KEWPIES'
FAMILY MEMORIAL PAGE
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CHARLEY
BLACKMORE
2312 DEER
CREEK CT
COLUMBIA
MO 65201-3564
Those we
love truly never die
Though
year by year the sad memorial wreath--
A ring
and flowers, types of life and death--
Are laid
upon their graves.
Well blessed
is she who has a dear one dead
A friend
she has whose face will never change,
A dear
communion that will not grow strange.
The anchor
of a life is death.
There is
no death, nor change, nor any ending.
Only a
journey, and so many go
That we
who stay at length discern the blending
Of the
two roads, two breaths, two lives, and so
Come to
the high and quiet knowledge that the dead
Are but
ourselves, made beautiful instead.
From,
"Readings on the Philosophy of Death"
Author
Unknown, from "Poetry For Verse Speaking Choir"
Arranged
by, Helen D. Williams
OBITUARIES
COURTESY OF"THE
COLUMBIA DAILY TRIBUNE"
Martha Mae Traxler,
mother of Larry Traxler (Class of 1976) passed away Friday, August 14,
2026 in Columbia.
Ruth Ann Klaus, mother of Lea Ann Klause
(Class of 1983) passed away on August 6, 2026, at the Baptist Homes of
Ashland.
Jeanette Decker, mother of Robin Franklin
(Class of 1987) passed away Tuesday, August 4, 2026, in Columbia.
Charlene Adele (Downs) Carnes, mother of
Sharon West (Class of 1981) passed away on August 1, 2026.
Patricia Lawnick- Ritchie, mother of
Stephen Michael Lawnick (Class of 1978) passed away on Thursday,
July 30, 2026 in Columbia MO.
James Carl "Jim" Stallman, father of Heidi
Stallman (Class of 1986) and Brandon Stallman (Class of 1989) passed
away Tuesday, July 28, 2026 in Columbia, Missouri.
Maureen “Mo” Anne Kremer, mother of Andrew
Kremer (Class of 1995) and Erin Moore (Class of 1998) passed away
Wednesday, July 15, 2026, at her home in Columbia.
George Harold Hickam, father George Hickam
Jr. (Class of 1979), Dana Hickam (Class of 1981) and John C. Hickam
(Class of 1991) passed away Tuesday, July 14, 2026.
Yolande Renee Hatton, wife of Kerry Hatton
(Class of 1978) passed away on Monday, July 6, 2026,in Columbia.
James K. "Jim" Scott, father of Joshua Scott
(Class of 1996) and Kate Wolfmeyer (Class of 1998) passed away Thursday,
June 11, 2026, at his home in Columbia, Missouri.
Alan Anderson, father of Barry Anderson
(Class of 1977) and Laura Anderson (Class of 1983) passed away
Wednesday, May 27, 2026, in Columbia.
Carol Jean Easterhaus, mother of Kim
Easterhaus (Class of 1988) and Scott Easterhaus (Class of 1991) passed
away on May 24, 2026.
Jeannine Ingram Clow, mother of Laura Clow
(Class of 1985) and Guy Clow (Class of 1986) a, her daughter Laura Clow
passed away Saturday, May 23, 2026.
Lynne Randall Dillingham, mother of
Rebecca Dillingham (Class of 1988) and Randall Dillingham (Class of
1992)passed away peacefully on Thursday, May 21, 2026.
Don David Wright, father of Allison Archibeque
(Class of 1985) and Don David Wright, Jr. (Class of 1987) passed away
Friday, May 8, 2026 in Columbia.
Charles “Jake” LeRoy Jacobson, father of
Jill Marron (Class of 1985) died Tuesday, May 5, 2026, at Osage Beach
Rehabilitation Center.
Larry Joe Whitmarsh, father of Lora Curry
(Class of 1994) passed away Tuesday, May 5, 2026 in Columbia.
James Walter Brush, father of Barbara Verbeke
(Class of 1976), Dan Brush (Class of 1980), Rebecca Schweikert (Class of
1983) and Dr. Steve Brush (Class of 1988) passed away Monday, May 4th,
2026 in Columbia.
Patricia Ann Hoehle, mother of Glenda Sue
Akers (Class of 1966), Roger W. Sprague, deceased (Class of 1967) and
Patricia Kay Sprague (Class of 1971) died Friday, May 1, 2026, at
EverTrue Lenoir Woods, in Columbia.
Meta J. George, mother of Elizabeth George
(Class of 1979) and Margaret Eggenberger (Class of 1982) died Thursday,
April 30, 2026, at University Hospital in Columbia, MO.
Kenneth “Kenny” Marmon, Sr., father of
Kimberly Marmon (Class of 1997) passed away Saturday, April 25, 2026, in
Columbia, Missouri.
Ruby Darlene McCown,wife of Robert McGown,
deceased (Class of 1942) passed away Saturday, April 25, 2026.
Charles “Chuck” David Menke,
father of Andrea Tanner (Class of 1995) and Adam Menke (Class of
2000) passed away on Saturday, April 25, 2026, at his home in
Columbia, Missouri.
Jeanne Humpf, mother of
Linda Calvert (Class of 1967) and John E. Humpf IV (Class of 1969)
passed away Friday, April 24, 2026, in Columbia.
Marty Hartman, mother
of Donna Misslin (Class of 1987) and Lori Rhine (Class of 1990)
passed away Tuesday, April 14, 2026, at The Westbury in Columbia.
Audrey Rose Oglesby, mother of
Reed Creath, deceased (Class of 1961), Doris Smith (Class
of 1963), Steve Creath, deceased and Richard Creath, deceased,
passed away Monday, April 13, 2026 in Evansville, Indiana.
Kurt Warner Kopp, father Michael Kopp
(1991), Anne Kimberling (2001) and Sarah Kopper (2003) passed away
on Monday, April 13, 2026, at Barnes-Jewish Hospital in St.
Louis, Missouri.
Micheal Colin Turner,
father of Dale L. Turner (Class of 1991) Travonna M. Pree Class of
1993) passed away on Saturday, April 11, 2026.
Joyce May Anderson, mother of Barry
Anderson (Class of 1977) and Laura Anderson (Class of 1983)
passed away Thursday, April 9, 2026, at Cedarhurst Senior
Living in Columbia.
Connie Caffrey,
mother of Julie Marshall (Class of 1996) and Ryan Caffrey (Class of
1998) passed away Tuesday, April 7, 2026, at University of Missouri
Hospital.
Alice Jane Lanier,
mother of Steve Lanier (Class of 1980) passed away Sunday, March 19,
2026, in Columbia.
LeMONE, SARA ALICE MAGUIRE
(“Sally”), wife of Bob LeMone, deceased (Class of 1961) passed
away Thursday, March 19, 2026, at University Hospital in Columbia.
Raymond Lindsay Ethington,
father of Elaine Bluml (Class of 1974) and Mary Pratt (Class of
1979) passed away Thursday, March 19, 2026, in Lee’s Summit,
Missouri.
Dr. Ross Edward Duff,
father of Kristin Steelman (Class of 1991) died Wednesday, March 18,
2026, at Boone Hospital in Columbia.
Bernice (Bee) Jo Neeley Kuckelman, mother of Diane Gilbert
(Class of 1974) passed away at her home in Columbia, Missouri,
Tuesday, March 17, 2026.
Robert "Bob"
Perry father of Lew Ann Perry (Class of 1987) passed away
Tuesday, March 17, 2026.
Mary Ann Anglen,
mother of William Ewell “Bill” Anglen (Class of 1970) passed away
Monday, March 16, 2026, at Bluff Creek Terrace in Columbia.
Nancy Leigers, wife of
Kent Hudson, (Class of 1967) passed away Monday, March 9, 2026.
Thomas Edward Brooks, father of
Thomas Andrew “Drew” Brooks (Class of 1989) and Jason Brooks (Class
of 1994), passed away on Saturday, March 7, 2026.
Fredrick "Gene" Forsyth, father of
Matthew Forsyth, deceased (Class of 1991) and Kate Forsyth (Class of
1993) passed away on Wednesday March 4, 2026.
Barbara Nannette Stock, mother of
Rebecca Nicole Stock (Class of 1995), passed away Monday, March 2,
2026, at Boone Hospital in Columbia.
Ralph Edward Richards,
father of Laura Albright (Class of 1991) and passed away
Friday, February 27, 2026, in Columbia.
Linda L. Sutherland
Kartheiser (Reynolds), mother of David Kartheiser,
deceased (Class of 1979), Diane Kartheiser-Warner (Class of 1982)
and Mike Kartheiser (Class of 1985) passed away Monday, February 23,
2026.
Frances Ann Dierking Smarr,
mother of Cheryl Smarr (Class of 1972) and Caryl Smarr (Class of
1975) died Friday, February 13, 2026, at home in Columbia, Missouri.
Rosemary Ellen (Eth)
Taylor, mother of Albert Taylor Jr. (Class of 1987), Gary Taylor
(Class of 1988) and Charles Taylor (Class of 1996) passed away on
Monday, January 26, 2026, at Boone Hospital in Columbia, MO.
Mary F. Tompson, mother of Julia Johnson
(Class of 1972) passed away on Friday, January 23, 2026, at the
Lenoir Woods Senior Living Homes.
Anne-Marie Pickard,
mother of Laura Pickard (Class of 1981) and Stewart Pickard (Class
of 1985) passed away Tuesday, January 13, 2026.
Robert Thomas Marshall, father of
Robert Scott Marshall (Class of 1973), Rebecca Jane Marshall-Waggett
(Class of 1975), Kathy Sue Lloyd (Class of 1978) and Alan Lee
Marshall (Class of 1982), passed away Wednesday, January 14, 2026,
at his home in Columbia.
Weldon Jones, father of
Mike Jones (Class of 1979) passed on Tuesday, January 13, 2026.Carlene
“Gma” Avon Coolley, age 70, joined the angels in her heavenly home
on January 5, 2026, in Columbia, Missouri.
Carlene
“Gma” Avon Coolley, mother of Levi Coolley (Class of
1997) passed away Monday, January 5, 2026, in Columbia, Missouri.
Posted online on January 14, 2026
Published in Columbia Daily Tribune
 Carlene
“Gma” Avon Coolley, age 70, joined the angels in her heavenly home
on January 5, 2026, in Columbia, Missouri. Carlene was born on April
1, 1955, to Clair Ancil and Rachel Lucille Coolley. She was
preceded in death by her beloved parents. Carlene leaves
behind a loving family who will forever cherish her memory,
including her son, Levi Coolley; her grandson, Damon Jennings; and
her granddaughter, Brooklyn Coolley. She is also survived by
cherished family members Melissa Jennings, Ashley Troutman, and Roy
Brown. Carlene was deeply blessed with many close friends who became
family and filled her life with love, laughter, and companionship.
Carlene retired as a medical transcriptionist from Boone
Hospital Center in Columbia, Missouri, where she dedicated many
years of service with care and professionalism. Carlene will
be remembered for her kind, calming, and optimistic spirit, which
touched everyone who knew her. She had a gentle voice filled with
encouragement and a deep, abiding love for her family and friends. A
true artist at heart, Carlene joyfully shared her love of the arts
with others through painting ceramics, journaling, drawing, and
creating beautiful diamond dot art. These creative moments brought
her great happiness and peace, and they created countless treasured
memories for those blessed to share them with her. Her loved
ones will miss her dearly and will forever carry her memory in their
hearts. Carlene’s favorite saying, “God is good… all the time,” will
continue to echo as a reminder of her faith, strength, and
unwavering positivity. A celebration of Carlene’s life will
be held at a later date, with details to be shared by the family.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions
be made to Shriners Children’s. Condolences and fond memories
may be shared at
www.memorialfuneralhomeandcemetery.com.
Posted online on January 14, 2026 Published in
Columbia Daily Tribune
Weldon Jones of
Columbia, MO passed on Tuesday, January 13, 2026. From humble
origins, through hard work and kindness, he built a great life for
himself and his family and grew to be a pillar of the Columbia
community. He had many friends and enjoyed gardening, fishing,
travel, and puttering around. He was very generous and loved to help
other people. Weldon could talk your ear off about anything and had
an incredible memory; what often seemed to be tall tales and mixed
up facts were regularly revealed to be surprisingly true trivia.
Weldon was born June 22, 1931, at the height of the Dust Bowl
and Great Depression, to Wylie Allen and Bessie Jones in Tulia,
Texas. He had two older sisters, Vera Lee and Sharla. They soon
moved to Laguna, Arizona, in the North Gila Valley, where they
farmed. “We were poor like poor,” he said. “I remember reading The
Grapes of Wrath and it felt exactly like home.” He and his friends
used to lasso wild horses to break and ride.
At 12, his
father died, and soon the family moved back to Texas, where he
continued school and farming. After high school, he went to Texas
College of Arts and Industries, now part of Texas A&M. One summer,
he drove with friends to Alaska where they worked as lumberjacks and
distilled their own white lightning liquor, which bears eventually
broke into and drank. He advises, “You can do all these exercises or
crap, but back in those days, using an axe and a cross cut saw,
there’s no better way to get in shape.”
He met his wife,
Winnifred Bryson, at a movie theater in Texas in “about 1954, when I
got my head out of my ass.” Winnie attended Stephens College in
Columbia, and Weldon transferred to Mizzou and finished his degree
in Agricultural Engineering. They married in 1956.
He sold
insurance in Columbia for nearly 40 years, sometimes door to door in
snowstorms driving a VW Beetle. In 1991, he was Shelter Insurance’s
Agent of the Year out of 1,500 agents. He became a local figure in
Columbia, working hard with many organizations to better the
community. He was instrumental in getting 911 emergency phone
services established in town as a member of the Columbia Safety
Council. He taught defensive driving for over ten years and was a
member of the Kiwanis Club. He helped re establish the Sea Scouts in
1976, restoring a 1921 Flyer sailboat. He was a member of the
National Guard for over a decade. Weldon was also a member of the
Columbia Pachyderm Club and worked for many state and local
Republican campaigns.
Weldon spent the last 20 years of his
life at Lenoir Retirement Community where he made many friends,
helped residents with their homes as he had at least one if not
three of every tool. He loved his garden and shared the produce.
Weldon “believed in experiences it makes good dreams and
thoughts.” He and Winnie traveled to 22 different countries before
her death in June 2005. He is survived by his children Kay (Pierre)
and Mike, grandchildren Sam, Robert, Olivia, and great
grandchildren, Rian and Tesni.
With immense appreciation, the
family acknowledges Denise Harris who made it possible for Weldon to
stay in his home as long as possible which is where he wanted to be.
Posted online on January 16, 2026
Published in Columbia Daily Tribune
Robert
Thomas Marshall, 93, of Columbia, Missouri, passed away January 14,
2026, at his home. He was born July 27, 1932, in Halltown, Missouri,
to Elmer and Zelda Marshall.
Bob married his beloved Shirley
Joan Graham February 1, 1953. When they moved to Columbia to attend
the University of Missouri, Bob and Shirley found their church home
at Calvary Baptist Church of Columbia.
Bob dedicated his life
to education and research. He earned his PhD in Dairy Science
Microbiology from the University of Missouri-Columbia in 1960 and
joined the faculty that same year. Bob retired in 2000 as Professor
Emeritus, holding the distinguished title of Arbuckle Professor
Emeritus.
In 1989, Bob, along with Professor Dean Shelley,
opened Buck's Ice Cream Place. For the opening, Bob created Tiger
Stripe Ice Cream, the University of Missouri's signature ice cream
concoction. Bob has become known as "Mr. Tiger Stripe.”
Bob
was preceded in death by his wife Shirley, his brother William Lee
Marshall, sister Marlene Irwin Curl, and his parents, Elmer and
Zelda Marshall.
He is survived by his sister Kathy Layman,
his four children: Robert Marshall, Becky (Carla)Marshall-Waggett,
Kathy (Bill) und Marshall Lloyd and Alan (Amy) Marshall: five
grandchildren: Kyndal (Aaron)Marshall Riffie Cameron Marshall, Kiley
(Nick Vandergriffe) Marshall, Lauren (Allison) Lloyd, and Graham
(Melinda) Lloyd. He was also blessed with several
great-grandchildren.
Funeral services will be held at 2:00
p.m. on Wednesday, January 21, 2026, at Memorial Funeral Home, 1217
Business Loop 70 W, Columbia, MO 65202. Visitation will be held from
12:30 p.m. on Wednesday, January 21, 2026, at the funeral home until
the time of service. Interment will follow at Memorial Park
Cemetery, 1217 Business Loop 70 W, Columbia, MO 65202.
Memorials contributions may be made to Robert T. Marshall Food
Science Fund: mizzou.us/MarshallFoodScienceFund.
Submitted by, Parker-Millard Funeral
Service & Crematory, 12 East Ash Street, Columbia, MO 65203
Anne Marie Pickard December 23, 1935 - January 13, 2026
Anne-Marie
Pickard, a talented mezzo-soprano and dedicated member of the
Columbia, Missouri community, passed away after a life rich in
music, family, and service. Born in Columbus, Ohio, on December 23,
1935, to Walter Atlee Cope and Florence Jenkins Cope, Anne Marie's
passion for the performing arts was evident from a young age.
A graduate of Columbus North High School in 1953, she attended
Ohio State University for one year before moving to New York City to
further pursue her vocal talent at The Juilliard School of Music.
There she earned her Bachelor of Science degree in vocal performance
in 1958 under the tutelage of the celebrated Florence Page Kimball.
