Funeral services for Jimmie Warren Mathis, 72, Springfield, Missouri, will be held at 10:00 a.m., Friday, March 10, 2023, in the Rose Chapel of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.
Mr. Mathis passed away at 7:10 a.m., Sunday, March 5, 2023, at Mercy Hospital in Springfield, Missouri.
He was born October 3, 1950, at White Oak, Missouri, to J. W. Mathis and JoAnn Simmons. On November 6, 1971, he was married at Arlington, Virginia, to Elizabeth Green. Mr. Mathis was a veteran, having served with the United States Army. He enjoyed boating and fishing, and he loved spending time with his family and friends. He was always the life of the party.
He is survived by his wife, Elizabeth, of the family home; two daughters, Brooke Mathis, and Jessica Snyder and husband, Donald, all of Springfield, Missouri; two grandchildren, Lane Snyder and wife, Kat, and Bob Snyder and Challa Watkins, all of Springfield, Missouri; two great-grandchildren, Kaiden Snyder and Nolan Snyder, both of Springfield, Missouri; one sister, Janet Martin and husband, Charlie, Augusta, Georgia; and numerous nieces and nephews.
His parents, one son-in-law, Frankie Church, and two sisters, Barbara Revelle and Joyce Davenport, preceded him in death.
Visitation will be from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., Thursday, at Robertson-Drago Funeral Home. Burial will be at Howell Valley Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Shriners and may be left at or mailed to Robertson-Drago Funeral Home, 211 West Main, West Plains, MO 65775.
Funeral services for Anthony Ray Fultz, 63, West Plains, Missouri, will be held at 2:00 p.m., Friday, March 10, 2023, in the Rose Chapel of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.
Mr. Fultz passed away at 4:49 a.m., Saturday, March 4, 2023, at New Albany, Mississippi.
He was born July 22, 1959, at Batesville, Mississippi, to Marvin Ray Fultz and Barbra Alice Nail. On January 16, 1998, he married Teresa Barks in West Plains, Missouri. He loved spending time at home with his family and grandchildren every chance he could.
He is survived by his wife, Teresa Fultz; four children, Amanda Fultz, Ronnie Fultz, Madison Fultz, and Joshua Johnson and wife, Katrina; seven grandchildren, D’Laynee, Landun, Logan, Raylan, Yuri, Estella, and Daxton; three brothers, Dean Joiner and wife, Margie, Curtas Lauderdale and wife, Evelyn, and Bubba Fultz and wife, Michelle; four sisters, Ryná Smith and husband, Mike, Windy Ramirez and husband, Juan, Bobbie Austin and husband, James, and Amanda Tharpe; his father-in-law and mother-in-law, Melvin and Mary Barks; two brothers-in-law, Melvin Barks Jr. and Roger Carter; one sister-in-law, Melinda O’Malley and husband, Mike; several nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews; and a special brother by another mother, David Brown and wife, Tammy.
His parents, one brother, Bobby Fultz, and two brothers-in-law, Darrel Jenkins and Phillip Tharpe, preceded him in death.
Visitation will be from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., Thursday, at Robertson-Drago Funeral Home. Burial will be at Oak Lawn Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to 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 Timothy Wayne Squires (Baker) II, 37, West Plains, Missouri, will be held at 2:00 p.m., Saturday, March 11, 2023, at the Koshkonong High School Gymnasium, Koshkonong, Missouri, under the direction of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.
Mr. Baker passed away at 2:15 a.m., Saturday, March 4, 2023, at West Plains.
He was born October 21, 1985, in Indianapolis. Timmy enjoyed being with his friends and family and loved them more than anything. He brightened up every room he walked into. His girls meant the world to him as well as his dog, Hooch. Timmy loved to play pool, poker, ride side by sides and go fishing with Tony. His contagious laugh will be missed by all, along with his favorite saying “I’m gonna poke you in the eyeball!”
