KEWPIE MEMORIAL PAGE
KEWPIES' FAMILY MEMORIAL PAGE
With Sympathy
Class of 1963 Memorial - Class of 1967 Memorial - Class of 1970 Memorial - Class of 1986 Memorial
Memorial Slideshows shown at reunions
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Courtesy of Charley Blackmore, Kewpie Classmates Association
For any corrections or additions, please send email to:
charley@kewpie.net
or call: 573-808-5314
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"
Judith Gail Bourland Alspaw, Class of 1959, passed away Thursday, October 1, 2026 in Columbia.
John Acton, Class of 1966, passed away on Monday, September 28, 2026 in Columbia.
Phyllis June Sumner Crawford, Class of 1953, passed away on Saturday, September 26, 2026, at Lenoir Woods Greenwood Memory Care in Columbia.
Walter James "Jim" Wesselmann, Class of 1962, passed away in his home on Thursday, September 24, 2026 in Columbia.
Evelyn Turner Wilson, Class of 1965, passed away Saturday, September 19, 2026 at University Hospital in Columbia, Missouri.
Rose Marie Douglass Berry, Class of 1948, passed away Friday, September 18, 2026 in Columbia.
Katie Lynn Andrews, Class of 2014, passed away on Friday, September 18, 2026 in Columbia.
George Patterson Wilson, Class of 1947, passed away at his home in Columbia, Missouri, passed away Friday, September 4, 2026.
Sherry Kaye Dobbs, Class of 1968, died on August 31, 2026 at University Hospital.
Timothy Clark Flynn, Class of 1966, passed away Thursday, August 13, 2026.
Erma Faye Coleman Pauley, Class of of 1954, passed away on Monday, August 10, 2026, in Columbia, Missouri.
Margaret “Terry” Jennings Hume, Class of 1973, passed away on Saturday, August 8, 2026 in Columbia, Missouri.
Donald H. Cunningham, Class of 1953, died Saturday, August 8, 2026 in Columbia, Missouri.
Kathryn Lynne Thompson, Class of 1979, passed away on Monday, August 3, 2026 at her home in Northfield, Minnesota.
Linda Lou (Colvin) McKenzie, Class of 1959, passed on Friday, July 31, 2026, at Stuart House in Centralia, MO.
Samuel Christopher Moore, C;ass of 1977, passed away Saturday, July 25, 2026.
Billie J. Hopper Silvey, Class of 1949, passed away at her home in Columbia on Saturday, July 25, 2026.
Marjorie “Margie” Jean Merideth, Class of 1947, passed away Sunday, July 19, 2026.
Floyd Russell "Russ" Sloan, Class of 1956, passed away Friday, July 17, 2026 at his home in Florida.
John (Johnnie) Old, Class of 1955, passed away on Thursday, July 2, 2026, at his home in Columbia.
Tommy Lee Stone, Class of 1959, passed away in Columbia on Saturday, June 27, 2026.
Russell William Thompson, Class of 1984, passed away Friday, June 26, 2026.
Barbara Jean “Bobbie” Niles Freeman, Class of 1958, passed away Tuesday, June 23, 2026, at Boone Hospital Center, in Columbia, Missouri.
Helen Louise Watson Gish, Class of 1963, passed away Saturday, June 6, 2026 in Columbia.
David Lee "Dave" Jones, Class of 1962, passed away on Saturday, May 30, 2026 at South Hampton nursing home in Columbia, Missouri.
Stanley James Lynn, Class of 1973, passed away at Boone Hospital Center, on Saturday, May 30, 2026.
Douglas Jay Bolerjack, Class of 1974, passed away on Wednesday, May 27, 2026, at Columbia’s University Hospital.
James “Leon” Schmidt, Class of 1962, passed away on Monday, May 25, 2026, at University Hospital of Missouri in Columbia.
Robert Lionel Northup, Class of 1960, passed away Saturday, May 23, 2026, in Boonville, Missouri.
Douglas Michael Botner, Class of 1972, passed away on Friday, May 22, 2026 in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma.
Pamela J.Byinton Mertz, Class of 1977, passed away on Friday, May 22, 2026.
Isabel Bennett MacLeod Burggraaff, Class of 1959, died on Wednesday, May 20, 2026 in Columbia, Missouri.
Dean Zaneis, Class of 1955, passed away Thursday, May 18, 2026 in Jacksonville, Florida.