Her pursuit of musical excellence continued at the University of
Indiana, where she obtained her Master of Music degree in 1961. A
performance highlight of this period was her participation in John
F. Kennedy's inauguration gala in 1960.
In the autumn of
1961, Anne-Marie married Alexander Pickard, her longtime sweetheart
from Juilliard. They moved to Columbia, where her husband joined the
University of Missouri faculty as a brass instructor and later
became Director of Bands.
In Columbia, Anne-Marie quickly
became an integral part of the local music scene. She shared her
expertise as a voice teacher, both privately and at Stephens
College. Her powerful voice bolstered the choir of the Missouri
United Methodist Church, and she frequently appeared at the
Maplewood Barn Theatre. Beyond her musical pursuits, she served her
community as a substitute teacher in the Columbia and Hallsville
Public School districts and as a successful realtor throughout the
1980s and 90s. She also found joy in her decades long service,
including her leadership as State Regent, to the Daughters of the
American Revolution.
Preceded in death by her beloved husband
of 58 years and by her sister, Catherine Harlow, Anne-Marie's legacy
of music and family lives on. She is survived by her daughter, Dr.
Laura Pickard, her husband Randy Meyer, and their two children,
Walter and Nate Meyer; as well as her son, Stewart Pickard, his wife
Jill Bateman-Pickard, and sons Andrew and Luke Pickard. She is also
survived by her nephew Robert Harlow, his wife Lynne, and their
children Tommy and Kristina; and by her niece Anne Rodriguez, her
husband Jorge, and their children Jorge Jr., Sophia and Jack. Her
memory will be cherished by all who were touched by her talent,
passion, and enduring spirit.
A celebration of life service
will be held at the Missouri United Methodist Church at 11:00am on
Saturday, March 21st. In lieu of flowers, the family would like to
encourage donations to the MUMC Chancel Choir at
https://tinyurl.com/MUMC-Pickard.
Arrangements are under the
direction of Parker-Millard Funeral Service & Crematory, 12 East Ash
Street, Columbia, MO 65203 (573) 449-4153. Condolences may be left
online for the family at www.millardfamilychapels.com
Arrangements are under the direction of Parker-Millard Funeral
Service & Crematory, 12 East Ash Street, Columbia, MO 65203 (573)
449-4153. Condolences may be left online for the family at
www.millardfamilychapels.com.
Submitted by, Memorial Funeral Home, Crematory & Memorial Park
Cemetery/Columbia
Mary F.
Tompson, of Columbia, passed away on Friday, January 23, 2026, at
the Lenoir Woods Senior Living Homes. Funeral Services will be
conducted at 11:00 am, Saturday, January 31, 2026, at the First
Christian Church, Columbia. A time for fellowship will follow at the
church. Burial will be private for the family.
Mary was born
on September 4, 1931, in Moberly, MO, to Frank A. Humphrey and
Bassett Davis Humphrey. She attended public school in Madison, MO,
and graduated from Christian College (now Columbia College) in 1951
with a BA.
Mary married Clifford W. Tompson on August 21,
1951 in San Diego, California, where both were employed by the US
Navy. The couple moved back to Columbia after the first of their
three children was born. Once her children had all reached school
age, Mary completed her education at the University of Missouri and
received a BS in Education. For most of her nearly 25 year career,
Mary taught second grade at West Boulevard School. This was a
wonderful time in her life, and she made many lifelong friends.
Mary was an active member of the First Christian Church in
Columbia for nearly 70 years. As a Christian College student, every
Sunday she and all the other girls walked down Walnut in the hats
and white gloves to church services. Once she and Clifford married,
they became an active part of the Hearthstone church school class.
They continued their involvement from the years of the Reverend
Clarence Lemmon through the leadership of M. Glynn Burke, Sam
Langley, John Yonker and Brad Stagg, serving in many capacities. In
the fall of 1962, Mary helped to start the Drennan Circle (of CWF).
She organized the making of the Anniversary Quilt in 2007 to
celebrate the 175th Anniversary of the First Christian Church.
Church families designed and sewed the squares, and Mary sewed the
final blocks together to make the beautiful quilt now hanging in the
church. She also began the Shawl Ministry, and for many years a
group of women from the church knitted shawls and delivered them to
the homebound members. She and Clifford were active with the College
Ministry and hosted many events for the college students. Mary also
helped to make Election Day Luncheons, which were served to voters
at the church. Mary served as Deaconess for many years, then served
as Elder in later years.
Apart from all of her church
activities, Mary found that she loved the fellowship she found in
the many clubs and organizations she joined throughout her life. As
a young mother and MU faculty wife, Mary loved meeting other faculty
wives in the Fortnightly Group. She was very active in her PEO group
and found many lifelong friends. After retiring, Mary enjoyed the
Boone County Retired Teachers. She and Clifford enjoyed bridge
groups and a book club together. Mary found her true passion to be
quilting, and she enjoyed meeting with fellow quilters in the
Friends of Booneslick Trail Quilter’s Guild. She was an exception
quilter and enjoyed giving her finished quilts to family members.
Clifford good-naturedly accompanied her on fabric finding missions
and to estate sales, looking for old quilts.
Mary is survived
by her daughter Julia (Dr. Anton) Johnson of Springfield, IL and son
Clifford, Jr. (Mae) Tompson of Crystal, NM; grandchildren Katie and
Sarah Johnson, Brooke (Jorgensen) Braem, her husband Paul, Amanda
(Jorgensen) Mize, her husband Brandon, Elizabeth Jorgensen, and
Colin Tompson and his wife Josie; eleven great grandchildren;
several nephews and nieces; and special sisters-in-law June Ann
Humphrey and Vivien Tompson of Moberly. She was preceded in death by
her parents and her brother, Dr. James D. Humphrey of Mound City,
MO. Beloved daughter Mary Elizabeth Jorgensen (husband Thomas) of
Coralville, IA, sadly passed away in October 2020.
Mary
leaves us all better for having known her, and we will remember her
kindness, selflessness, and integrity. We miss her more than we can
express, but we are so grateful for all of the memories we made
together. We are grateful, too, that she is now reunited with her
husband of 73 years, her beloved daughter, Beth and so many other
loved ones.
Those who wish may leave memorials to the First
Christian Church in Columbia, the Clifford W. Tompson Scholarship in
Physics at UMC (407 Reynold’s Alumni Center, Columbia, MO 65211), or
to a charity of their choice.
Condolences and fond memories
may be shared at
www.memorialfuneralhomeandcemetery.com.
Submitted by, Memorial Funeral Home,
Crematory & Memorial Park Cemetery/Columbia
Rosemary
Ellen (Eth) Taylor, 78, passed away on Monday, January 26, 2026, at
Boone Hospital in Columbia, MO. On February 16, 1947, Rosemary
was born to the late Francis W. Eth and the late Marilyn R. Meyer in
Kansas City, Missouri. On June 29, 1968, Rosemary and Albert Lee
Taylor were united in marriage in Boone County, MO.
Rosemary
was a member of the Sacred Heart church in Columbia and later became
a devoted member of the Rocheport Christian Church. She was a
selfless volunteer at the Wardrobe for over 30 years and before
getting married she started out as secretary for Missouri Dept. of
Conservation. Rosemary was a fan of Cardinal baseball and enjoyed
playing cards. Most of all, she loved spending time with her family.
She will be lovingly remembered by her husband, Albert;
children, Albert Taylor Jr., Gary Taylor (Kim), and Charles Taylor;
grandchildren, Jonathan, Adam, Hannah, Sarah, Carly, David (Olivia),
and Jacob Taylor; siblings, Susan Pierce and Joseph Eth; as well as
numerous nieces and nephews.
In addition to her parents, she
was preceded in death by her brother, Francis Eth Jr.
Funeral
services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, February 3, 2026, at
Memorial Funeral Home, 1217 Business Loop 70 W, Columbia, MO 65202,
with Tim Carson and Mickey Havener officiating. Visitation will be
held from 9:00 a.m. until the time of service at the funeral home.
Interment will follow at Memorial Park Cemetery, 1217 Business Loop
70 W, Columbia, MO 65202.
In lieu of flowers memorial
donations can be made to The Wardrobe, 715 Park Ave, Columbia, MO
65201, or Second Chance, 24687 MO-179, Boonville, MO 65233.
Posted online on February 15, 2026
Published in Columbia Daily Tribune
Frances Ann
Dierking Smarr, age 95, died February 13, 2026, at home in Columbia,
Missouri.
Born on January 25, 1931, in Columbia, Missouri, to
Merle and Frances Dierking, Ann grew up with the strength, sharp
mind, and independence that would define her for the rest of her
life. She carried those qualities into every room she entered and
every relationship she built.
On November 13, 1953, she
married Merle N. Smarr Sr. Their marriage lasted more than five
decades and was marked by partnership, endurance, and plenty of
laughter. Together they had a gift for gathering people — from epic
football tailgates to holiday tables filled beyond capacity —
creating traditions and stories that shaped generations of family
life.
Together they raised six children.
Ann was, in
so many ways, the one behind the scenes making things happen. She
helped run Merle N. Smarr General Contractor, often serving as the
steady, organizational force, and discerning voice that kept
everything moving forward. Together, the couple developed Hillcreek
subdivision and Oakland Plaza in Columbia and Liberty Acres in
AshIand. If there was a problem, Ann could see it clearly, call it
what it was, and figure out how to fix it.
She did not crave
the spotlight. She wanted things handled.
What she wanted —
insistently, persistently — was for the people she loved to be
supported, capable, and okay. Her loyalty ran deep, and if Ann was
in your corner, you had a champion for life.
Family members
describe her as wise, decisive, assertive, brilliant, strong-willed,
and determined. They also remember her as feisty, spunky, and funny,
with a sharp edge and impeccable timing. Ann had high standards and
very little patience for nonsense. She didn’t hesitate to say what
others were only thinking, and she could deliver a look or a line
that settled the matter, often at exactly the right moment.
Yet intertwined with that steel was enormous care. She cooked and
baked for countless families and causes, showed up when things were
hard, and brought bracing levity into moments of heaviness and hurt.
She was supportive, talented, creative, intense, and complex —
capable of pushing and protecting in the very same breath.
Long after a gathering ended or a crisis passed, people would find
themselves remembering the quiet, specific ways Ann had made their
lives better.
And she did it all with unmistakable style and
spark.
Ann is survived by her children: Cheryl Stevens of
Columbia, Missouri; Caryl Smarr (Rick Poe) of Columbia, Missouri;
Merle N. Smarr Jr. (Charlotte) of Ashland, Missouri; Brenda Berra
(Steve) of St. Louis, Missouri; Russell Smarr (Kristen) of Boston,
Massachusetts; and Nancy Witt (Chuck) of Columbia, Missouri; as well
as 8 grandchildren, 8 great-grandchildren, and her sisters, Sue
Montgomery and Dee White.
A Celebration of Life will be held
on Monday, February 16, 2026, at the Columbia Country Club from 4:00
to 7:00 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial
gifts in Ann’s name to American Cancer Society.
Those who
knew Ann will be telling stories about what she said, what she did,
and how she showed up for a very long time. The world is better
because she was in it, and her strength, laughter, and fierce
loyalty will remain with her family always.
Condolences and
fond memories may be shared at
www.memorialfuneralhomeandcemetery.com.
Posted online on February 27, 2026
Published in Columbia Daily Tribune
Linda L.
Sutherland (Reynolds), age 85, of Columbia, passed away peacefully
on February 23, 2026. She was born on July 23, 1940, in Aurora,
Illinois to George and Marcella (Kramer) Reynolds.
Linda was
preceded in death by her first husband, Gerald Kartheiser; her
beloved son, David Kartheiser; and her parents.
On August 7,
1999, she married Dennis Sutherland, and together they shared many
happy years filled with love, travel, and family.
Linda is
survived by her devoted husband, Dennis Sutherland; her children,
Michael (Dena) Kartheiser and Diane Kartheiser-Warner (the late John
Warner); daughter in law Jane Kartheiser; her brother, Richard
(Lorrie) Reynolds; and her cherished grandchildren, Emily, Madelyn,
and Haley.
She is also lovingly remembered by Dennis’s
children, Sheila, Pamela, Debra, Michelle, and William, and his
grandchildren, Ryan, Nick, Allie, Brenna, Zack, Sean, Jake, August,
Will, Gabby, Ella and one Great Grand Son Madden, all of whom she
embraced as part of her extended family.
Linda was a
wonderful mother, wife, and friend, happiest when caring for her
home, family, and pets. She had a deep love of travel and especially
treasured trips to Ireland, Luxembourg, and Montreal, as well as
many visits to Arizona and Florida. She worked as a manager at
Buffy’s Store for Children, where she formed lasting friendships. An
avid reader, Linda especially loved her Kindle and could often be
found enjoying a good book.
Her warmth, kindness, and
devotion to her family will be deeply missed by all who knew and
loved her.
Family will receive friends on Monday, March 2,
2026 at 10:00am – 11:00am with service at 11:00am at Our Lady of
Lourdes Catholic Church, 903 Bernadette Dr. Columbia MO 65202.
Memorial donations are suggested to the Alzheimer's Association
and Our Lady of Lourdes.
Arrangements are under the direction
of Parker-Millard Funeral Service & Crematory, 12 East Ash Street,
Columbia, MO 65203 (573) 449-4153. Condolences may be left online
for the family at
www.millardfamilychapels.com.
Submitted by, Parker-Millard Funeral Service and Crematory, 12
East Ash Street, Columbia MO 65203
Ralph Edward Richards, 81,
of Columbia, Missouri, passed away February 27, 2026.
Ralph
was born July 14, 1944, in St. Louis, Missouri, to Edmond and Olive
(Anderson) Richards. He graduated from Roosevelt High School in St.
Louis.
Ralph spent 45 years as an independent agent with
Shield of Shelter Insurance from June 1967 to his retirement in June
of 2012, beginning his career when Shelter was still MFA. He built
lasting relationships with his clients and was well respected for
his dedication and integrity throughout his long career.
He
was a member of the Lions Club and enjoyed fishing, woodworking, and
photography. Ralph appreciated working with his hands and capturing
moments behind the lens, and he valued time spent outdoors.
He is survived by his daughters, Andrea Richards and Laura Albright;
his granddaughter Alyson Jo Albright; his siblings, Sharon Courtney
and Gary Richards; one niece, nephews and friends who will cherish
his memory.
He was preceded in death by his parents and his
brother, Robert Richards.
A memorial visitation will be held
from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. on Monday, March 9, 2026, at
Parker-Millard Funeral Service in Columbia, Missouri, with a
memorial service beginning at 12:00 p.m.
Submitted by, Parker-Millard Funeral
Service & Crematory, 12 East Ash Street, Columbia, MO 65203
Barbara
Nannette Stock, age 78, of Columbia, MO, passed away after a brief
illness on March 2, 2026, at Boone Hospital. She was surrounded by
family and friends.
Barb was born on June 7, 1947, in
Bluefield, West Virginia, to Jack Richard Owen and Evelyn Grey
Houchins. As part of a military family, she moved around a lot. She
considered Odessa, Texas, her home, as that was where she lived when
she attended and graduated from Permian High School. She began
studying art in college, but her family moved to Missouri before she
could complete her art degree.
It was in Missouri that she
met the love of her life, Larry Stock. She married Larry on May 9,
1970. They spent 55 wonderful years married.
Barb and Larry
had two children, Melanie Elaine and Rebecca Nicolle. Barb dedicated
her life to caring for her children and providing the most loving,
stable, and fun home and upbringing for her girls.
Barb
sacrificed returning to college to finish her degree because she
didn’t want to miss a moment of raising her daughters. Instead, she
put her incredible painting talent to work, creating beautiful
crafts, including wooden Easter eggs, Christmas ornaments, painted
globes, decorated gourds, and many other home decor items. She sold
her crafts at craft fairs across the state, some in neighboring
states, and even organized and ran several craft fairs locally
herself. She was able to make a living doing something she loved
while also being home with her girls.
Barb’s love, care, and
generosity extended far beyond her family. Once you met her, you
became family. You might strike up a conversation with her in line
at the grocery store and find yourself invited to her home for one
of the famous ornament exchanges she hosted for more than 35 years,
or, if you were really lucky, maybe even Christmas dinner. She gave
all of herself to others, and those of us who were lucky enough to
have been on the receiving end of her love know just how lucky we
were.
Barb is preceded in death by her parents. She is
survived by her husband Larry, and her children Melanie and Becca,
all of Columbia, Missouri. She is also survived by many extended
family members and close friends.
Barb lived her life in
color. If you ever visited her home, you noticed that not a single
wall was painted white. She wanted to be surrounded by beauty, and
color made her feel happy. People often talk about how someone
lights up a room when they enter it. Barb didn’t light up rooms; she
made them sparkle. Because of that, the family would love it if
anyone who plans to attend the visitation and/or her funeral would
come dressed in your colorful best rather than anything somber. Barb
loved parties, and we know she would want us to celebrate in her
beautifully vibrant style. We want to see her incredible personality
reflected in all of you.
