Abbey, Sage, Chris and wife, Kasey, Seth, Sean, Karson, Alyson, Cash, Judah and Jay; two great-grandchildren, Dawson and Maisee; many nieces, nephews and cousins; and close friends, John, Jeremy, Bobby, Nolan and Ronnie.
His parents, father-in-law and mother-in-law, Earnest and Pauline Miller, one granddaughter, Shelby Dawn, two brothers-in-law, Chester and Bud and one sister-in-law, Ella, preceded him 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 Jolliff Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Rover Volunteer Fire Department and may be left at or mailed to Robertson-Drago Funeral Home, 211 West Main, West Plains, MO 65775.
Funeral services for Charles Wilburn (Chuck) Carroll, 93, Willow Springs, Missouri, will be held at 2:00 p.m., Saturday, September 28, 2024, at First General Baptist Church, Willow Springs, Missouri, with Pastor Scott Williamson officiating, under the direction of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.
Mr. Carroll passed away at 6:52 p.m., Wednesday, September 18, 2024, at Willow Care Nursing Home.
He was born to John and Roxie Carroll on April 27, 1931 in Willow Springs, Missouri. Chuck joined the United States Army in 1948 and served his country until 1951. In 1956, he re-enlisted in the Army. On June 22, 1957, he married Helen Marie Smith. She soon joined him at his duty station in Wahiawa, Hawaii. They shared 67 wonderful years of marriage together, and were blessed with one son, Steven Robert “Steve” Carroll. Chuck proudly served his country for a total of 21 years, retiring in 1974 as First Sergeant. During this time, he served in East Africa, Vietnam and the German occupation. He also served over 15 years in the prestigious United States Army Security Agency, and he was awarded numerous medals. He was an active member of the American Legion until his health declined. Chuck and his family moved back to Willow Springs after he retired and farmed for a while in Burnham. He was also the owner and Broker of the Show-Me Land Company real estate office in Willow Springs for 20 years. His favorite pastimes were hunting, fishing and camping at Norfork Lake. He truly enjoyed family reunions and teaching the younger generation how to water ski and perfectly roast marshmallows. Chuck was a member of the First General Baptist Church in Willow Springs. In his younger years, he served on church committees, was a Sunday School teacher and drove a van to pick up children for Sunday School.
Chuck was preceded in death by his parents, his son, Steve, one grandson, Devin Carroll, one granddaughter, Sara Carroll, one sister, Neta Owens, three brothers, David Carroll, Clifford Carroll and Richard Carroll.
He is survived by his loving wife, Helen Carroll; one grandson, Steven Robert Carroll II and his wife, Jordan; three great-granddaughters, Julianna, Shauna, and Stephanie; one great-grandson Stevie; two sisters, Shirley Custer and Helen Hoffman; one brother John “Wendell” Carroll; sister-in-law, Maggie Carroll; and numerous nieces, nephews and friends. He will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him.
Visitation services will be held from 1:00 until 2:00 p.m., Saturday, at First General Baptist Church. Interment with military honors will be held at Willow Springs Cemetery. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to First General Baptist Church and may be left at or mailed to Robertson-Drago Funeral Home, 211 West Main, West Plains, MO 65775.
Funeral services for Charles Milton (Chuck) Allen, 85, West Plains, Missouri, will be held at 1:00 p.m., Wednesday, September 25, 2024, at the Langston Street Chapel of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.
Mr. Allen passed away at 7:30 a.m., Friday, September 20, 2024, at his home surrounded by his family.
He was born April 15, 1939, at Kansas City, Missouri, to Loie Allen and Eunice Evelyn Jones Allen. Chuck was a veteran, having served with the United States Army July 16, 1958 to July 15, 1961, ranking E4 specialist. On July 30, 1961, he was married at Birch Tree, Missouri, to Nova Christine Cooper, who preceded him in death on March 3, 2019. To their union four children, were born: Mitch, David, Stacey and Lee. Mr. Allen worked at Doss and Harper Stone Co. for the majority of his working life. He answered the call to preach in 1973 and was ordained at Berean Baptist Church in West Plains. His ordination board included his father and an uncle, Chester Smart. Chuck served as pastor in numerous churches around the area with the longest being Shiloh Baptist Church, Rover, Missouri.
He is survived by four children, Mitch Allen and wife, Jessica, Greenfield, Missouri, David Allen and wife, Kelli, West Plains, Stacey Allen, Racine, Wisconsin and Lee Allen and wife, Sandy, Greenwood, South Carolina; fourteen grandchildren; numerous great-grandchildren; two sisters, Sandy Waggoner and husband, Jerry and Judy Beck; many nieces and nephews; and his beloved dog, Keecee.
