Funeral services for James Hervil (Jim) Guilliams, 73, West Plains, Missouri, will be held at 10:00 a.m., Saturday, June 14, 2025, in the Rose Chapel at Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.
Mr. Guilliams passed away at 10:25 a.m., Wednesday, June 4, 2025, at his home.
He was born April 11, 1952, at West Plains, Missouri, to Hervil Adam Guilliams and Edith Watkins Guilliams. On July 31, 2021, he was married at Sedalia, Missouri to Cynthia Alford. Jim loved his family and was very proud of them. He loved his farm, his dog and feeding and watching Deer. He never met a stranger and enjoyed telling stories. Mr. Guilliams attended 1st General Baptist Church.
He is survived by his wife, Cindi Guilliams; three children, Mary Ann Kenslow and husband, Scott, West Plains, Missouri, Sarah Janchyshyn and husband, Michael, Green Wood, Missouri and James Adam Guilliams and wife, Allison, New Market, Alabama; three step-children, Joseph Hopper and wife, Sarah, Priscilla Peoples and husband, Michael and Brandon Hopper, all of Otterville, Missouri; seven grandchildren, Isaac, Avery, Caleb, Connor, Addison, Heidi and James David; seven step-grandchildren, Anthony, Justina, Oralia, Makala, Tanner, Kai and Mia; seven step-great-grandchildren; one sister, Donnie Holloway and husband, Vernon, West Plains; sister-in-law, Alice Guilliams, West Plains; sister-in-law, Lois Frazier and husband, Rick, West Plains; and many nieces and nephews.
His parents, first wife, Brenda Elaine (Hensley) Guilliams, two sisters, Quada Youngblood and Mary Frances Dancer and one brother, Bobby Guilliams, preceded him in death.
Visitation will be held from 9:00 until 10:00 a.m., Saturday, at Robertson-Drago Funeral Home. Burial will be at Barnett Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the 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.
Kandace Elaine Miller (Jennings), age 61, of West Plains, Missouri, passed away Wednesday afternoon, May 28, 2025 in Springfield, Missouri. She was born December 14, 1963 in Atlanta, Georgia, a daughter of Charlotte Elaine Jennings (Robinson) of West Plains and the late Donnie Ray Jennings who proudly served in the United States Army at the time of Kandace’s birth.
In addition to her father, Kandace was preceeded in death by her paternal grandparents Vernon Elvis Jennings and Eula Marie Jennings (Walker) and maternal grandparents William Joseph Robinson and Rosa Floye Robinson (Hughie).
Kandace is survived by two daughters, Tara Elaine McMillan (Miller) of Overland Park, Kansas and Kristin Rachelle Mustion (Miller) and her husband, Casey Mustion of West Plains; two grandsons, Brodhi McMillan and Malcolm McMillan of Overland Park; two brothers, Kenneth Ray Jennings and his wife, Cindy of West Plains and Donnie Keith Jennings and his wife, Treasa of Saint Clair, Missouri; one sister, Sheila Kaye Tiller (Jennings) and her husband Jeff, of Loganville, Georgia; and numerous aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins whom were very dear to her heart.
She spent most of her youth growing up in Chanute, Kansas where she moved with her family from Atlanta at the age of seven. Kandace was a graduate of Chanute High School. She loved cheerleading, art, music, decorating, flowers, gardening, and many other activities, especially the time spent and love for her puppies. Her parents were involved in the ownership and operation of several Residential Care and Nursing Home facilities in Kansas and Missouri. Kandace enjoyed interacting with the residents and this became one of her passions during her lifetime.
After high school, Kandace married Michael Miller and he joined the United States Army. During his enlistment, they took their two small daughters, Tara and Kristin and moved to Monterrey, California where he was stationed at Fort Ord Army Base. They were then re-deployed to Sulzberger-Rosenberg Army Base, Germany, a few miles from the border with the Czech Republic, certifying the young family as true international travelers.
Kandace also worked in the home building industry specializing in decorating and preparing model homes for several large builders in Georgia, North Carolina and Tennessee. She returned to Missouri to be close to her family and assumed the management of the family business.
Her family, friends and others in the community over the years made an impact on her life and she will be dearly missed. Kandace left a beautiful legacy, two precious daughters and her grandsons. She passed into the arms of her Lord and Savior and will now be reunited with her father, Donnie Ray Jennings.
A private service will be held for Kandace on Saturday, June 7, 2025 in West Plains. She had asked that in her memory, she would like anyone to make a donation to Wounded Warrior Project, and may be left at or mailed to Robertson-Drago Funeral Home, 211 W. Main St., West Plains, Missouri.
Funeral services for Charles Anthony Uminn, 89, West Plains, Missouri, will be held at 2:30 p.m., Saturday, June 14, 2025, at the Langston Street Chapel of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.