A visitation to celebrate Barb’s
life has been scheduled for Saturday, March 14, 2026 at 10:00 a.m.,
at Calvary Episcopal Church, 123 S. 9th St., Columbia, Missouri
65201. The funeral service will begin at 11:00 a.m. immediately
after the visitation. A reception will follow. The visitation,
funeral, and reception will all take place at Calvary Episcopal
Church. Parking can be found nearby in the MU Hitt Street Parking
Structure located at 299 Hitt Street, Columbia, Missouri 65201. It
is a 5-minute walk to the church. Off-street parking is also
available downtown.
If desired, donations can be made to St.
Jude in Barb’s name by visiting stjude.org.
Arrangements are
under the direction of Parker-Millard Funeral Service & Crematory,
12 East Ash Street, Columbia, MO 65203 (573) 449-4153. Condolences
may be left online for the family at
www.millardfamilychapels.com.
Submitted by, Parker-Millard
Funeral Service & Crematory, 12 East Ash Street, Columbia, MO 65203
Fredrick
"Gene" Forsyth, 95, of Columbia, Missouri passed away peacefully on
Wednesday March 4, 2026.
Gene was Born on August 26, 1930, in
Randolph County, MO, the son of Fred and Ruby Kate (Johnson)
Forsyth. Gene was raised on their family farm in Madison, Missouri.
On January 24, 1970, he married Joan Fennewald in Jefferson
City, MO. Together, they made Columbia their home, where they
welcomed four children - Fred, Matt, Kate and Beth.
Gene
attended elementary and high school in Madison, MO where he was a
basketball center, member of the band, and president of his senior
class, graduating in 1948. After high school Gene continued to play
basketball at Moberly Junior College, winning both state and
regional championships as a Greyhound. Gene continued his education
at the University of Missouri - Columbia earning Honors with
Bachelors Degrees in Ag Science in both Animal Husbandry and Field
Crops in 1955. During his college years, Gene was part of the Block
& Bridle Team, the Livestock Judging Team and an avid Missouri
Sports Fan. His love for Missouri sports continued throughout his
life with a special devotion to Mizzou Football and the Men's and
Women's Basketball teams.
After his graduation from Mizzou,
Gene was hired by the University where he continued research in seed
improvement for 23 years and then continued his work with Central
Missouri Seed until 1982- when he took on a career in Real Estate
for next four decades.
Through it all, Gene was best
described as a farmer. At a young age Gene raised his own herd of
cattle, pigs and managed a few hundred acres of row crops in Monroe
county - earning several awards for showmanship and prize-winning
livestock. After relocating to Columbia, MO, he continued to raise
registered Polled Hereford cattle on his Boone County farm for many
more decades. He shared that love of farming with his children,
helping them raise and show cattle through 4-H, as he also did for 8
years in his youth. Gene's farming heritage was notable - so much so
that at the age of 11, his family's farm in Monroe County was chosen
by the National Agriculture Office in Washington DC to be featured
in LOOK magazine during World War 2 - highlighting the impact the
average American farmer had during wartime. Gene was then again
featured on the cover of a post WW2 edition of LOOK magazine in 1943
entitled "He inherits the future".
Gene was a devoted member
of Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church, an active member of the
Knights of Columbus and a lifetime member of the Missouri Board of
Realtors.
He is survived by his devoted daughter Kate Quinn,
her husband Robert Quinn and their children Hunter, Parker & Ashley
Quinn all of Columbia, MO. He is also survived by his daughter in
law Ellen Forsyth and his son Matt's children Maddison, Clayton &
Jacob Forsyth of Orono, MN. In addition, Gene is survived by a
brother-in-law, three sisters-in-law as well as many dear nieces and
nephews.
Gene was preceded in death by his wife Joan
(Fennewald) Forsyth and two their children, Fred Forsyth and Beth
Forsyth whom he lost during a tragic car accident in 1986. He was
preceded in death by his other son, Matt Forsyth in 2020 due to a
heart condition. He was also preceded in death by his parents, Fred
and Ruby Forsyth, and his five siblings and their spouses: John
Forsyth (Bonnie), Isaac Forsyth (Anna Mae), Irene Bechtold (Robert),
Dorothy Watson (David) and Jack Forsyth (Karen).
Visitation
will be held on Monday, March 16th, 2026, at 10:00 am at Our Lady of
Lourdes Catholic Church in Columbia, Missouri prior to a Memorial
Mass at 11:00 am with Burial immediately following at Memorial Park
Cemetery.
Gene will be remembered for his warm smile, sense
of humor and tenacity for life. His family finds peace in knowing
that his faith in Jesus Christ has brought him home to be reunited
with those that went before him.
Memorials can be made to the
American Heart Association.
Arrangements are under the
direction of Parker-Millard Funeral Service & Crematory, 12 East Ash
Street, Columbia, MO 65203 (573) 449-4153. Condolences may be left
online for the family at
www.millardfamilychapels.com.
Submitted by, Memorial Funeral Home,
Crematory & Memorial Park Cemetery/Columbia
Thomas Edward
Brooks, 77, passed away on Saturday, March 7, 2026, at home
surrounded by his loving family. He was born on April 3, 1948, in
Kansas City, Missouri, to the late Thomas Floyd Brooks and the late
Freda May (Kerr).
On October 10, 2009, he married the love of
his life, Nancy (Beahler) Brooks, at Forum Christian Church in
Columbia, Missouri. The two met while working together at the VA
Hospital, where their shared dedication to helping others brought
them together.
Tom proudly served his country for seven years
and ten months in the United States Navy and was stationed aboard
the aircraft carrier USS Saratoga. He was also stationed in
Charleston, South Carolina, Mayport, Florida, and Cape Girardeau,
Missouri. After his military service, he continued caring for fellow
veterans for 41 years as a lab technician at the Veterans Hospital.
In his spare time, Tom enjoyed going to flea markets and even
had booths of his own. He liked deer hunting, fishing, watching the
Cardinals play, and spending time with his beloved ’57 Chevy. He
also coached Little League, loved feeding his birds, going to estate
sales after his wife showed him how fun they were, and was in the
55+ group at church.
He is survived by his wife, Nancy
Brooks; his children, Thomas Andrew “Drew” Brooks (Chloie), Jason
Brooks (Stacy Williams), Alexander “Alex” Brooks, Ivory Brooks, and
Gene Underwood; his grandchildren, Keenan, Harper, Zane, Aiden, and
Asher; his good friend and the mother of two of his children, Kathy
Lammers; as well as numerous nieces and nephews.
Tom was
preceded in death by his parents and his siblings.
A
celebration of life will be held at 2:00 p.m., on Saturday, March
14, 2026, at Forum Christian Church, 3900 Forum Blvd, Columbia, MO
65203 with Tyler Morris officiating. Visitation will be held at 1:00
p.m. at the church until the time of service. Military honors will
follow. Ivory has requested that guests wear red or blue in honor of
Tom.
Memorial donations are suggested to Forum Christian
Church, 3900 Forum Blvd, Columbia, MO 65203 or the Parkinson
Foundation, 3570 Olney Laytonville Rd #490, Olney, MD 20830.
Submitted by, Memorial Funeral Home,
Crematory & Memorial Park Cemetery/Columbia
Nancy Leigers,
68, of Columbia, MO passed away Monday, March 9, 2026, after a long
battle with cancer. A graveside service will be 1pm, Thursday, March
19th, in Memorial Park Cemetery 1217 Business Loop 70 West Columbia.
Nancy was born on November 29, 1957, in Jefferson City, MO to
Albert and Yvonne Monroe Leigers. In 1975, she graduated from Helias
High School in Jefferson City. She graduated from Central Missouri
State University with a bachelor’s degree and began her career in
accounting. She started at Modern Business Systems in Jefferson City
and continued with IKON after they took over. She had moved to
Columbia and later took a position with Williams-Keepers from where
she would retire in 2023. She married her long-time partner, Kent
Hudson on October 24, 2017, on the beach in Biloxi, MS. She enjoyed
reading and traveling to the beach, spending time at the Lake of the
Ozarks.
She is survived by her husband, Kent Hudson;
siblings, Sharon (Jerry) Fox of Kyle, TX and John Leigers (Heather
O’Connor) of Columbia; nephews, Brian (Kelsey) Fox and Scott (Patty)
Leigers; nieces, Melissa (Jake) McCormack and Erin Fox (Kyle
Rhodes), many great nieces and nephews and many dear friends. She
was preceded in death by a brother and sister-in-law, David (Lesa)
Leigers and her parents.
In lieu of flowers, donations may go
to the American Cancer Society.
Condolences and fond memories
may be shared at
www.memorialfuneralhomeandcemetery.com.
Submitted by, Bach-Yager, 1610 North
Garth Avenue, Columbia, MO 65202
Mary Ann
Anglen, 97, of Columbia, Missouri passed away March 16, 2026, at
Bluff Creek Terrace in Columbia.
Mary Ann was born in
Fayette, Missouri on February 25, 1929, and was the daughter of
Alfred Ewell Alexander and Idabelle Brightwell Alexander. She
married Romie Foster Anglen on August 29, 1948.
Mary Ann was
employed as a claim specialist with State Farm Insurance for 30
years. Mary Ann and Romie were active with Campers on Missions and
World Changers. They enjoyed traveling and were members of Calvary
Baptist Church. Mary Ann was also a member of the American
Businesswomen and the Optimist Wives.
She is survived by her
son William Ewell “Bill” Anglen and his wife, Margie of Paris,
Missouri.
Mary Ann was preceded in death by her husband,
Romie; her parents, Alfred and Idabelle Alexander; her much loved
granddaughter, Mary Bernice Anglen and her sister-in-law, Rowena
Anglen.
A graveside service honoring Mary Ann’s life will be
held at 11:00 AM, Friday, March 20, 2026, at the Fayette City
Cemetery.
Memorial contributions are suggested to the Coyote
Hill Foster Care Ministries, 9501 W. Coyote Hill Rd., Harrisburg,
Missouri 65256 or the Columbia Senior Center, 1121 Business Loop 70
E, Columbia, Missouri 65201.
Condolences may be shared at
www.carryager.com.
Posted online on March 27, 2026 Published
in Columbia Daily Tribune
Robert "Bob"
Perry of Columbia, returned to the Lord on March 17, 2026, at the
age of 87. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, friend, and
mentor, Bob is survived by his beloved wife, Miriam, his sister Sue,
daughter Lew Ann, son-in-law Charlie, daughter-in-law Melanie, and
grandchildren Jarrett and Stephanie. He was preceded in death by his
son John, and brother Don.
Bob was born on December 6, 1938,
in Carthage, Missouri to Claude O. and Dorothy P. (Beard) Perry.
After graduating from Carterville High School in 1956, he entered
the United States Army. Upon completion, he attended Southwest
Baptist College where he met and married Miriam Ann Young on August
31,1958. He graduated from Pittsburg State University in Pittsburg,
KS in 1967 with a Bachelor of Science Degree in
Psychology/Sociology.
Through continued studies with the
National Center for State Courts, he became a Fellow with the
Institute of Court Management, graduating at the United States
Supreme Court. During his career, he served as an instructor in
Criminal and Juvenile Justice at Lincoln University, Truman State
University, Columbia College, and Moberly Area Community College.
Bob started his professional career in the justice system in
1962 as a Juvenile Officer in Jasper County, Missouri. From 1964
-1970 he served with the Missouri Division of Probation and Parole
as a Parole Officer in St. Louis, Carthage, and Columbia, then was
promoted to a Supervisor in St. Louis, returning to Columbia as a
Supervisor and District Supervisor. A significant event in his
career was being the founding Director of Reality House, the first
community-based residential alternative sentencing program for
youthful adult male offenders in Missouri and continued serving on
the Reality House Board of Directors.
In 1973, he was
appointed as Juvenile Officer/Director of Court Services in the 13th
Judicial Circuit, consisting of Boone and Callaway Counties, later
resulting in a title change to Court Administrator, a capacity in
which he served until retirement in 2004. He served as the Circuit
Court representative in the Court House expansion. He was
responsible for establishing the Juvenile Justice Center in 1974
which was named, on his retirement, as the Robert L. Perry Juvenile
Justice Center. In 1997, he received the Andrew W. Higgins Award for
Excellence in Juvenile Justice.
Following a brief retirement,
in 2006 he returned to serve with the Office of State Courts
Administrator as the Missouri Coordinator of the Juvenile Detention
Alternatives Initiative, initially funded by the Annie E. Casey
Foundation. There were four original JDAI sites - St. Louis City,
St. Louis County, Kansas City, and Springfield. By his JDAI
retirement in 2015, 17 Judicial Circuits in Missouri were enrolled
in the Initiative. AECF considered Missouri as one of three states
to serve as a model to other states joining the Initiative.
During his 50-year career, he was noted as a visionary, advocating
and introducing progressive services, and advancing quality and
efficiencies within the Missouri Justice System. His leadership
earned the 13th Circuit distinction of being the Missouri model of
Jury Management as well as Court Performance Standards, including
the first Mental Health Court in Missouri, Drug Court, Pretrial
Services, Jury Services, Juvenile Services, Court Automation and
Management. He chaired the Supreme Court Automation Committee for
six years.
Bob had a deep and abiding Christian faith that
resonated throughout his personal and professional life. He accepted
Jesus as his Savior at age 6. He served as a pastor during his
senior year of high school and while a student at Southwest Baptist
College. He remained active in the Baptist Church for life, serving
as an Ordained Deacon, Sunday School Teacher, Gideon, owner of
Lemstone Parable Bookstore, and even led a Discipleship Conference
to African pastors in Burkina Faso in 1985.
Bob had a
limitless capacity for people and a strong desire to make a
difference. With quiet and powerful patience, he believed in
people’s goodness and potential, encouraging and supporting others
to succeed and giving them the opportunity to start again. Out of a
spirit of grace, with a generous, compassionate, and humble heart…he
served.
A service will be held on Saturday, April 11, 2026,
from 11:00-12:00 at Parkade Baptist Church (2102 N Garth Ave) in
Columbia. Following the service, from 12:00-2:00, there will be time
for celebration of Bob's life and fellowship, with an opportunity to
share memories with family, friends, and colleagues.
Posted online on March 24, 2026
Published in Columbia Daily Tribune
Bernice (Bee)
Jo Neeley Kuckelman departed this world, at home in Columbia,
Missouri, surrounded by loved ones on March 17, 2026 at the age of
100. She was born in El Dorado, Kansas to Ted and Leola Neeley. She
was preceded in death by her beloved husband Paul, with whom she
shared more than 50 years of marriage and a huge loving family.
Bee and Paul moved to Columbia in 1959 to start his career with
Westlake Hardware. She dedicated her life to caring for her large
family and anyone else who needed it. Everyone was welcome at her
house and there was always room at the dinner table. She was a very
busy parent but still attended every child's basketball game, school
event and baton recital. She was a Girl Scout leader for her
daughters for many years, volunteered in the school library, and was
a classroom Room Mother for each of her children. Bee was a longtime
member of Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church, and both the church
and school were a huge part of her life since moving to Columbia.
She was involved in women's groups and active in the PTA. She
continued to be an active member for most of her life.
Bee
was a graduate of Kansas State University and of Stephens College,
with degrees in languages and writing. Although she always
identified as a K-State Wildcat, more than half of her life was
spent in Columbia so she was also a loyal MU Tigers fan. She
published two books - Keep Me In Stitches and Behind Grandma's Back.
Her writings and poems have appeared in numerous magazines including
Quilters Newsletter Magazine, Columbia Magazine, Good Old Days, as
well as the Midwest Poetry Review, Show-Me Missouri Women,
Harbinger, and First Anthology of Missouri Women Writers. She also
wrote a monthly column for the Booneslick Trail Quilters' Guild for
many years. She was a lifelong teacher for her kids and anyone else
that needed it. Even at age 100, with eyes closed and seemingly
asleep, if you improperly used a word she would gently correct you.
Her other interests included reading, quilting, travel, crossword
puzzles and playing cards with family and friends. She always
enjoyed spending time with family in her condo at Lake of the
Ozarks.
Bee was a longtime member of Booneslick Trail
Quilters' Guild and served on all the positions of the executive
board. She took many classes and workshops from The Quilt Cottage,
perfecting her skills. She made quilts for her kids and grandkids
and filled her home with beautiful quilts and wall hangings. She
participated in the Our Lady of Lourdes quilting group, creating
quilts for raffles. She even created a quilting badge for her Girl
Scout troop. Bee’s sewing skills were not limited to quilting.
During Covid she and daughter Susan and grandchild CJ spent many
months creating over 5,000 custom face masks, mostly for health care
workers, which they donated, using some of her beautiful quilting
fabric.
In addition to her husband Paul, she was preceded in
death by her brother Bob Neeley, sister Mary Bachman and
grandchildren Tyler Kuckelman and Annie Leonard.
Bee was
gracious, polite and kind and always thankful to anyone who helped
her. She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who
knew her, especially her sons Steve and wife Angie of New Mexico,
Brian and wife Pam of Texas, Ken and wife Crystal of Iowa, daughters
Diane Gilbert, Carolyn Guisti, and Susan and husband Bob Leonard,
all of Columbia, Colleen Kuckelman of Colorado, Jane Kuckelman of
Kansas, and Joan and husband John Truesdale of Colorado, and by
grandkids Solomon and wife Linda Kuckelman, Ashley and husband David
DeLayo, Logan Ferran and wife Cassandra, Crystal and husband Dan
Kulle, Michelle and husband Wes King, Brett Gilbert and wife Kortney
Sebben of Columbia, Alex Gilbert and wife Kristin, Ted Leonard and
wife Paige, Paul Leonard, CJ Leonard, Noelle and Samantha Guisti,
Allie Truesdale and husband Daniel O'Sullivan, Adam Truesdale, Grace
Truesdale, Jillian Truesdale, 23 great-grandchildren and numerous
nieces and nephews.