He is survived by his mother, Jackie Baker; his fathers, Kenny Baker and Tony Martin; his two daughters, Haily and Mikah, along with their mother, Felicia Goodman, all of Mammoth Spring, Arkansas; one grandchild on the way; two brothers, Alec Baker and Anthony Martin, both of West Plains; two sisters, Tonya Martin and Chad Robertson, Mountain Grove, Missouri, and Kayla Baker, West Plains, Missouri; his grandparents, Mary Jo Baker (Meemaw), Shirley Wilson (meme), Barbara and Keith Goodman; aunt, Vicki Deatherage; Jessie and Chris Legand; great-uncle and great-aunt, Jerry and Terri Martin; nieces and nephews, Ellaina Jo Martin, Ethan Martin and Easton Martin; and special cousins, Samantha, Corey and Jazzlynn; and many other family and friends.
His grandparents, Berylee Martin (PawPaw), Darcus and Jack Johnson, Ace Baker (Peepaw), Al Martin and Juanita Martin, preceded him in death.
Visitation will be held from 1:00 until 2:00 p.m., Saturday, at Koshkonong High School. Burial will be at State Line Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to State Line Cemetery and may be left at or mailed to Robertson-Drago Funeral Home, 211 West Main, West Plains, MO 65775.
A memorial service for Shirley Ann Callahan, 85, Springfield, Missouri, formerly of West Plains, will be held at 2:00 p.m., Saturday, March 11, 2023 in the Rose Chapel at Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.
Mrs. Callahan passed away at 6:56 a.m., Monday, January 9, 2023, at Mercy Hospital, Springfield, Missouri.
She was born March 18, 1937, at Pottersville, Missouri, to Walter Silas Hensley and Vernie Edna Davis Hensley. On September 11, 1957, she was married at West Plains, to Dewayne Beach Callahan, who preceded her in death on October 11, 2020. Before her retirement, Mrs. Callahan had worked as a clerk with Centel Telephone Company. She was an avid reader and enjoyed quilting, but hated to cook. She loved her grandkids and also loved going to flea markets and antiquing. Mrs. Callahan was a member of Smith Chapel Church, West Plains.
She is survived by two children, Tansy Lindeman and husband, Mike, Springdale, Arkansas and Kevin Callahan and wife, Faunda, Springfield, Missouri; six grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren and one on the way; one sister, Violet Losh and husband, Steve, Springfield, Missouri; and several nieces and nephews.
Her parents, husband, and ten siblings preceded her in death.
Visitation will be held from 1:00 until 2:00 p.m., Saturday, March 11, 2023 at Robertson-Drago Funeral Home. Burial will be at Oak Lawn Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to West Plains Public Library and may be left at or mailed to Robertson-Drago Funeral Home, 211 West Main, West Plains, MO 65775.
Funeral services for Mabel Irene Uhlmann, 98, West Plains, Missouri, will be held at 2:00 p.m., Sunday, March 12, 2023, in the Rose Chapel at Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.
Mrs. Uhlmann passed away at 5:57 p.m., Friday, March 3, 2023, at Cedarhurst Senior Living.
She was born November 25, 1924, at Glenpool, Oklahoma, to Thomas Henderson Rideout and Mary Jane Renfro Rideout. Mabel’s elementary schooling was at Red Ranch School in Howell County, Missouri. She graduated from Koshkonong High School with the Class of 1941. On January 1, 1942, she was married at West Plains, to David Harley Uhlmann, who preceded her in death on June 14, 2001. After their marriage, they resided on their farm in Douglas County. In 1961 the family moved to West Plains, Missouri. Mabel worked for Howell Oregon Electric for nine years as a lightning specialist and demonstrated small appliances new to the market. She designed lighting for several homes and businesses in the area. She later obtained her real estate broker’s license in 1976, retiring at the age of seventy-three years. Mrs. Uhlmann topped annual real estate sales of $1 million for years 1978, 1981 and 1983 and also received title of Realtor of the Year in the West Plains trade area. She met and became friends with many people during her long real estate career. Mabel was a member of the United Freewill Baptist Church and past member of the VFW Ladies Auxiliary Post 1828.