His parents, his wife of 58 years and one sister, Loretta, preceded him in death.
A private burial will be in Oak Forest Cemetery, Birch Tree, Missouri. Memorial contributions may be made to Oak Forest Cemetery and may be left at or mailed to Robertson-Drago Funeral Home, 211 West Main, West Plains, MO 65775.
Graveside services for Hazel L. Evins, 97, West Plains, Missouri, will be held at 2:00 p.m., Saturday, September 21, 2024, at Howell Memorial Park Cemetery, under the direction of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.
Mrs. Evins passed away on Tuesday, September 17, 2024, at Brooke Haven Healthcare in West Plains after a brief illness.
Hazel was born on March 8, 1927, in Earle, Arkansas, to Bessie Marie and Andrew Jackson Lesley, (she was named Victoria Irene Lesley) the youngest of eight children. Her father died when Mrs. Evins was a year old. She and four other siblings were placed in an orphanage for adoption. She was subsequently adopted by Bertha Gilda Douglas and Madison L. Douglas of Willow Springs, Missouri, and her name was changed to Hazel Lee Douglas.
Mrs. Evins’ oldest brother, Ernest Lesley, made it his mission to find his brothers and sisters who were given up for adoption. In 1952, he located Hazel in Eminence, Missouri, (she was the last one to be found) where she and Troy lived at the time. A reunion of brothers and sisters, along with their birth mother, was held in Memphis, Tennessee, where three brothers and her biological mother lived.
Hazel married Troy F. Evins on November 29, 1946. Together they raised three children: Judy Fields, Ronald Evins, and Donald Evins.
Hazel was preceded in death by her husband, Troy, daughter, Judy Fields, granddaughter, Shelley Krecker, her biological and adoptive parents, and her seven brothers and sisters.
Mrs. Evins is survived by two sons, Ronald Evins (Sandra) of West Plains, and Donald Evins (Randy Mabe) of Winston-Salem, North Carolina; son-in-law, Donald Fields; grandchildren, Scott Wood, Bryan Wood, and Matthew Evins; great grandchildren, Ryan Reid, Stanley Reid, Emily Wood, Noah Wood, Tricia Shultz, Dylan Evins, and Destiny Wood; and great-great-grandchild, Naomi Cameron.
Visitation will be held prior to the service, from 1:00 p.m. to 1:40 p.m., Saturday, at Robertson-Drago Funeral Home. Memorial contributions may be made to Disabled American Veterans Chapter 43 and may be left at or mailed to Robertson-Drago Funeral Home, 211 West Main, West Plains, MO 65775.
Teri Alleyen Tomaskovich, 51, West Plains, Missouri, passed away at 9:41 a.m., Thursday, September 12, 2024, at her home.
She was born December 14, 1972, at Los Angeles, California, to Terrance Tomaskovich and Deborah Larson. On February 14, 2012, she was married at Mobile, Alabama, to Michael Shephard. Teri loved to laugh; she had a very unique laugh. She was the life of any party; she was loving, caring, honest and trustworthy. Teri was the mom of the neighborhood; her presence was soft. She was a family woman and was always there for anyone at anytime.
She is survived by her husband, Michael Shephard, Mobile, Alabama; three children, Brittany Phillips, Zemian Claiborne and Kenneth Westry II, all of Mobile, Alabama; five grandchildren, Karl Carson, Jr. Kaiden Carson, Xorah Carson, Korei Moorer and Ezekiel James Westry; one brother, Maurice LaNear III and wife, Christy, Los Angeles, California; five sisters, Patricia Brown, Rosa Lambert, Liera Hancock, Yvette Cook and Cassandra Hendricks; her adopted parents, Ruby Overton and Maurice LaNear, Jr.; niece, Cattleya LaNear; nephew, Maurice LaNear IV; and many other friends and loved ones.
Her mother, Deborah Larson, mother-in-law, Wanda Robinson and best friend, Dawn Hicks, preceded her in death.
Arrangements under the direction of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.
Graveside services for Camellia Jean Lucas-Hanson, 67, Clever, Missouri, formerly of West Plains, will be held at 2:00 p.m., Thursday, September 19, 2024, at Howell Valley Cemetery, under the direction of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.
Mrs. Hanson passed away Tuesday, September 10, 2024, at her home.