Burdet Wesley “Perk” Hoecker, Class oof 1960, passed away at EverTrue Lenoir Woods in Columbia, Missouri on May 13, 2026.
Koy David McNary, Class of 1981, passed away on Tuesday, May 12, 2026.
George McAfee Johnson, Class of 1963, passed away on Monday, May 11, 2026 in Springfield, Missouri.
Dulcie Maryann Creasy Camp, Class of 1960, died on Wednesday, May 6, 2026 at her home in Greeley, Colorado.
Terry Lynn Sapp, Class of 1963, passed away Wednesday, May 6, 2026 in Columbia.
Kirk Sumpter, Class of 1966, died Wednesday, May 6th, 2026 in Longview, Texas.
Marilyn Phyllis McCrory Fleetwood Class of 1956,, died, Monday, May 4, 2026, at her home in Montgomery City, Missouri.
Mary Jane Caldwell Talmadge, Class of 1970, passed away Thursday, April 23, 2026.
Patricia Ann (Duncan) Cook, Class of 1949, passed away Thursday, April 23, 2026 at Pin Oaks Living Center, in Mexico, Missouri.
James “Roy” Eichelberger, Class of 1949, passed away Tuesday, April 21, 2026.
Robert Showers, Class of 1951, passed away Monday, April 20, 2026, in Overland Park, KS.
Jill Marie Libby (Beaumonte), Class of 1990, passed away Sunday, April 19, 2026, at University Hospital in Columbia, Missouri.
Nancy Melinda Nebel Smith, Class of 1962, passed away Saturday, April 18, 2026 in Yampa Colorado.
Rickie Lee Batye, Class of 1969, passed away at his home in Columbia on Saturday, April 18th 2026.
Connie Grogger Pugh, Class of 1958, passed away on Friday, April 17, 2026.
Eddie Jean Davis Burks, Class of 1949, passed away, Thursday April 16, 2026, in Columbia.
Pamela "Pam" McElroy Sand, Class of 1968, passed away in Gainesville, Florida, on Thursday, April 16, 2026.
Larry Ewing Burnett, Class of 1962, passed away on Sunday, April 12, 2026, at his home in Columbia, Missouri.
Teresa German Voorheis, Class of 1983, passed away Monday, April 6, 2026, at the University Hospital and Clinics in Columbia.
Danny Wayne Comley, Class of 1984, passed away Friday, April 3, 2026, in Columbia.
Richard W. “Wally” Murray, Class of 1957, passed Thursday, April 2, 2026 in Conroe Texas.
Michael David Rawson, Class of 1986, passed away Friday, March 27, 2026, at his residence in Columbia.
Jim Drexler, Class of 1976, passed away Wednesday, March 25, 2026, in Columbia.
Kenneth Wayne Butler, Class of 1971, passed away Tuesday, March 24, 2026 at his home in San Antonio, Texas.
Jeffrey Kent Green, Class of 1989, passed away at his home in Hartsburg, Missouri, Sunday, March 22, 2026.
Henry Craig Lamm, Class of 1978, passed away at his home in Columbia on Friday, March 20, 2026.
Robert Dewayne “Slugger” Wright, Class of 1990, passed away Saturday, March 14, 2026, at University Hospital in Columbia.
Norma Fay Wade Showers, Class of 1953, passed away Wednesday, March 11, 2026, in Overland Park, Kansas.
Stephen Lee “Steve” Price, Sr., Class of 1968, passed away Tuesday, March 10, 2026, at the University Hospital-Columbia.
Tracy Mathis, Class of 1971, passed away on Friday, March 6, 2026, in Town and Country, Missouri.
James T. Ausmus, Sr., Class of 1955, passed away Monday, March 9, 2026, at Boone Hospital Center, in Columbia.
Linda Mae Neenan (Loy), Class of 1964, passed away on Saturday, March 7, 2026 in Kansas City, Missouri.
Glen Ray Driskill, Class of 1959, passed away Saturday, February 28, 2026, at Caring Hearts in Columbia, Missouri.
Julia Ann “Judy” Bennett Buckler, Class of 1954, passed away Thursday, February 26, 2026.
Ann (Cornett) Anderson, Class of 1954, passed away Sunday, February 22, 2026.
Lawrence "Larry" Eugene Barnes, Class of 1969, passed away Friday, February 20, 2026, at his home in Columbia.