She is survived by her two daughters, Patricia Nall and husband, Gerald and Linda Campbell and husband, Daniel; six grandchildren, Dana Cornell, Brent Campbell, Scott Nall, Trish Ruth, Tyla Duckworth and Tammie Call; twelve great-grandchildren, Linnea Cornell, Ava, Jacy, Liam and Hope Campbell, Rebecca Harrison, Courtney Nall, Allison Dorsch, Riley Call, Kinsey Finley, Karstin Duckworth and Cody Menzies; three great-great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews. Mabel loved her family dearly and was loved by those who knew her. She was known as an elegant lady. Mabel enjoyed her time at Cedarhurst Senior Living and became friends with many residents and staff.
Her parents, husband, one great-grandson, Aidan Cornell, four brothers, Hurshal, Henry, Herbert and Robert Rideout and four sisters, Gladys Davis, Mildred Hunter, Berta Rideout and Dortha Taylor, preceded her in death.
Visitation will be held prior to the service from 1:00 until 2:00 p.m., Sunday, at Robertson-Drago Funeral Home. Burial will be at Howell Memorial Park Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Faith Chapel Building Fund or a charity of choice and may be left at or mailed to Robertson-Drago Funeral Home, 211 West Main, West Plains, MO 65775.
Arvel Ray Milton, 86, returned to his Heavenly home on March 5, 2023.
Arvel was born June 27, 1936, in Pomona, Illinois, to Agnes Lipe and Otho Ray Milton. He was an Army veteran in the Korean War, and spent his time working at Inland Steel as an accountant for thirty years. He was a devout member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Arvel loved music, reading, and spending time with his family. He was loved by many, and a friend to everyone.
He is survived by one son, Steven (Jennifer) Milton, Boynton Beach, Florida; one daughter, Anita (Daniel) Wright, West Plains, Missouri; two grandsons, Larry Dean (Kimberly) Milton Jr., Demotte, Indiana, and Billy Ray Milton, Lake Village, Indiana; two granddaughters, Michelle Woodcox, Anna, Illinois, and Mikayla Wright, West Plains, Missouri; and many other friends and family members.
His parents, wife, Shirley Milton, two sons, Alan and Larry Milton, one brother, Donald Milton, and two sisters, Shirley Milton and Jerry Sauerbrunn, preceded him in death.
Burial will be at Lake Village Cemetery, Lake Village, Indiana, under the direction of Sheets Funeral Home, Lowell, Indiana, with local arrangements by Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.
James Patrick Pettit, 68, Dora, Missouri, passed away at 10:50 a.m., Sunday, March 5, 2023, at his home. Arrangements under the direction of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.
James Marland Keith Whiteside, 86, West Plains, Missouri, passed away at 8:30 p.m., Saturday, February 25, 2023, at his home.
He was born October 26, 1936, at Mammoth Spring, Arkansas, to Troy Whiteside and Mattie May Hayes Whiteside. On June 10, 1961, he was married at West Plains, to Mary Callahan. Mr. Whiteside was a veteran, having served with the United States Marines. Before his retirement, he worked at Southwest Truck Body, now known as DRS. Mr. Whiteside enjoyed hunting, gardening and farming, but above all he loved spending time with his grandchildren and family. He is a member of Good News Baptist Church.
He is survived by his wife, Mary Whiteside, of the family home; five children, Sharon Hall and husband, Dale, Moody, Missouri, James Scott Whiteside and wife, Tamara, Shelby, Ohio, Lisa Cook, Jayson Whiteside and Shana and Troy Allen Whiteside, all of West Plains; nine grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandchild; two brothers, Howard Whiteside and wife, Pat, West Plains and Richard Whiteside and wife, Donna, Mountain View, Missouri; two sisters, Fern Tackitt and husband, Bob, Mountain View, Missouri and Elaine Durham and husband, Tilman, West Plains; and several nieces and nephews.
His parents, and two sisters, Carolyn McLain and Betty Hartle, preceded him in death.
A private burial will be held at Stuart Union Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Stuart Union Cemetery and may be left at or mailed to Robertson-Drago Funeral Home, 211 West Main, West Plains, MO 65775.
Joyetta Lynn Booker, 62, West Plains, Missouri, passed away Wednesday, March 1, 2023, at her home. Arrangements under the direction of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.
Funeral services for Ryan Lee Reed, 43, West Plains, Missouri, will be held at 2:00 p.m., Friday, March 3, 2023, in the Rose Chapel at Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.