She was born May 21, 1957, at West Plains, Missouri, to Ivan Edward Carrell and Imogene Holloway Carrell. On July 6, 2002, she was married at West Plains, to Philip Hanson. Mrs. Hanson was a veteran, having served with the United States Navy. She loved helping kids with schooling, counseling or any way she could. She enjoyed watching westerns, especially John Wayne Movies. Camellia Jean was a talented cake maker and florist; she truly loved her family, especially her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
She is survived by her husband, Phil Hanson; two children, Colton Lucas-Hanson and fiancé Haley Humphrey and Kristi Lucas; one grandchild, Lauren Davis and fiancé Tyler Cady; two great-grandchildren, Baylor and Everett Davis; two brothers, Sam Carrell and Dennis Carrell and wife, Maria; one sister, Sherry Brotherton and husband, John; and many nieces and nephews.
Her parents, husband, Terry Lucas and one son, Robert Lucas, 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 West Main, West Plains, MO 65775.
Funeral services for Marvin Winston Green, 88, West Plains, Missouri, will be held at 10:00 a.m., Saturday, September 14, 2024, at Curry Street Church of Christ, under the direction of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.
Mr. Green passed away peacefully on September 10, 2024, at his home, surrounded by multiple family members.
He was born July 27, 1936, at Saddle, Arkansas, to E.L. Green and Annabelle Pulley Green. On June 5, 1965, he married the love of his life, Louanna Smith and together they created a family legacy of love and devotion. Marvin firmly believed behind every great man is a great woman. He attended elementary school in Salem, Arkansas and High School in Mammoth Spring, Arkansas. Marvin graduated high school at the age of 15. He earned a Baccalaureate Degree from Arkansas State University at age 18; a Masters Degree at age 19 from Vanderbilt along with a specialist degree. He also did pre-doctorate work at University of Mississippi.
He was a school counselor, assistant principal, principal and superintendent in the public schools. Marvin was a college professor of sociology and psychology and served as Dean of the West Plains Campus of Missouri State University for 20 years. He was an avid supporter of the West Plains Campus and fought diligently for its success. One of his greatest accomplishments was the development of the college nursing program. He was always appreciative of the community support of the university.
Marvin was a force. His life was full of challenges and he was no stranger to hard work. He was known to say, “All honest work is honorable”. He led by example as was evidenced by his willingness to work his way through school performing any job he could find. He milked cows, picked cotton and tomatoes, cleaned bathrooms and did many other tasks while other students went home for holiday breaks. This allowed him to graduate debt-free.
Special awards of which he was the recipient include the Governor’s Award for Excellence in Teaching; the MSU Distinguished Faculty Staff Award; and the naming of the Marvin Green Conference Room on the MSU-WP campus. Additionally, he held numerous civic and community positions including President of the Fair Board, member of the Chamber of Commerce and Rotary International District Governor.
Marvin was an active member of the Curry Street Church of Christ where he served in multiple capacities over 50 years as a teacher, elder and author of several publications. By his living example he demonstrated many lessons of Christianity. Through his years he was a committed and dedicated pupil, teacher, facilitator and sharer of the gospel.
He had a passion for the gospel and education. He loved his wife and family and enjoyed farming and time spent with his Charolais cattle. He treasured moments working with his family. You could not be around Marvin without learning something, whether it was in the classroom, in the seat of the family farm truck or stretching barb wire. He showed intensity and professionalism that was balanced by a sharp wit and keen sense of humor.
He was preceded in death by his parents, his brother, Willie (Bill) Green and sister-in-law, Dorothy Green.
He is survived by his wife of 59 years, Louanna; three sons, K. Douglas Green (Sherri), Searcy, Arkansas, Christopher Green (Amy), West Plains, Matt Green (Gina), West Plains; one daughter, Kimberly Green, West Plains; six grandchildren, Ashley Green, Miami, Florida, Caitlin Parks (Andrew), Austin, Texas, Hayden Green (Grace), Memphis, Tennessee, Daegen Green, Springfield, Missouri, Zane Green, Searcy, Arkansas and Wynston Ellie Annabelle Green, West Plains; four great-grandchildren, Theodore, Lauriel, Elowen and Endollion Parks, Austin, Texas; a very special nephew, Mark Green (Laura), Houston, Texas; and two nieces, Anne and Jan Green, Houston, Texas.
Visitation services will be held from 5:30 until 7:00 p.m., Friday, at the Langston Street Chapel of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home. Burial will be in Homeland Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Curry Street Church of Christ or Marvin Green MSU-WP Scholarship Fund and may be left at or mailed to Robertson-Drago Funeral Home, 211 West Main, West Plains, MO 65775.