A funeral Mass will be held Monday, March
30th at 11:00 at Our Lady of Lourdes, with an informal, casual
gathering on Sunday March 29th, from 5:00 – 8:00, in Flanagan Hall.
Bee loved beautiful colors, especially blue and purple, so feel free
to wear these colors to the funeral. Memorials may be sent to
Shriners Hospital or Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church, 903
Bernadette Drive Columbia, MO 65203.
Condolences and fond
memories can be shared at
www.memorialfuneralhomeandcemetery.com.
Submitted by, Memorial Funeral Home,
Crematory & Memorial Park Cemetery/Columbia
Dr. Ross Edward
Duff, 78, died on March 18, 2026, at Boone Hospital in Columbia, MO.
He lived at home with his wife of 55 years (married June 6, 1970),
Shirley (Koch) Duff, up until the time of his death.
Ross was
born in Springfield, MO on April 7, 1947, to Raymond and Nelle
(Smith) Duff and had one brother, Hal Roger Duff, who preceded him
in death.
He attended school in Houston, MO except for his
junior year, when he attended Parkview High School in Springfield,
MO. After high school, he attended the University of Missouri-
Columbia for one year. He then attended St. Louis Christian College
and graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Bible. Following this, he
returned to the University of Missouri and received a Bachelor of
Arts in Classical Studies, a Master of Arts in Counseling
Psychology, and a Doctor of Medicine. He completed a residency in
Obstetrics and Gynecology at East Carolina University in Greenville,
NC.
Prior to medical school, he was a Campus Minister at the
Christian Campus House in Columbia, MO. Following medical school, he
worked as an obstetrician for 33 years, primarily at Boone Hospital,
where he also served as a Trustee. He later worked as an urgent care
physician. He was the medical director of a plasma donation center
until the week prior to death. He was also a missionary doctor in
Haiti, Uganda, Eastern Europe, Africa, and South America. He made 25
trips to Haiti and established a birthing center at Northwest Haiti
Christian Mission. He delivered over 4,500 babies and over 12,000
babies when including collaboration with nurse midwives.
Ross
and Shirley raised two children in Columbia, MO. Surviving children
are Kristin Steelman (Jim) of Columbia, MO, and Deiter Duff (Amee)
of Ozark, MO. There are four grandchildren, Ross Steelman, Madison
(Duff) Laws, Morgan Duff, and Max Duff and one great grandson, who
also survive.
Forum Christian Church was his home church. He
served at other Christian churches over the years, including his
senior year of high school in Houston, MO, when he was the preacher
for Oak Hill Christian Church.
There will be a memorial
service at 10:00 am on April 11, 2026 at Forum Christian Church in
Columbia, MO. A private family burial will be in the White Rock
Cemetery in Bucyrus, MO.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be
made to Forum Christian Church, 3900 Forum Blvd., Columbia, MO
65203, Oak Hill Christian Church, 6902 Douglas Rd, Houston, MO
65483, or Christian Campus House, 704 South College Avenue,
Columbia, MO 65201.
Services are under the care of Memorial
Funeral Home.
Posted online on
March 24, 2026 Published in Columbia Daily Tribune
Raymond
Lindsay Ethington, age 96, passed away Thursday, March 19, 2026, in
Lee’s Summit, Missouri.
Raymond Ethington was born on August
28, 1929, in State Center, Iowa to Lindsay Ernest and Hilda Ruby
(Weuve) Ethington. He grew up on a family farm near Colo, Iowa, with
his parents and younger brother, Robert. He attended The Freelove
School, a one room schoolhouse, until he began high school in Colo.
He graduated in 1946 and began attending university at Iowa State
College in Ames. He achieved a bachelor’s degree in Geology in May
of 1951 and was inducted into the United States Army in June of that
year.
Ray served the Army in the ranks of private and
corporal with the 506th Airborne Infantry Regiment and the101st
Airborne Division in Fairbanks, Alaska until he was discharged in
March of 1953. He continued to serve in the Army Reserves until
1958.
Ray met his wife to be, Leslie Ann Nielsen, in the
summer of 1953, while doing work for an oil company in south central
Utah. That fall, when Ray returned to Iowa State to begin his
master’s degree, they communicated through letters. On June 15,
1955, they were married and made their home in Iowa City, Iowa,
where Ray began his PhD studies at the University of Iowa. It was
there that their first child, Elaine Marie was born. Upon completion
of his PhD in 1958, Ray moved his young family to Tempe, Arizona,
where he took his first teaching job at Arizona State University. It
was there his second daughter; Mary Frances was born.
In the
fall of 1962, Ray was appointed to the faculty at the University of
Missouri in Columbia, where he began a long and very respected
career. As a tenured professor for the Department of Geology, Ray
taught both entry level classes to underclassmen, as well as
graduate courses to graduate students. He did research that focused
on Invertebrate Paleontology, Bio Stratigraphy, and Micro
Paleontology. He is credited for publishing more than 75 papers and
making numerous presentations at professional meetings. He served
for many years as both faculty and director of the University of
Missouri Geology Branson Field Laboratory, a summer field camp for
Geology majors, located in the mountains near Lander, Wyoming. He
was appointed as Professor Emeritus of the University of Missouri-
Columbia in 2000. He also served as editor of the respected Journal
of Paleontology, SEPM Foundation officer, and chief officer of the
international Pander Society (conodont workers), SEPM president,
University of Missouri Geology Department Chair, and mentor to
countless students and colleagues from around the world. Ray
received many professional awards, including being a 50 Year Fellow
of the Geological Society of America, a Pander Society Medalist, a
member of the Jefferson Club -University of Missouri, and a
recipient of the prestigious Raymond C. Moore Medal for his
significant contributions to the field of Geology.
Raymond
had many interests and was dedicated to them all. He loved research,
science, history and reading. He enjoyed cross word puzzles, playing
Sudoku, writing limericks, and sharing ironic jokes. One of his
favorite places was the remote mountains near Ely, Nevada where he
spent many summers gathering fossils for his research. He loved
classical music and pigs, who he described as the most comfortable
and unpretentious creatures on earth. He displayed immense integrity
in everything he did, never taking more than his share and was
generous in working with others. He always kept his word. Despite
his many professional accomplishments, he was always humble and
fair.
Raymond was a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of
Latter-Day Saints. He served many callings in the church throughout
his life, including teaching Sunday school, being a Home Teacher,
Elders Quorum president, High Priest group leader, and serving as
Bishop for the Columbia Ward. He served as a High Councilor and as
Head Clerk for the Columbia Missouri Stake for many years. He was
sealed for time and eternity to his wife Leslie (Nielsen) Ethington
in the Manti temple in 1955.
Raymond described the balance
between his faith and his scientific pursuits this way. “Scientific
investigation, a work of the mind, seems often to converge with
revelation and the world of the spirit. I am impressed by how
closely my thinking comes to words written over a century ago by W.
W. Phelps:
The works of God continue, and world and lives
abound;
Improvement and progression have one eternal round.
There is no end to matter, there is no end to space;
There is no end to spirit; there is no end to race.
There is
no end to virtue; there is no end to might;
There is no end
to wisdom; there is no end to light.
There is no end to
union; there is no end to youth;
There is no end to
priesthood; there is no end to truth.
(“If You Could Hie to
Kolob, “Hymns, 1985, no. 284.)”
Raymond was a devoted husband
to Leslie; a loving father to children Elaine (Benjamin) Bluml,
Lee’s Summit, MO, and Mary (John) Pratt, Columbia, MO.; and a proud
grandfather of grandchildren, John (Keri) Pratt, Jacob (Bridget)
Pratt, Joseph (Emma) Pratt, and Jeffrey (Shanna) Bluml and eight
great grandchildren, Ava, Lillian, Isabelle, Connor, Elliott, Ethan,
Jalah, and Jaxx.
He was preceded in death by his parents, and
brother Robert.
He will be dearly missed and forever
cherished by his family.
Funeral services will be held at
Longview Funeral Home – Kansas City on April 6, 2026, at 10:00 a.m.
Burial services will be held at 11:00 a.m. at Longview Cemetery.
A luncheon will follow at the funeral home.
Memorial
donations are suggested to:
the Dr. Raymond Ethington Geology
Student Scholarship Fund.
Donations can be mailed to:
Mizzou Gift Processing, 407 Reynolds Alumni Center, Columbia MO
65211
Or sent through the following link :
mizzou.us/EthingtonMemorialGifts.
Posted online on March 21, 2026 Published in Columbia Daily
Tribune
LeMONE,
SARA ALICE MAGUIRE (“Sally”), 71, passed away peacefully on March
19, 2026, at University Hospital with her children by her side.
An Orlando, Florida native, Sara was born on February 7, 1955,
the daughter of Raymer Francis Maguire, Jr. and Sara “Skippy” Corry
Maguire. She was the granddaughter of Raymer F. Maguire, Sr. and
Ruth McCullough Maguire, and of Henry Edmund Corry and Alice Steed
Corry, and came from families deeply rooted in the history and civic
life of Central Florida.
Raised in Orlando, Sara moved to
Columbia, Missouri to attend Stephens College, where she earned her
bachelor’s degree. It was there that she met her husband, Robert
“Bob” Meyer LeMone. They were married in 1978 and shared nearly 30
years of marriage until his passing in 2008.
Together they
built a life deeply rooted in community and service, guided by a
shared commitment to giving back, and enriched by fun and many
cherished friendships. Sara was incredibly smart, with a remarkable
business acumen, and was known for her humor, her generous heart,
and her unfiltered, fearless way of moving through the world. She
gave so very generously to the community, both with her time and her
resources, and this commitment was a defining and enduring part of
her life. Her involvement with countless organizations through the
years reflected how deeply she valued helping others and showing up
for those in need.
Sara was funny, deeply caring, and lived
life on her own terms, never concerned with others’ judgment. She
was affectionately known as “ChaCha” to her grandchildren. While her
path was not without challenges, she was always there when it
mattered most—for her children, her grandchildren, her family, her
close friends, and her community.
Survivors include her son,
David “Mac” Maguire LeMone and wife Kalle, and their children, Bo
and Oaks; her daughter, Sara Emily LeMone and husband Joel, and
their children, Meyer and Margot; her siblings, Raymer F. Maguire,
III (Dean) and Corry E. Maguire (Jane); and many nieces, nephews,
and extended family.
She was preceded in death by her
husband, Robert M. LeMone; her parents, Raymer F. Maguire, Jr. and
Sara Corry Maguire; and her brother, Craig Corry Maguire. The family
extends special thanks to Dr. Jerry Kennett and Dr. Stephen Barnes
for their care, and most especially to her devoted, compassionate
nurse, Molly Tennyson of Otter Health, and her incredible nursing
staff.
A memorial service will be held on Sunday, April 12th
at Stephens College. Details to follow.
Condolences and fond
memories may be shared at
www.memorialfuneralhomeandcemetery.com.
Submitted by Bach/Yager Funeral Chapel,
1610 North Garth Avenue | Columbia, MO 65202
Alice Jane
Lanier, 89, of Columbia, Missouri passed away on March 19, 2026,
after a brief illness.
A Memorial Service will be held at
2:00 p.m., Saturday, March 28, 2026, at Broadway Christian Church.
Visitation will precede the service at 1:00pm, and interment of
ashes will follow at the Broadway Christian Church Memorial Garden.
Alice Jane was born February 8, 1937, in Carbondale, Illinois to
Clarence and Evelyn (Piper) Stevenson. As a Freshman at the
University of Illinois in 1956, she and Don met on a blind date.
They were soon inseparable and were married the next year in
Centralia, Illinois. Last July they celebrated their 68th wedding
anniversary.
AJ was a gifted musician, attending the
University of Illinois on a music scholarship. She was trained as a
classical pianist and had a beautiful soprano voice, able to fill a
room with music that lingered long after the final note. Her father
insisted that she finish her degree before marrying, but he
acquiesced on the condition that she would continue her studies and
graduate. It would take 20-year-old AJ another 20 years to fulfill
that promise, allowing time to start a family with Don. The family
moved to Columbia in 1971 when Don became the Senior Minister at
Broadway Christian Church. AJ worked to support Don and help build
the church, all while raising 3 boys and taking classes at MU where
she completed her degree at age 40.
AJ was the heart of her
home, believing many of life’s most memorable moments happened
around the piano or kitchen table. She was known for her
intelligence, grace, charm, and generous spirit, as well as for her
roles as a supportive minister’s wife, devoted mother, and loving
grandmother. In her final days she met her great-grandson, a moment
that brought her immense happiness and peace. She found joy in
music, teaching, gardening, cooking, traveling, reading an engaging
mystery, and finding a good bargain – but above all, in the people
she loved and in her steadfast Christian faith.
She is
survived by her husband, Don; sons, Mark, Steve (Roxie), and Tim
(Gayle); grandchildren, Audrey (Sebastian), Lance, Aly, Jake, Nick,
and a great grandson, William Misael; and brother Jim Stevenson. She
was predeceased by her parents and her sister Nancy Harrod.
Memorial contributions are suggested to The Food Bank for Central &
Northeast Missouri https://sharefoodbringhope.org/.
Online
condolences and tributes may be shared with the family at
www.bachyager.com.
Submitted by Parker-Millard Funeral
Service & Crematory, 12 E. Ash Street, Columbia MO 65203
Danny Wayne Comley Obituary
Danny Wayne
Comley, 62, of Columbia, Missouri, passed away on April 3, 2026.
Danny was born on June 12, 1963, in Columbia, Missouri. He
attended Hickman High School and spent most of his life in the
Columbia area.
Danny enjoyed the simple things in life. He
had a love for racing and fishing and valued time spent doing what
made him happy. He especially enjoyed spending time with his friends
and family.
He was preceded in death by his parents, James
Comley and Marjorie (Coose) Comley.
Danny is survived by his
son, Danny Comley Jr.; his daughter, Shelby Comley; his
granddaughter, Amara Comley; his brothers, Ronald Comley and James
Comley; his sister, Marla Merritt; and his beloved little dog,
Makita.
He will be missed by his family and all who knew him.
Arrangements are under the direction of Parker-Millard Funeral
Service & Crematory, 12 E. Ash Street, Columbia, MO 65203 (573)
449-4153. Condolences can be shared with the family at
www.parkermillard.com.
Submitted
by, Memorial Funeral Home, Crematory & Memorial Park
Cemetery/Columbia
Connie
Caffrey, 74, of Columbia, Missouri, passed away peacefully on
Tuesday, April 7, 2026, at University of Missouri Hospital.
She was born on September 16, 1951, in Axtell, Kansas, to Eugene and
Aurelia (Niekamp) Stallbaumer.
On July 29, 1972, she married
Roger Caffrey in Baileyville, Kansas. Together they raised two
children, Julie and Ryan, and built a life rooted in family.
Connie graduated from Kansas State University with a Bachelor of
Science in Microbiology. After a few years living and working in
various states with her husband and children (Minnesota, Iowa,
Nebraska, California), she settled in Columbia, MO. She spent many
years working as a clinical laboratory scientist, first at the
University of Missouri Veterinary School and later in the
microbiology lab at University of Missouri Hospital, where she
remained until her retirement.
Connie was a faithful member
of Sacred Heart Catholic Church since 1981. She attended Mass
regularly and served on the Parish Council for many years.
She enjoyed traveling, spending time with friends, and being with
her family. She especially treasured her grandchildren and took
great joy in being their grandmother.
Connie also gave
generously of her time in service to others. She managed the meal
program at the Ronald McDonald House for a number of years, assisted
with grant reviews through the Assistance League, volunteered at
Upscale Resale and the library book sales, volunteered for MOSY and
the University Concert Series, and served as a contact tracer during
the COVID-19 pandemic.
She is survived by her husband, Roger
Caffrey of Columbia, Missouri; her children, Julie Marshall and her
husband Joe of Columbia, Missouri, and Ryan Caffrey and his wife
Alexis of Gainesville, Florida; her four grandsons, Evan, Jacob, and
Connor Marshall, and Liam Caffrey; her sisters, Sandra Hazlett and
her husband Dean of Topeka, Kansas, and Laurie Stallbaumer of
Sabetha, Kansas; as well as many nieces, nephews, extended family
members, and friends.
She was preceded in death by her
parents.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be
made to the American Cancer Society, Sacred Heart Catholic Church,
or the Assistance League of Mid-Missouri.
Visitation will be
held on Wednesday, April 15, 2026, from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m. at
Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Columbia, Missouri, followed by a
Funeral Mass at 11:00 a.m. Committal prayers and burial will take
place at Columbia Cemetery.
Submitted by, Memorial Funeral Home, Crematory & Memorial Park
Cemetery/Columbia
Joyce May
Anderson, 91, of Columbia, passed away peacefully on April 9, 2026,
at Cedarhurst Senior Living. She was born on December 3, 1934, in
Ravenna, Nebraska, to Ed and Lydia (Ohlman) Knerl. Joyce’s story
began in the quiet countryside of Nebraska, where life was simple
and full of wonder on the farm. She often shared memories of riding
her horse to a one-room schoolhouse, stories that reflected both her
independent spirit and her deep appreciation for where she came
from.
