Graveside services for Alice Maxine Keith, 100, Leawood, Kansas, formerly of Ozark County, Missouri, will be held at 2:00 p.m., Friday, May 3, 2024, at Moody Cemetery, under the direction of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.
Mrs. Keith passed away Tuesday, April 23, 2024.
From the beginning, she was called Maxine. Maxine was born April 14, 1924, at Cushing, Oklahoma, to William Albert Coonce and Nancy Elizabeth Strong. When she was four years old, she moved with her parents back to Gainesville, Missouri, in a covered wagon. Her brother, Roy, was born in 1932. Maxine graduated from Gainesville High School. Her family lived out in the country, so during her last two years of high school she lived in town with Frank and Jesse Johnson, helping with their children while she finished school. In the summers of 1942 and 1943, she lived in Kansas City with her cousin Pearl Luna and worked at Bendix Corporation. There, she made parts and equipment for wartime military aircraft. Maxine lived in Ozark County, Missouri, until she moved to Kansas City in 1946. She worked for the Southwestern Bell Telephone Company in the billing department. One of the accounts that she handled was for the well-known Kansas City artist Thomas Hart Benton. Maxine attended the Junior College of Kansas City (Metropolitan Community College), where she earned her Associates Degree in Education. In 1948, on one of her bus trips back to Gainesville to visit family, Maxine met the love of her life, Max Keith. Max and Maxine married on September 25, 1949 and enjoyed 56 years of marriage until his passing in 2005. In 1956, they built their home in Leawood, Kansas, with the help of Max’s brother, Clarence, and their long-time friend, Carl Hoffmeister. Maxine continued to work at Southwestern Bell Telephone until Rex was born in 1959. Twelve months and 4 days later, Karan was born. Max and Maxine would continue to reside at their home in Leawood for the remainder of their lives.
Her faith in Jesus was important to her. She was a lifelong member of the Churches of Christ. When first married, they attended the 67thand Woodson Church of Christ, which later became the Overland Park Church of Christ. Maxine was a member of the Marsha Bagby Elementary School PTA and actively involved in many of her children’s activities. As Rex and Karan reached Middle School, she started selling Avon. She also began working for the Overland Park Church of Christ Sonshine School. One of her favorite memories was caring for the babies with her two friends, Maxine Rose and Virginia Butner. Maxine was an avid bowler from high school until she was 96 years old, when Covid stopped her bowling career. She was in many leagues, accumulating dozens of bowling trophies and awards. She loved working in her yard and visiting with her neighbors. She also enjoyed cooking, especially for her grandchildren. Max and Maxine loved to travel, taking the family on numerous vacations around the world. They continued their travels after Rex and Karan left home, traveling throughout most of the United States, including two trips to Hawaii, and trips to over 15 countries. Some of her favorite places that she visited were England, Ireland, Italy, Israel, and going through the Panama Canal. One of her goals in life was to celebrate her 100th birthday, which she accomplished. She was always an optimist, including in her last week of life when she made the remark, “Do you think I can make it to 110?” Maxine loved God and anticipated the day that she would be reunited with her Max.
Maxine is survived by her son, Rex (Kris) Keith; daughter, Karan Keith; granddaughters, Erin, Ainsley, Lauren; and grandson, Jaden.
She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, her brother, Roy, and his wife, Esther.
For those in the Kansas City area, a Memorial Celebration will be held at 12 p.m., Thursday, May 2nd, at Southpoint Church of Christ, Kansas City, Missouri.
Visitation will be from 12:30 p.m. to 1:30 p.m., Friday, at Robertson- Drago Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Moody Cemetery, Southpoint Church of Christ, or The American Heart Association and may be left at or mailed to Robertson-Drago Funeral Home, 211 W. Main, West Plains, MO, 65775.
Funeral services for Josephine Frances McAdam, 86, West Plains, Missouri, will be held at 10:00 a.m., Saturday, April 27, 2024, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, under the direction of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.
Mrs. McAdam passed away Wednesday, April 24, 2024, at West Vue Nursing Center.
She was born July 21, 1937, at Honolulu, Hawaii, to Joseph Francis Smith and Margaret Josephine Fell Smith. On November 24, 1955, she was married at Warrington, Florida, to Thomas Wells McAdam, Sr. Before her retirement, Mrs. McAdam was a Medicaid claims specialist. She loved her friends, her family and her dogs. She never met a stranger and always looked for opportunities to help others. Mrs. McAdam was a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church.
She is survived by her husband of sixty-eight years, Thomas W. McAdam, Sr., of the family home; five children, Cindy Hardy and husband, Alan, Panama City, Florida, Thomas W. McAdam, Jr., and wife, Cindy, Danbury, Texas, Mike McAdam and wife, Carol, Panama City, Florida, Joe McAdam and wife, Mae, Sunny Hills, Florida and Linda Eberle and husband, Dale, West Plains, Missouri; fifteen grandchildren; twenty-five great-grandchildren, one brother, Jack Smith and wife, Virginia, State of Tennessee; and several nieces and nephews.
Her parents, two grandsons, Patrick Jinks and Blake McAdam, one sister, Alice Ann Parslow, one niece, Donna Parslow and her father-in-law and mother-in-law, Edward and Jean McAdam, preceded her in death.
Visitation services will be held from 9:00 until 10:00 a.m., Saturday, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Mary’s Catholic Church and may be left at or mailed to Robertson-Drago Funeral Home, 211 West Main, West Plains, MO 65775.
Funeral services for Aloysius Henry Eldringhoff, 90, West Plains, Missouri, will be held at 10:00 a.m., Monday, April 29, 2024, at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, White Church, Missouri, under the direction of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.