Ryan Lee Reed departed this life at 2:15 a.m. Sunday morning, February 26, 2023 at NHC Healthcare in West Plains, Missouri, at the age of 43 years, 8 months, and 26 days.
He was born May 31, 1979, in West Plains, Missouri to Jack Lee Reed and Brinda Irene Bankston Reed. Ryan attended West Plains High School and was also employed for a time at the West Plains Public Library from 1998-2002. He was baptized into Christ and added unto the Lord’s church as a young man and was a faithful member of the AB Highway Church of Christ in West Plains, Missouri until he was physically unable to attend. Ryan loved the Lord, and he loved the Lord’s church. When he was still physically able to worship with those of like precious faith, Ryan would participate in church worship as best as he could. Even as his physical disease began to take away his ability to walk, talk, see and hear, Ryan continued to worship the Lord. He would never miss an opportunity to lead songs and prayer. He even did some preaching for a time. Ryan was a model of faithfulness. Ryan loved sports, especially baseball and NASCAR. He was a big fan of the St. Louis Cardinals and the Earnhardt racing teams. Ryan also loved to tell jokes and had a great sense of humor. His memory was incredible, recalling past events effortlessly while smiling and nodding as he spoke. When he could still speak, he rarely spoke without bursting out into laughter – which made any visit with Ryan so joyful. It was always such a blessing to be in his presence. His smile and laugh were infectious, and his loving spirit was larger than life. The impact of his love and life has touched so many people. The glow of his illuminating character and spirit was stronger than his physical disease. Ryan was not defined by his disease, but rather by his love and faithfulness. The only sad thing about Ryan’s legacy, was that not enough people were blessed to have known him.
Ryan outlived all his immediate family. His parents and his twin sisters, Amy Cheryl (Reed) Kimbrough and Susan Louise (Reed) Lockett all preceded him in death.
He is survived by a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, aunts, and uncles who loved him dearly. His nieces include Mariah Roy and husband, Tyler of West Plains, Missouri and Allison Warren and husband Weston of West Plains, Missouri. Nephews include Malachi Allen and companion, Samantha Bruce of West Plains, Missouri, Brock Kimbrough and wife, Shyanne of Peace Valley, Missouri, and Brenden Kimbrough and wife Christi, also of Peace Valley, Missouri. One grand-niece Raelynn Roy and three grand-nephews: Langston Warren, Karsyn Kimbrough and Micco Allen.
Ryan is also survived by all his NHC Healthcare family and the staff at Three Rivers Hospice, who loved and cherished him, as he did them. He will certainly be missed, but his love will be felt and shared by all those who knew and loved him.
Visitation will be held from 1:00 until 2:00 p.m., Friday, at Robertson-Drago Funeral Home. Burial will be in Homeland Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the family and may be left at or mailed to Robertson-Drago Funeral Home, 211 West Main, West Plains, MO 65775.
Graveside services for Lillian Kay Joan Rutledge, infant daughter of John Henry Rutledge and Lorrain Madle Todd Rutledge, West Plains, Missouri, will be held at 2:00 p.m., Thursday, March 2, 2023, in Babyland at Howell Memorial Park Cemetery, under the direction of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.
Lillian went to be with the Angels on February 26, 2023.
She was born February 26, 2023, at West Plains, Missouri.
She is survived by her parents, John and Lorrain Rutledge; her siblings, Olivia, Daedric, Jupiter and Grae Rutledge; her maternal grandparents, Brandi and Sean Nazarian; paternal grandparents, Tammy and John Rutledge; maternal great-grandparents, Kay and Jerry Painter; paternal great-grandmother, Lillian Barks; aunts and uncles, Kristen and Jeremy Cumings, Shayla Nazarian, Harmony Todd, Sara Rutledge, Dillan and Marie Earle, Sean Jr. and Melissa Nazarian and Zane Todd; great-uncles, Robert Painter and Cody and Kristine Painter; and numerous cousins.
Her great-grandparents, Donna and Victor Todd and Kenneth Rutledge, great-great-grandma, Shirley Painter and one uncle, Sammy Rutledge, preceded her in death.