She graduated from Ravenna High School in 1952 and
continued her education at the University of Nebraska, earning her
bachelor’s degree in education in 1956. During those college years,
Joyce’s vibrant personality shone brightly—she even hosted her own
radio show, something she spoke of with a smile throughout her life.
On October 25, 1957, Joyce married Alan B. Anderson, beginning a
loving partnership that would span 68 years. They met at the
University of Nebraska. Together, they built a life centered on
family and devotion, and were blessed with three children: Barry,
Laura, and David.
They moved to Columbia in 1972 where Joyce
devoted her career to teaching Speech and English at West Middle
School formerly West Jr High. She believed in her students,
encouraged them to find their voices, and left a lasting impression
on countless young lives.
Her heart for community was evident
in all she did. Joyce was a faithful member of St. Andrews Lutheran
Church and a dedicated supporter of Sigma Kappa Sorority. She played
a meaningful role in helping restart the sorority chapter in
Columbia at the University of Missouri, a contribution she held
close to her heart.
Joyce had a beautiful creative spirit.
She found joy in music, playing both the piano and accordion, and at
one time was part of a traveling music show. She also enjoyed
completing many art projects around the home and helping her
children and grandchildren with their art projects for school. She
was always up on the latest fashion and trends keeping her home
immaculate and up to date. You would find her outside as well
gardening and planting flowers to keep their yard the best on the
block.
Above all else, Joyce’s greatest joy was her family.
She treasured every moment spent with them, and nothing meant more
to her than being “Gigi,” the name lovingly given to her by her
great- grandchildren. It was a title she carried with pride and
endless love.
Survivors include her husband, Alan B. Anderson
of Columbia, MO, two children, Barry Anderson and his wife Debbie of
Tucson, Arizona and Laura Anderson of Columbia, MO, five
grandchildren, Amber Anderson, Apryl Anderson, Olivia Lockett,
Stephanie Lockett, and Stephen Lockett, two great-grandchildren,
Leia Lockett and Leighton Lockett, a brother Ronald Knerl of Merna,
Nebraska, two sisters, Carol Hunt and her husband Larry of Lebanon,
Pennsylvania, and Barbara Hansen of Banning, California, nieces,
nephews, other relatives, and friends.
She was preceded in
death by her parents and a son, David William Anderson.
A
Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, June 6, 2026, from 3 pm
to 5 pm at Memorial Funeral Home.
Submitted by, Parker-Millard Funeral Service & Crematory, 12 East
Ash Street, Columbia, MO 65203
Micheal Colin
Turner, 75, passed away on Saturday, April 11, 2026, surrounded by
his loving family. He was born on November 22, 1950, in Boone
County.
He was preceded in life by his parents, Willa J.
Turner and Emmitt Wright.
Micheal shared 54 wonderful years
of marriage with his devoted wife, Sarah Yvonne Turner.
He
leaves behind his children:
Dale L. (Liz) Turner of Columbia,
and Travonna M. (Cortez) Pree of Okinawa, Japan.
He was a
proud grandfather to six grandchildren:
Pashence (Gjok)
Bissessar of Texas; Gabriel and Clarissa Turner of Columbia; Cortiah
Pree; Cortez Pree Jr.; and Brandon Pree of Japan.
He was also
blessed with three great-grandchildren:
Pailyn Bissessar, and
twins Giovaun and Geremih Bissessar, all of Texas.
Micheal is
survived by his siblings:
Eric (Vicki) Turner, Sheila
McClain, Loretta Sindleton, Mark Turner, Denise Turner, Darren
Turner, Bryan (Denise) Turner, Jeffrey (Melissa) Turner, Kara
Burrell, Wanaka (Tony) Stapleton, Rhea Dawn Brown, Michael Hayes,
and Markus Beuford.
Arrangements are under the direction of
Parker-Millard Funeral Service & Crematory, 12 East Ash Street,
Columbia, MO 65203 (573) 449-4153. Condolences may be left online
for the family at www.millardfamilychapels.com.
Posted online on April 27, 2026
Published in Columbia Daily Tribune
Kurt Warner Kopp,
77, of Columbia, Missouri, passed away on April 13, 2026, at
Barnes-Jewish Hospital in St. Louis, Missouri. Kurt was born on
February 16, 1949 in Neosho, Missouri to Warner Monford and Gisela
Helga Felicitas (Haupt) Kopp.
Kurt lived many places while
growing up, including several years in Marshfield, Missouri. He
graduated from high school at St. John’s Academy in Winfield,
Kansas. He earned his bachelor’s degrees from Southwest Missouri
State University in Springfield, Missouri and master’s degrees in
Computer Science and Library and Information Science at the
University of Missouri in Columbia.
Kurt was married to
Anndee Kathryn Rebori on February 4,1972. Together they had two
sons. Anndee preceded him in death in 1977.
On May 17, 1980,
he married Patricia Anne McKeown in Columbia, Missouri. Together
they had two daughters.
In his early twenties, Kurt spent
several years working on an offshore oil exploration boat in Alaska
and the Gulf of Mexico before deciding to pursue a career in
libraries and computer science. He worked for three years as a
computer programmer at Bell Labs in New Jersey, before returning to
Columbia, Missouri in 1984 to spend the rest of his career at the
University of Missouri. He retired in 2011 as the Director of the
Library Systems Office.
Kurt was an enthusiastic, dedicated
member of the Cosmopolitan Clubs in Columbia. He served in many
roles over his nearly 40 years in the Cosmopolitan Luncheon Club. He
was also active at the regional and international levels, serving as
president of Cosmopolitan International in 2000-2001. Working Cosmo
bingo every Wednesday night was something Kurt truly loved. He
highly valued the camaraderie with his Cosmo friends and the bingo
players.
In his free time, Kurt loved spending time with his
wife, children and grandchildren, whom he adored. His numerous
hobbies included reading, traveling, cooking, stamp and coin
collecting, and improving his German. In 2023, Kurt spent over a
month in Germany in language immersion classes in pursuit of
qualifying for German citizenship, which he successfully obtained in
2025.
Kurt is survived by his wife of 45 years, Patricia
Kopp, his four children, Michael Kopp (Jessica Repa), Eric Kopp
(Lorilee), Anne Kimberling (Cody) and Sarah Kopper (Neil) and his
six grandchildren, Lucas, Tobin, Marlon, Greta, Harvey and Eileen.
A memorial service will be held at Parker-Millard Funeral Home
in Columbia, Missouri on May 2, 2026. Visitation is at 11:00 a.m.,
with the service to follow at noon.
In lieu of flowers,
memorial gifts can be made to:
Cosmopolitan Diabetes
Foundation, C/O Ellick Jones Law Office, 9290 West Dodge Road, Suite
303, Omaha, Nebraska 68114
or:
Daniel Boone Regional
Library Foundation, P.O. Box 7113, Columbia, MO 65205
Arrangements are under the direction of Parker-Millard Funeral
Service & Crematory, 12 East Ash Street, Columbia, MO 65203 (573)
449-4153. Condolences may be left online for the family at
www.millardfamilychapels.com.
Posted online on April 29, 2026
Published in Columbia Daily Tribune
Audrey Rose
Oglesby departed this life April 13, 2026 at 100 years of age in
Evansville, Indiana. She was born in 1925 to Arthur and Leora Werner
in Dodge City, Kansas. Before moving to Evansville, Indiana, Audrey
resided in Columbia, Missouri for 65 years.
She was preceded
in death by her husbands, C.R. Creath and W.T. Oglesby, three sons,
Steve, Reed and Richard Creath, parents Arthur and Leora Werner,
sisters, Dorothy Pugh, Helen Griffith, Esther Roser and brother
Daryl Werner.
Audrey is survived by daughter Doris Smith
(Ernest), grandchildren; Sarah Veal (Chris), Brandon Smith, Justin
Smith, Jason Creath, Kristin Martinez (Alfie), Abigail Saunders
(Brian), Tyler Creath, Colin Creath, Tracy Barnes (Eric), Wendy
Andrews; daughter-in-laws; Leslie Roby (Brad) and Adriana Creath; 19
great-grandchildren and 2 great great-grandchildren.
She
raised her family and as a teacher taught children and teens with
learning disabilities to read in the Columbia area. She volunteered
at the Food Bank for Central and Northeast Missouri for many years.
She was a caring individual, who cared deeply about those she loved.
Audrey had a full life and the gift of years making the best of them
all. She leaves many family members and friends who will miss her.
Submitted by, Memorial Funeral Home,
Crematory & Memorial Park Cemetery/Columbia
Marty Hartman,
83, of Columbia, MO passed away Tuesday, April 14, 2026, at The
Westbury in Columbia. Visitation will be held Sunday, April 19 from
4:00-6:00 p.m. at Memorial Funeral Home 1217 Business Loop 70 West,
Columbia. The Women’s Auxiliary rosary will be prayed at 10:30 a.m.
followed by a Christian Burial Mass on Monday, April 20 at 11:00
a.m. at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church, 903 Bernadette Drive
Columbia, MO 65203. Entombment will follow in Memorial Park Cemetery
Mausoleum.
Marty was born October 24, 1942, in Clear Creek,
MO to Amandus and Kathryn (Wessing) Kammerich. On February 9, 1963,
she was united in marriage to Robert Hartman. They shared 35
wonderful years together.
She was a devout member of Our Lady
of Lourdes and the Knights of Columbus Ladies Auxiliary. She worked
for Shelter Insurance for over 35 years as a Life Policy Supervisor.
She absolutely loved spending time with family and friends.
Whether playing cards, attending family gatherings, or simply
enjoying each other’s company, she was always ready for fun. She
adored her grandchildren and cherished every moment she spent with
each of them.
She is survived by two daughters, Donna (Kevin)
Misslin of Columbia and Lori (Steve) Rhine of Rocheport; five
grandchildren, Ashton (Colby) Edwards, Justin (Taylar) Rhine,
Katelyn Rhine, Reagan Misslin, and Nathan Misslin; two
great-grandchildren, Montana Edwards and Camdyn Rhine,
brother-in-law, Bob Kraus; and a sister-in-law, Joan Kammerich.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Robert; three
brothers, Earl Kammerich, Edwin Kammerch, and Curtis “C.R.”
Kammerich; and one sister, Mary Ann Kraus.
Marty’s family
would like to give heartfelt thanks to the staff at The Westbury for
the loving care they showed to her.
Memorial donations can be
made to the Knights of Columbus Ladies Auxiliary, 2525 N Stadium
Blvd Columbia, MO or to Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church 903
Bernadette Drive Columbia, MO 65203.
Condolences and fond
memories may be shared at
www.memorialfuneralhomeandcemetery.com.
Posted online on April 27, 2026
Published in Columbia Daily Tribune
Jeanne Marguerite
Mansell-Humpf 6/15/1930-4/24/2026
Jeanne Humpf,
95, of Columbia, MO passed away Friday, April 24, 2026, in Columbia.
She was born June 15, 1930, in Kansas City, MO to George Mansell and
Lula (Bennett) Mansell. Jeanne married John E. Humpf, III in
Camdenton, Missouri June 19, 1948, and he preceded her in death on
May 24, 2006.
Jeanne worked as a secretary in the Pathology
Department at Ellis Fischel State Cancer Hospital for thirty-five
years. She was a dedicated member of the Little Bonne Femme Baptist
Church. Her favorite season was summer, and she loved to work in the
garden. Her love for all was wonderful and kept her smiling.
She is survived by two children; Linda (Ed) Calvert, and John E.
Humpf IV, three grandchildren, Max J. Humpf, Lance (Pam) Calvert,
and Jared (Shannon) Calvert; four great grandchildren, Jackson,
Haley, Wyatt, and Tucker Calvert, and her beloved companion, Carlton
McCarty. She was preceded in death by her husband, John, eleven
siblings, a grandson Alex J. Humpf, and daughter-in-law, Crystal
Humpf.
Funeral service will be 10am Friday, May 1, 2026, at
Little Bonne Femme Baptist Church, 5350 E Bonne Femme Church Rd,
Columbia, MO and committal service will follow in Little Bonne Femme
Cemetery. Memorial donations can be made to Little Bonne Femme
Baptist Church.
Posted online on
April 29, 2026 Published in Columbia Daily Tribune
Charles “Chuck”
David Menke, 77, surrounded by his wife and children, peacefully
passed away on Saturday, April 25, 2026, at his home in Columbia,
Missouri.
Chuck was born to Frederick and Jeanette Menke on
May 13, 1948. He grew up in Sheboygan, Wisconsin, with his younger
brother, Mark. His childhood in Sheboygan helped foster his great
love of the outdoors, as well as his lifelong devotion to the Green
Bay Packers, who played just up the road.
After graduating
from Sheboygan South High School in 1966, Chuck attended Central
College in Pella, Iowa, where he made many lifelong friends and
“brothers” at the Phi Delta Tau fraternity and met the love of his
life, Cynthia Petersen. After graduating in 1970, the two were
married shortly afterward in 1971, beginning a union that would last
almost 55 years.
Chuck began his successful 40-year career in
banking in 1970 as a commercial lender in Waukesha, Wisconsin. While
living there, he earned his Masters of Business Administration
(MBA). His two children, Andrea and Adam, were born in 1977 and
1981. From there, he continued his ascendance in the banking
industry in Dallas, Texas, for another decade before moving to his
final home in Columbia, Missouri, in 1991.
During his
professional career, Chuck was heavily involved in many civic
organizations, including the Rotary Club, the Chamber of Commerce,
and the Boy Scouts of America, just to name a few. He was a loving
and devoted husband and father to his two children, Adam and Andrea,
throughout their lives, and then to his grandson, Andrew, after he
was born.
In his spare time, Chuck was a passionate fan and
shareholder of the Green Bay Packers. He also was an avid golfer,
and a pretty good one at that. He played competitive rounds
frequently with his friends at the Country Club of Missouri, where
he served as president for a time, as well as on golf trips around
the country and even in Scotland.
Chuck was an avid hunter
and outdoorsman, regularly going on hunting and fishing trips with
friends and family throughout his life. The outdoors is where Chuck
was most at peace, and he often said that nature brought him closer
to God.
Chuck’s greatest gift to his family, friends, and all
who knew him was his kind, welcoming, and joyful presence. He truly
was the “life of the party,” but in the best way possible. Chuck
could light up a room and make you feel at ease with just a few
words of welcome. He will be dearly missed by all who knew him, and
his great legacy will live on through his family and many friends.
Chuck is survived by his wife, Cynthia Menke; his daughter,
Andrea (Phil) Tanner; his son, Adam Menke (Cali Lunowa); and his
pride and joy, his grandson, Andrew Tanner. He is preceded in death
by his parents, Frederick and Jeanette, and his brother, Mark.
The family extends their heartfelt appreciation to the staffs at
Missouri Cancer Associates and Compassus Hospice, as well as all
their friends, neighbors, and relatives for their loving support.
Submitted by, Parker-Millard Funeral
Service & Crematory, 12 East Ash Street, Columbia MO 65203
Ruby Darlene
McCown, 91, passed away peacefully on Saturday, April 25, 2026.
She was born on November 17, 1934, to Howard and Norma Burnett.
Darlene graduated from Centralia High School in 1953 and went on to
build a long and dedicated career with the General Telephone
Company. Over her 32 years of service, she began as a telephone
operator and later served as a communications service advisor in her
final years before retirement.
On September 18, 1959, Darlene
married Robert McCown. Together they shared many years of marriage
until his passing.
Darlene was an active member of the
Altrusa Club, where she connected with other businesswomen and
contributed her time and talents to the community. She was also a
faithful member of New Liberty Primitive Baptist Church in
Hartsburg, Missouri.
She is survived by her sister, Marilynn
S. Jett of Columbia, as well as several nieces, nephews, and
great-nieces and great-nephews.
In addition to her parents,
Darlene was preceded in death by her husband, three brothers, and
one sister.
Darlene will be remembered for her dedication to
her work, her faith, and her love for her family.
A graveside
service will be held Monday May 4, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. at Memorial
Park Cemetery 1217 Business Loop 70 W, Columbia, MO 65202
In
lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made to the charity of the
donors choice.
Arrangements are under the direction of
Parker-Millard Funeral Service & Crematory, 12 East Ash Street,
Columbia, MO 65203 (573) 449-4153. Condolences may be left online
for the family at
www.millardfamilychapels.com.
Posted online on May 01, 2026 Published in Columbia Daily Tribune
Submitted by, Bach-Yager Funeral Chapel, 1610 North Garth Ave,
Columbia MO 65202
The world became
a little quieter — and a little less full of laughter — on April 25,
2026, when Kenneth “Kenny” Marmon, Sr., 80, of Columbia, Missouri,
passed peacefully from this life. He was a man who filled every room
he entered with warmth, humor, and a kindness so genuine it left
marks on every heart he touched. Born September 25, 1945, in St.
Louis, Missouri, Kenny was the beloved son of the late John and Ruby
(Harris) Marmon, and from the very beginning, he was destined to be
someone people would never forget.
When his country called,
Kenny answered without hesitation. He served with honor in the
United States Army during the Vietnam War, carrying himself with the
quiet courage and steady resolve that would define his entire life.
Those who served alongside him came to know what his family already
understood: that Kenny was the kind of man who showed up, stood
firm, and never left anyone behind.
On June 19, 1987, Kenny
found his greatest joy when he married Helen Hatton in Columbia,
Missouri. Their union was a beautiful partnership built on love,
laughter, and a deep mutual respect that never wavered. Helen was
his heart, his home, and his constant companion through every season
of life.