Mr. Eldringhoff passed away at 4:12 a.m., Sunday, April 21, 2024, at NHC HealthCare.
He was born July 4, 1933, near White Church, Missouri, to Conrad H. Eldringhoff and Easter Pauline (Baser) Eldringhoff. On February 14, 1957 he married Geneva Hopkins at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, White Church, Missouri. They were married 60 years at her passing in 2017. To this union seven children were born.
Mr. Eldringhoff was a veteran, having served with the United States Army during the Korean Conflict. He was an auto and farm machinery mechanic, co-owner of a gas station and garage, farmhand, dozer operator, farm implement hauler, and spent most of his life as a dairy and beef farmer. In his early years, he was an avid coonhunter and baseball player. He played music most of his life and he and his family were some of the first members of the Heart of the Ozarks Bluegrass Association. His family band, Roger Williams & the Eldringhoffs, served as one of the association’s first charter bands. He also served many years on the board of directors of the St. Joseph’s Catholic Cemetery at White Church and was a lifetime member of St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, White Church, Missouri.
He is survived by his children and their spouses: Mark (Marilyn) Eldringhoff, Ben (Belinda) Eldringhoff, Mary (David) Mahan, Anthony (Jill) Eldringhoff, Teresa (Randall) Romans, and Estella Genise Eldringhoff (Tom Haviland); ten grandchildren: Shauna (Eric) Norris, Abby (Jerry) Burleson, Henry Eldringhoff, Kathleen (Wayne) Cahoj, Joseph (Brittany) Mahan, Dustin Mahan, Audrey Eldringhoff, Chance Eldringhoff, Matthew Romans, and Ethan Simpson; and six great-grandchildren: Crews Norris, Shayna, Kyra, and Everett Burleson, Alice and Archer Mahan; and numerous nieces and nephews.
He is preceded in death by his parents, his wife, Geneva, one daughter, Catherine, four brothers, Don, Paul, Stephen, and Maurice and four sisters, Katherine, Electa, Novella and Rosalie.
Visitation services will be held from 6:00 until 8:00 p.m., Sunday, at Robertson-Drago Funeral Home. Burial will be in St. Joseph’s Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Joseph’s Cemetery and may be left at or mailed to Robertson-Drago Funeral Home, 211 West Main, West Plains, MO 65775.
Graveside services for Bobby J. Guilliams, 90, West Plains, Missouri, will be held at 2:00 p.m., Monday, April 29, 2024, at Howell Valley Cemetery, under the direction of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.
Mr. Guilliams passed away at 4:44 p.m., Sunday, April 21, 2024, at his home.
He was born December 21, 1933, at Carlsbad, New Mexico, to Hervil Adam and Edith Watkins Guilliams. He graduated from Carlsbad High School, Carlsbad, New Mexico. He was raised in Weed, New Mexico; his family moved to West Plains, Missouri to the family farm. He met Alice Spoor and they were married on August 14, 1954; they had two daughters, Debra Hale in 1955 and Rhonda Reece in 1960. In 1962 the family moved to Dallas where Bob began working for Murr Bros. Electric. They returned to West Plains in 1976 and Bob started his own businesses. His true passion was driving over the road or long haul trucks across the United States. He loved spending time with his family, friends, playing dominoes and cards; he also enjoyed traveling and attending bluegrass festivals. Mr. Guilliams was a member of Central Church of Christ.
He is survived by his wife of nearly seventy years, Alice Guilliams, of the family home; two daughters, Debbie Hale and husband, Doug, Waxahachie, Texas and Rhonda Reece and husband, Kyle Allen, Memphis, Tennessee; five grandchildren, John Hale and wife, Candice, Midlothian, Texas, Jacob Hale and wife, Alaina, Dallas, Texas, Josh Wilkins and Bobbie, Alexander, Arkansas, David Reece and Kelsey, Hughes, Arkansas and Daniel Reece, Jonesboro, Arkansas; eight great-grandchildren; two great-great-grandchildren; one brother, Jim Guilliams and wife, Cindi, West Plains; one sister, Donnie Holloway and husband, Vernon, West Plains; and many nieces and nephews.
His parents and two sisters, Quada Youngblood and Mary Frances Dancer, preceded him in death.
Visitation services will be held from 6:00 until 8:00 p.m., Sunday, at the Langston Street Chapel of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home. Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society and may be left at or mailed to Robertson-Drago Funeral Home, 211 West Main, West Plains, MO 65775.
Shirley (Schmidt) Newberry, 79, of West Plains, Missouri and formally of Blue Grass, Iowa went to meet the Lord on April 16th, 2024 after she lost her battle with cancer. Visitation will be Thursday, April 25, 2024 from 2-4 p.m. at the Runge Mortuary and Crematory, Davenport, Iowa.
She was born to Eleanor (Junkman, then Johnson) and Raymond Schmidt on July 20th, 1944. She married Dan Smith with whom they had three children, Jeff, Barry, and Jason. After their divorce, Shirley met the love of her life, Jim Newberry, whom she married in May of 2000. Jim and Shirley spent many joyful years camping, canoeing, swimming, ATV riding, playing cards and games, gardening, and spending time with family and friends.
Shirley is survived by her loving husband of 24 years Jim; sons, Jeff of Oregon, Barry (Lisa) of Blue Grass, Jason (Anne) of Solon; siblings, Sandy (Randy) of Bettendorf, Terry (Linda) of Bettendorf, all of Iowa, and Sally (Doug) of Knoxville, Tennessee.
She is preceded in death by her parents (Eleanor and Raymond) and brother (Richard).