Mr. Uminn passed away Sunday, June 1, 2025, at West Vue Nursing Center.
He was born September 15, 1935, at Kalamazoo, Michigan, to Walter Stanley Uminn and Henrietta Lanning Uminn. As he became an adult, he moved to Missouri to get away from the Michigan winters. In 1977, Charles met Sharon Lee Eldridge Evans, who was widowed in 1975 with two sons, Edward G. and Douglas D. They were married at West Plains, Missouri on September 23, 1977. Charles started Uminn Roofing and Home Repairs in late 1977. Charles and his sons roofed numerous homes, businesses and Churches in and around West Plains. Mr. Uminn was a hardworking man who loved to work. He worked in roofing until he was 81, when he fell from a roof, breaking his pelvis and numerous bones. He went to rehabilitation at West Vue, making a recovery in 3 to 4 months and was able to leave the nursing center. Charles always wanted to be on a roof; Dad was a pretty short person. Roofing must have been his way to be above everyone else. Charles took up walking after recovering from his fall; he walked numerous miles daily, but as he got older the miles decreased. He continued walking in the nursing center daily until his last fall. Anybody who ever worked for Mr. Uminn knew he was hard to work for, nobody would know that more than Ed or Doug; Dad made every other job we ever had, a cake walk. Dad was unliked by some and loved by others. He taught us what to be and what not to be. I value the work ethic he gave us, It has been a valuable skill that has taught us to be reliable, dedicated and responsible.
He is survived by his wife, Sharon Lee Uminn; two sons, Eddie Evans and wife, Loretta and Douglas D. Uminn and wife, Teresa; two grandchildren, Canyon Evans and Megan Uminn; one great-granddaughter, Mazlee Kendrick, all of West Plains; and many brothers, sisters, nieces, nephews and cousins.
His parents and several siblings preceded him in death.
Visitation will be held from 1:30 until 2:30 p.m., Saturday, June 14, 2025, at Langston Street Chapel. A private burial will be at Barnett Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Christos House or 37th Division CASA, and may be left at or mailed to Robertson-Drago Funeral Home, 211 W. Main St., West Plains, Missouri.
Funeral services for Joe Bryon Watkins, 66, Dora, Missouri, will be held at 2:00 p.m., Saturday, June 7, 2025, at Needmore Church of God, under the direction of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.
Mr. Watkins passed away Saturday, May 31, 2025, in Newton County, Arkansas.
He was born August 6, 1958, at Gainesville, Missouri, to Murl R. Watkins and Elfie Donnoll Hill Watkins. Joe enjoyed fishing, hunting and riding Harley-Davidson motorcycles. He loved his family and especially loved spending time with his grandchildren. Mr. Watkins was a member of Needmore Church of God.
He is survived by his significant other, Jean Kinder and her four children; his three children, Mike Watkins and wife, Cristina, Whitney Combs and husband, Geoffrey, and Josh Jolliff; five grandchildren, Dora Watkins (Ethan), Harley Watkins, Hezekiah Combs, Avia Combs and Ezekiel Combs; one sister, Linda Lee and husband, Ed; and several nieces and nephews.
His parents, one daughter, Julie Watkins, and one son, Anthony Jolliff preceded him in death.
Burial will be at Ball Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the family, Ball Cemetery or Needmore Church of God, and may be left at or mailed to Robertson-Drago Funeral Home, 211 W. Main St., West Plains, Missouri.
Doris Mae Sympson, 92, West Plains, passed away on May 31, 2025, at NHC HealthCare, West Plains.
She was born April 28, 1933 at Lynn, Indiana, the fourth of six children to Isaac Lafayette Hutchens and Dorothy Olive Thornburg Hutchens. The family settled in the West Plains area where Doris graduated from high school in 1951 along with her future husband, Ian Sympson. Afterward, she joined the Army and he the Navy, and she served as a nurses’ aide at a military hospital. She and Ian married April 30, 1954, and had Ruth Ann and Barbara Lynn before returning to West Plains in 1956 to raise their family. Doris was a homemaker and enjoyed her piano, dollmaking, and knitting and crocheting. She was a long time member of First Church of God.
She was predeceased by her parents; her husband, Ian; her daughter, Ruth Ann Klingler; and siblings, Ralph, Lois, Evelyn, and Wayne.
She is survived by her daughter, Barbara Freeman and husband, Ron; son-in-law, Gary Klingler; grandsons, David Klingler and wife, Esther; Adam Klingler, and wife, Julie, and their daughter, Lisa; Justin Freeman and wife, Alison, and their children, Molly and James; and Brett Freeman and wife, Jessica, and their children, Lilly, Addie, and Evie; her sister, Carol Scaggs and husband, Ron; and several nieces and nephews.