John T. “Jack” Whitlock III, Class of 1953, passed away Wednesday, February 18, 2026 at his home in Zionsville, Indiana.
Roger Willard Sprague, Class of 1967, passed away on Sunday, February 15, 2026.
Barry Edward Hudspeth, Class of 1966, passed away Tuesday, February 10, 2026.
Troy Eldon Bentlage, Class of 1954, passed away Monday, February 9, 2026 at his home in Columbia, Missouri.
Harvey Lee McCray, Class of 1949, passed away Monday, February 9, 2026, at Mill Creek Village Assisted Living in Columbia, Missouri.
Nancy Thompson Tipton, Class of 1940, passed away Saturday, February 7, 2026 in Englewood, Colorado.
Kenneth “Kenney” Varrell Niles, Class of 1959, passed away Friday, February 6, 2026.
Linda Sue (Benedict) Cooper, Class of 1969, passed away Tuesday, January 20, 2026 at Bluff Creek Terrace in Columbia, Missouri.
Thomas Benjamin Stewart, III, Class of 1957, passed away, Tuesday, January, 20, 2026, at home in Columbia.
Russell M. Coats, Class of 1945, passed away Thursday, January 19, 2026 in Osage Beach, Missouri.
Michael Ryan Burke, Class of 2002, passed away on Sunday, January 18, 2026.
John Kirklin Branham, Class of 1972, affectionately known as “Kirk” and “Bossman,” passed away, Sunday, January 18, 2026, at the Missouri Veterans Home in Mexico, Missouri.
Lowell E. 'Corky' Elliott, Class of 1945, passed away Thursday, January 15, 2026 in Visalia, California.
Jeraldine P. (Jeri) Crum-Vanlandingham, Class of 1962, died Monday, January 12, 2026 at her home in Van Nuys California.
James Elijah Johnson, Class of 1968, passed away Friday, January 9, 2026.
Sheryl Hampton, Class of 1972, passed away Thursday, January 8, 2026, in Columibia
Bernard Dothage, Class of 1961, passed away at his home on Wednesday, January 7, 2026, in Columbia.
Kenneth Raymond “Skip” Baird, Class of 1962, passed away on Wednesday, January 7, 2026, in Edmond, Oklahoma.
David Carlton Boyle, Class of 1973, passed away Tuesday, January 6, 2026 at the Missouri University Hospital.
Posted online on January 08, 2026
Published
in Columbia Daily Tribune
David Carlton Boyle,
age 63, passed away on January 6, 2026 at the Missouri University
Hospital.
David was born on May 4, 1962 in Columbia, Missouri,
the eldest son of J. Barton and Charmian Ficklin Boyle of Columbia,
Missouri. David attended Fairview Elementary School, West Junior Middle
School and Hickman High School. During his junior year his family moved
to Columbus, Ohio where he graduated from Upper Arlington High School in
1980. David was on the high school track and hockey team in high school.
At the Ohio State University he was a member of Sigma Chi Fraternity.
Dave earned a degree in horticulture and moved to Florida where he
worked in the horticulture field before spending 15 years on the staff
at Orchid Island Golf and Beach Club in Vero Beach, Florida. Dave
returned to Columbia, Missouri in 2012. David is survived by his mother
Mary Charmian Boyle, brother, Jeffery Stephen Boyle and niece, Brooke
Kaylin Boyle.
David will be laid to rest in the Memorial Prayer
Garden at the Missouri United Methodist Church of Columbia, Missouri. No
Services are planned.
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 Smith & Kernke Funeral Home on 23rd St
1401 NW 23rd St,
Oklahoma City, OK 73106
Kenneth Raymond “Skip”
Baird, 81, passed away on January 7, 2026, in Edmond. He was born
February 22, 1944, in Kansas City, Missouri, the son of Kenneth and Lois
Baird. When Skip was eight years old, his parents divorced, and he and
his sister, Cindy, went to live with their father and stepmother, Ruth
Baird. Following several moves during his grade school and junior high
years, the family eventually settled in Columbia, Missouri, where Skip
attended Hickman High School for his freshman and sophomore years.
There, he participated in football, basketball, and baseball.
In
1960, the family moved to Beaver, Oklahoma, where Skip continued his
athletic career at Beaver High School, competing in football,
basketball, and track. His talent and dedication earned him selection to
the Oklahoma High School All-State Football Team during his senior year.