Kenny dedicated his professional life to serving
veterans as a radiology technician at the Harry S. Truman VA
Hospital in Columbia, Missouri. Day after day, he brought not only
his considerable skill and expertise to his work, but also that
signature warmth — a ready smile and a reassuring word that put
nervous patients at ease. When he retired, he left behind a legacy
of compassionate care that his colleagues and patients alike will
long remember.
To know Kenny was to love him. He had a gift
for laughter that was infectious, a spirit that was irrepressibly
fun-loving, and a heart so generous it seemed to have no edges.
Whether he was cracking a joke that caught you completely off guard,
offering a helping hand before you even knew you needed one, or
simply sitting quietly with someone who was hurting, Kenny had an
extraordinary way of making people feel seen, valued, and loved. He
was the kind of man who remembered your name, asked how you were
doing and actually meant it.
Kenny leaves behind a family as
rich and full of love as he was. He is survived by his devoted wife,
Helen; his sons, Kenneth Marmon, Jr. (Diania) and Cortez Marmon; his
daughters, Kimberly Marmon, Shelonda White (Stephen), and Candias
Hatton-Hardin (Marcel); a cherished host of grandchildren and
great-grandchildren who will carry his laughter and love forward;
his brother, Bert Marmon; and his sister, Elaine May. He was
preceded in death by his parents, John and Ruby Marmon, and by his
beloved brothers, James and Adrian.
Kenny Marmon lived eighty
years with purpose, with grace, and with a joy that was simply
contagious. He was a veteran, a husband, a father, a grandfather, a
great-grandfather, a brother, a colleague, and a friend and in every
one of those roles, he gave his whole heart. The lives he touched
are too many to count, and the love he leaves behind is
immeasurable. May he rest in the peace he so richly deserves,
knowing that he was deeply, profoundly loved.
A visitation
will be held on May 7, 2026, at 9 a.m., followed by a celebration of
life at 10 a.m., at Bach-Yager Funeral Chapel, 1610 North Garth
Avenue in Columbia. Inurnment will follow the service at the
Missouri Veterans Cemetery, Jacksonville, Missouri.
Online
condolences and tributes may be shared with the family at
www.bachyager.com.
Posted online on May 07, 2026 Published
in Columbia Daily Tribune
Meta J. George,
90, died April 30, 2026, at University Hospital in Columbia, MO,
with her daughters by her side.
A memorial service will be
held at 11 AM Friday, May 22, at St. Andrew’s Lutheran Church, 914
West Blvd South in Columbia. A lunch at the church will follow.
Interment will be in Kenyon, MN, later this summer.
Meta was
born September 1, 1935, in Red Wing, MN, to Harry and Ruth
Barghusen. She graduated from Red Wing High School and went on to
Northwestern University in Evanston, IL. She graduated in 1957 and
taught English and Latin at New Brunswick High School in New Jersey.
She also worked with Lutheran Campus Ministry at the University of
Maryland.
While at Northwestern, she met Melvin D. George.
The two were married August 17, 1958, and enjoyed nearly 58 years
together until Mel’s death in 2016.
Mel joined the math
faculty at the University of Missouri in 1960, and the couple made
Columbia their home. There, they welcomed two daughters.
Mel’s career in higher education and university administration took
the family to Lincoln, NE, back to Columbia, and, in 1985, to
Northfield, MN, when Mel became the 8th President of St. Olaf
College. They returned to Columbia in 1999 following Mel’s
retirement.
Meta strengthened communities wherever she went.
She led initiatives and volunteered for a variety of organizations,
including Meals on Wheels, Lutheran Family and Children’s Services,
Prairie Creek Elementary School in Northfield, and the Joseph
Sittler Archives at the Lutheran School of Theology at Chicago. She
especially enjoyed her years in Northfield, serving St. Olaf by
offering hospitality to the college community, its friends and
visitors, and by supporting students, staff, and faculty in numerous
ways.
Meta’s faith was integral to her life. She was a member
of St. Andrew’s Lutheran Church in Columbia and Holden Lutheran
Church in Kenyon, Minnesota.
A gifted pianist and organist,
Meta loved music. She lived a life of deep gratitude and profound
curiosity and found great joy in her family and her many
friendships. She also loved a good baseball game, birdsong, gardens,
ice cream, finding every morsel in a steamed lobster, travel, Jane
Austen, and so much more.
She is survived and will be greatly
missed by her daughters and sons-in-law, Elizabeth George (Paul
Voytas) of Springfield, Ohio, and Margaret Eggenberger (Tod) of
Eagan, Minnesota; and her granddaughter, Hanna Eggenberger of
Minneapolis, Minnesota.
Memorial donations may be made to
ELCA World Hunger or the donor’s choice.
Those wishing to
attend the service via Zoom livestream can visit:
https://tinyurl.com/FuneralatSaintAndrews (Meeting ID: 573 449 5674,
Passcode: 65203).
Posted online on May 04, 2026 Published in Columbia Daily
Tribune
Patricia Ann
Hoehle, of Columbia, Missouri, died on May 1, 2026, following a
brief illness at EverTrue Lenoir Woods. She was 97 years old.
Pat was born on January 12, 1929, to Naomi May Gage (nee Hervey)
and Harold Ford Gage in St. Louis, Missouri. Her family lived in
Webster Groves, Missouri until 1942 when they moved to a farm in
Bellflower, Missouri. She graduated from Bellflower High School and
attended the University of Missouri.
In 1947, she married
Glenn D. “Budd” Sprague, and they had three children, Glenda,
Patricia and Roger. The marriage lasted 13 years. In 1964, she moved
with her children to Columbia, Missouri and was employed by the
University of Missouri. Her secretarial career included positions at
the campus and system levels.
While working at MU, she met
Donald F. Hoehle. They were married in 1971. After 34 wonderful,
happy years together, he predeceased her in 2005. A love of
gardening, writing, art, music and animals resulted in a busy life.
Pat was blessed with 10 grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren.
Pat is survived by her daughters, Glenda Sue Akers (Kevin Moore)
of Allentown, Pennsylvania and Patricia Kay Sprague of Pittsburgh,
Pennsylvania; her daughter-in-law Lori Sprague of Columbia,
Missouri; and her sister, Betty Lou McClintock of High Point, North
Carolina.
She was predeceased by her son, Roger W. Sprague;
her brother, John Harold “Jack” Gage; her cousin, Pauline Henson
(nee Hervey); great-granddaughter Magnolia Patricia Sweeney; and
friend, Hardin “Wilkie” Wilkerson.
Services for Pat will be
on Friday, May 8, 2026, at 2:30 p.m. at Epple Chapel located at
EverTrue Lenoir Woods, 3710 Lenoir Street, Columbia, Missouri 65201
and a reception at 3:00 p.m. at EverTrue Lenoir Woods.
In
lieu of flowers, the family encourages donations to Second Chance
animal rescue of Columbia, Missouri.
Bach-Yager Funeral
Chapel is honored to serve the Hoehle Family.
Online
condolences and tributes may be shared with the family at
www.bachyager.com.
Posted online on May 08, 2026 Published
in Columbia Daily Tribune
James Walter
Brush, 87, of Columbia, MO peacefully passed away at his home on May
4th, 2026, surrounded by his wife and children. Jim was born on June
6th 1938 to Edward Brush and Lee (Overton) Brush in Mercer County,
MO. Jim attended High School in Princeton, MO and it was there that
he met his beautiful bride, Suzanne Wilcox. They were married on
June 22nd, 1957. Over the next several years, they welcomed their
four children, Barbara, Dan, Rebecca, and Steve.
In 1965, Jim
graduated with his Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from the
University of Missouri. He was licensed as a Professional Land
Surveyor and Professional Engineer and in 1977 founded “Brush &
Associates Land Surveying and Engineering” in Columbia, MO which he
owned and operated until retiring in 2005.
Jim was well
known and respected throughout mid Missouri for his upstanding
character and ability to always light up a room as he entered. An
avid outdoorsman, Jim served as a scout master for over 20 years. He
loved fishing, camping, woodworking, and gardening. His faith and
family were the most important things to him.
Jim is survived
by his wife of 68 years, Suzanne (Wilcox) Brush. He is also survived
by his four children, Barbara Verbeke (Tim), Dan Brush (Nancy),
Rebecca Schweikert (Kevin), and Dr. Steve Brush (Kim). Jim is also
survived by his 26 grandchildren, 24 great-grandchildren and by his
brothers Ross and Charles Brush (Ann). He was preceded in death by
his parents Edward and Lee Brush, his step father C.H. Weber, and
his brother Lewis Brush.
A Memorial Visitation will be on
Wednesday, May 13, 2026, at 2:00 p.m., with the Celebration of Life
Service immediately following at 3:00 p.m., at Bach-Yager Funeral
Chapel.
In lieu of flowers donations can be made to, My Life
Clinic 802 N. Providence Road Suite 2, Columbia Mo. 65202 or Show-me
Christian youth Home P.O. Box 6 La Monte Mo. 65337
Bach-Yager
Funeral Chapel is honored to serve the Brush Family.
Online
condolences and tributes may be shared with the family at
www.bachyager.com.
Posted online on May 07, 2026
Published in Columbia Daily Tribune
Larry Joe
Whitmarsh, 79, of Columbia, Missouri, passed away on May 5, 2026.
He was born on February 14, 1947, in Randolph County, Missouri,
to Alfred and Laura (Calvert) Whitmarsh. Larry worked as a dedicated
heating and air conditioning technician and was known as a true jack
of all trades. He had a remarkable knack for fixing just about
anything and was often called upon for his knowledge and skill.
Larry enjoyed problem-solving and took pride in his work. In his
free time, Larry loved hunting and fishing, as well as spending time
with family playing card games. He will be remembered for his
hardworking nature, and the joy he found in simple moments shared
with those he loved.
Larry is survived by his beloved wife,
Rosemary (Moore)Whitmarsh; his daughter, Lora Curry and her spouse
Quentin; his cherished grandchildren children, Larry D. Whitmarsh
Jr., Kristina Whitmarsh, Dustin Whitmarsh, Cole Curry (Meghan),
Katherine Curry and a sister, Beverly Bennett. He was preceded in
death by his son and best friend, Larry D. Whitmarsh Sr. Four
brothers and four sisters.
A celebration of life will be held
on May 23rd from 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at New Providence Baptist
Church, 4641 N Route E, Columbia, Missouri. Family and friends are
invited to come together to share memories, enjoy a meal, and play a
card game or two in honor of Larry’s life. Larry will be deeply
missed by all who knew and loved him.
Online condolences and
tributes may be shared with the family at
www.bachyager.com.
Posted online on May 19, 2026
Published in Columbia Daily Tribune
Charles “Jake”
LeRoy Jacobson died peacefully on May 5, 2026, at Osage Beach
Rehabilitation Center surrounded by his daughters and family.
Private graveside services will be held on Aug 8 at Memorial Funeral
Home. A Celebration of Life will be held Aug 8 from 2-5 pm at
Reynolds Alumni Center 700 Conley Ave. (Mizzou/Informal attire).
Jake was born on Oct 17, 1936, to Charles and Fern Jacobson.
Jake graduated from East High School in Des Moines, Iowa in 1954. He
joined the Marine Corps in August 1954 and was honorably discharged
in 1957. He received the National Defense Medal during his service.
After the Marines, Jake attended Grand View College in Des
Moines and then earned his BS/MS at Drake University in 1965. He
went on to coach women’s softball, basketball and gymnastics at
Grand View from 1962-1979. He then moved his family to Columbia Mo
where he started the women’s gymnastics program at the University of
Missouri. He was inducted into the Mizzou Athletic Hall of Fame in
2007. He is also a member of the Grand View Athletic Hall of Fame
and was inducted into the State of Missouri Sports Hall of Fame in
2024. He was also inducted as a coach into the Women’s Collegiate
Gymnastics Association Hall of Fame in 2024.
Jake married his
loving wife, Nola Jean Smithson on Aug 8, 1959. They were married 61
years before Nola passed in 2020 due to complications from dementia.
Together, Jake and Nola raised 3 daughters: Julie Sparks (Dale),
Jackie Jacobson (Carl Slate) and Jill Marron (Tim). He is also
survived by four grandchildren: Kyle Eades (Lindsay), Katelyn Sonka
(Tyler), Cayla Larkins (Nick) and Courtney Clauss.
Jake was a
master marketer and champion of women’s sports. He took Mizzou
gymnastics to 3rd in attendance and gate receipts in only 3 years
after moving to Mizzou. He was an avid golfer and loved telling
stories about the “good ol’ days” when life was simple. He was
preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Jim Jacobson.
In lieu of flowers, donations should be made in his name to the
Mizzou Gymnastics Booster Club.
Condolences and fond memories
can be shared at
www.memorialfuneralhomeandcemetery.com.
Submitted by, Parker-Millard Funeral Service
and Crematory,12 East Ash St, Columbia MO 65203
Don David Wright
of Columbia, Missouri lovingly known as “Tum,” passed away on the
8th of May surrounded by the family and friends he cherished so
deeply. He was born on July 25, 1943, in Chesapeake, Missouri to
James Edmon Wright and Rebecca Elizabeth Jathan Moody Wright. Don
graduated from Marionville High School in 1961, where he excelled as
an athlete and formed lifelong friendships.
In December 1963,
he married Jimmie, the love of his life. Together they raised a
family of five children centered on faith, laughter, love, and good
food. Their loving family continues to grow over 62 years of devoted
partnership culminating in eleven grandchildren and fourteen
great-grandchildren. Don adored his dogs, Boomer and Tucker, and
treasured time spent camping, boating, fishing, golfing, and making
memories with loved ones at Lake of the Ozarks, Branson, and Flat
Creek; often sharing the water jug, “AKA”, the swigger!
Don
was a gifted salesman. Some say he could sell ice to an Eskimo. He
managed Moore’s Clothing Store in Aurora before opening Fashion
Depot and Sweetheart Wedding Shop. After moving to Columbia in 1983,
he owned Mr. Tuxedo for 34 years, becoming known for his warm
personality, “Poppy jokes,” and the ability to make friends
everywhere he went.
Don faithfully served his church and
community throughout his life, especially through the children’s bus
ministry. He was the biggest (and loudest) supporter at every band,
choir, and sporting event for his children and grandchildren. As a
father he modeled hard work, humility, servant leadership, and
courageous faith despite his circumstances. He was a great example,
showing his love for life. Family focused, he always set the bar
high for others to follow whether in his love for Jesus or whether
it was competing in sports and life in general.
Poppy, Poppa,
or Pops is what the grandkids called him. He always had a peppermint
or a butterscotch in his pocket. When the grandkids visited Nan and
Pops house, he would give you a back scratch and would offer a
fudgesicle or whatever sweet treat he had available. He taught all
the grandkids how to hook a worm and catch a fish, pick good
kindling for a campfire, steer a canoe on the Meramec River, or
catch a Crawdad on Flat Creek.
Don leaves behind a legacy of
generosity, joy, and unwavering faith in our Lord Jesus. Don always
made everyone, even strangers feel validated and seen. His life
could be described as giving his testimony, but a witness was who he
was.
He was preceded in death by his parents, siblings, and
his youngest son, James Marcus Wright.
Don “Poppy” is
survived by his wife, Jimmie Louise Wright of Columbia, his
daughters Amy Wilson of Columbia, Angie de Mik (Steve) of Virgina
Beach, Virgina, Allison Archibeque (Daniel) of Columbia, and Don
David Wright, Jr. (Michele) of Columbia. Also, his treasured
grandchildren, Amanda Camp (Terrance), Loren Masters (Sam), Ashley
Stoddard (Fuller), Nicole Valsien (Ricardo), Garrett de Mik
(Olivia), David Wilson (Alexis), Lindsay Archibeque (Prat), Brandon
Wilson, Madison Wright, Logan Wright (Kaitlyn), and Parker Wright
(Delanie) and cherished great grandchildren, Brock, Alexis, Brody,
Otto, Piper, Decklan, Milo, Liam, Maddox, June, Henry, August,
Lewis, and Noemie.
Visitation will be held on Monday, May 11,
2026 from 5:00 PM to 7:00PM at Parker-Millard Funeral Service in
Columbia, Missouri. Funeral service will be Tuesday, May 12, 2026 at
10:00 AM at Parker- Millard Service in Columbia, Missouri.
Arrangements are under the direction of Parker-Millard Funeral
Service & Crematory, 12 East Ash Street, Columbia, MO 65203 (573)
449-4153. Condolences may be left online for the family at
www.millardfamilychapels.com.
Submitted by the Columbia Missourian,
Lynne Randall
Dillingham was born on June 2, 1943, in Newark, New Jersey. She was
the daughter of Thomas and Beatrice Bowie.
Lynne passed away
peacefully on May 21, 2026, surrounded by her loving family. Lynne
was 82 and lived a full, rich and rewarding life.
She is
survived by her husband of 23 years, Gerald Luchessi, as well as her
daughter Dr. Rebecca Dillingham and her husband Colin Learmonth and
their children Forcey and Georgianna of Charlottesville, Virginia,
and her son Randall Dillingham and his wife Myroslava and their
children Miranda, Scarlett, and Thomas of Oberhaching, Germany. She
is also survived by her step-son Alan Luchessi of Interior, South
Dakota, and her dog, Brandy.