Robert “Bob” Daniel, born July 24, 1938, passed away at the age of 86 on September 9, 2024.
Anyone who knew Bob knew that he loved people. He loved talking to anyone about anything, but his favorite topics included his family, fishing, and generally joking around. He moved to the West Plains area in 1963 where shortly after he started his own business, Bob’s Equipment Repair, which he ran until he retired. After retirement, he volunteered by driving the parking shuttle at Ozark Medical Center where he could continue to bring happiness to others with kindness and conversation.
He is preceded in death by his mother, Georgia Daniel; his father, Carl Daniel; and his wife of 57 years, Dianna Daniel.
He is survived by his brother, Donald Daniel (Ruth), niece, Deb Carlson, and nephew, Wendell Daniel; his three children, Terry Wilson (Joe), Kimberly Wilson and Michael Daniel (Connie); his seven grandchildren, J Lane Wilson, Brittany McCarthy, Sarah Nanni, Dacia Wade, Derek Daniel, Tyler Wilson and Forrest Wilson; and his eleven great grandchildren. Chances are that if you ever ran into Bob, you were kept up to date on all of them.
A private service for family will be held at a later time. In lieu of flowers, please make a conscious act of kindness towards others in his memory.
Arrangements under the direction of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.
Funeral services for Donald Joice, 91, Pottersville, Missouri, will be held at 2:00 p.m., Saturday, September 14, 2024, at Elijah Church of Christ, under t he direction of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.
Mr. Joice passed away at 8:35 p.m., Sunday, September 8, 2024, at his home surrounded by his family.
He was born July 5, 1933, near Leota, Missouri, to the late Willard and Etta Hardcastle Joice. On June 24, 1955, he was married to the love of his life Emilie Spoon, at Benton Harbor, Michigan. This union added a very large extended family for Donald which he loved as his own. Donald and Emilie were blessed with 4 children. Donald worked at Southwest Truck Body for over 20 years and the International Shoe factory for several years. After retiring he built log homes including their current family home. Donald was a self-taught electrician, plumber, mechanic, carpenter and overall handy man. It would be hard to find a family in Howell or Ozark County that he hasn’t positively impacted. Donald and Emilie were known for their family garden and were always willing to share with the community. Their family tradition was digging potatoes on his birthday with mom preparing the morning breakfast. It was a day we all looked forward to. Donald had a big heart and considered most of the friends and classmates of his kids his family. He loved watching his kids, grandkids and great-grandkids playing their sports. They would travel throughout southern Missouri and northern Arkansas to watch the area teams play. Donald served on the Elijah Cemetery board for over 39 years and as president over the Bakersfield School Board for a term. Donald was a member of the Elijah Church of Christ for over 64 years, a shining example of a Christian man, leaving his family a legacy to live by.
Donald is survived by his wife, Emilie, of the family home; four children, Donald (Boag) Joice Jr. and wife, Rhonda, of Squires, Missouri, Mary Sexton and husband, Billy, Bruce Joice and wife, Linda, all of Caulfield, Missouri and Tina Mann and husband, Gary, of West Plains, Missouri; thirteen grandchildren, Melissa Dalton and husband, Aaron, Jessica Joice and fiancé, Clint, Bruce Joice Jr., Trista Hall and husband, Byron, Cary Joice and wife, Kyra, Emilie Brotherton and husband, Jeremy, Donald (Drew) Joice III and wife, Hannah, Thomas Simpson and wife, Jessica, Payton LaFevers, Aimee Morrison and husband, Chris, Angela Walker and husband, Fred, Billy Sexton and wife, Keeley and Nathan Mann and fiancé, Brittiny; twenty-one great-grandchildren; one brother, Earl Joice and wife, Romana; one sister, Stella Collins; and many nieces and nephews.
He is preceded in death by his mother and father, his father and mother-in law, Tommy and Snowie Tackitt Spoon, two brothers, Ernest and Charles, and three sisters, Helen, Dorothy and Mabel.
Visitation services will be held from 6:00 until 8:00 p.m., Friday, at Robertson-Drago Funeral Home. Burial will be in Elijah Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, 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 John Alvin Rutledge, 74, West Plains, Missouri, will be held at 10:00 a.m., Monday, September 9, 2024, at New Liberty Cemetery, under the direction of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.
Mr. Rutledge passed away Thursday, September 5, 2024, at NHC HealthCare.
He was born June 4, 1950, at Woodland, California, to Herbert and Allene Freeman Rutledge. On October 13, 1983, he was married at Wichita Falls, Texas, to Tammy Barks. Mr. Rutledge was a veteran, having proudly served with the United States Army during the Vietnam era. He was an avid hunter and fisherman and enjoyed gardening and keeping his yard beautiful. John loved his children and grandchildren. He was a member of Bethel Baptist Church.