Visitation will be held from 1:30 until 2:30 p.m., Friday, June 6, 2025, in the Rose Chapel at Robertson-Drago Funeral Home, followed by a graveside service at 3:00 p.m., at Sweeton Pond Cemetery, Dora, Missouri. Memorial contributions may be made to West Plains Public Library Children’s Program or the Pottersville Baptist Church Food Pantry, and may be left at or mailed to Robertson-Drago Funeral Home, 211 W. Main St., West Plains, Missouri.
The family appreciates and wishes to thank the staff at NHC HealthCare for their care of Doris during the past two years.
Funeral services for Marvin (Dwayne) Cobb, 86, West Plains, Missouri, will be held at 2:00 pm, Friday, June 6, 2025, at the Langston Street Chapel of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.
Dwayne, son of the late Carl Cobb and Wilma Griffin Cobb, was born on December 16, 1938 in Elijah, Missouri and passed away at 8:22am, Friday, May 30, 2025 at Mercy Hospital, Springfield, Missouri.
On June 3, 1960 he married the love of his life, Juanita Marie Collins. They were looking forward to celebrating their 65th anniversary. Many of you may have known Dwayne from ABC Home Furnishings where he worked for 55 years laying carpet and selling and delivering furniture for West Plains and surrounding communities. His love for people and interaction with the public kept him going for all those years, finally retiring in 2017. In recent years, he enjoyed working with the voting polls in Howell County. Dwayne was an avid fisherman, outdoorsman, and loved the Cardinals. He always had a smile on his face and a joke ready to share. Even during one of his recent medical procedures he shared a joke with the medical team. Recently, one of his granddaughters kissed him goodbye for the day and he said, “If I don’t see you tomorrow, I’ll see you in Heaven”. That was our Dwayne. He had a way about him that made you feel special. His love for the Lord was the root of his joy and strength and he readily shared his faith in Jesus. His greatest joy was his family. He dearly loved his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He will be sadly missed by all who knew and loved him.
He is survived by his wife, Juanita, West Plains; his daughter, Sandy Roberts and husband, Greg, West Plains; three granddaughters, Abbey Hicks and husband, Ross, West Plains, Maddi Mazingo and husband, Codie, Houston, Missouri, and Sydney Roberts, West Plains; three great-grandchildren, Tate and Hazel Hicks, and Thorin Mazingo; three brothers, Aubrey Cobb, Strafford, Missouri, Jack Cobb, Vernon Cobb, both of West Plains, Missouri, and one sister, Shirley Cobb Piland, Gainesville, Missouri; and many nieces and nephews.
He is preceded in death by his parents, son, Gregory Dwayne Cobb, and one brother, James Cobb.
Visitation will be from 6:00 until 8:00 pm, Thursday, at the Langston Street Chapel of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home. Burial will be in the Oak Lawn Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Cystic Fibrosis-West Plains and may be left at or mailed to Robertson-Drago Funeral Home, 211 W. Main St., West Plains, Missouri.
Funeral services for Sonya Lynn McGinley, 52, West Plains, Missouri, will be held at 2:00 p.m., Monday, June 2, 2025, at Langston Street Chapel of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.
Mrs. McGinley passed away at 2:00 a.m., Tuesday, May 27, 2025, at Barnes-Jewish Hospital, St. Louis, Missouri.
She was born July 7, 1972, at West Plains, Missouri, to Dennis Adams and Debbie Brixey Adams. She was married on July 6, 1996, at West Plains, to Dennis McGinley. Sonya lived on CC Highway her entire life. She worked at Fairview School for twenty-six years, where she attended elementary and middle school. Sonya had a deep love for music, especially The Eagles and 80’s hair bands. Sonya played the flute in high school in the marching band and as she always said “when they actually marched.” She didn’t care much for being in the spotlight, but she loved singing at church. She enjoyed reading and had a passion for teaching kids to read. She had a gift for planning crafts and games for the students at school and at church and enjoyed it very much. Her organization and love for planning, often carried over into her family life, planning trips, games, meal plans and anything else she could. Sonya truly loved her family and enjoyed hosting family get togethers. She loved being around her kids, watching sports, especially the Chicago Bears. Sonya was joyfully anticipating being a Mamaw in September. Mrs. McGinley loved her church and church family deeply. She served with her husband for thirty years in ministry at United Freewill Baptist Church.
She is survived by her husband, Dennis McGinley; three children, Garel McGinley and wife, Jessie, Eli McGinley and wife, Gracie, and Parker McGinley; her parents, Dennis and Debbie Adams; her in-laws, Laverne Jones, and Dennis and Francis McGinley; one grandson on the way; one brother, Josh Adams and wife, Ashlea, her nieces and nephew, Brixey Adams, Mylea Adams, Kinlee Adams and Jase Adams; and many aunts, uncles and cousins.