Skip was also honored with a full athletic scholarship to play football
at the University of Missouri in Columbia “Mizzou Tigers.”
While
athletics played an important role in his life, Skip often said the
greatest honor he ever received was meeting and dating Darla Jenkins in
1960 where they were both attending Beaver High School. A match made in
heaven, soulmates. Skip and Darla were married on September 7, 1963,
beginning a lifelong partnership rooted in love, commitment, and shared
purpose for 62 years of marriage.
Together, Skip and Darla raised
two children, Suzanne Denise Baird and Brandon Tate Baird. Their family
grew to include four grandchildren, Tyler Sivigliano, Ashton Sivigliano,
Carly Baird, and Morgan Baird. They also have six great-grandchildren,
Kyler Sivigliano, Gia Sivigliano, Maisie Jackson, Jemarcus Jackson Jr.,
Jaliyah Jackson and Aspen Sivigliano.
In 1972, Skip earned a
bachelor’s degree in secondary education. He began his professional
career in 1973 at Boise High School in Boise City, Oklahoma, where he
served as a football, basketball, and track coach. In 1975, he accepted
a coaching position in Protection, Kansas, serving as head football
coach, head girls track coach, and assistant girls basketball coach.
Under his leadership, Protection won the state championship in
basketball in 1977 and football in 1978.
Skip and his family
later moved to Fairview, Oklahoma, where he served as head football
coach and head boys track coach. Fairview achieved the state
championship in boys track in 1982, marking another highlight in Skip’s
coaching career.
Later that year, Skip transitioned from coaching
to the insurance industry, beginning a new chapter as a sales
representative with Farmland Insurance Company. After ten years, Skip
and Darla opened their own independent insurance agency in Enid,
Oklahoma. In 2002, they sold the agency and joined Triangle Insurance
Company, where they continued working together until retiring in 2010.
In retirement, Skip and Darla made their home in Edmond, Oklahoma.
Skip will be remembered as a devoted husband, proud father and
grandfather, respected coach, and dedicated professional. His
leadership, integrity, and love for family left a lasting impact on all
who knew him.
He was preceded in death by his parents, sister
Sandy Heishman, and brothers Tom and Stan Baird.
He is survived
by his wife Darla Baird; daughter Denise; son Brandon; four
grandchildren; and six great grandchildren, mention above. He is also
survived by his mother Ruth Baird and sisters Cindy Baird, Ruthann
Heberle, and Debbie McWilliams.
His family and friends will
cherish him always and he will be remembered as a devoted husband,
loving father and grandfather, respected coach, and man of integrity. He
will eternally remain in our hearts and be our forever guiding angel.
A memorial donation may be made in Memory of Skip Baird to American
Lung Association at
https://bealungsaver.funraise.org/fundraiser/kenneth-raymond-skip-baird.
Subitted by, Memorial Funeral Home, Crematory & Memorial Park
Cemetery/Columbia
Bernard Dothage,
82, of Columbia, passed away peacefully at his home on Wednesday,
January 7, 2026, in Columbia, Missouri.
Bernard was born on September
15, 1943, in Boone County, Missouri, to the late Turner and Sarah
(Crane) Dothage. He was raised in Columbia and spent his entire life on
the same farm he called home for 82 years, a place that truly defined
who he was.
He graduated from Hickman High School in 1961. On May
14, 1966, Bernard married the love of his life, Judy Bledsoe, in
Columbia, Missouri. Together they shared 59 wonderful years of marriage
and raised one son, Scott.
Bernard was known for his strong work
ethic and entrepreneurial spirit. He owned and operated Dothage TV for
many years and continued working well into his later years as the owner
and operator of Central Missouri Golf Cars. Hard work was simply part of
who Bernard was.
Above all else, Bernard was a farmer at heart.
He loved his land, his cows, and the daily farm life. He was also an
avid gardener who took great pride in growing vegetables for his family.
Bernard was a devoted family man who cherished his loved ones above
everything else. Time spent with his family was what mattered most to
him, and his love for them was evident in all that he did.
He is
survived by his beloved wife, Judy Dothage; his son, Scott Dothage and
wife Kimberly; two granddaughters, Amber and Sydney Dothage; and a
great-grandson, Logan. He is also survived by other relatives and many
dear friends.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be
made to a charity of the donor’s choice.