He is survived by his wife, Tammy Rutledge, of the family home; six children, John Henry Rutledge and wife, Lorraine, Sara Rutledge, all of West Plains, Jonni Perry, Yukon, Oklahoma, Davina Sullivan and husband, Donald, Willisville, Arkansas, Renaie Avery, Ninnekah, Oklahoma and Amanda Thomas, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma; thirteen grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; three sisters, Diane Brekke, Bowling Green, Missouri, Sissy Vannucci and husband, Ron, Middlegrove, Missouri and Sue Thoresen, Pleasant Hill, California; his mother-in-law, Lillian Barks, West Plains; one brother-in-law, Rick Barks and wife, Linda, West Plains; two sisters-in-law, Judy Stowers, Mountain Grove, Missouri and Sandy Stewart, West Plains, Missouri; and many nieces and nephews.
His parents, one son, Samuel Rutledge, one granddaughter, Lillian Rutledge, one brother, Kenneth Rutledge, one sister, Cathy Scarbrough, father-in-law, Kenneth Barks and special aunt and uncle, Joe and Icy Tabler, preceded him 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 West Main, West Plains, MO 65775.
A memorial service for Vicki Lee Chritton-Myers, 66, West Plains, Missouri, will be held at 2:00 p.m., Monday, September 9, 2024, in the Rose Chapel at Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.
Mrs. Myers passed away at 3:17 a.m., Tuesday, September 3, 2024, at Mercy Hospital, Springfield, Missouri.
Vicki was born on May 30, 1958, in Vicenza, Italy, where her parents, Bill and Wanda Chritton, were stationed while he served in the United States Army. Two years later, the Chritton family returned to the States and lived in several locations during her childhood, including West Plains, Missouri, Ft. Leonard Wood, Missouri, Ft. Leavenworth, Kansas, Ft. Benning, Georgia, and Ft. Walters, Texas. They moved to Springfield, Virginia in 1970, where Vicki graduated from West Springfield High School in 1976.
From a young age, it became apparent that Vicki was a talented artist. In high school she excelled in art classes, where she developed great skills in drawing, painting, sculpture, and many other art forms.
Upon graduating, she worked for various companies in the Washington, D.C. area as a graphic artist when her parents, Bill and Wanda, moved back to their hometown of West Plains, Missouri, Vicki soon followed, and became the staff artist for the West Plains Daily Quill.
One night at a local honky-tonk, a tall, dark, handsome man (Vicki said he was the best-looking guy in the place) asked Vicki to dance. She turned him down, telling him she didn’t “slow dance” with strangers. She married that stranger Ron Myers on March 19th 1983 at the Chritton Farm.
The city girl packed her bags and moved to Thayer, Missouri, where she quickly adapted to rural life. She loved living in the country and had no desire to ever live in a big city again. She enjoyed hunting, fishing and riding horses. When Ron brought home a big buck during deer season one year, Vicki bought an instructional video tape and taught herself how to do taxidermy. She turned her taxidermy hobby into a thriving business, eventually opening Myers Ark Taxidermy. She entered taxidermy competitions all over the country, and won numerous state and national awards.
Vicki and Ron eventually moved to Willow Springs, Missouri and had two sons, Nick and William. They later relocated to Olden, Missouri, where Vicki raised horses, llamas, exotic birds and all sorts of critters.
Her family meant the world to her. She especially enjoyed game nights at the Chritton house, where the women would take on the men in Catch Phrase and other games (the women usually kicked their rear-ends in Catch Phrase).
In addition to being a talented artist, Vicki was intelligent, funny and quick-witted. She had a beautiful smile and warm heart. She was down-to-earth, friendly and kind to everyone she met. She was dearly loved and will be greatly missed.
Vicki was preceded in death by her father, Bill Chritton, Jr., her brother, Dan Chritton, and her grandparents Nova and Pearl Weatherford and Bill and Margaret Chritton, Sr.
She is survived by her mother, Wanda (Weatherford) Chritton, West Plains; husband, Ron Myers, West Plains; sons Nicholas Myers, West Plains and William Myers, Springfield, Missouri; grandchildren Jonathan, Tyler, Zoey, Serenity and Raelynn Myers, West Plains; brother Mike Chritton and his wife Sonia, Las Vegas, Nevada; sister Toni (Chritton) Johnson and her husband, Dennis, West Plains.