Her grandparents, Garel and Vivian Adams and Junior and Betty Brixey preceded her in death.
Visitation will be held from 5:00 until 7:00 p.m., Sunday, at Langston Street Chapel. Burial will be in the Union Grove Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the Fairview Foundation or United Freewill Baptist Church Building Fund, and may be left at or mailed to Robertson-Drago Funeral Home, 211 W. Main St., West Plains, Missouri.
Laura Godwin Fulmer, 69, West Plains, Missouri, passed away on May 22, 2025, in West Plaines, Missouri.
She is survived by her husband, Denton and his children, Kelsea Fulmer Brooks and Christian Fulmer, her sister, Carol Godwin, and a host of beloved cousins and friends.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Bill and Hilda Godwin, and her brothers James Godwin and Bill Godwin, Jr.
Laura graduated from Parkview High School in 1974 and later graduated from the University of Arkansas at Little Rock after majoring in Marketing. She had a successful career at IBM for over twenty years. Laura’s happiest times were spent in nature with Denton and her beloved dogs. She loved her family and friends with all of her heart. Laura enjoyed traveling and meeting new people. She was a hard worker, was very artistic and loved drawing.
As Laura wished, no service will be held. Remember Laura with love and hold your loved ones close. Donations in Laura’s memory may be made to CARE for Animals, 5516 Kavanaugh Blvd., Little Rock, AR 72207.
A memorial service for Lisa Anne Sizemore, 55, Willow Springs, Missouri, will be held at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, May 31, 2025, at His Place House of Worship.
Lisa passed away Saturday, May 24, 2025, at Cox South, Springfield, Missouri.
She was born November 26, 1969, at Elgin, Illinois, to Thomas Edward Ogden and Kristine Elizabeth Kaminski Biehl. On March 19, 2000, she was married at Cabool, Missouri, to Anthony Sizemore, who preceded her in death on July 30, 2022. Mrs. Sizemore was a teacher at Mountain View Elementary for twenty-four years and loved her students and the many friends that she made over the years. She was very artistic and loved drawing, painting and doing crafts. She enjoyed playing puzzles and card games, going to the beach, music and going to yard sales and flea markets. She loved being a “Nana”. Mrs. Sizemore was a member of His Place House of Worship, where she served as the Volunteer Coordinator.
She is survived by three children, Ava Fidonik and spouse, Sabrina, Madison Sizemore and Elyse Brown and spouse, Cody; three grandchildren, Finley Fidonik, William Brown and Lulu Brown; her mother, Kristine Biehl and husband, Robert; three brothers, Nathan Ogden and wife, Judy, Brian Biehl and wife, Kisheena and Justin Bryan and wife, Trish; three sisters, Sandra Hurtado and husband, Dan, Heidi McFarland and husband, Matt and Breanna Mareschal and husband, Josh ; her step-mother, Cathy Ogden; one special uncle, Steve Kaminski; and many nieces, nephews, uncles, aunts and cousins.
Her father, husband and grandparents, preceded her in death.
Arrangements under the direction of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.
A private graveside service for JoAnn Sonja Barnett, 85, West Plains, Missouri, will be held at State Line Cemetery, under the direction of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.
Mrs. Barnett passed away at 8:40 p.m., Saturday, May 24, 2025, at NHC HealthCare.
She was born February 25, 1940, at Cumi, Arkansas, to Ray Byrd and Faye Talburt Byrd. On July 21, 1956, she was married at Downey, California, to Otto Cyrus Barnett, Jr., who preceded her in death on October 28, 2015. Her family was her life; she was a loving wife and mother. Mrs. Barnett was sweet and kind to everyone and had love and compassion for all animals. Mrs. Barnett was a member of Church of Christ.
She is survived by four children, Tammy Sortman and husband, Bruce, Rene Scott and husband, Richard and Connie Smith and husband, Randy, all of West Plains and Toby Barnett and wife, Melissa, Jefferson City, Missouri; four grandchildren, Melissa Robbins and husband, Jason, Tracy Finley and husband, Jared and Jennifer Brigman, all of West Plains and Rebecca Jordan and husband, Paul, Moody, Missouri; nine great-grandchildren, Christian Robbins, Gunner Robbins, Aiden Brigman and wife, Brooke, Dylan Brigman, Clayton Robbins, Addison Finley, Dakotah Brigman, Grant Finley and Gracie Jordan; one great-great-grandchild on the way, Ayda Claire Brigman; and many nieces, nephews and other family members.
Her parents, husband, Junior Barnett and one grandson, Richie Scott, preceded her in death.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Humane Society, and may be left at or mailed to Robertson-Drago Funeral Home, 211 W. Main St., West Plains, Missouri.
