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.
Funeral services for Megan Carol Shannon, 36, West Plains, Missouri, will be held at 2:00 p.m., Wednesday, May 14, 2025, at Cornerstone Family Worship, West Plains, Missouri, under the direction of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.
Megan entered into eternal rest at 10:31 a.m., Monday, May 5, 2025 at Hospice House of the Ozarks, Mountain Home, Arkansas.
She was born February 14, 1989, at Indianola, Mississippi, to Steve Shelton and Brenda Byars Shelton. On November 6, 2010, she was married at West Plains, to Phillip Shannon; they were married for fourteen and a half years and shared two wonderful sons, Matthias and Malakai. Megan loved her sons unconditionally and felt like they were her absolute greatest achievement. She regularly attended Cornerstone Family Worship. Her light shone brightly and she had a way of bringing joy to any room she entered. Those that had the opportunity to know Megan, will remember her bubbly personality and smile. She was a people pleaser and was always doing for others and never wanting anything in return. Her spirit, love and compassion will forever effect and guide the lives of many.
She is survived by her husband, Phillip Shannon, of the family home; two sons, Matthias and Malakai, of the family home; her parents, Steve and Brenda Shelton, West Plains; her brother, Stephen Shelton and wife, Mandy Franks and their children, Katelyn and Ashton, Tupelo, Mississippi, her grandmothers, Sarah Shelton, Tupelo, Mississippi and Vivian Bankston, Jackson, Mississippi; and many nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins, in-laws and countless friends.
Her grandfathers, Curtis F. Shelton and Leroy Byars, preceded her in death.
A private burial will be at the family’s cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Hospice House of the Ozarks, and may be left at or mailed to Robertson-Drago Funeral Home, 211 W. Main St., West Plains, Missouri.
Funeral services for Duard Harrison Ehrhart, 93, Caulfield, Missouri, will be held at 2:00 p.m., Tuesday, May 13, 2025, at Fowler Chapel Church, under the direction of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.
Mr. Ehrhart passed away at 9:10 p.m., Sunday, May 4, 2025, at his home.
He was born November 24, 1931, to William Grant Ehrhart and Lillie Ellen Harrison Ehrhart. Mr. Ehrhart was a veteran, having served with the United States Marines. On July 25, 1963, he was married at Caulfield, Missouri, to Patricia Keller. Mr. Ehrhart was a hard worker and loved to farm.
He is survived by his wife, Patricia Ehrhart, of the family home; five children, Michael Ehrhart and wife, Tracie, Caulfield, Missouri, Lisa Shipp and husband, Johnny, Thayer, Missouri, David Ehrhart, William Ehrhart and wife, Teresa and Samuel Ehrhart, all of Caulfield; eleven grandchildren, Sean, Nathan, Erin, Susie, Seth, Johnny, Lillie, Hannah, Brylee, Cameron and Meghan; one brother, Jimmy Ehrhart, West Plains; three sisters, Wanda Roop, Raytown, Missouri, Colleen Harbison, Caulfield and Carolyn Dreese, Oak Grove, Missouri; and many nieces and nephews.
His parents, one infant daughter, Mary Lou Ehrhart and one brother, Dorian Ehrhart, preceded him in death.
Visitation will be held from 1:00 until 2:00 p.m., Tuesday, at Fowler Chapel Church. Burial will be at Fowler Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the family, and may be left at or mailed to Robertson-Drago Funeral Home, 211 W. Main St., West Plains, Missouri.
A memorial service for Bobby Patton Thys, 53, Mansfield, Missouri, will be held at 2:00 p.m., Monday, May 12, 2025, in the Rose Chapel at Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.
Bobby passed away suddenly and painlessly in his home on May 3, 2025.
He was born in Phoenix, Arizona, on June 29, 1971. He grew up in Phoenix but moved with his family to the Ozarks in the early 1990s, where he met the love of his life, Rachel Thys, his wife of 28 years. Bobby enjoyed spending time with Rachel and their dogs, Iceis and Hershey. He was lucky to have some very close friends for over 25 years, including Jarod Tackitt (Springfield), James Dunnihoo (West Plains), and Ray Johnson (Thayer). He had another good friend in his employer, Clint Tackitt & family (Springfield). Bobby cared for his other numerous friends and his family very much, in his quiet way.
Bobby is preceded in death by his loving father, John Reynolds; brother Joseph Daniel Reynolds; sister-in-law, Tiny Dunnihoo; brothers-in-law, Speedy Gammon and Michael Eldried; and nephews Dustin Gammon and Thomas Gammon.
He is survived by wife, Rachel Thys (Mansfield); mother, Jo Anna Reynolds (Winnemucca, Nevada); mother-in-law, Deloris Johnson (Alton); biological father, Larry Pierson (Columbia Tennessee); uncle, Charlie Thys (Tacoma, Washington); sisters, Jamie Sage and husband, Benny (Winnemucca, Nevada), Jessica Caldwell and husband, Lindan (Springfield), and Jennifer Reynolds-Lewis and husband, Doug (Winnemucca, Nevada); siblings in-law, Ronnie Gammon and lifelong companion, Idona Falwell (Alton), Roberta Gammon, Jimmy and Becky Gammon (Alton), Christopher and Sarah Brown (Salem), and Lyndall Dunnihoo (Pomona); sisters-in-law, Cricket Green (Alton), Michelle Groves (West Plains), and Susy Rodman (Pomona); special nieces, Tasha Turner (Falcon) and Jessica Dunnihoo (Branson); many other nieces and nephews; and many great nieces and nephews.