Words of comfort and
support may be shared with the family at the visitation on Tuesday,
January 13, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at Memorial Funeral Home
in Columbia, Missouri. Services honoring and celebrating Bernard’s life
will follow at 11:00 a.m. in the Memorial Funeral Home Chapel. Committal
prayers and burial will take place at Columbia Cemetery in Columbia,
Missouri.
Submitted by, Memorial
Funeral Home, Crematory & Memorial Park Cemetery/Columbia
Sheryl Hampton,
71, of Columbia, MO passed away Thursday, January 8, 2026, in Columbia
with her family by her side. As per her wishes, there will be no
services.
She was born July 4, 1954, in Columbia, to Richard and
Patsy Barnes Hampton and was a 1972 graduate of Hickman High School. She
married shortly after high school and had a son, Chase. She was a
stay-at-home mom for several years before taking on small jobs. She
found a career with Columbia Insurance where she worked for 20 years,
retiring in 2020. She enjoyed listening to the Blues and going to shows
at the Roots-n-Blues Festival. She also enjoyed Art in the Park. Most of
all, she was the best grandma ever; she loved to spend time with her
granddaughters and watch them play sports.
Sheryl is survived by
her son, Chase (Janelle) Greening of Columbia; granddaughters, Payton
and Presley of Columbia; a brother, Richard Hampton of Columbia; her
mother, Patsy Hampton of Columbia; and a nephew, Caleb (Aimee) Hampton
and their son Hank. She was preceded in death by a sister, Lori McBride,
and her father, Richard.
Condolences and fond memories can be
shared at
www.memorialfuneralhomeandcemtery.com.
Submitted by, H T May & Son Funeral Home, 405
Sycamore St, Boonville, MO 65233
James
Elijah Johnson, age 75, was born on July 30, 1950, to James and Stella
Johnson. He was welcomed home on January 9, 2026.
James was a
proud graduate of David H. Hickman High School, Class of 1968, where he
also played football. He continued his education at Lincoln University,
attending for two years. Following his schooling, James began a
dedicated career at University Hospitals and Clinics, where he served as
a Supervisor in Environmental Services. After many years of faithful and
committed service, he retired from the University.
In retirement,
James embraced life fully, finding great joy and peace in the outdoors.
He especially enjoyed fishing and hunting, hobbies that brought him
contentment and relaxation. He lived his life with quiet purpose and
appreciation for the simple joys around him.
James leaves to
cherish his memory his son, Anthony Hatton (Elaine Hatton); his brother,
Archie Brooks (Eleanor Brooks); his sister, Kathy Sims; along with other
loving family members and dear friends.
He was preceded in death
by his father, James Johnson; his mother, Stella Johnson; and his
sister, Sandra Johnson.
James will be deeply missed and forever
remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing and loving him.
Services will be held Friday, January 16, 2026, at 12:00 PM at St.
Luke United Methodist Church in Columbia. Visitation will be from 11:00
AM to 12:00 PM Friday at the church. Services will be live streamed at
12:00 PM on
https://www.facebook.com/htmayfuneralhome.
Posted online on January 16, 2026
Published in
Columbia Daily Tribune
Jeraldine P. (Jeri)
Crum-Vanlandingham died Monday, January 12, 2026 at her home in Van Nuys
California. She was 81. Ms. Crum-Vanlandingham was preceded in death by
her father, J.Louis Crum, Jr her mother, June M. Crum of Columbia,
Missouri, her brother, James Louis Crum III, and by a son, Arthur Basey
(Jay) Vanlandingham III, of Chandler, Arizona.
Jeri is survived
by her oldest son, Jeffrey Doss Vanlandingham of Los Angeles, California
and a grandson, Forrest Vanlandingham of Phoenix, Arizona. Also
surviving is brother, John Bradford (Brad) Crum. Jeri was born in St.
Louis in 1944, moved to Columbia when she was 5, and graduated from
Hickman High School in 1962. She received her Masters Degree in Social
Work from the University of Missouri, Kansas City, and pursued a career
as a social worker, with a particular focus on returning veterans.
Jeri was a proud member of NAMI (National Alliance for the Mentally
Ill), served as President of her local chapter and often attended NAMI
conferences. She was devoted to the care of her special-needs son, a
Schizophrenic. Politically, Jeri identified as a Democratic Socialist.
She counted herself among Bernie Sanders’ most ardent supporters, and
worked hard to promote nuclear disarmament. She was once arrested, along
with other followers of Father Daniel Berrigan for cuffing herself to an
armed ICBM missile.