Lynne’s early and formative
years were spent in Newark and Montclair, New Jersey. Lynne attended
Smith College and Upsala College where she earned her undergraduate
degree in English in 1965. She later attended Tufts University
earning a Master of Arts in Teaching in 1966.
Her early
teaching career included teaching high school English, French, and
Latin in Vermont and English and Journalism in Massachusetts. In
1971, she moved to Columbia, Missouri. Lynne taught in the Columbia
Public Schools for 28 years at Blue Ridge, New Haven, and West
Boulevard Elementary schools as a reading specialist.
Lynne
retired from Columbia Public Schools in 2001 and embarked on a new
adventure. She accepted a position with the Department of Defense
Education Activity (DoDEA) in Bitburg, Germany, also as a reading
teacher. This afforded Lynne the opportunity to be closer to her son
Randall and his family. She also took the opportunity to travel
extensively in Europe and beyond.
Lynne loved children and
was a dedicated and patient teacher, She spent most of her
professional career assisting children who needed one-on-one
instruction to overcome difficulties in reading.
Besides her
passion for reading and teaching, Lynne had wanderlust. Joined by
her husband Gerald in 2003, the pair spent ten wonderful years
seeing as much of Europe as possible before Lynne retired for a
second and final time in 2013.
The expatriates along with
their devoted dog, Beija, returned home and Lynne adapted well to
retirement. She became involved in three reading groups, attended
retired teacher activities, enjoyed meetings of the Daughters of the
American Revolution chapter, and engaged in church activities at
Calvary Episcopal Church. She also served as a part time election
commissioner. Lynne and Jerry continued to travel to spend time with
family around the country and in Germany.
A Celebration of
Life service honoring Lynne will be held at 10:30am on Monday,
August 17, 2026 at Calvary Episcopal Church (123 South Ninth St.
Columbia, MO 65201). A reception will be held in the Parish Hall
immediately following interment in the Memorial Garden.
The
service will also be live streamed through the Calvary website
(calvaryonninth.org).
In lieu of flowers the family requests
memorial contributions be made to a charity of your choice in
Lynne’s name or to the Calvary Episcopal Church.
Posted online on June 18, 2026 Published in Columbia Daily
Tribune
Jeannine
Ingram Clow passed away peacefully on May 23rd at the age of 95.
She was born on November 11, 1930, in Benton, Illinois to the
late William and Laura Ingram. The family moved to Coshocton, Ohio
in 1944 where she attended Coshocton High School and graduated in
1948. After one year of college, she changed direction and became an
airline stewardess for TWA Airlines. She flew with the airline from
1951-1955.
In 1957 she married Wiiiam B Clow, and she and
Bill welcomed three children while living in Pell City, Alabama.
They moved to Columbia, MO in 1974. While raising her family in
Columbia, Jeannine was the general manager of the department of
motor vehicles from 1983 to 2000. Upon retiring in 2000 she found
the perfect retirement job as a greeter at the University of
Missouri bookstore. She loved being around the students and made
many longstanding friendships with both her colleagues and the
students. Throughout her life she followed her love of theatre.
Whether onstage, backstage or as a board member, her commitment to
Columbia Entertainment and all local theatre in Columbia remained
steadfast throughout her life. She loved spending time with her
friends, family, and her various miniature schnauzers over the
years. She held a very special place in her heart for her four
grandchildren: Edan, Cullen, Addison, and Kate.
She is
survived by her son Guy Clow of Columbia, her daughter Laura Clow of
Columbia, her grandchildren and daughter in-law Tammy Killian Clow
of Macomb Illinois.
She was proceeded in death by her parents
William and Laura Ingram, her brothers William Robert Ingram, and
William Richard Ingram. Her former husband William Clow and her son
William (Billy) Tracy Clow.
A celebration of life will be
held on August 8th - 3:00pm-6:00pm at Missouri United Methodist
Church, Columbia Mo. In lieu of flowers she asked for donations to
be made to Columbia Entertainment Company, PO Box 953, Columbia Mo,
65205.
Submitted by, Bach-Yager Funeral Chapel, 1610 North Garth
Avenue, Columbia MO 65202
Carol Jean Easterhaus of Columbia,
Missouri, passed away on May 24, 2026.
Carol was
born on July 30, 1946, to Harold and Martha Ristau in Lu Verne,
Iowa. She was baptized on August 18, 1946 and confirmed on July 3,
1960 at Zion Lutheran Church in Lu Verne, Iowa. Her early years were
spent on the family farm outside of Lu Verne alongside her brothers,
Daryl and David, and her sister, Susan. Carol graduated from Lu
Verne High School in 1964. She then attended Northwest Missouri
State University in Maryville, Missouri, where she earned a degree
in Education and met her future husband, Pete.
Carol and Pete
were married in 1967 at Zion Lutheran Church in Lu Verne, Iowa.
Together they built a loving family and raised two children, Kim and
Scott. When Scott was in elementary school, Carol began teaching at
Trinity Lutheran Child Learning Center. Over the next 23 years, she
faithfully served as a teacher and director.
One of the
greatest joys of Carol’s life was her family, especially her
grandchildren, Carly and Cody Easterhaus.
Carol never knew a
stranger. She had a remarkable knack for meeting people from
Northern Iowa no matter where she and Pete traveled throughout the
world. She was an avid card player and, in later years, loved
playing Mahjong. She and Pete enjoyed participating in several card
groups and cherished the special friendships they formed through
their mall walking group.
Carol was preceded in death by her
parents, Harold and Martha Ristau; her parents-in-law, Harold and
Daisy Easterhaus; her brother and sister-in-law, Daryl and Connie
Ristau; her brother-in-law, Denny Hefty; her sister-in-law, Melissa
Ristau; and her brother-in-law, Ralph Easterhaus.
Carol is
survived by her husband Eldrid (Pete) Easterhaus of Columbia, Mo,
daughter Kim Easterhaus of Overland Park, KS, Son Scott (Jackie)
Easterhaus and their kids Carly and Cody of Overland Park, KS,
sister Susan Hefty of State Center, IA, brother David Ristau of Fort
Dodge, Ia, sister in-law Beverly Easterhaus of Fort Wayne, IN. Also
many nieces and nephews, Gina Cook of Algona, IA, Laura (Mike)
Schiek of Fort Dodge, Ia, Alison (Curtis) Summers of State Center,
IA, Andrew (Kiley) Hefty of Pratteville, AL, Charles (Ashley) Ristau
of Portland, OR, Dianna (Melody) Kosobucki of Cedar Rapids, IA, Ryan
(Danyele) Easterhaus of Sheridan, IN, Jon (Meaghan) Easterhaus of
Santa Rosa Beach, FL, Christin (Neal) Clark of Frankfort, IN,
Allison (Eric) Honeycutt of Frankfort, TN.
Visitation will be
held at Trinity Lutheran Church on May 27th from 5:00 - 7:00 PM. The
Funeral Service will be held at Trinity Lutheran Church on May 28th
at 10:00 AM with graveside ceremony and luncheon to follow.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial donations be made
to one of the following: Caring Hearts and Hands of Columbia
(Hospice House), Mid-Missouri Lutheran Ministries or Trinity
Lutheran Church.
Bach-Yager Funeral Chapel is honored to
serve the Easterhaus family.
Submitted by, Memorial Funeral Home, Crematory & Memorial Park
Cemetery/Columbia
Alan Anderson,
90, of Columbia, MO passed away Wednesday, May 27, 2026, in Columbia
after a battle with Parkinson’s Disease and Prostate Cancer. He is
joined again with his wife, Joyce, who passed away on April 9th of
this year. A celebration of their lives will be held Saturday, June
6, 2026, from 3-5pm at Memorial Funeral Home, 1217 Business Loop 70
West, Columbia, MO.
Alan was born May 20, 1936, in Wahoo, NE
to Gothard Anderson and Gertrude Peck Anderson. Gothard and his
family immigrated from Sweden through Ellis Island. He was a 1953
graduate of Wahoo High School and played baseball, basketball and
football as well as sang in the choir and played the saxophone in
the band. He earned a bachelor’s degree in communications from the
University of Nebraska where he met his wife Joyce Knerl Anderson
and graduated in 1957. They were married on October 25, 1957.
He worked a long career as a broadcaster in radio and television
in Nebraska. He also was an announcer for Horse and Dog racing, and
some Hockey games and minor league baseball games in Nebraska. And,
you would often hear his deep voice on radio commercials. He had
offers to go to New York City to be a broadcaster but turned them
down to stay in the Midwest. He also played in many Jazz Bands at
night during this time. He was a tremendous saxophone player and
also played the piano. He started his career in Grand Island,
Nebraska before moving to Sioux City, IA where he worked at
Morningside College. In 1972, they moved to Columbia, MO where Alan
was hired as the Assistant Director of Public Relations for the
University of Missouri. He retired in 1979 and opened his own
business, Columbia Coin and Stamp in Columbia, MO and ran his
business for almost 40 years closing its door in 2019. He loved what
he did and it brought him so much joy and purpose. He caught the
coin and stamp collecting bug from his father who was a postman for
many years in Wahoo, Nebraska, leaving him a great collection to
start his business.
He was in the Cornhusker Marching Band
when the University of Nebraska played in the Orange Bowl in 1955.
He was also a supporter and season ticket holder for the Missouri
Symphony and loved classical music which was often all he thought
about in his later years learning to love music from his grandfather
Peck when he was just a child. He and Joyce were both long-time
members of St. Andrews Lutheran Church in Columbia. He also enjoyed
fishing and golfing when he could and was an avid MIZZOU basketball
and football fan and CARDINAL’S baseball fan.
He is survived
by two children; Barry Anderson and his wife Debbie of Tucson,
Arizona and Laura Anderson of Columbia, MO; five grandchildren,
Amber Anderson, Apryl Anderson, Olivia Lockett, Stephanie Lockett,
and Stephen Lockett, two great-grandchildren; Leia Lockett and
Leighton Lockett. He was preceded in death by his parents and a son,
David William Anderson.
Memorial donations can be made to
Columbia Parkinson’s Support Group or to the Rheumatoid Arthritis
Foundation.
Condolences and fond memories can be shared at
www.memorialfuneralhomeandcemetery.com.
Submitted by, Memorial Funeral Home, Crematory & Memorial Park
Cemetery/Columbia
James K. "Jim"
Scott,72, of Columbia, Missouri, passed away Thursday, June 11,
2026, at his home, lovingly surrounded by his family, while leaving
behind a life marked by faith, service, intellectual curiosity, and
deep devotion to those he loved.
He was born March 24, 1954,
in Omaha, NE, to Harold and Virginia (Mayberry) Scott, parents who
instilled in him the values of honesty, kindness, perseverance, and
respect for others. From his father, he learned integrity and the
importance of doing what was right even when it was difficult. From
his mother, he inherited empathy, creativity, a love of learning,
and a lifelong appreciation for food, cooking, and the wonders of
the world. Most importantly, they gave him a foundation of faith in
God that guided him throughout his life.
Jim's life was woven
from two enduring threads: family and work. Though distinct,
together they formed the rich tapestry of a life well lived. Faith
was the cornerstone of Jim's life. He was a devoted follower of
Christ and an active member of The Crossing Church. Earlier in his
ministry journey, he faithfully served as Youth Minister at Parkview
Christian Church for ten years, guiding and mentoring young people
during formative seasons of their lives. His commitment to Christian
service, discipleship, and sharing God's love remained a defining
part of his character throughout his life.
As a husband,
father, grandfather, educator, and friend, Jim understood that
life's greatest blessings were found in relationships. On April 7,
1974, he married Jane Peterson, his highschool sweetheart. Jane’s
strength, faith, wisdom, and steadfast love anchored both Jim and
their family, throughout their 52 years of marriage. He often
described himself as the luckiest of men for having spent his life
with her.
Jim was a devoted father to his son, Josh, and
daughter, Kate. He often spoke of the pride he felt in the adults
they became. Josh's intellect, curiosity, and commitment to justice
inspired him, while Kate's compassion, keen insight, and warmth
brought him immense joy. Though Jim readily acknowledged the
imperfections and mistakes that come with parenthood, he considered
being their father among the greatest privileges of his life. He
treasured memories of family, friends, travels, shared books, and
meaningful conversations.
A lifelong learner, Jim earned
degrees from Ozark Bible College and Southwest Missouri State
University before completing his Ph.D. at the University of
Missouri.
Professionally, Jim devoted much of his life to
education and international engagement. He took great pride in
helping create and expand international student programs at the
University of Missouri, opening doors for students from around the
world and fostering cross-cultural understanding. His academic work
stimulated his imagination, satisfied his boundless curiosity, and
provided opportunities to mentor younger generations.
Among
the many highlights of his career were opportunities to participate
in international events involving Nobel Peace Prize laureates
Archbishop Desmond Tutu and John Hume. He valued not only the
achievements of his work but also the friendships formed along the
way. Colleagues became trusted friends and kindred spirits who
shared his commitment to service, learning, and human dignity.
Jim was a man of ideas, faith, and thoughtful reflection. He
understood that institutions and organizations could be imperfect
places, yet he sought to navigate them with integrity and a
servant's heart. He believed that meaningful work required
sacrifice, perseverance, and faithfulness, even when recognition was
absent. He trusted that the ultimate measure of a life was not found
in worldly accolades but in service to God and others.
Throughout his life, Jim remained deeply grateful—for family,
friendships, meaningful work, and the grace of God. His Christian
faith sustained him through triumphs and challenges alike. In his
final reflections, he expressed a heartfelt desire that faith would
continue to guide and strengthen those he loved.
Jim is
survived by his beloved wife, Jane, of the home in Columbia, MO;
their children, Joshua Scott (Julie) of Leawood, Kansas and Kate
Wolfmeyer (Fred) of Fenton, Missouri; four grandchildren; Sage and
Jill Scott, and Alyssa and Zach Wolfmeyer, a brother, Tom Scott
(Carol) of Minnetonka, MN, nieces, nephews, extended family; and
many dear friends, colleagues, and former students whose lives he
touched. His legacy lives on through the values he embodied, the
people he mentored, the family he cherished, and the countless lives
enriched by his kindness, wisdom, and example.
He was
preceded in death by his parents, a sister, Susan Hokanson and a
brother George Scott.
In lieu of flowers memorial
contributions may be made to Veritas program (the Crossing Church’s
outreach program to MU students)
https://veritascomo.com/Give/veritas-general, The City of Refuge,
https://cityofrefugecolumbia.org/donate/, or to the University of
Missouri, International Student and Scholar Fund or the Study Abroad
Scholarship Fund,
https://www.givecampus.com/campaigns/73465/donations/new.
Words of comfort and support may be shared at the visitation,
Friday, June 26, 2026, 3:00 p.m.- 4:00 p.m. at the Crossing Church,
3615 Southland Dr., Columbia, MO 65201. A celebration of life will
follow at 4:00p.m.
Posted online
on July 11, 2026 Published in Columbia Daily TribuneYolande R
Turner-Hatton
Yolande Renee
Hatton, 65, of Columbia, Missouri, passed away on July 6, 2026. She
was born July 23, 1960, in Columbia, Missouri, to Ben H. and Mary K.
(Hardiman) Turner and married the love of her life, Kerry Hatton
Sr., in Columbia on April 6, 1985.
Yolande had an exceptional
eye for detail and a creative spirit that shined through everything
she did. An artist at heart, she found joy in sewing, sketching and
painting, bringing her unique perspective and imagination to each
piece she created.
Music was another great passion in her
life. She enjoyed playing the bass guitar and could often be found
listening to her favorite artists, especially James Brown. Whether
creating fashion, art or enjoying music, Yolande embraced the things
that brought beauty, rhythm, and expression into the world.
Yolande was also known for her talents in the kitchen. Cooking came
naturally to her, and she never needed a special occasion to prepare
something delicious for family and friends. Sharing a meal was one
of the many ways she showed her love, bringing people together with
warmth, generosity, and care.
Her creativity, kindness, and
ability to make others feel welcome will be remembered fondly by all
who knew and loved her.
Yolande is survived by her husband,
Kerry; children, Craig Williams, Chella Van Alten (Jeroen), and
Kerry Hatton, Jr. (Rebecca); her mother, Mary Turner; three
grandchildren, Deondre Hall, Skylar Harrington, and De-Azane Hall;
two great grandchildren, Jahzara Hall and Deondre Hall, Jr. She was
preceded in death by her father and three brothers.
The
family of Yolande Renee Hatton expresses our deep appreciation and
sincere thankfulness for the expressions of love, kindness and
concern during this time. May God richly bless each of you.
A
visitation will be held on July -17th 2026, at -10:00 a.m., followed
by a celebration of life at – 12:00 p.m., at Bach-Yager Funeral
Chapel, 1610 North Garth Avenue in Columbia.
Bach-Yager
Funeral Chapel is honored to serve the Hatton family
Online
condolences and tributes may be shared with the family at
www.bachyager.com.
Submitted by, Parker-Millard Funeral
Service & Crematory, 12 East Ash Street, Columbia, MO 65203
George Harold
Hickam, age 90, of Columbia, Missouri, passed away peacefully on
Tuesday, July 14, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family.
George was born on November 30, 1935, in Boone County, Missouri,
to George Hickam and Georgia Helen Hayes Hickam. He was baptized at
Mt. Celestial Missionary Baptist Church in McBaine, Missouri, where
his faith journey began. He attended Douglas High School and spent
his life building strong roots in the Columbia community.