Funeral services for Harold Leon Cawvey, 81, Moody, Missouri, will be held at 2:00 p.m., Monday, April 22, 2024, in the Rose Chapel at Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.
Mr. Cawvey passed away Wednesday, April 17, 2024, at his home.
He was born January 19, 1943, at Pasadena, California, to Lewis Wilson Cawvey and Mary Oleva Ward Cawvey. On December 11, 1974, he was married at West Plains, Missouri, to Ida Mae Eagleman. Before his retirement, Mr. Cawvey was a maintenance supervisor for the Missouri Department of Transportation. He enjoyed gardening, woodworking, hunting and fishing. He was an excellent marksman. After his retirement, he raised Barzona Cattle with his father and was a dozer operator for McGinnis Farms. Leon loved his wife, daughter and their dog, Ben. He enjoyed serving his community and was a board member for the County Extension Council, Moody Fire Department and Howell County SWCD for a number of years. He was a member of the Church of Christ for more than sixty-five years and attended Viola Church of Christ.
He is survived by his wife, Ida Mae Cawvey, of the family home; three children, Stacy Cawvey and wife, Donna, Haysville, Kansas, Monica Gallagher and husband, Brad, Willow Springs, Missouri and Scot Cawvey and wife, Debbie, Colorado Springs, Colorado; three grandchildren, Sarah Kline and husband, Anthony, Clayton Cawvey and wife, Kylie and Camry Cawvey; several great-grandchildren; one sister, Donna Dobbs, West Plains, Missouri; and several nieces and nephews.
His parents preceded him in death.
Visitation services will be held from 1:00 until 2:00 p.m., Monday, at Robertson-Drago Funeral Home. Burial will be in Free Union Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Paragould Children’s Home and may be left at or mailed to Robertson-Drago Funeral Home, 211 West Main, West Plains, MO 65775.
Terriell Eugene Ross, 68, West Plains, Missouri, passed away at 2:01 a.m., Wednesday, April 10, 2024, at Cox South, Springfield, Missouri.
He is survived by Cindy Ross; his son, Shaun Ross; granddaughter, Andrea Ross; and special friend, Rhonda Howell.
Terriell enjoyed hunting, motorcycles, NASCAR and the Kansas City Chiefs. He was a good friend to many and could always be counted on for a good time. He was a good father and an amazing grandfather.
He will be laid to rest next to his daughter, Holli Ross at Oak Lawn Cemetery at 2:00 p.m., Sunday, April 21, 2024.
Arrangements under the direction of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.
Funeral services for Sudie Yvonne Reynolds, 86, West Plains, Missouri, will be held at 2:00 p.m., Friday, April 19, 2024, in the Rose Chapel at Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.
Mrs. Reynolds passed away at 10:30 a.m., Friday, April 12, 2024, at Brooke Haven Healthcare.
She was born April 25, 1937, to Ernest Edward Kitchens and Julie Ann McDaniel Johnson. Mrs. Reynolds enjoyed sewing, knitting, painting and traveling. She loved her family more than life itself. She was helpful in any way she could be to others. Mrs. Reynolds was a devout Christian and attended Gainesville Church of Christ.
She is survived by two children, Anita Lewis, West Plains, Missouri and William Ortiz and wife, Cindy, Sparta, Missouri; six grandchildren, Tony Ortiz, Michael Lewis, Natasha Lewis and husband, Adam, Teresa Ortiz, Melissa Hodge and husband, Jake and Joshua Ortiz; twenty-three great-grandchildren; many great-great-grandchildren; and three nephews.
Her parents, three husbands, Charles Reynolds, Joseph Stofle and William Ortiz, one son-in-law, Michael Lewis, one grandson, Jay Lewis, one great-grandson, Kyle Jamison and two sisters, Ernestine Gompf and Alma Montgomery, preceded her in death.
Burial will be in Lake Havasu Memorial Garden Cemetery, Lake Havasu, Arizona. 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.
Kathleen Sue (Hattie) O’Mara, 78, West Plains, Missouri, passed away at 3:55 p.m., Thursday, April 11, 2024, at her home.
She was born March 28, 1946, at Fairfield, California, to Hugh Southerland and Edith Miller Southerland. On April 15, 1967, she was married at Reno, Nevada, to Michael O’Mara. She was happily married to her soul mate for fifty-seven years. Mrs. O ‘Mara loved her family and friends, especially her grandbabies. She enjoyed crafts, gardening and making floral arrangements. Her home and yard were her world.
She is survived by her husband, Michael Phillip O’Mara, of the family home; two children, Kellie Sue Roberts and husband, Shane and Michael Sean O’Mara, all of West Plains; many grandchildren and great-grandchildren; one brother, David Southerland, Phoenix, Arizona; one sister, Judi Lawson and husband, Jerry, Stockton, California; and many nieces and nephews.
Her parents preceded her in death.
A celebration of life service will be held April 27, 2024 at 2:00 p.m., at Genesis church, 4945 US 160, West Plains, MO 65775. Arrangements under the direction of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.
Funeral services for Imogene Carrell, 84, West Plains, Missouri, will be held at 2:00 p.m., Wednesday, April 17, 2024, in the Rose Chapel of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.
Mrs. Carrell passed away at 6:34 a.m., Tuesday, April 9, 2024, at her home.
She was born January 29, 1940, in Howell County, Missouri, to Sam and Lena (Collins) Holloway. Imogene was baptized into the Baptist faith when she was a young woman, attending Lost Springs Church in her later years. On May 19, 1956, she was married to Ivan Edward Carrell at Salem Arkansas. They were married 67 years before his passing in 2023. Imogene attended Missouri State University receiving an Associate’s degree in 1989. She worked as a paraprofessional in several of the local schools. From 2003-2023 she was employed by Missouri State University as a facilitator in the education Dept. Imogene had a deep affection for her students and loved the staff. She enjoyed making crafts and her most recent hobby was creating beautiful wreaths. Her greatest joy was her family. She was so proud of her grandchildren and delighted in watching them grow.