Bobby will be missed for his sarcasm and wicked sense of humor – he loved to pull pranks. He was a little vain about his hair, but rightfully so. Bobby loved so many things in life. He would happily spend his time inside playing videos games, watching T.V., or listening to metal. He especially liked NASCAR and football: his favorite team was the Kansas City Chiefs. He taught his younger sisters how to headbang to Pantera and win in Mortal Kombat. But he was just as happy outside, going to a BBQ, lighting a bonfire, or fishing – as long as he was with friends and family. Bobby was so loved and will be so missed.
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.
A graveside service for Michael Scott Laxton, 55, West Plains, Missouri, will be held at 4:00 p.m., Saturday, May 10, 2025, at Gospel Hill Cemetery.
Mr. Laxton passed away at 8:34 a.m., Tuesday, April 29, 2025, at West Vue Nursing Center after a hard and brave battle against cancer, with his wife, Renae by his side.
He was born December 16, 1969, at West Plains, Missouri, to Robert Nicholas Laxton and Sylvia Jean Smith. On May 13, 2023, he was married at West Plains, to Desiree Renae Collins. Mr. Laxton was in the West Plains High School Class of 1988. He worked as a master welder. He enjoyed traveling, going to the river, camping, building model cars and spending time with his family.
He is survived by his wife, Renae Laxton; six children, Nicole Bennett, Megan Cale, Jennifer Coursey and husband, Justin, Brandi Bell, and husband, Micco, Brennen Wood and wife, Teri, all of West Plains and Tasha Davis and husband, Brad, Springfield, Missouri; sixteen grandchildren; his mother and step-father, Sylvia and Wendell Dobbs, West Plains; one brother, Robert Wade Laxton, and wife, Darinda, West Plains; and several nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles and cousins.
His father, step-father, Kimon Tetrick, one sister, Sharon Tetrick and one sister-in-law, Tamara Grisham, preceded him in death.
Arrangements under the direction of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.
Funeral services for Louise Lavon Cline, 95, West Plains, Missouri, will be held at 2:00 p.m., Tuesday, May 6, 2025, in the Rose Chapel at Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.
Mrs. Cline passed away Friday, May 2, 2025, at West Plains, Missouri.
She was born December 26, 1929, at Greer, Missouri, to Carl Bates and Pearl Bell Bates. On June 9, 1949, she was married at Salem, Arkansas, to Harry (Gene) Cline, who preceded her in death on November 26, 2013. Louise enjoyed gardening, stock car racing, reading her Bible and going to church. She loved her family and she loved Christ.
She is survived by two children, Donna Jackson, Springfield, Missouri and Steve Cline, West Plains, Missouri; three grandchildren, Scott Cline and wife, Tasha, Michelle Hammond and husband, J.D. and Staci Quintana and husband, Richard; four great-grandchildren, Jessica Hammond, Morgan Hodges, Sutton Cline and Silas Cline; two brothers, Don Shehorn and wife, Marylea and Ron Shehorn; and many nieces and nephews.
Her parents, husband, one great-grandson, Jacob Hammond, one sister, Bonnie Ross, one daughter-in-law, Linda Cline and one son-in-law, Russ Jackson, preceded her in death.
Visitation will be held from 1:00 until 2:00 p.m., Tuesday, at Robertson-Drago Funeral Home. Burial will be at Elk Creek Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital, and may be left at or mailed to Robertson-Drago Funeral Home, 211 W. Main St., West Plains, Missouri.
Funeral services for Roy Lee Provow, 86, Knobel, Arkansas, formerly of West Plains, Missouri, will be held at 2:00 p.m., Sunday, May 4, 2025, in the Rose Chapel at Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.
Mr. Provow passed away at 4:32 p.m., Monday, April 28, 2025, at his home.
He was born November 13, 1938, at Bakersfield, Missouri, to Numie Provow and Martha Roberts Provow. On October 20, 2018, he was married at Corning, Arkansas, to Mona Conway. Mr. Provow was a veteran, having served with the United States Army. He was a plumber, carpenter, mechanic and electrician; he had also driven a cement truck for Stewart-Morrison Redi-Mix. He could fix anything and enjoyed fishing and metal detecting; he had made his own detector. Mr. Provow loved his family and loved talking about the Bible.
He is survived by his wife, Mona Provow, of the family home; six children, Eyvette Combs, West Plains, Dean Provow and wife, Ann, West Plains, Phyllis Ainley, Knobel, Arkansas, Roy Yandell and wife, Tina, Knobel, Arkansas, Betty Ray and husband, James, Knobel, Arkansas and Teddy Conway, Moberly, Missouri; twelve grandchildren; thirty great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.