Burial will be in Mt. Zion Cemetery, Olden, Missouri. Memorial contributions may be made to Mt. Zion Cemetery and may be left at or mailed to Robertson-Drago Funeral Home, 211 West Main, West Plains, MO 65775.
A memorial service for Thomas John Hedeen, 64, West Plains, Missouri, will be held from 4:00 until 8:00 p.m., Friday, September 13, 2024, at Gracie’s Place, 530 Fletcher Terrace, West Plains, Missouri.
Mr. Hedeen passed away at 7:13 a.m., Saturday, August 31, 2024, at his home.
He was born October 9, 1959, at Duluth, Minnesota, to Richard Hedeen and Mary Therese Egan Hedeen. On December 26, 2006, he was married at Las Vegas, Nevada, to Linda Estes. Mr. Hedeen was a veteran, having served six years with the United States Air Force. He worked as a truck driver for several companies, was a CDL driving instructor and dispatcher. He loved bowling and bowled two 300 games in his lifetime; he was a lifetime member of the United States Bowling Congress. He enjoyed kayaking, traveling, riding four wheelers and playing cards. He loved being around people and enjoyed being a prankster. Thomas lived large and made everything he did an adventure. He loved his friends, family and his dog, Lulu. Thomas was a man of integrity and never allowed himself to get down; he always accepted what life threw at him and made the best of every situation. Mr. Hedeen was of the Catholic faith.
He is survived by his wife, Linda Hedeen, of the family home; three step-children, Joe Barnard and wife, Kista, Theodosia, Missouri, Tom Barnard and wife, Leann, West Plains and Michael Barnard and significant other, Lana Snodgrass, West Plains; one bonus daughter, Mikki McMichael; six step-grandchildren; two sisters, Patty Johnson and husband, Dave, Duluth, Minnesota and Anne Donahue and husband, Michael, Superior, Wisconsin; one sister-in-law, Trish Hedeen, Rochester, New York; and many nieces and nephews.
His parents and one brother, Michael Hedeen, preceded him in death.
Arrangements under the direction of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.
Graveside services for Rodger Keith (Griz) Young, 68, West Plains, Missouri, will be held at 10:00 a.m., Friday, September 6, 2024, at Elk Creek Cemetery, under the direction of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.
Mr. Young passed away Sunday, September 1, 2024.
He was born May 20, 1956, at Joliet, Illinois, to A. E. Young and Mildred McDaniel Young. On July 16, 1977, he was married at West Plains, Missouri, to Annie Teuchgraber. He was a loving husband, father and son and he loved animals. Griz was always eager to drop what he was doing to help someone else; he was much loved by his family, friends and neighbors and will be greatly missed.
He is survived by his wife, Annie Young, of the family home; one son, Arthur Young, Kenosha, Wisconsin; his parents, A. E. and Mildred Young, West Plains; four brothers, Gene Young and wife, Millie, Iuka, Mississippi, Dale Young, West Plains, Raymond Young and wife, Connie, Davenport, Iowa and Larry Young, West Plains; two sisters, Cheryl Chapman, Pomona, Missouri and Paula King and husband, Gary, Willow Springs, Missouri; and many nieces and nephews.
His grandparents preceded him 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. Memorial contributions may be made to the Humane Society and may be left at or mailed to Robertson-Drago Funeral Home, 211 West Main, West Plains, MO 65775.
Funeral services for John Paul Doss, 66, West Plains, Missouri, will be held at 2:00 p.m., Sunday, September 1, 2024, at New Hope Baptist Church, under the direction of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.
Mr. Doss passed away at 6:47 a.m., Tuesday, August 27, 2024, at Springfield, Missouri.
He was born May 6, 1958, at West Plains, Missouri, to Raymond Lee and Bonnie Smith Doss. On October 17, 1987, he was married to Marjorie Lou Drago, who preceded him in death on October 17, 2009. On March 15, 2015, he was married at New Hope Baptist Church, Peace Valley, Missouri, to Jeannie Brown. Mr. Doss received his Bachelor’s Degree in Animal Science and his Master’s Degree in Education. He was very involved in FFA and achieved the American FFA Degree, which led to his lifelong passion of mentoring and learning from others in the agricultural community, and was especially proud of his work mentoring the youth. Mr. Doss loved to farm, and he enjoyed hunting and fishing. He also loved his family and enjoyed spending time with his nieces. Mr. Doss was a member of New Hope Baptist Church, where he served as a deacon and a Sunday school teacher. He was also a member of the Gideon’s.