Imogene is survived by four children, Jean Hanson, husband Phil, Sam Carrell, Sherry Brotherton, husband John, and Dennis Carrell, wife Maria; six brothers and sisters, Charles Holloway (Joyce), Don Holloway (Judy), Gary Holloway (Julie), Emma Pettit (John), Linda Huddleston and Carolyn Verplanke (Greg); one brother-in-law Orbie Gunter; nine grandchildren; twelve great-grandchildren; two great-great-grandchildren; and several aunts, nieces and nephews.
Her parents, in-law, Aulce and Arlene Carrell and one grandson, Robert Lucas preceded her in death.
Visitation services will be held from 6:00 until 8:00 p.m., Tuesday, at Robertson-Drago Funeral Home. Burial will be in Mt. Zion Cemetery, South Fork, Missouri. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital or Shriners Children’s Hospitals and may be left at or mailed to Robertson-Drago Funeral Home, 211 West Main, West Plains, MO 65775.
Benjamen Franklin Killion, 45, Bakersfield, Missouri, passed away April 5, 2024 at Baxter Regional Medical Center. Arrangements under the direction of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.
Graveside services for Wanda June (Leek) Merrick, 84, West Plains, Missouri, will be held at 10:00 a.m., Tuesday, April 16, 2024, at Evergreen Cemetery, under the direction of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.
Wanda passed away peacefully 12:15 p.m., Saturday, April 6, 2024, at West Vue Nursing Center after a brief illness.
She was born July 22, 1939, in Hartville, Missouri, to James Irvin Leek and Orla Faye Hutsell Leek. On January 18, 1959, she was married at Burlington Junction, Missouri, to Coy Deward Hampton, who preceded her in death. In March of 1986, she was married to Ivan Stockton, who also preceded her in death. On October 19, 2002, she was married at West Plains to Norval Merrick. Wanda had worked at West Plains Ramada Inn as head of housekeeping for several years before her retirement and had made forever friends who were her co-workers there. Wanda was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, great-great grandmother, and friend. She dearly loved her family which was extended through marriage over the years with many bonus family members who she considered her very own. Wanda loved flowers and enjoyed watching the birds, butterflies and deer which frequented her yard. She was a crafter including that she made jewelry and special Christmas cards and personalized ornaments. She painted on canvas and all kinds of other things and liked to polish rocks she found in her yard. Everyone who knew her will remember her sweet smile and readiness to offer encouragement.
She is survived by her husband of 22 years, Norval Merrick, of the family home; two sons, Allen Hampton and Terry, and Wade Hampton and Trudy, all of West Plains; three bonus sons Dante Merrick and Deanna, of Lost Nation, Iowa, Coy Stockton of West Plains, Larry Stockton and Cathy, of West Plains; four bonus daughters, Kelli Grey of Farley, Iowa, Leah Willers and Mark of Springfield, Missouri, Karen Collins of West Plains, Teresa Sexton of West Plains; eight grandchildren; 22 great-grandchildren; 10 great-great-grandchildren; 21 bonus grandchildren; 21 bonus great-grandchildren, one bonus great-great grandchild; one brother, John Leek of Des Moines, Iowa; three sisters-in-law, Lois Staner of West Plains, Melva and Tom Trunnel of Jefferson City, Missouri, and Marna Kitchens of Bristol, Tennessee; one brother-in-law, Rod Merrick and Maxine of West Plains; many nieces and nephews; a wide circle of friends, neighbors, and cousins; her church family at Providence Baptist Church, West Plains; and her devoted dachshund, Sunny.
She is preceded in death by her parents; her daughter, Deena Payne Johnson; one brother, Irvin “Joe” Leek; two sisters-in-law, Mary Leek and Lynda Leek; and bonus daughter Diana Jo (Jody) Tucker.
Visitation services will be held from 5:00 until 7:00 p.m., Monday, at Robertson-Drago Funeral Home. Memorial contributions may be made to any charity of choice and may be left at or mailed to Robertson-Drago Funeral Home, 211 West Main, West Plains, MO 65775.
Funeral services for Chris Wayne Piper, 59, West Plains, Missouri, will be held at 2:00 p.m., Saturday, April 13, 2024, at Faith Chapel, under the direction of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.
Mr. Piper passed away April 6, 2024, at his home.
He was born November 17, 1964, at La Mesa, California, to Larry Piper and Joyce Walker Piper. His childhood in West Plains, instilled a lifelong passion for cars, dirt bikes, go-karts and dirt track racing. Chris graduated from North Arkansas College in 1985. He began dating the love of his life, Sheri, in 1986 and they married in 1987. They welcomed daughter, Alissa in 1989, daughter, Sonnie in 1990 and son, Ben in 1992. Chris won his first dirt track race at the age of 13. He enjoyed driving in area races alongside his father and son. Chris received Track Champion, Fan Favorite and Midwest Dirt Track Legend recognitions for his talents as a wheelman. He owned and operated multiple businesses and watched every Chiefs football game. He had a passion for classic rock music and mastered the art of the air guitar. Chris loved attending his grandchildren’s sporting events and watching them ride go-karts. He was a member of Faith Chapel, where he enjoyed volunteering for church activities. Chris will be remembered as a beloved husband, father, PawPaw and friend.