Memorial services for Joseph Will Davis, 71, West Plains, Missouri, will be held at 2:30 p.m., Saturday, March 4, 2023, at the First United Methodist Church, West Plains, Missouri with a visitation to follow in the fellowship hall.
Mr. Davis passed away Saturday, February 25, 2023, at his home, surrounded by his family.
Joe, the son of the late Hilliard and Elinore Davis, was born on September 18, 1951 in Springfield, Missouri. On May 22, 1976, Joe married Kathy his “Sweet Pea”, in Pocahontas, Arkansas, a union of forty-six years. The first thing they bought as a married couple was an aluminum canoe. This started their passion for adventure and travel together that led them near and far.
He is survived by his wife, Kathy; two children, Katie and Ty Davis; one granddaughter, Elinore “Nellie” Dudden; one brother, Dr. Michael H. Davis of Springfield, Missouri; two nephews, Phil and Paul Davis of Springfield, Missouri.
In 1969, Joe graduated from West Plains High School. In 1973, he graduated from the University of Missouri with a Bachelor of Science degree in special education. He was a member of the Sigma Chi Fraternity while at Mizzou. In 1977, he graduated from Arkansas State University with a Master’s of Science degree in special education. In 2005, he received a Specialist Degree in Mental Health from the University of Missouri.
Joe held jobs as a teacher, coach, school administrator and businessman; a career path that reflected his father, Hilliard, who he greatly admired. In 1973 Joe’s teaching and football coaching career began at the Highland School District in Hardy, Arkansas. Joe returned home in 1977 to teach in the West Plains School District. After four years of teaching Joe transitioned careers in 1982 to work for Davidson Insurance Agency as an insurance broker. After 15 years in the insurance business, Joe felt called to return to the field of education. In 1997 he resumed his teaching career at the West Plains Middle School.
In 2005, Mr. Davis created the S.W.A.T. (Students Working at Transition) Program. The S.W.A.T. Program was designed to help individuals with disabilities gain work experience in the community while attending West Plains High School. A major goal of the S.W.A.T. Program was to help students gain post graduation employment and increase independence for individuals with disabilities. The S.W.A.T. Program continues to be an integral part of the Special Education Department for the West Plains School District. In 2011, Joe retired from the West Plains R-VII School District where he was a respected special education teacher, football and track coach, and administrator. His career as an educator spanned over 38 years.
In the 1880s, the first Davis family ancestors settled in West Plains, Missouri. Mr. Davis was proud of his Howell County roots and gave back by serving on many organizations throughout his life including the West Plains Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) President for two years, West Plains Chamber of Commerce board member, Southern Missouri Community Health Center board member, Howell Valley School District board member, Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) board member, University of Missouri Alumni Association, Black and Gold Chapter, Scholarship Chairman, Old Time Music Festival Steering Committee and volunteer, Ozarks Preservation, Inc. (OPI) Cultural Tourism project, SB 40 Board of Howell County secretary and Co-chairman, West Plains United Way board member and Missouri State-West Plains Friends of the Garnett Library board member. Joe’s work of serving his community did not go unnoticed. He received the 2011 Humanitarian of the Year Award from Ozark Independent Living in recognition for his sustained actions over a period of many years that have promoted the plight and worth of disabled persons and improved their dignity, respect and potential; the 2011 Community Service Award from the West Plains Rotary Club for development of the SWAT program between the West Plains R-7 School District and Ozarks Medical Center in helping provide daily living skills for members of the community.
Joe had many hobbies which included quail hunting, training bird dogs, fishing, exploring rivers, studying the history of the Ozarks, Zizzer athletics, Mizzou athletics, photography, attending church, playing his acoustic guitar, and listening to his vinyl record collection. Most importantly Joe loved his family. He enjoyed bringing his family together by cooking them dinner. This brought the family together around their dining room table with love and laughter.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the West Plains Schools S.W.A.T. program and made payable to the West Plains R-7 School District and may be left at or mailed to Robertson-Drago Funeral Home, 211 West Main, West Plains, MO 65775.
Graveside services for Samuel Rex Bragg, 73, West Plains, Missouri, will be held at 10:00 a.m., Saturday, March 4, 2023, at Oak Lawn Cemetery, under the direction of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.