He is survived by his wife, Jeannie, West Plains, Missouri; one daughter, Jennie Doss, Springfield, Missouri; one step-daughter, Ashley Goodpaster, Springfield, Missouri; one brother, Dennis Doss and wife, Sharlyn, West Plains, Missouri; one sister, Connie Caudill, Springfield, Missouri; one nephew, William Caudill; and three nieces, Grace Doss, Macie Doss, and Dixie Rae Doss.
His parents and his first wife, Marjorie Doss, preceded him in death.
Visitation will be from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., Saturday, in the Rose Chapel of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home. Burial will be at New Hope Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Gideon’s or New Hope Cemetery Fund and may be left at or mailed to Robertson-Drago Funeral Home, 211 West Main, West Plains, MO 65775.
Funeral services for Sharon Evonne Judd, 69, West Plains, Missouri, will be held at 10:00 a.m., Saturday, August 31, 2024, at Calvary Pentecostal Tabernacle, under the direction of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.
Mrs. Judd passed away at 12:25 a.m., Thursday, August 22, 2024, at Barnes Jewish Hospital, Saint Louis, Missouri.
She was born December 10, 1954, at Saint Louis, Missouri, to William Francis and Glenda Mae Dunkin Hampton. On January 23, 1976, she was married at West Plains, Missouri, to Danny Judd. Mrs. Judd was a devoted wife, assisting her husband at Dan Judd’s Auto Sales for twenty-five years. She enjoyed being a homemaker and taking care of her children and grandchildren. She was a member of Calvary Pentecostal Tabernacle for fifty years, where she enjoyed playing the piano, singing, working as the choir director, and writing Christmas plays. Mrs. Judd also served as a teacher at the church’s Christian school for several years.
She is survived by her husband, Danny Judd, West Plains, Missouri; three children, Danna Reed and husband, Evan, Shepherdsville, Kentucky, Devin Judd and wife, Bridget, West Plains, Missouri, and Dustin Judd and wife, Kendra, West Plains, Missouri; seven grandchildren, Judd Reed, Jax Reed, Ellington Reed, Emersyn Reed, Preston Judd, Hudson Judd, and Montgomery Judd; two sisters, Katherine Brauch, Ballwin, Missouri, and Pamela Hiles and husband, Dale, Burlington, Kentucky; mother-in-law, Mable Judd, West Plains, Missouri; two sisters-in-law, Jennifer Hampton, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, and Brenda Howell and husband, Fred, West Plains, Missouri; and several nieces and nephews.
Her parents, one brother, Michael Hampton, and her father-in-law, Melvin Judd, preceded her in death.
Visitation will be from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., Friday, in the Langston Street Chapel of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home. Burial will be at Howell Valley Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Calvary Pentecostal Tabernacle Building Fund or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and may be left at or mailed to Robertson-Drago Funeral Home, 211 West Main, West Plains, MO 65775.
Funeral services for David Neal Davis, 61, West Plains, Missouri, will be held at 2:00 p.m., Thursday, August 29, 2024, at the Langston Street Chapel of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.
David passed away at 1:00 p.m., Wednesday, August 21, 2024, at Brooke Haven Healthcare.
He was born June 11, 1963, at West Plains, Missouri, to James L. Davis and Bonnie L. Bridges Davis, the youngest of four siblings. David worked in the grocery store industry for years consisting of Ramey’s, Price-Chopper and Wal-Mart. He became a manager at Price Chopper before he was forced to retire due to health issues. David was well liked and loved by everyone who had the chance to know him. He made fast friends everywhere he went. David’s easy going, friendly personality won hearts all around him. David was a huge sports fan; he especially loved golf. He was a fan of Kansas City Chiefs and the St. Louis Cardinals; he watched any game of any team. He played softball and spent many hours at the softball fields; when he wasn’t playing for his own team he volunteered or filled in for other teams. He enjoyed reading old western novels, the outdoors, hunting and fishing. When he no longer hunted, he would look to spot wildlife, including deer and turkey. As a kid he often stayed with his grandmother, Jennie Bridges, and she would read from the bible and play gospel music for them to sing. He attended church with his sister. David was a giver and a helper. He loved helping out at “the farm” even though he grumbled at times. He also loved animals. He spent most of his time with his oldest sister, Debbie Holland.
He is survived by his older siblings, Debra Holland, Jim Ed Davis and Gina Simpson.
He was met at Heaven’s gate by a host of loved ones, including his parents, two brothers-in-law, Dave Holland and Dennis Simpson.