His parents, one great-grandchild, Kayden Price, two sisters, Allie Davidson and Celia Hart and four brothers, Frank, Erbie, Eugene and Charlie Provow, preceded him in death.
Visitation will be held 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 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.
Ina Lee (Crowell) Cooke passed away Tuesday, April 29, 2025, at West Plains, Missouri.
She was born July 17, 1929, in Bovina, Texas, to Ola Mae (Mitchell) and Oran H. Crowell. Because she suffered from asthma, life was hard for Ina on the family farm during the years of the Dust Bowl. The family moved to Canyon, Texas, where Ina graduated from high school in 1947. She attended Texas Tech University where she met James Louis Cooke. They were married on November 10, 1950, in Canyon. Ina was a homemaker, a talented seamstress and devoted mother to her daughters, Linda and Diane. Ina and James lived in Beaumont, Texas, where James taught Electrical Engineering at Lamar University. They were active members of St. Luke’s United Methodist Church for many years before joining First United Methodist Church, Beaumont, Texas. Her family remembers her quick smile, sparkling blue eyes and kind heart.
Ina was preceded in death by her parents, her husband and her siblings, Charles Crowell, Vergie C. Statt, Ola Faye C. Hendrickson, Ruth Ann C. Ringo and Billie Crowell.
She is survived by her daughters, Diane Cooke, West Plains, Missouri and Linda Cooke Jansen, Broomfield, Colorado; grandchildren, Katy Emerson, Moberly, Missouri, Joseph Emerson (Bridget), Sullivan, Missouri, Patrick Jansen, Broomfield, Colorado and Laura Jansen, Broomfield, Colorado; and many nieces and nephews.
Graveside services will be held at a later date at Hillcrest Cemetery, McLean, Texas. In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be made to the James Cooke Memorial Scholarship, EE, at the Lamar University Foundation, Beaumont, Texas, and may be left at or mailed to Robertson-Drago Funeral Home, 211 W. Main St., West Plains, Missouri. The family wishes to thank the staff of West Vue Greenhouse and Hospice Compassus for their care and support.
Graveside services for Shawn Allen Thompson, 42, West Plains, Missouri, will be held at 10:00 a.m., Saturday, May 3, 2025, at Barnett Cemetery, under the direction of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.
Mr. Thompson passed away Monday, April 28, 2025, at his home.
He was born February 25, 1983, at West Plains, Missouri, to James and Deborah Lawson Thompson. On September 24, 2016, he was married at West Plains, to Meredith Harris. Shawn enjoyed farming, hunting, fishing, riding dirt bikes and four wheelers; he especially enjoyed driving his tow truck and fighting fires. He worked hard and played hard. He took pride in everything he owned. Shawn believed if it wasn’t worth keepin’, it wasn’t worth havin’. Mr. Thompson served his community as a firefighter for the Peace Valley/White Church Fire Department for several years.
He is survived by his wife, Meredith Thompson, of the family home; four children, Shawn Thompson, Jr., Elk Creek, Missouri, Seth Thompson, Peace Valley, Missouri, Lindzy Summers, Willow Springs, Missouri and Marissa Tharp, State of North Dakota; his parents, James and Deborah Thompson, Peace Valley, Missouri; two brothers, Eddie Thompson and fiancé, Tina, and Johnathan Pliler, all of Peace Valley, Missouri; one sister, Amanda Johnson and husband, Chris, West Plains; and many nieces and nephews.
His grandparents, Ted and Ruth Ingleton and Lawrence Thompson, one brother, James Thompson, Jr. and father-in-law, Jack Harris, preceded him in death.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Peace Valley/White Church Fire Department or Barnett Cemetery, and may be left at or mailed to Robertson-Drago Funeral Home, 211 W. Main St., West Plains, Missouri.
Visitation services for Harold Dee Vaughan, 84, West Plains, Missouri, will be held from 6:00 until 8:00 p.m., Tuesday, May 6, 2025, in the Rose Chapel at Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.
Mr. Vaughan passed away Monday, April 14, 2025.
He was born November 9, 1940, in Moody, Missouri, to Clarence “Doc” Vaughan and Opal Lair Vaughan. On April 6, 1963, he was married at Moody, Missouri, to Joan Strickland. Mr. Vaughan was a welder and fabricator for many years, being one of the best and enjoyed his career; he worked for the City of West Plains as a lineman and retired as a welder at DRS (formerly Southwest Truck Body). He loved his family, visiting with people and telling stories. He also enjoyed hunting and fishing. Mr. Vaughan was a member of the West 160 Church of Christ.
He is survived by his wife, Joan Vaughan, of the family home; two children, Sherri Foster and husband, Kenny, Spokane, Missouri and Rodney Vaughan, Province Town, Massachusetts; one granddaughter, Stephanie Waltrip and husband, James, Springfield, Missouri; two great-grandchildren, Charley and Jack Waltrip; his twin brother, Howard Vaughan and wife, Doan, West Plains, Missouri; one sister, Marilyn Matsomoto, State of Michigan; and many nieces and nephews.
His parents, and his father-in-law and mother-in-law, Mike and Grace Strickland, preceded him in death.