Mr. Bragg passed away at 12:40 a.m., Thursday, February 23, 2023, at NHC HealthCare.
He was born June 13, 1949, at West Plains, Missouri, to Victor Eugene Bragg and Mary Louise Abney Bragg. Mr. Bragg was a veteran, having served with the United States Navy and received the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal and Vietnam Campaign Medal. He collected old cars and guitars, enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren and loved his cat, Francis.
He is survived by four children, Brandy Bragg and significant other, Paul Dunbar, St. Louis, Missouri, Gretchen Davis, Heather Croney and husband, Travis and Nathan DeShazo and significant other, Whitney Slaughter, all of West Plains; twelve grandchildren, Kory and Kayla Noble, Jaxyn and Shelden Bragg, Nicole Ely, Ruby Snethern and Willbilly Snethern, Bud and Megan Collins, Isaac and Toby Luck and Starr DeShazo; one brother, Victor Bragg, Kansas City, Missouri; and numerous nieces and nephews.
His parents and two sisters, Marcella Day and Debra Collins preceded him in death.
Visitation will be held from 6:00 until 8:00 p.m., Friday, at Robertson-Drago Funeral Home. Memorial contributions may be made to Alzheimer’s Association and may be left at or mailed to Robertson-Drago Funeral Home, 211 West Main, West Plains, MO 65775.
Harold (Dean) Harring, 72, West Plains, Missouri, passed away at 7:00 a.m., Saturday, February 18, 2023, at his home. Arrangements under the direction of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.
Graveside services for Irene Judd, 89, West Plains, Missouri, will be held at 10:00 a.m., Thursday, February 23, 2023, at Oak Lawn Cemetery, under the direction of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.
Mrs. Judd passed away Saturday, February 18, 2023, at Shepherd’s View Assisted Living, Alton, Missouri.
She was born December 15, 1933, at Viola, Arkansas, to Bedford Oden Cameron and Mable Marie McElmurry Cameron. On August 8, 1953, she was married at Salem, Arkansas, to Thomas Lee Judd, who preceded her in death on July 29, 1993. Irene was an avid quilter, she loved the St. Louis Cardinals and was a member of the Helping Hands Club.
She is survived by one daughter, Nancy Cline and husband, Terry, Koshkonong, Missouri; two grandchildren, Jennifer Riley and husband, Bill and Tiffany Williams and husband, Justin; six great-grandchildren; one brother, Leroy Cameron and wife, Jewell, Viola, Arkansas; and several nieces and nephews.
Her parents, husband, one great-grandson, Samuel, one brother, Charles Cameron and one sister, Wanda Minge, preceded her in death.
Mrs. Judd will lie in state from 5:00 until 8:00 p.m., Wednesday, at Robertson-Drago Funeral Home. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital or American Cancer Society and may be left at or mailed to Robertson-Drago Funeral Home, 211 West Main, West Plains, MO 65775.
A visitation service for Robert (Gene) King, 46, Pomona, Missouri, will be held from 5:00 until 8:00 p.m., Friday, February 24, 2023, in the Rose Chapel at Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.
Mr. King passed away at 9:45 a.m., Friday, February 17, 2023, at his home with his mother, Colleen and Uncle, Dana by his side.
He was born November 16, 1976, at Rockford, Illinois, to Doyle D. King and Colleen Dauenbaugh King Simmons. Before becoming disabled with kidney and heart disease, Gene worked at Invensys for several years. He loved his family and friends deeply and appreciated everything that was done for him. Gene enjoyed RC cars, computers, playing cards and board games, planting flowers and watching wildlife. Gene loved his best friends who were like brothers, Matthew Phenix, Matt Erickson, Brent Maddox, Sean Smith, David Steele, Cami, Joe, John and Aaron; the visits and phone calls meant a lot to Gene. Thank you for being such great friends.
He is survived by his mother, Colleen Simmons; one half-sister, Sylvia King; several aunts, uncles and cousins; and a very special friend he called Auntie Linda.
His father and step-father, Ulyess Simmons, preceded him in death.