Funeral services for John Robert Paulson, 69, West Plains, Missouri, will be held at 2:00 p.m., Saturday, May 31, 2025, in the Langston Street Chapel at Robertson-Drago Funeral Home. Mr. Paulson passed away at 10:54 p.m., Friday, May 23, 2025, at Barnes Jewish Hospital in St. Louis, Missouri.
He was born January 21, 1956, to Robert Carl Paulson and Patricia (Seltman) Paulson. John was a big fan of the Green Bay Packers and the St. Louis Cardinals. He was an avid collector and enjoyed music, traveling, working outside, reading, history, visiting Wisconsin, and playing Frisbee golf. He had a good sense of humor, and was always willing to help others. He loved his family, and cherished his grandkids.
He is survived by his significant other Debbie Schrader; his mother, Patricia Paulson; three children, Lindsay Ozisik, Brianna Crosson (Bill), and Bowdy Schrader; five grandchildren, Zane Ozisik, Zoey Ozisik, Ryan Mantle-Paulson, Emily Gay, and Brad Hogan; one great granddaughter, Janie Grace Crosson; and 2 brothers Peter Paulson (Kathy), and Chris Paulson (Mischelle).His father, and two sons, Adam Paulson, and Brett Paulson preceded him in death.
Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society, and may be left at or mailed to Robertson-Drago Funeral Home, 211 W. Main St., West Plains, Missouri.
Funeral services for Catherine Marie (Ford) Morris, 81, Caulfield, Missouri, will be held at 2:00 p.m., Thursday, May 29, 2025, in the Rose Chapel at Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.
Catherine Marie (Ford) Morris, daughter of the late R.N. Ford and Mary Catherine Ford, was born in Kansas City, MO. She entered into eternal rest May 23, 2025 at the age of 81.
Catherine was a very devoted wife, mom, grandma, great-grandma, and sister. She spent her time making sure everyone had what they needed, especially her husband. She always made sure he was taken care of, whether she was taking him to doctor appointments, taking his medicine, or feeding him the best food. She loved her children and grandkids more than anyone could. You never left her house hungry that’s for sure. She loved making quilts for every member of the family. Her and her twin sister, Mary enjoyed quilting together, and going to flea markets. They talked everyday on the phone until losing her on March 18th, 2025.
Keeping a tight bond with her family was her first priority. We always felt the love she had for each of us. She had a very tight relationship with our Lord. She believed in eternal life with our Lord Jesus Christ.
She also enjoyed the simple things in life like riding around with her husband sightseeing and ending up getting a pizza and ice cream and pulling over on a dirt road to eat and enjoy the day. She had the most infectious smile. Through the years anyone that knew her loved her. She never knew a stranger, and love talking with people she met at the store or the bank in Bakersfield. She was a true fighter all the way to the end. All the nurses at Mercy in Springfield called her a rock star.
She always loved talking on the phone to her grandkids to gossip about anything they wanted to talk about. She also loved her furry friend, Abby. She fed and watered her just like she would her own husband and children. She worked at Regal Beliot in West Plains for 27 years, where she had a lot of special friends. Her first job was at the Shoe Factory in West Plains, MO, where she met the love of her life, Larry. They spent 61 wonderful years together. They were married May 29, 1964 at Pleasant Hill church.
She is survived by her husband, Larry Morris; one son, Travis Morris and wife Twila; two daughters, Tammy Pohnert and husband Gary, and Treasa Griffith; eight grandchildren, Kendra, Andrea, Tiffany, Justin, Chase, Curtis, Kayla, and Cody; thirteen great-grandchildren, Nova, Bentley, Maverick, Haley, Archer, Amari, Johnathon, Anthony, Emmett, Mya, Dillion, Dakota, Terrance, Thomas, Boaz, Gideon; one sister, Charlene Dawson (James); one brother, Robert Ford (Judy), and many other cousins, nieces, nephews, friends, and her special furry friend Abby.
Her parents, her twin sister, Mary Moritz, brother-in-law, and several aunts, uncles and cousins preceded her in death.
Burial will be at County Line Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to County Line Cemetery, and may be left at or mailed to Robertson-Drago Funeral Home, 211 W. Main St., West Plains, Missouri.
Lisa Renea Hendricks, 57, West Plains, Missouri, passed away at 7:42 a.m., Wednesday, May 21, 2025, at her home.
She was born December 21, 1967, at Peoria, Illinois, to James B. Davis and Judith Lynn Davis. Lisa enjoyed going to yard sales, dancing, cook outs and loved to cook. She had a great personality that could make everyone laugh.