Jeri loved animals deeply, and owned a
beautiful Siamese named “Keety” at the time of her death. A dear friend
will take over Keety’s care.
Deceased's Funeral Arrangements.
A memorial celebration of Jeri's life will be announced at a later
time.
In lieu of flowers, please donate to "CureCadasil" at
www.curecadasil.org.
Lowell E. 'Corky'
Elliott
April 14, 1928 – January 15, 2026
Obituary of Lowell E.
'Corky' Elliott
Submitted by, Miller Memorial Chapel in Visalia, CA
Lowell was born
on April 14, 1928, to F. Benjamin and Gladys Elizabeth Elliott in Dawn,
MO. Near the time of Lowell’s birth, a baby named Corky was born in a
popular comic strip. Lowell was given the family nickname of Corky which
followed him all of his life.
In 1939, Ben and Gladys moved the
family to Columbia, MO. The object of the move was so their five sons
could have an opportunity to attend the University of Missouri (Mizzou).
When Corky was in junior high, he learned to play the tuba. He
continued to play the tuba in high school and in the Marching Mizzou
band at MU. Stephens College was an all girls college in Columbia and
had no tuba player. Corky was asked to play the tuba in the Stephens
College band, which he enjoyed very much.
Corky obtained a BS in
Agriculture from the University of Missouri. He entered the Army in
September of 1946. He was stationed in Trieste, Italy, in the 98th Army
Band.
After his service in the Army, Corky returned to Columbia,
where he held various jobs. A coworker set him up on a blind date with
Joann Acton. Corky and Joann were married on November 15, 1959. On June
16, 1966 their son, Glenn Edward was born. The three of them moved to
Porterville, CA, in January 1967, where their daughter, Carla Dawn, was
born on September 25, 1968. The family moved to Visalia in December of
1970.
Lowell started working for CalTrans in April of 1968. It
was there he got the nickname of Ole. Ole retired from CalTrans in July,
1991.
After his retirement from CalTrans, he and Joann started
their part-time fun careers with Enterprise Rent-a-car. The first
several years, they transported vehicles all over California and
neighboring states. Then, Corky spent several years helping around the
ERAC airport office. He had many fond memories of his ERAC family.
Corky is survived by his wife, Joann, son, Glenn Elliott, daughter
and husband, Carla and Fabian Juarez, grandsons, Mason Juarez, Nathan
Elliott, and Preston Juarez, granddaughter Brigette Elliott, brother and
wife, Ed and Martha Elliott, and numerous nieces and nephews. He is
preceded in death by his parents, Ben and Gladys Elliott, and brothers,
Floyd “Doc” Elliott, Wayne Elliott, and Jay Elliott.
Missouri.Submitted
by, Parker-Millard Funeral Service & Crematory, 12 East Ash Street,
Columbia MO 65203
John Kirklin
Branham, affectionately known as “Kirk” and “Bossman,” transitioned on
January 18, 2026, at the Missouri Veterans Home in Mexico, Missouri.
Kirk was born on March 31, 1954, in Columbia, Missouri, to Gladys
Iona (Renfro) Branham and Elroy Branham. He attended Columbia Public
Schools and graduated from Hickman High School in 1972.
Following
graduation, Kirk enlisted in the United States Army, serving honorably
in South Korea during the Vietnam War Era. He was honorably discharged
in 1975. Shortly thereafter, Kirk moved to California to pursue his
educational and career aspirations.
While residing in California,
Kirk was employed as a Logistics Technician at Cedars-Sinai Medical
Center in Los Angeles. In 1987, he returned to Columbia, Missouri, where
he continued working but found his greatest fulfillment through
volunteer service. Kirk devoted himself to supporting local churches and
health, educational, veterans, and civic organizations. He deeply
believed in giving back and lived his life in service to his community.
In 2019, Kirk participated in the Honor Flight for Veterans. Upon
returning from Washington, D.C., he proudly marched in the Salute to the
Veterans Procession as his name was announced—an honor he cherished
deeply.