In lieu of flowers, please plant a flower in your yard or put up a bird feeder in Gene’s memory. The family would like to thank the doctors and staff at the DCI and Fresenius Dialysis Clinic for the extra special care and Dr. Jones for saving Gene’s eyesight so that he was able to still enjoy life as it was for him during the last year and a half. Gene had a special gift of loving each person for who they were and was a very down to earth person; he will be greatly missed. Rest in peace my darling loving son.
A memorial service for Jerry Dee Foster, 79, Viola, Arkansas, will be held at 2:00 p.m., Saturday, February 18, 2023, at Viola Solid Rock Assembly of God Church, 10750 US 62, Viola, Arkansas.
Jerry Dee Foster, son of Clifford Dewitt Foster and Easter Lilly “Talley” Foster was born in Norfork, Arkansas, January 7, 1944, and entered into eternal rest February 14, 2023.
Mr. Foster was a veteran, having served with the United States Army from 1963-1969. He then served with the United States Postal Police in Memphis, as a policeman in Norman, Oklahoma and retired as a United States Postal Clerk at Mountain Home Post Office in 2008 after 38 years of service with them. Jerry was an avid gun enthusiast, teaching concealed handgun classes for 23 years. He was ranked 23rd in the US as a hand-gun speed shooter in 1976.
He was preceded in death by his parents and three brothers, Duke, Bobby and Mac Foster.
He was survived by his widow, Jeanne “Williams” Foster; four children, Brian Foster and wife, Heather, Doug Foster and wife, Christy, Erin Kimbrough and husband, Chuck and Mike Foster and wife Cindy; one brother, Terry Foster and wife, Anita; six grandchildren, Kyle and Abbey Kimbrough, Colton and Ty Foster, Ian and Kye Foster and William Foster; and many nieces and nephews.
Arrangements under the direction of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.
Howard Keith Larsen, 101, Pomona, Missouri, passed away at 11:58 a.m., Sunday, February 12, 2023, at Mountain View Health Care, Mountain View, Missouri.
He was born October 26, 1921, at Ladysmith, Wisconsin, to William Larsen and Ruth Matson Larsen. On April 8, 1944, he was married at Chicago, Illinois, to Frances Saverino. They were married for twenty-seven years. Howard owned and operated a Gulf Service Station in Anaheim, California for 30 years. Mr. Larsen was a WWII Veteran, having served with the United States Navy in Hawaii. He enjoyed fishing, gardening, football and NASCAR. Mr. Larsen was a member of Journey Church for 10 years; he loved his church family. Howard lived in Floyd, Virginia close to his brother, David and his brother’s wife Gaynell for 12 years. Floyd is in the Blue Ridge Mountains. It was customary for them all to meet at the Blue Ridge Cafe in Floyd for breakfast every morning to discuss the days events and life’s happenings. These were fond memories in his life. The last 20 plus years of his live he lived close to his daughter, Cheryl and her husband in Pomona, Missouri.
He is survived by three children, James Larsen and significant other, Judie Rex, Brea, California, Robert Larsen and wife, Joy, Placentia, California and Cheryl James and husband, Russell, Pomona, Missouri; six grandchildren, Brent Harris and wife, Shawna, Woodstock, Georgia, Michelle Larsen, Fullerton, California, Michael Larsen and wife, Emily, Canyon Lake, California, Heather Cleek and husband, Jeremiah Nixa, Missouri and Kristi Hughey and husband, David, Poplarville, Mississippi and Shaun James, Pomona, Missouri ; five great-grandchildren, Tanner, Hayden, Elijah, Riley and Reagan; two brothers, Chris Larsen and wife, Thelma, Omaha, Nebraska and David Larsen and wife, Gaynell, Floyd, Virginia; and several nieces and nephews.
His parents, two brothers, George and James Larsen and one sister, Shirley Loveland, preceded him in death. Later in life he married Karen Ham, who preceded him in death in March 1990.
Per his wishes, Mr. Larsen’s cremains will be spread over Blue Ridge Mountains, a place he dearly loved. Arrangements under the direction of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.
Michael Bennett Johnson, 75, West Plains, Missouri, passed away at 12:56 a.m., Wednesday, February 15, 2023, at Ozarks Medical Center.