He is survived by his wife, Sheri Piper, of the family home; two children, Sonnie Wilson and husband, Cory, Nixa, Missouri and Ben Piper and wife, Austi, West Plains; two grandchildren, Crimson and Cameron Piper; his mother, Joyce Piper, West Plains; and many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, in-laws and bonus children.
His daughter, Alissa Piper, granddaughter, Camber Piper and father, Larry Piper, preceded him in death.
Visitation services will be held from 5:00 until 7:00 p.m., Friday, at the Langston Street Chapel of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home. Burial will be in Piper Lane Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to American Cancer Society, Faith Chapel Building Fund or Gideon Bible Society and may be left at or mailed to Robertson-Drago Funeral Home, 211 West Main, West Plains, MO 65775.
Funeral services for Frank Michael Legerski, 70, West Plains, Missouri, formerly of Rock Springs, Wyomiing, will be held at 10:00 a.m., Saturday, April 13, 2024, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, under the direction of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.
Mr. Legerski passed away April 6, 2024 at his home following a two year battle with cancer. With this knowledge Frank was able to prepare this obituary.
He was born on September 2, 1953 in Rock Springs, Wyoming, the son of John George Legerski, Sr. and Mary Elizabeth “Liz” Legerski. Frank lived in Superior, Wyoming, and Rock Springs, Wyoming. He attended school at Sts. Cyrillic & Methodius Catholic School and graduated from Rock Springs High School in 1971. He attended college in Boise, but never finished. He moved to Boise, Idaho and married Jerelyn Smellie. They divorced and he married Iva Bunch. They divorced. He finally met and married Gail Smith March 28, 2010. She was the one he’d been looking for all of his life. His soul mate. They retired and moved to West Plains and bought a house and 10 acres of heaven on earth. Mr. Legerski worked as a news cameraman for KTVB in Boise. He then moved back to Wyoming and became a mechanic and certified welder at Stauffer. (OCI) After a 42 year career, he finally retired. He was also on the board of directors, and chairman of the Stauffer Federal Credit Union. He was one of the leaders that pushed for the merge with FMC Federal Credit Union. After the merge, it became Trona Valley Credit Union. He was very proud of that accomplishment. His interests were riding his Harley, shooting pool, fishing, friend get togethers and family reunions. He loved making things with steel or wood. He was a gardener who was very proud of his crops and especially his lawn. He always talked about his grandpa and dad and how they taught him. He was a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church in West Plains and a Knight of Columbus.
Survivors include his wife, Gail; three daughters, Jennifer Legerski, Victoria (Tori) Sanderson and husband Paul, and Erica Legerski; one sister, Mary Peterson and husband, Ken; one brother, David; six grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; several nieces and nephews; one sister-in-law, Earleen Arbogast; three stepsons, Joe Smith and wife, Ying, Kevin Smith and wife, Deborah, and Kenneth Smith and wife Anja; five step-grandsons; and several step-nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents John and Liz Legerski and two brothers, Philip and John Jr.
Burial will be in Howell Memorial Park Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Knights of Columbus and may be left at or mailed to Robertson-Drago Funeral Home, 211 West Main, West Plains, MO 65775.
A celebration of life service for James Merlin Henry, 87, West Plains, Missouri, will be held at 2:00 p.m., Friday, April 12, 2024, in the sanctuary of First Presbyterian Church, 112 Aid Avenue, West Plains, MO 65775, under the direction of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home. Visitation services will be held from 5:00 until 8:00 p.m., Thursday, at the Langston Street Chapel of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.
James Merlin Henry arrived on Groundhog Day, February 2, 1937, in the Dust Bowl of Claflin, Kansas. Surrounded by love, Jim departed this life for the everlasting April 1, 2024, following his favorite holiday, Easter, with his spring lawn in unfurling bloom, blossom and color. Jim was the youngest of four children born to Edward Paul and Veva Harris Henry. He spent his childhood in Salina, Kansas, with numerous family relocations to his father’s hometown of West Plains, Missouri to help his grandmother. They returned to the West Plains homestead permanently Jim’s senior year of high school. A quiet, witty, and intelligent teen, Jim soon returned to his position of go-to wingback on the Zizzer football squad and track standout known for his “Ipana smile.” He graduated from West Plains High School in 1955, and entered a four-year manufacturing management program at Caterpillar Tractor in Joliet, Illinois. Jim, ever hopeful of returning to West Plains, met St. Louis entrepreneur Jack McDaniel Sr., who speculated opening a defense manufacturing company in the area. In 1959, Jim became one of the first-hired production employees of Southwest Truck Body Company (SWT now DRS). In 1961, Jim entered the Mechanical Engineering program at Missouri School of Mines and Metallurgy (now Missouri S&T). In January 1964, Jim returned to West Plains, as the very first in-house engineer for SWT. In 1969, he was named general manager of the company, and later assumed the additional role as senior vice president of manufacturing until the company was sold in the late 1980s. In 1988, Jim purchased a small manufacturing business in Illinois. In 1992, Jim returned to West Plains to serve as general manager, and later CEO of Perennial Energy, Inc. (PEI). He held this role until his retirement in 2013. Jim Henry was known for his successful management style and mentoring generations. He recognized potential in team members, encouraged and invested in their education, development, understanding, professional ethics, and business acumen, and he valued their engagement in the community. He delighted in their personal growth and professional successes, and his support transformed many futures. Jim understood business, cultural nuances, and was known for his skill in contract negotiations. He helped deliver projects, jobs, and a better standard of living to his hometown, while working collaboratively