She is survived by her mother, Judith Banks; two children, Ian Edward Hendricks and wife, Tiffanie, Mt. Sterling, Illinois and Caleb Blake Allen Anderson, West Plains; one brother, James Troy Davis, West Plains; three sisters, Suzette Reynolds and husband, Ronnie, Winona, Missouri, Sherri Vincent and husband, Tony, Eminence, Missouri and Dawn Hanger, West Plains; and a host nieces and nephews.
Her father, Grandma and Grandpa Lynn, three uncles and one aunt, preceded her in death.
Arrangements under the direction of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.
Funeral services for Betty Jo Green, 93, West Plains, Missouri, will be held at 2:00 p.m., Tuesday, May 27, 2025, in the Rose Chapel at Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.
Mrs. Green passed away Sunday, May 18, 2025, at Ozarks Healthcare.
She was born November 14, 1931, at Leota, Missouri, to James Wilson Talley and Mildred Bernette Keith Talley. Betty Jo attended grade school at Leota, Missouri and high school at Turlock, California. On October 23, 1948, she was married at Salem, Arkansas, to Cleve Carter, Jr., who preceded her in death on June 7, 1969; to their union three sons were born, Gary, Mike and Larry. On September 15, 1974, she was married at West Plains, to Robert Glenn Cook, who preceded her in death on October 29, 1991. On March 9, 1996, she was married at Springfield, Missouri, to Kenneth Green, who preceded her in death on April 30, 2022. Betty Jo was a homemaker and had worked at the Dairy Princess and Richards Bros. Her home and family were an important part of her life. Mrs. Green was a member of the Curry Street Church of Christ for over 50 years.
She is survived by one son, Larry Carter and wife, Janice, Peace Valley, Missouri; one daughter-in-law, Cheryl Carter, Caulfield, Missouri; six grandchildren, Ty Carter, Caulfield, Missouri, Kody Carter and wife, Angie, Marshfield, Missouri, Sara Beck and husband, Michael, Mt. Vernon, Missouri, Kelli McKee and husband, Jason, Pottersville, Missouri, Amber Brown and husband, Steve, West Plains, and Brittany Farmer and husband, Jared, Imperial, Missouri; thirteen great-grandchildren; eleven great-great-grandchildren and one on the way; one sister, Marge Ryan; one brother, Bill Talley; and numerous nieces and nephews.
Her parents, husbands, two sons, Mike Carter and Gary Carter, six sisters, Helen Burford, Lorraine Provow, Pauline Miladine, Hazel Henson, Cassie Heinrich and Minnie Hicks and four brothers, Donald, Melvin, Oscar and Wilson Talley, preceded her in death.
Burial will be at Howell Memorial Park Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to any charity of choice, and may be left at or mailed to Robertson-Drago Funeral Home, 211 W. Main St., West Plains, Missouri.
Funeral services for Nancy Ann Dunkin, 83, Crystal City, Missouri, will be held at 10:00 a.m., Saturday, May 24, 2025, in the Rose Chapel at Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.
Mrs. Dunkin passed away at 3:27 a.m., Sunday, May 18, 2025, at her home.
She was born September 24, 1941, at St. Louis, Missouri, to Ernest Ellis and Gertrude Laverne Douglas Ellis. On December 30, 1960, she was married at St. Louis, to Howard Ray Dunkin, who preceded her in death on March 6, 2015. Mrs. Dunkin loved her dog, Max, cats, crocheting, Elvis, traveling, watching old westerns and St. Louis Cardinals. She never met a stranger and met her life-long best friend, Glenna, in 3rd grade.
She is survived by one daughter, Wendy Dunkin and significant other, Mike Minard, Crystal City, Missouri; two grandchildren, Nicole Carter and husband, Rich and Michael Cibulka and wife, Brittani; two great-grandchildren, Joseph and Aubree Cibulka; one sister, JoAnn Williams; and many nieces and nephews.
Her parents, husband, one son, Kelly Brandon Dunkin, her step-father, two sisters and two brothers, preceded her in death.
Visitation will be held from 6:00 until 8:00 p.m., Friday, at Robertson-Drago Funeral Home. Burial will be at Howell Memorial Park Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Open Door Animal Sanctuary, House Springs, Missouri OR any animal charity of choice, 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 Paula Kaye Danford, 80, West Plains, Missouri, will be held at 2:00 p.m., Sunday, May 25, 2025, at the First Christian Church, under the direction of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.
Paula entered this world on August 28, 1944, in Springfield, Missouri, the daughter of Paul and Pansy Powell Danford. And on March 12, 2025, she left it, leaving behind a legacy of selfless service, artistic passion, and unwavering dedication to her family and community.