Visitation services will be held from 6:00 until 8:00 p.m., Wednesday, at the Langston Street Chapel of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home. Burial will be in Howell Memorial Park Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to any charity of choice and may be left at or mailed to Robertson-Drago Funeral Home, 211 West Main, West Plains, MO 65775.
A memorial service for Valerie Jane Nelson, 82, West Plains, Missouri, will be held at 2:00 p.m., Tuesday, August 27, 2024, in the Rose Chapel at Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.
Mrs. Nelson passed away at 7:40 a.m., Thursday, August 22, 2024, at her home.
She was born August 19, 1942, at Macuchi, Ecuador, to Frank Geltz and Paulina Anna D’Amour Geltz. On January 27, 1968, she was married at Denver, Colorado, to Larry Lee Nelson, who preceded her in death on October 4, 2018. Before her retirement, Mrs. Nelson was a microbiologist and medical lab technician. Valerie loved gardening, sewing, cooking, watching Gunsmoke and traveling, especially to the Ocean. She enjoyed raising rabbits and chickens. She and her husband lived on an orchard in Ironton, Missouri for 18 years before moving to West Plains in 1988. Anyone who knew her loved her. Mrs. Nelson loved her friends and family, especially her grandchildren. She gave her life to the Lord.
She is survived by two children, Laura Hurt and husband, Bob, and Christina Howell and husband, Robert, all of West Plains; eight grandchildren, Allison Ruengert, Chris Ruengert and wife, Leslee, Luke Freeman, Harlie Howell, Makala Howell, Bobbie Jo Howell, Audrey Howell and Emily Howell; and nine great-grandchildren, Madelyn, Adam, Sophia, Madison, Daylen, Bailey, Serenity, Nevaeh and Colton.
Her parents, husband, and one brother, Daryl Andre Russell, preceded her in death.
Memorial contributions may be made to Howell County Special Olympics, St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital, Samaritan’s Purse or Tunnels to Towers and may be left at or mailed to Robertson-Drago Funeral Home, 211 West Main, West Plains, MO 65775.
Funeral services for Glenna Maye Strain Hall, 93, West Plains, Missouri, will be held at 2:00 p.m., Saturday, August 24, 2024, in the Rose Chapel at Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.
Mrs. Hall passed away at 5:30 a.m., Tuesday, August 20, 2024, at West Vue Nursing Center.
She was born December 6, 1930, at Gamaliel, Arkansas, to Roy Thomas Strain and Pearl Evelyn Gillette Strain. On June 9, 1950, she was married at Mountain Home, Arkansas, to Clyde Hall; they celebrated 60 years of marriage before his passing on September 29, 2010. Together, they shared many happy times on their family farm. Glenna enjoyed gardening, canning and hand quilting. She graduated from Bakersfield High School with the Class of 1950. Glenna was a long-time member of the Free Union Church of Christ and more recently attended Curry Street Church of Christ. She was a faithful Christian who enjoyed working in the church and spent much of her later years listening to hymns and sermons.
She is survived by her son, Larry Hall and wife, Jan, West Plains; one grandson, Chad Hall, St. Charles, Missouri; one granddaughter, Mandy Pitts and husband, Chad, West Plains; two great-grandchildren, Kelsey Pitts and Luke Pitts, both of West Plains; one sister, Reba Wade, West Palm Beach, Florida; one brother, Charles Strain and wife, Betty, Moody, Missouri; and several nieces and nephews.
Her parents, husband, six sisters, Barbara, Betty, Bonnie, Wanda, Linda and Marsha, and three brothers, Claude, Loyd and Jerry preceded her in death.
Visitation services will be held from 6:00 until 7:00 p.m., Friday, at Robertson-Drago Funeral Home. Burial will be in Free Union Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Free Union Cemetery and may be left at or mailed to Robertson-Drago Funeral Home, 211 West Main, West Plains, MO 65775.
Jeremy Hayden Henderson, 52, West Plains, Missouri, passed away at 2:40 a.m., Monday, August 19, 2024, at Ozarks Medical Center.
He was born November 27, 1971, at Wichita Falls, Texas, to Troyce Henderson and Dona Carrol. Jeremy enjoyed riding motorcycles, fishing and camping. He loved his grandkids and family. Mr. Henderson enjoyed his time working as a bartender in Florida and in the Motorcycle Club.
He is survived by his significant other, Shawna Nevel, West Plains; three children, Chris Henderson, West Plains, Jeremy Henderson, Springfield, Missouri and Bryan Henderson, West Plains; five grandchildren; two sisters, Angie Carnley and Jazmine Henderson, both of Florida; and many nieces and nephews.
His mother preceded him in death.
Arrangements under the direction of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.