with international governments and industry leaders like Mercedes and BMW to manufacture military and civilian transport equipment; and later, to help first and third world countries turn bio-waste into alternative power sources, improving economic and living conditions, air, soil, and water quality for all. Throughout his career, across all industries, Jim advocated for employee benefits; he thought all should receive pension, or 401k, as well as health and dental insurance. A dedicated community member, Jim helped establish business and civic organizations and was relied upon to define clear bylaws, salient objectives, and operational goals. He often worked behind the scenes to bring national organizations to his hometown, pulling together teams to launch diverse initiatives and West Plains-centric efforts ranging from West Plains Council on the Arts to The Friendship Circle Preschool. He was a longtime member of the West Plains R-7 School Board and The Advisory Board for Southwest Missouri State University-WP (now MSU). He was a West Plains Chamber of Commerce President and Chamber award recipient. He was meticulous, engaged, focused, and dedicated to all the companies, ventures, organizations, nonprofits, groups, boards, committees, and individuals he served. Some of these meaningful board roles in his home community included West Plains Bank and Trust Company, West Plains Country Club, West Plains Industrial/Economic Development Council, and West Plains Housing Authority. He was named by the governor to a statewide initiative based on his economic and industrial development experience. He received repeated national awards as a top defense contractor by the Small Business Administration. He was a life member of The American Society of Mechanical Engineers, The American Society of Manufacturing Engineers, and The Society of Mayflower Descendants. He was a member of First United Methodist Church of Salina, Kansas and West Plains, Missouri for a collective 55 years. He taught Sunday School for decades, first to teens, a role he cherished, and later, he enjoyed this mutually enlightening role with adult parishioners. Most recently, Jim enjoyed the fellowship and spiritual home he found at First Presbyterian Church of West Plains, Missouri. For years, Jim’s quick step and whistling song announced his approach. He forged deep friendships and was well-known for his wit. Caring for his yard and gardening was his meditation. Jim collected and restored Model T Fords and 1940s pickups. He doled out clever nicknames, his script handwriting was impeccable, and Jim’s hilarious stories, cards, and accompanying illustrations were inspired. He was a voracious reader of fiction, non-fiction and theological texts. He attributed any and all success in life to the one who was beside him for over sixty-six years. Nancy Ann LaFevers became his wife on July 2, 1957. Smart as a whip, unpretentious and good-natured, and possessing a canny business mind of her own, Jim treasured Nancy’s point of view and gifts. The couple rarely spent a day apart. Their special partnership of shared values, humor, admiration, faith, and dedication, along with her ability to fill in the very occasional crossword squares Jim left blank, is one for the ages. Not only was he a constant husband, Jim Henry was the ultimate girl dad. While he insisted his daughters run endless patterns catching football passes, he also possessed infinite patience, humor, and sensitivity. He was supportive, loving, and fun. He led neighborhood sports games and came home on his lunch hour on snow days to make phenomenal giant snow sculptures with his girls and their friends. His grandchildren thought he hung the moon. It was mutual, as he knew no greater joy than his two granddaughters and grandson.
In recent years, Jim expanded his circle of friends with wonderful, dedicated caregivers who enriched his life and shared his humor. Over time, they became more like family. The Henrys express deepest thanks, love and appreciation to Diana, Lorie, Kathy, Misty, Daryl, Dana, and Deborah. To Dr. Jeffrey F. Roylance, Bethany and Treba, your incredible care, support, and friendship over many years provided comfort and light. God Bless and thank you all.
In addition to his beloved wife Nancy, Jim is survived by his two daughters and their families, Ann-Elizabeth Henry Yorty and Stephanie Henry Stollenwerck, and husband John of Dallas; and Jim’s grandchildren Annabel Stollenwerck, Houston, Texas; Emeline Yorty, Overland Park, Kansas; and John Stollenwerck Jr., of Dallas. He is also survived by sister-in-law Janice Langston Bowden; brother-in-law Philip P. Corneli; friend and former son-in-law Adam Yorty; childhood friend Jack Gilbreath; along with seven nieces and nine nephews and spouses; and a number of great nieces and nephews across the country; along with many cherished cousins, longtime friends and colleagues.
He is preceded in death by his parents and much-adored older siblings: Helen Crawford (Lewis), Mildred Lewis (Robert), and Edward Paul Henry Jr. (Jeannie); along with sisters-in-law Helen LaFevers Corneli; Janet Kay Hollingshad LaFevers; and brothers-in-law William Henry LaFevers, Terry Langston, and Keith Bowden; and nephews William David LaFevers and Deric Alexander LaFevers.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to an effort he believed in: West Plains Housing Authority. Another organization that aligns with Jim’s desire to help others is MISSION MSA, a nonprofit dedicated to funding research and a cure for the neurodegenerative disease Jim lived with in his final years: Multiple System Atrophy. Please note “In honor of Jim Henry.” Donations to WPHA or MISSION MSA may be delivered or mailed to Robertson-Drago Funeral Home, 211 West Main, West Plains, MO 65775; or you may donate to Mission MSA online in his honor: www.missionmsa.org.
Graveside services for Jerry Leonard Rhoads, 70, West Plains, Missouri, will be held at 2:00 p.m., Thursday, April 11, 2024, at Amy Cemetery, under the direction of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.
Mr. Rhoads passed away at 2:26 a.m., Friday, April 5, 2024, at his home.
He was born June 2, 1953, at West Plains, Missouri, to Charles Leonard and Grace Jane Rhoads. He was married to Anita Marie Collins on October 18, 1974 in Siloam Springs, Missouri. Jerry was an avid outdoorsman, loved to hunt and trade dogs, spend time with his family, especially his two grandsons, Bryce and Logan Tharp.