Surviving Kirk are his Wife Stephanie, Sisters: Mary
Bush, Glenda Kinney, Claudette Branham, Emma Lawson, Jennifer Branham,
and Sereatha Branham, Brother Paul Branham, Aunts: Mary Frances
(Raymond, Sr.) Nunnelly and Delois Evans-Yocum, Nephews: Sherman Brown
III, and Aaron (Rev. Angela) Williams, Niece Rickea Bacon, Cousin Eric
(Janice) Monroe, Brother In Law Steven Gordon, and Special Friends
Connie Gordan, and Zammone (Elizabeth) Lasker who first began Kirk’s
nickname of “Bossman” and the many Cousins, Nieces, Nephews and Friends.
A special thank you to all the Men of Noble Spirit who touched
Kirk’s life in a meaningful way.
A special thank you to all the
medical professionals, social workers, and counselors who gave expert
care and demonstrated compassion during Kirk’s time of illness.
Both Parents, 2 Aunts, 1 Uncle, 1 brother, 2 Sisters, 2 Nephews, 2
Nieces and 1 Great Niece preceded Kirk before his Transition.
A
visitation will be held for Kirk on Wednesday, January 28th at
Parker-Millard funeral home in Columbia at 11am with the service
following immediately after at 12pm.
Memorial donations are
suggested to:
Daniel Boone Regional Library Foundation
P.O.
Box 7113
Columbia, MO 65205 Ph: (573) 817-7023
Fifth Street
Christian Church
Feed The Community
P.O. 7695
Columbia MO
Ph: (573) 442-7713
NAMI Missouri
3405 W. Truman Blvd. #102
Jefferson City, MO 65109
Ph: 800-374-2138
Website:
www.namimissouri.org
Welcome Home
A Community For Veterans
2120 Business Loop 70 East
Columbia, MO 65201
Ph: (573)449-5080
Website: www.WelcomeVeterans.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, Memorial Funeral Home, Crematory & Memorial Park Cemetery/Columbia
Michael Ryan
Burke, 42, of Columbia, Missouri, passed away on Sunday, January 18,
2026.
Michael was born on October 27, 1983, in Columbia, Missouri, to
Michael Rex Burke and Erlinda Burke. A lifelong member of the Columbia
community, he graduated from Hickman High School in 2002. He went on to
attend the University of Missouri, where he earned bachelor’s degrees in
psychology and sociology - fields that reflected his deep interest in
understanding, serving and protecting others.
Michael served as a
Force Reconnaissance Marine in the United States Marine Corps, holding
the rank of Staff Sergeant, with both active-duty and reserve service.
He deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom with the 13th Marine
Expeditionary Unit. Following his military service, Michael continued to
serve overseas in protective security and medical roles supporting U.S.
diplomatic missions in complex and demanding environments. He was also a
nationally registered advanced emergency medical technician, providing
lifesaving care in some of the world’s most challenging conditions.
From 2014 to 2021, Michael served in Baghdad, Iraq, where he worked
as a Medic supporting U.S. diplomatic security operations. Even in
challenging environments, his focus remained on caring for people both
physically and spiritually.
While stationed in Baghdad, Michael
founded Oasis Church, creating a place of worship, refuge and community
that grew steadily over the years. Under his leadership, the church
flourished, with Easter and Christmas services drawing more than 100
attendees. In January 2020 during a period of heightened security
threats, Michael kept the church doors open so people would have a place
to pray and worship. He also ensured the church remained open during
COVID lockdowns, believing deeply in the importance of spiritual
connection during times of fear and uncertainty.
Michael also
founded Holy Smokes, a men’s Bible study that became a cornerstone of
fellowship and discipleship. After returning to the United States, he
continued this work by launching additional Holy Smokes groups in
Columbia and Kansas City, Missouri. His ministry extended even further
during deployments, including time in the Middle East, where he led a
Bible study for contractors and local staff, and baptized seven
individuals in the Jordan River.
His calling carried him across
the globe. Michael preached and taught in Uganda, the Philippines,
Kenya, London and throughout the United States. He was deeply committed
to creating lasting impact, helping fund schools and churches in Africa
and Asia, including support for fourteen churches in the Philippines.
Wherever he went, he believed faith required action, compassion and
presence.
A central passion of Michael’s life was the fight
against human trafficking. He worked both locally and internationally to
protect the vulnerable, a cause that reflected his courage, resolve and
deep sense of responsibility to others.
Closer to home, Michael
also served his local community as a firefighter with the City of
Columbia.
In 2021, Michael joined the Knights Templar, remaining
actively engaged in service and leadership grounded in faith and
fellowship. He rose to the position of Prior of the St. Louis The
Crusader Priory, a role he was scheduled to formally assume in March of
this year.