Paula’s life was a testament to the power of quiet determination. She was not one to seek the spotlight, nor did she require recognition for the work she did—but anyone who has ever attended a concert, play, art show, festival, or community event in West Plains has, in some way, benefited from her tireless efforts. In 1963, Paula married Charles Augustus Heiss, III and together they raised three children—two daughters and a son. Life took her on a new journey in 1981 when she married Thomas Speraneo. Their marriage was blessed with two more children, making a full and loving family. In 1990, Paula and Tom moved to West Plains, Missouri, a place that would become not only their home but also the foundation of Paula’s lasting impact. Professionally, Paula was a woman of many talents. She worked as a Purchasing Agent in procurement for Ralston Purina, demonstrating a keen ability for organization and efficiency. Later, she became the Chief Operating Officer at S&S Aqua Farm, where she applied her skills in management and leadership. But no matter how successful she was in her career, Paula’s true passion was in giving back—specifically through her deep commitment to the arts. For more than 30 years, Paula was the face of the West Plains Council on the Arts. She worked relentlessly to bring culture and creativity to the Ozarks, believing that the arts should be accessible to all. But her contributions didn’t stop there. When her children were in high school, she was a steadfast supporter of the West Plains High School Concert Choir, dedicating her time and energy to ensuring that young voices were heard. She threw herself into community service, working with The Avenue Theatre, the Organic Growers Association, the West Plains Arts Alliance, and the Farmers Market, where she served as President. She was also a fierce advocate for causes that directly helped people in need, such as the Diaper Resource Center and the Chamber Nonprofit Alliance. If there was an effort to make West Plains a better place to live, Paula was involved—not for the recognition, but because she believed in the mission. In 2022, her efforts were formally acknowledged when she was named Citizen of the Year by the West Plains Chamber of Commerce. It was an honor that perfectly encapsulated who Paula was: a leader, an innovator, and a champion for her community. The award is meant to recognize outstanding accomplishments, civic responsibility, and selfless service—three things that defined Paula’s life. Paula’s reach extended beyond community organizations and projects. She was a mother, a grandmother, a great-grandmother, and a friend.
She is preceded in death by her parents, Paul and Pansy Powell Danford, her brother, Harold Danford, sister, Diana Danford and her grandson, Christopher Heiss.
She is survived by one sister, Jean Newland, as well as her five children, who carry on her spirit of kindness and perseverance: daughter, Cyndi Myers and husband Dennis, son, Chris Heiss and wife Karen, daughter, Cara Swank and husband Tim, daughter, Amber Miller and husband Jake, and son, Josh Speraneo. She also leaves behind a legacy in her grandchildren: Daniel Myers and wife Sara, Terry Madlinger and wife Niki, Sarah Vegerano and husband Luis, Nikki Dobson and husband Brad, Brooke Myers and partner Travis, Casey Noto and husband Andrew, Ris Swank, Zach Swank, Masynn Baldwin, Leyla Baldwin, Cash Adamson, Malcolm Miller, Megan Heiss Witkemper and husband Ryan, Kyle Heiss and wife Lexington, Moriah Heiss,Phillip Heiss and partner Rachel Hill. Paula was also blessed with 10 great-grandchildren: Carmela, Lyndon, Ofelia, Cody, Tyler, Quinn, Rory, Adalynn, Season, and Christen. Finally, Paula is survived by many nieces, nephews and their loving families.
There is a saying that a person’s worth is measured not by what they take from the world, but by what they leave behind. By that measure, Paula Speraneo’s worth is immeasurable. She gave more than she ever received, leaving behind a community that is stronger, more vibrant, and more enriched because of her. The lives she touched, the causes she championed, and the love she shared will continue to ripple outward, shaping her family, West Plains and the people in it for generations to come. The world is quieter without her, but the echoes of her work, her laughter, and her love will never fade.
Judith Gay Rozelle, 77, West Plains, Missouri, passed away at 10:17a.m., Tuesday May 13, 2025, at Mercy Hospital, Springfield, Missouri.
She was born November 16, 1947, in Tokyo, Japan, to Ray Floyd and Sybil Devoir Floyd. She was married to Lew Rozelle, who preceded her in death. Judith enjoyed knitting, riding bicycles, gardening and was very proud of her home. She loved her cat, Spike. Mrs. Rozelle served her country in the United States Army for twenty-one years as a nurse, retiring as a Lieutenant Colonel. After spending her life as a medical professional, her care for people never stopped as she was a tissue and organ donor, a cause important to her.
She is survived by her significant other, Robert Moore; three children, Jesse Weaver and wife, Michele, Anthony Rozelle and Sean Rozelle; five grandchildren; five great-grandchildren, one brother, Mark Floyd and one sister, Anne Floyd.
Her parents, husband and one daughter, Trista Lynn Nauman, preceded her in death.
Arrangements under the direction of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.
Linda Carol Adams, 73, West Plains, Missouri, passed away May 9, 2025, at her home.