He was survived by his wife of nearly 50 years, Anita Rhoads, of the family home, two daughters, Stacy Tharp and husband Garry, and Ashley Rhoads, all of West Plains, Missouri; two Grandsons, Bryce Tharp and Logan Tharp, West Plains, Missouri; six siblings, David Rhoads and wife Tammy, Dora, Missouri, Steve Rhoads, Ozark County, Melanie Woodward and husband Cary, West Plains, Missouri, Lynn Rhoads and wife Jodie, Branson, Missouri, Tracy Rhoads, West Plains, Missouri and Richard Rhoads and wife, Kim, West Plains, Missouri; Mother-in-Law, Pat Collins, West Plains, Missouri; Three sisters-in-laws Benita Parker, Mountain Grove, Missouri, Vonda Almond and husband Dennis, Vancouver, Washington and Delissa Sanders and husband Henry, Mountain Grove, Missouri; Many nieces, nephews and numerous cousins.
Jerry was preceded in death by his parents, Charles and Jane Rhoads; one brother, Kenneth Eugene Rhoads; Father in Law, Basil Collins, Two Brother in Laws, Danny Collins, West Plains and John Parker, Mountain Grove.
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.
Funeral services for Howard (Dean) Whiteside, 89, West Plains, Missouri, will be held at 10:00 a.m., Wednesday, April 10, 2024, in the Rose Chapel at Robertson-Drago Funeral Home. Visitation services will be held Tuesday from 5:00 until 7:00 p.m. Burial will be in Oak Lawn Cemetery.
Dean Whiteside passed away at his home Saturday, March 30, 2024, at 10:44 p.m.
He was born August 1, 1934, in Mammoth Spring, Arkansas, to Troy Whiteside and Mattie Mae Hayes Whiteside. Dean was a veteran, serving in the United States Marines from 1952 until 1955. He married Patricia Francis on August 5, 1966, in West Plains, Missouri. They attended church together every Sunday. Dean loved his family and friends; they were all very dear to him. He was a longtime business owner; working hard in his community for many years at both Triangle Furniture Store and Triangle Station and Grocery. Dean was an avid outdoorsman; particularly enjoying fishing, hunting, gardening, photography, and traveling to the mountains. He was a kind and generous man who never met a stranger.
He is survived by his wife of nearly fifty-eight years, Patricia Whiteside, of the family home; three children, Sandra Whiteside, Springfield, Missouri, Robert Whiteside and wife, Stacy, and Lanetta Stirewalt and husband, Sterling, all of West Plains, Missouri; two granddaughters, Annetta Overstreet and husband, Clay, and Breanna Stirewalt all of West Plains, Missouri; four great-grandchildren, Alessa, Maci, Henzli and Remi Overstreet of West Plains, Missouri; three siblings, Fern Tackitt and husband, Bob, Richard Whiteside and wife, Donna, all of Mountain View, Missouri, and Elaine Durham and husband, Tilman, of West Plains, Missouri; one sister-in-law, Maryann Whiteside of West Plains, Missouri; three brothers-in-law, Jerry Francis and wife, Holly, of Georgia, Mike Francis, and Rick Francis of West Plains, Missouri; and many nieces and nephews.
He is preceded in death by parents; two sisters, Betty Hartle and Carolyn McLain; one brother, Marland Whiteside; and one nephew, Preston McLain.
Memorial contributions may be made to any charity of choice and may be left at or mailed to Robertson-Drago Funeral Home, 211 West Main, West Plains, MO 65775.
A celebration of life service for Justin Cooley, 52, West Plains, Missouri, will be held at 2:00 p.m., Saturday, April 6, 2024, at Genesis Church, West Plains, followed by burial at South Fork Cemetery, South Fork, Missouri, under the direction of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.
Justin passed away at the age of 52 years on April 2, 2024.
He was born on October 17, 1971 in Trenton, MO to Garry and Judy (Taber) Cooley.
Justin was united in marriage on September 26, 2020 to Ashley Tyree Cooley.
Justin was a graduate of Mountain View-Liberty High School, class of 1989. He went on to Southwest Missouri State University in Springfield, MO, where he was a member of the Kappa Alpha fraternity. He graduated with a bachelor’s degree in wildlife conservation management in 1995. After a career in sales management, Justin found his true calling as a certified wealth advisor with LPL Financial and Simmons Investment Services, serving the surrounding area communities of southwest Missouri. He enjoyed working alongside his coworkers and building relationships with his clients. He embraced the challenge of this new career path.
Justin was a sports enthusiast and a loyal fan to the Dallas Cowboys, Mizzou Tigers, and St. Louis Cardinals. He loved hosting and entertaining friends and family around the smoker, BBQ grill, and campfire. Justin was a passionate outdoorsman who loved fishing the Jacks Fork and the Eleven Point Rivers, as well as the Norfork Lake, and deer hunting in Arroll, MO with his friends and family. He enjoyed traveling and sightseeing the world with the love of his life, Ashley, and his friends and family. Justin was baptized alongside his wife on March 16, 2021 in the Jacks Fork River by Brian Ingalls.
Justin was a loyal member of the Liberty Eagles Football First Team All-American Chain Gang, West Plains Sunrise Rotary Club, Greater Area West Plains, Mountain View, and Willow Springs Chambers of Commerce, and a member of Genesis Church-West Plains.