A
dedicated and hardworking man, George began his career with State
Farm Insurance, where he faithfully served for more than 30 years.
Following his retirement, he continued working at Turner Garage for
the University of Missouri. Never one to shy away from hard work or
new opportunities, George also ventured into business ownership as
co-owner of the T&H Club and Restaurant before eventually becoming
its sole owner. Through every chapter of his life, George earned the
respect of those around him for his dependability, determination,
and unwavering work ethic.
Beyond his work, George found his
greatest joy in the outdoors. Whether hunting in the woods, casting
a line into the water, or trying his luck at the casino, he embraced
every opportunity to enjoy life. He treasured time spent with family
and friends and leaves behind countless memories filled with
laughter, stories, and love.
George is survived by his
children, George Hickam Jr. of Columbia, Missouri, John C. Hickam
(Tina) of Sedalia, Missouri, Cynthia Umbles, and Dana Hickam; his
stepchildren, Rodney Ferguson and Doris Ferguson, both of Columbia,
Missouri, and Carol Ferguson of Iowa; his sister, Linda Mitchell of
Columbia, Missouri; and a host of grandchildren, nieces, nephews,
cousins, extended family members, and cherished friends who will
forever hold his memory close.
He was preceded in death by
his beloved wife, Dorothy Jean Ferguson Hickam; his parents, George
Hickam and Georgia Helen Hayes Hickam; his stepfather, Wilbur
Mitchell; his sisters, Mineola Hickam and Agnes Black; and his
brothers, Jewell Hickam and Roger Hickam.
George lived a life
defined by perseverance, integrity, and quiet strength. He believed
in the value of honest work, the importance of providing for his
family, and finding happiness in life's simple pleasures. His legacy
will live on through the many lives he touched and the family who
will continue to honor his memory for generations to come.
He
will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and never forgotten.
Services are scheduled for Wednesday 29, 2026 at Parker-Millard
Funeral Service in Columbia, Missouri. Visitation will be held from
11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Homegoing Celebration will follow at 12:00
p.m. with Rev. James Gray officiating . Burial will take place at
Memorial Park Cemetery in Columbia, Missouri following the service.
Arrangements are under the direction of Parker-Millard Funeral
Service & Crematory, 12 East Ash Street, Columbia, MO 65203 (573)
449-4153. Condolences may be left online for the family at
www.millardfamilychapels.com.
Posted
online on July 19, 2026 Published in Columbia Daily Tribune
Maureen “Mo”
Anne Kremer, age 74, of Columbia, passed away on July 15, 2026, at
her home surrounded by family.
She was born on March 15,
1952, in Portsmouth, VA, one of 7 children to Daniel and Anne
(Vrablik) Brandon.
As her father was Active Duty in the
United States Navy, Mo and her family had moved to Hawaii during her
high school years where she graduated from Aiea High School in Aiea,
HI on the Island of Oahu in 1970.
After her father’s tour in
Hawaii, Mo and her family moved back to Maryland where she met her
husband Bob Kremer (deceased) of 49 years while working at the VFW
in Fredrick, MD when Bob was assigned to Fort Deitrick, MD U.S. Army
Biological Warfare Laboratories. They were married on March 15,
1975, in Rockville, MD before moving to Missouri.
Mo’s
greatest joy was being Grammo to her four grand-girls and loved them
so fiercely. She also found happiness in cross-stitching baby
blankets and other gifts for friends and family, rescuing a number
of animals from the humane society including her “two boys” Larry
and Curley who never left her side, and her lifelong joy: putting
her natural green thumb to use wherever she roamed; be that vacation
destinations, offices, and friend/family houses. She had such a
knack for growing and rehabilitating plants, her home’s the sunroom
transformed into a makeshift greenhouse and plant rehabilitation
center.
Known as “The Plant Lady” around Columbia, Mo worked
for Plant Designs for 26 years caring for plants all over the city,
retiring in 2025 and prior to that as secretary for the
Communications Department in Switzler Hall at the University of
Missouri for 16 years where she made life-long friends with students
and staff alike.
Mo is survived by her two children; Andrew
(Amanda) Kremer of Cincinnati OH, Erin Moore of Columbia; four
grandchildren, Ava Moore, Emma Moore, Addison Kremer, and Ainsley
Kremer; siblings Patty (Rodger) Schwerkolt of Brewster, NY, David
(Gretchen) Brandon of Normis, FL, James (Becky) Brandon of Lutz FL,
John (Barbara) Brandon of Darnstown, MD, and maternal Uncle Jackie
Vrablik of Falls Church, VA.
In addition to her husband of 49
years, Mo is preceded in death by her parents Daniel and Anne
Brandon, brothers Robert and Daniel Brandon.
Visitation will
be held from 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. on Friday, July 24, 2026, at
Our Lady Help of Christians Catholic Church in Frankenstein with a
Mass of Christian Burial to follow at 1:00 p.m. with Fr. Colin
Franklin as the Celebrant. Interment will be in the Garden of
Gethesmene Cemetery.
Expressions of sympathy may be made to
Central Missouri Humane Society.
Arrangements are under the
direction of Morton Chapel, Linn, Missouri (573-897-2214)
www.mortonchapel.com.
Posted online
on August 14, 2026 Published in Columbia Daily Tribune
James Carl "Jim"
Stallman, 84, of Columbia, Missouri, died July 28, 2026. He leaves
behind a family who loved him deeply, countless friends whose lives
he touched, and a legacy of kindness, curiosity, laughter, and
service to others.
Jim was born August 19, 1941, in Evanston,
Illinois, to Virginia and Clarence Stallman and grew up in Joliet,
Illinois. He graduated from Joliet Township High School in 1959,
where he was a captain in his high school's ROTC and a state
champion in rifle marksmanship. More importantly, high school was
where he met Sandy. They performed together in their senior class
play, beginning a relationship that would last more than six
decades. They married in 1962.
Jim attended the University of
Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, earning bachelor's, master's, and
doctoral degrees in accounting. In 1968, he and Sandy moved to
Columbia, where Jim joined the University of Missouri faculty as an
assistant professor of cost accounting. During his career, he also
served as a visiting professor at the University of Michigan and
later became Director of Graduate Studies in the School of
Accountancy at MU.
Jim's curiosity, however, was not confined
to his career. He was a lifelong learner who was always finding
something new to explore. He loved circuits and electricity and
spent five years teaching them as a 4-H project leader. As an
amateur radio operator (W0VE), he used Morse code to talk with
people around the world and shared that interest as the sponsor of
the University of Missouri ham radio club. He learned to identify
Missouri's wildflowers and trees and spent countless hours hiking,
camping, and floating Missouri's rivers with his family. He loved to
travel and eventually visited all 50 states as well as many
countries around the world.
Music was another constant in
Jim's life. As a younger man, he was a fabulous dancer and enjoyed
playing classical guitar. Later, he fell in love with bluegrass and
old-time music. He attended flat-picking camps, played in a
bluegrass band at church, and led a weekly "Sloe Jam" for beginning
and intermediate old-time and bluegrass musicians. He also loved
bowling with Sandy, playing bridge and other card games, and finding
almost any excuse for a good joke. Jim loved to laugh, making up
one-liners and limericks whenever he got the chance.
Jim also
believed in showing up for people. For 35 years, he helped lead the
electronics section of Broadway Christian Church's annual Habitat
for Humanity Garage Sale. He traveled on church mission trips to
help families and congregations recover from hurricanes and
tornadoes, served as treasurer of the Fairview Elementary School
PTA, and contributed his time to numerous church committees and
projects.
That same steady presence defined him as a husband,
father, and grandfather. He was endlessly supportive of the people
he loved, cheering on his children and grandchildren through their
many sporting and creative endeavors and accepting them for who they
were. He was kind and gentle, patient and fiercely loyal. He
listened without judgment. No matter what they needed, Jim’s family
and friends knew he was someone they could count on.
Jim is
survived by his wife, Sandy Stallman; his daughter, Heidi Stallman;
his son, Brandon Stallman, and his wife, Katie; his grandsons,
Aidan, Cameron, and Donovan Stallman; and his brother, Bob Stallman.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Virginia and Clarence
Stallman, and his son, Eric Stallman.
Family and friends are
invited to celebrate Jim's life at an informal reception at Broadway
Christian Church on Sunday, September 6, 2026, from 2:00 to 4:00
p.m. Rather than a formal service, the family hopes this will be a
time to gather, visit, share memories and stories, and remember a
man who brought kindness, humor, curiosity, and generosity to so
many lives.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be
made to Show-Me Central Habitat for Humanity or the Food Bank for
Central and Northeast Missouri.
Posted
online on August 06, 2026 Published in Columbia Daily Tribune
Patricia
Lawnick- Ritchie passed away on Thursday, July 30, 2026 in Columbia
MO. She was 96. She passed peacefully, with her son at her side.
Born Patricia Davis in West Orange NJ, she grew up in Windsor
MO. Music was her focus at an early age, and remained so throughout
her life. Trained on the piano from childhood, she graduated from
Windsor High School in 1948. She received an undergraduate degree
from the University of Kansas in 1952. She obtained her Masters
degree in Music Education in 1953 from the University of
Missouri-Columbia. She went on to teach music at the University Lab
School until 1959. From 1960 through the 1980's, she taught private
piano lessons at the studio in her home.
She married Norman
S. Lawnick in Columbia in 1954. In 1960 they adopted their son,
Stephen Michael, who survives. Norman preceded her in death in 1984.
In 1999, a long time friendship turned to love when she married Paul
Ritchie of Columbia. Paul passed away in 2019. She is survived by
her son Stephen of Columbia, step-daughters Paula Ritchie and Patty
Ritchie, and several nieces and nephews.
She was very
involved in civic and professional organizations throughout her
life. She was a member and office holder in Sigma Alpha Iota (an
international professional music society for women). She was a Sigma
Kappa alumnae, and a member of King's Daughters and Sons, Daughters
of the American Revolution, and the Red Cross. She was a member of
the Music Symphony Society, and was involved in the restoration of
the Missouri Theater.
A former pilot, she was an active
member of the Missouri Pilots Association.
Perhaps seeking
redemption for her undergraduate days, Patricia was an avid and
lifelong fan of the Missouri Tigers. She greatly enjoyed attending
Mizzou football games for many years, first with her son Steve, and
later with her husband Paul.
Services will be held on
Thursday August 13 at Memorial Funeral Home. There will be a
visitation at 11:00 am, followed by a service at 1:00 pm.
Memorials can be made to the First Christian Church, Columbia MO.
Posted online on August 11, 2026
Published in Columbia Daily Tribune
It is with deep sadness
that we announce the passing of Charlene Adele (Downs) Carnes of
Columbia, Missouri, who passed away on August 1, 2026 at the age of
96.
Charlene was born on January 15, 1930 in Marshall, MO.
Charlene was the oldest of ten children born to Charles Downs and
Adele (Dehn) Downs. She attended and graduated from the University
of Missouri and worked as an elementary school teacher prior to
marrying Giles Derwood (Woody) Carnes of Neosho, MO on June 12, 1954
in Columbia, MO. Woody preceded Charlene in death passing away at
the age of 76 on February 5, 2004 at their home in Palm Harbor, FL.
Charlene’s son Paul Carnes also preceded her in death, passing away
on August 16, 2022 in Columbia, MO.
Charlene and Woody
traveled internationally to over 15 countries in Europe, Asia, and
North and South America. Charlene loved expressing her creativity,
including learning to prepare international dishes, sewing,
gardening, oil painting and colored pencil drawing. For much of her
life she was active in the Unitarian Church.
Charlene was
dearly loved and will be deeply missed by family members; daughter
Sharon West; daughter in law Lisa Carnes; grandchildren Cassy
Carnes, Chris Carnes, Danielle Puri, and Jason Knoepfler;
great-grandchildren; her 5 surviving siblings and their families,
and many other relatives and friends whose lives were touched by her
presence.
Submitted by, Memorial Funeral Home, Crematory & Memorial Park
Cemetery/Columbia
Jeanette
Decker, 82, of Columbia, MO passed away Tuesday, August 4, 2026, in
Columbia. Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 11am on Wednesday,
August 12th at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church 903 Bernadette
Drive Columbia, MO 65203 followed by burial in Memorial Park
Cemetery, 1217 Business Loop 70 West Columbia, MO. Friends may
gather at the Knights of Columbus Hall 2525 N Stadium Blvd Columbia,
MO 65202 following the burial for visitation and reception.
Jeanette was born in Hermann, MO on October 6, 1943, to Bill and
Opal Beckman Glatz. Their family moved to Mexico, MO where she
attended St. Brendan’s Catholic School and was a 1961 graduate from
Mexico High School. She met Bob Decker in Mexico, and they were
married in there in 1963. She worked for several years for MFA, now
Shelter Insurance, before moving careers to Square-D. She worked
there for fifteen years in the payroll department before her health
led to her retirement. As a young woman, she enjoyed being outdoors,
swimming and spending time at the lake. She enjoyed crossword
puzzles and word searches. She loved to spend time with her
grandchildren and playing with her dogs, Shadow and Luna.
She
is survived by her husband of 63 years, Bob Decker; a daughter,
Robin Franklin of Columbia; a son Brent (Vickie) Decker of
Smithville; granddaughters, Hannah & Avery Decker and Lily Dailey;
siblings, Judy (Larry) Atterberry and Kenny (Annette) Gatz all of
Columbia, many nieces and nephews and a loving extended family. She
was preceded in death by her parents.
Memorial donations can
be made to Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church 903 Bernadette Drive
Columbia, MO 65203.
Condolences and fond memories can be
shared at
www.memorialfuneralhomeandcemetery.com.
Posted online on August 11, 2026
Published in Columbia Daily Tribune
Ruth Ann Klaus,
or as the family called her, Nina, 88, of Columbia, passed away on
August 6, 2026, at the Baptist Homes of Ashland. Ruth was born in
Bunceton, Missouri on July 20, 1938 to Earl and Clara Scott. Ruth
married Thomas Klaus on May 28, 1960 in Oklahoma, together, they had
one daughter, Lea Ann Cornman.
Ruth enjoyed dancing and I’m
sure many have seen her polka in random locations, like Hy Vee. She
also loved music and was an accomplished pianist and organist.
Over the years, Ruth was employed by Dr. Pingleton and Westlakes
as a bookkeeper. She also had banking experience as she grew up
working with her dad in the bank that the family owned, the Bunceton
State Bank. Her last place of employment was that very bank where
she had been appointed as the Executive Vice President until the
bank sold to UMB in the mid-80’s. She was also an over 60 year
member of Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church in Columbia, Missouri.
Ruth’s faith was an important part of her life.
Ruth is
survived by her daughter, Lea Ann; three grandchildren, Clara
Luster, Cameron Cornman, Carter Cornman; and three
great-grandchildren, Madi Mata, Annabelle Luster, Tripp Luster.
In addition to her parents, Ruth was preceded in death by her
husband, Thomas Klaus.
Private family service and burial to
be held.
Online condolences may be shared with the family at
www.robinsonyagerfh.com.
Robinson-Yager Funeral Home is
honored to serve Ruth’s family.
Submitted by, Memorial Funeral Home,
Crematory & Memorial Park Cemetery/Columbia
Martha Mae
Traxler, 94, of Columbia, MO passed away peacefully Friday, August
14, 2026.
Martha was born May 11, 1932, in McBaine, MO to
Charles and Mary Taylor. She was raised on her family’s farm in
Rocheport, MO where she was the second of six children. At the age
of 21, she married the love of her life, Carl Traxler. Together,
they shared 59 wonderful years of marriage. Martha worked as a
secretary for Shelter Insurance where she retired after 42 years of
dedicated service.
Martha was a member of the Sunrise
Optimist, the Red Hat Society, and The 25th ladies group. She
enjoyed coffee, sunshine, playing golf, and collecting glassware.
She had a set of dishes for every occasion. Her greatest passion,
however, was for her family. She poured her love into her homemade
Sunday lunches and treasured every opportunity to have her family
gathered around her.
Martha will be remembered for her
unwavering love and devotion to her family, her selflessness, and
her generosity. Her kindness and loving spirit touched the lives of
everyone who knew her, and her memory will live on through the
family she cherished so deeply.
Martha is survived by her
beloved son, Larry Traxler and his wife, Polly of Columbia, MO; her
treasured granddaughters: Kimberly Mabrey and her husband, Greg and
Kacey Richardson and her husband, Rusty both of Columbia, MO; and
four greatly adored great-grandchildren: Katelyn Mabrey, Ryan
Richarson, Tate Richardson, and Carly Richarson. She also is
survived by two brothers: Albert Taylor of Rocheport, MO and Warren
Taylor of Columbia, MO as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and
extended family.
She was proceeded in death by her cherished
husband Carl, her parents, and three of her siblings: Inez Hickam,
Barbara Sontag, and Charles Taylor, Jr.
Visitation will be
held from 10:00 to 11:00am on Wednesday August 19, 2026 at Memorial
Funeral Home with funeral services immediately following at 11:00am.
Graveside services will follow in Memorial Park Cemetery.
In
lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Martha’s
memory to Preferred Hospice or Baptist Homes of Ashland.
Martha leaves behind a beautiful legacy of love, family, generosity,
and devotion. She will be deeply missed and forever cherished by all
who had the privilege of knowing and loving her.
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