She was born December 6, 1951, at Chicago, Illinois, to Charles Leo and Velma Christine Wellons Ehlert. On January 30, 1980, she was married at Cicero, Illinois, to John Adams. Mrs. Adams loved her career in nursing. She enjoyed gardening, riding horses, and reading and talking about the Bible. She loved her family and enjoyed raising her kids. Mrs. Adams was of the Baptist faith.
She is survived by her husband, John Adams; two sons, Jason John Adams and Kevin Charles Adams, Sr.; one grandson, Kevin Charles Adams, Jr.; and several nieces and nephews.
Her parents and one sister, Betty, preceded her in death.
Arrangements under the direction of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.
Graveside services for Angela Dorthene Bristow, 49, West Plains, Missouri, will be held at 10:00 a.m., Friday, May 16, 2025, at Howell Valley Cemetery, under the direction of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.
Ms. Bristow passed away at 2:44 p.m., Monday, May 12, 2025, at her home.
She was born June 14, 1975, at Lexington, Missouri, to Arthur “Butch” Allen, Sr. and Nancy Bragg Allen. Angie loved being a mom and a GiGi. She enjoyed reading, watching reality TV and scary movies, and playing cards and dominos, especially Mexican Train. Angie had a heart of gold and would do anything she could for others.
She is survived by three children, Kayla Bergman and husband, Ian, Kirsten Allen, and Rebecca Allen; three grandchildren, Malachi Allen, Brynlee Allen, and Grayson Allen; her father, Arthur “Butch” Allen, Sr. and wife, Vickie; two brothers, Butch Allen, and Robert Allen and wife, Darla; and many nieces and nephews.
Her mother, one granddaughter, Madelynn, and many beloved aunts, uncles, and cousins preceded her in death.
Visitation will be from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., Thursday, at Robertson-Drago Funeral Home. Memorial contributions may be made to Howell Valley Cemetery and may be left at or mailed to Robertson-Drago Funeral Home, 211 West Main, West Plains, MO 65775.
Graveside services for Mary Louise James, 89, Alton, Missouri, will be held at 2:00 p.m., Friday, May 16, 2025, at Redburn Cemetery, under the direction of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.
Mrs. James was called to her heavenly reward on May 9, 2025.
Mary Lou was born August 26, 1935, at Rover, Missouri, to Ray M. and Clara Mae Huddleston. She graduated from Thomasville High School with the Class of 1954. She excelled in many sports, but her favorites were softball and volleyball. She was a talented athlete and always at the top of her game. Upon graduation, Mary Lou attended Arkansas State University and received a bachelor’s degree in education. In August 1954, she was married to Carl R. Williams. To this union, two sons and one daughter were born: Larry Ray Williams, Gilly John Williams, and Vickie Louann Williams. They raised their children on a family farm near Thomasville, Missouri. Mary Lou started her teaching career in Ring, Arkansas, followed by various grade schools, including Nebo, Essex, Birch Tree, Alton, and Dixon, and she finished her career at Willow Springs. She taught kindergarten through sixth grade and retired after more than thirty years of faithful service. Mary Lou attended Shilo Baptist Church in Rover, Missouri, from childhood through adulthood and was a member for many years. She also attended Trinity Baptist Church in Willow Springs and First Free Will Baptist Church in West Plains. Mary Lou was always involved with music. She enjoyed playing, singing, and performing Country, Bluegrass, and Gospel music with her husband, Eugene James. They traveled by camper throughout the South and attended many music festivals. She and Eugene also enjoyed fishing and spent many hours in Arkansas, Missouri, and Texas, honing their skills in both music and fishing.
She is survived by her son, Larry Williams (Alicia); five grandsons, Johnathon Williams (Elin), Taylor Capocaccia, Carter Capocaccia (Raquel), Kennith Miller (Desiree), and James Miller (Renee); one granddaughter, Kimberlee Williams; three great-grandsons, Rylan Light, Desmond Williams, and Arlo Capocaccia; seven great-granddaughters, Brooklyn Miller, Carmen Miller, Kaylee Light, Mattie Schmidt, Katelyn Miller, Bailey Miller, and Juliette Williams; and one sister, Dorothy Barton.
Her parents, two children, Gilly John Williams and Vickie Louann Tipton, one brother, Dale Huddleston, two sisters, LaWanda Smoot and Joyce VonAllmen, and three spouses, Carl R. Williams, Oscar L. Jones, and H. Eugene James, preceded her in death.
Visitation will be from 12:30 p.m. to 1:30 p.m., Friday, in the Langston Street Chapel of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or Redburn Cemetery Tornado Relief and may be left at or mailed to Robertson-Drago Funeral Home, 211 West Main, West Plains, MO 65775.