Justin is survived by his wife Ashley Cooley of the home, children Laken Copeland (Kyle), Landen Cooley, and Kennedy Cooley. He is also survived by his father Garry Cooley (Joyce), brother Eric Cooley (Lisa), and sister Julie Kelly (Rowdy), grandchildren Brooks, Riley, and Eden Copeland, in-laws Lynn and Cindy Tyree, brother-in-law Luke Tyree, sister-in-law Kate Tyree, and grandparents-in-law Bob Ellison and Darrell and Dorothy Tyree, along with a host of nieces, nephews, and cousins. Justin is also survived by a village of amazing friends including David and Angie Ledgerwood, Scott and Annie Roy, Steve and Jamie Vines, Dan and Joy Horgan, Michael and Shannon Triplett, Brock and Bridget Kenega, Kenny Porter, Kristi Bailey Williams, Kevin and LaKeesha Irving and many more.
Justin is preceded in death by his mother Judy Cooley, his paternal and maternal grandparents, his uncles Jack and Larry, and aunt Sally Cooley, close friend Jeff Bailey and several high school classmates.
Justin will forever be remembered by his contagious smile, witty sense of humor, and his willingness to help others in need. Justin fought a courageous battle with colon cancer, never giving up and always persevering despite the obstacles he faced. The impact of his story may never be known; however, it became his mission to spread colorectal cancer awareness and advocate for early detection.
Justin’s loved ones would like to specifically thank his team at Siteman Cancer Center-Barnes Jewish Chrisitian for their unwavering support and care throughout his journey along with the prayers and support of our community and loved ones.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to West Plains Sunrise Rotary Backpack program, Simmons First Foundation or South Fork Cemetery and may be left at or mailed to Robertson-Drago Funeral Home, 211 West Main, West Plains, MO 65775.
A celebration of life service for Jeffrey Don Collins, 59, Elizabeth, Arkansas, will be held from 6:00 until 8:00 p.m., Wednesday, April 10, 2024, at Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.
Jeff passed away March 31, 2024 in Elizabeth, Arkansas.
He was born July 13, 1964 in St. Charles, Missouri to Don and Carol Woolf Collins. He loved spending time with his grandkids, taking care of his wife, Trish, playing with and caring for his beloved, Hyla Mae Collins. He loved hunting about as much as he did fishing, but neither one as much as he loved time with his family. Jeff will be dearly missed by all who knew him.
He leaves to mourn his passing, his wife, Trish Collins, of the family home; two sons, PJ Collins (Morgan) Bexar, Arkansas and Justin Collins of Gassville, Arkansas; one daughter, Sheena Collins (Jon Strout) of Mountain Home, Arkansas; four grandchildren, Kayley Staggs, Ethan, Aliyah and Grace Collins; two sisters, Robin Collins and Amanda Crain; one brother, Doug Collins; brother-in-law, John Riley; sister-in-law, Susan Williams; niece, Jena Weller; and nephew, Jason Riley.
He was preceded in death by his father, Don Collins, his mother Carol Whisenant, his sister-in-law, Karen Riley, one grandson Braxton Wyatt Staggs and several aunts, uncles and cousins.
Memorial contributions may be made to American Cancer Society and may be left at or mailed to Robertson-Drago Funeral Home, 211 West Main, West Plains, MO 65775.
Funeral services for Glinda (Sue) Nettles, 80, West Plains, Missouri, will be held at 10:00 a.m., Thursday, April 4, 2024, in the Rose Chapel at Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.
Mrs. Nettles passed away at 12:32 a.m., Saturday, March 30, 2024, at University Hospital, Columbia, Missouri.
She was born December 5, 1943, at Corning, Arkansas, to Robert and Isabell Mofield. Sue was a 1961 graduate of Slidell High School. Sue worked several places in her lifetime, but one of her first jobs was with Alice Department Store in Texas. She also worked as a switchboard operator for Bell Telephone. More recently Sue worked in the bakery at Price Chopper in West Plains and at Glenwood School, where she was a cook and secretary. Sue was married to Bill Scheig of San Antonio, Texas; they lived in Alice and Houston, Texas for ten years and had one son, Thomas Joseph Scheig. On November 17, 1975, Sue married Jerry Lee Nettles; they moved to Missouri and had two children, Lamar Kirk and Briana Kay Nettles. Living in or around the West Plains area for many years, Sue enjoyed deer hunting, gardening and doing crafts. Some of her favorite crafts were making elaborate photo albums and handmade jewelry. She served on the Glenwood School PTO for several years. During this time, she conducted and directed several plays, skits and talent shows hosted by the PTO. Sue and Jerry were members of the China Union Church in West Plains for many years. There they developed many friends and brothers and sisters in Christ. With those friends they would often get together for a card game of pitch or canasta. If you knew Sue, then you knew she was always cracking the next joke or trying to make you laugh! If you would ever tell her, you had lost a little weight, her immediate response was, “I found it!”. Sue and Jerry could also dance the Jitterbug into their 50’s and loved entertaining house guests with crazy, funny shenanigans. Sue got to celebrate her 80th birthday with family in 2023.
She is survived by her children, Jody Scheig and wife, Cynthia, Kirk Nettles and wife, Angela, Briana Hennesy and husband, Steven and Jim Nettles and wife, Dynise; two grandchildren, Lexi and Shane Hennesy; one great-grandchild, Emerald Avery Murrell; several step grandchildren and step great-grandchildren; her sisters, Donna Jones and Kim Elliott; brothers, Billy Mofield and John Elliott; and numerous nieces and nephews.
She is preceded in death by her parents, husband, Jerry Nettles, three sisters, Margaret Smith, Jackie Graves and Mickie Steptoe, and two brothers, Donald and Rex Elliott.
Visitation services will be held from 6:00 until 8:00 p.m., Wednesday, at Robertson-Drago Funeral Home. Burial will be in Evergreen Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Glenwood School and may be left at or mailed to Robertson-Drago Funeral Home, 211 West Main, West Plains, MO 65775.