He was born October 10, 1947, at New Orleans, Louisiana, to Richard Greer Johnson and Mildred Irene Bennett Johnson. On November 21, 1975, he was married at St. Louis, Missouri, to Linda Rush. Mr. Johnson was a veteran, having served with the United States Navy. Before his retirement he was the State Fire Marshal Investigator.
He is survived by his wife, Linda Johnson; four children, Michael Johnson, Jr. and wife, Elise, Amanda Aikulola and husband, Juwon, Justin Johnson and Jessica McKee and husband, Cody; nine grandchildren, Nathanial, Amanda, Alexander, Kaden and Taylor Johnson, Faye and Eric Aikulola and Millie and Maren McKee; and two great-grandchildren, Caroline and Liam Johnson; one sister, Patricia Tilley; one nephew, Kyle Swallow; and one niece, Lauri Hammontree.
His parents and one daughter, Jennifer, preceded him in death.
Arrangements under the direction of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.
Funeral services for Bonnie Lee James, 86, Joplin, Missouri, formerly of West Plains, will be held at 2:00 p.m., Wednesday, February 22, 2023, in the Rose Chapel at Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.
Bonnie L. James left this earth on February 14, 2023 to join her heavenly Father, her beloved husband and other loved ones. She leaves a legacy of loving friends and family who will miss her dearly.
Bonnie was born November 19, 1936 to Allen Tilson and Alice Lawing Tilson at the family home in Cureall, Missouri.
She was married to the love of her life, Herbert Charles James, at Cureall, Missouri on April 26, 1957. They were blessed with over 56 years together prior to his passing.
Mrs. James attended and graduated from Bakersfield High School with the Class of 1955.
Mrs. James was an assistant to West Plains dentist Dr. Skelton before being employed in the office of Richard Brothers West Plains for many years. Her last 20+ years of employment were spent with Missouri State Family Services Division West Plains as a case worker where she was employed until her retirement.
Bonnie was a longtime member of First Baptist Church West Plains where she served alongside her church family. She also served with her husband, who was a Lions Club member, as a Lioness in the West Plains chapter of the organization to promote awareness and raise funds for the various causes supported by the Lions Club.
Bonnie is survived by her two children, Beverly James and Shawn Hensley of Glendale, Arizona, Keith James and Melissa of Joplin, Missouri and six loving grandchildren, Nicole Lopez and husband Mark of Laguna Hills, California, Roger Bradford and wife Jennifer of Phoenix, Arizona, Samantha Daum and husband Greg of Eagle River, Alaska, Lindsey James of Webb City, Missouri, Beau James of Webb City, Missouri and Kylie Davis of Carl Junction, Missouri; as well as seven great-grandchildren, Kanoa, Makai and Leia Bradford, Evan and Landon Lopez, Lola James and Lauren Daum; sister-in-law Louise Tilson of West Plains, Missouri and sister-in-law Sue Roop and husband Jack of Grandview, Missouri as well as multiple nieces and nephews.
She is preceded in death by her parents, her husband Herbert C James, two brothers , Blaine Tilson and Glen Tilson, two sisters, Evelyn Lambeth and Juanita Williams and daughter-in-law Evelyne James.
Besides being passionate about and caring for her family, Bonnie was a gifted seamstress. Through the years her perfectly stitched creations included prom dresses, sports coats, men’s leisure suits, beach jackets for the boat ride back after water skiing at Norfolk Lake, majorette baton uniforms for the Christmas parades, costumes for school performances, outfits for her grandchildren, quilts and draperies. One of her favorite activities in retirement was camping and riding ATVs at Cloud 9 Ranch in Caulfield, Missouri. Always with an edge about her, Bonnie’s grandchildren are confident she passed on February 14 in order to be the Valentine’s Day gift for their Pop Pop/Grandpa.
Mrs. James will lie in state from 5:00 until 8:00 p.m., Tuesday, at Robertson-Drago Funeral Home. Burial will be in Oak Lawn Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to West Plains Lions Club to support vision enhancement and eyeglass distribution in the local area and may be left at or mailed to Robertson-Drago Funeral Home, 211 West Main, West Plains, MO 65775.