Michael is survived by his mother, Erlinda Burke, of
Columbia, Missouri; his stepfather, Jim Kinsley of Columbia, Missouri;
his sister, Maria (Eric) Werly of Lenexa, Kansas; his nephew, Jack; his
niece, Mila; and his loving extended family and dear friends.
He
was preceded in death by his father, Michael Rex Burke.
A
visitation will be held at Memorial Funeral Home on Thursday, January
29, 2026, from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Funeral mass will be held on
Friday, January 30, 2026, at St. Thomas More Newman Center at 10:00 a.m.
A Celebration of Life will be held in April, with details to be
announced.
For those asking, in lieu of flowers, we hope to honor
Michael’s life and legacy by supporting the causes he cared deeply
about.
Donations may be made to Exodus Road,
https://theexodusroad.com, an organization dedicated to combating human
trafficking, and to C3 Ministries and Mosaic,
https://mosaiccalling.org/michael-burke, long-time partners with Ryan
serving children in Uganda.
Condolences and fond memories may be
shared at
www.memorialfuneralhomeandcemetery.com.
Posted online on January 29, 2026
Published in Columbia Daily Tribune
Russell M.
Coats, 99, passed away peacefully on January 19, 2026 in Osage Beach,
Missouri. Born on November 3, 1926 in Columbia, Missouri. He lived a
long and full life marked by dedication to family, faith, community, and
country.
Russel was the son of James Allen Coats and Mary Louisa
Roberts. He was one of thirteen siblings and was preceded in death by
twelve brothers and sisters: Andrew (Buffalo) Coats, Mattie Brown, Lena
Maude Nichols, Orville Coats, Mable Hoffman, Ethel Garrett, Pauline
Baumgartner, James Coats, Aubrey Coats, Harold Coats, Leon Coats, and
Albert Coats – who passed away during the flu epidemic of 1920 at just
eleven months old.
A proud graduate of Hickman High School in
Columbia in 1945, Russell joined the United States Navy shortly after
graduation. He served honorably as a torpedo-man aboard the USS Ronguil
submarine in the South Pacific during the final stages of World War II.
Upon returning from the military, Russell married his high school
sweetheart Vera Francis (Frenny) Jacobs. The couple enjoyed 67 years of
marital bliss until Vera passed in 2017.
In 1957, Russell
co-founded COMO Tire Supply, Inc. with a business partner in Centralia,
Missouri. The company initially focused on serving the agricultural
community – a connection Russell maintained throughout his life. In 1961
they relocated to Columbia where it evolved into a more retail-oriented
operation. Despite this shift in focus, Russell never lost touch with
his agriculture roots or the farming families who formed the foundation
of his early customer base. Known as an honest businessman with a strong
work ethic and deep integrity, he earned the respect and trust of
countless customers over decades of service.
Russell was a
devoted family man. He is survived by two sons: Russell (Rusty) Coats
and Larry Coats; two daughters-in-law: Melanie Coats (Rusty) and Paula
Coats (Larry); three grandchildren: Cortney Teague (Matt), Greg Coats
(Diana), James Coats (Layla); as well as numerous great-grandchildren
whose lives were brightened by his presence.
He had a deep love
not only for his own family but also for his wife’s family - the Jacobs’
. His warmth extended beyond immediate relatives to all those fortunate
enough to know him.
A man of faith throughout his life, Russell
was a strong and faithful member of Olivet Christian Church. His
commitment to his church community reflected his value of kindness,
humility, and service.
Outside of work and worship, Russell found
joy in simple pleasures – he loved playing golf and hunting quail. These
hobbies brought him camaraderie and peace throughout his later years. A
naturally social person with an easy smile and welcoming demeanor, he
built lasting friendships wherever he went.
Russell’s legacy is
one of steadfast devotion – to his country through military service; to
his community through honest business practices; to his church through
unwavering faith; and most importantly to his family through
unconditional love.
May his memory bring comfort to those who
knew him and serve as an enduring example of a life well lived.
The visitation is scheduled for Saturday, March 28, 2026 from 10:00 a.m.
to 11:00 a.m., with the service beginning at 11:00 a.m. Catering will
follow the service.
Posted online on January 24, 2026
Published in Columbia Daily Tribune
Thomas
Benjamin Stewart, III, 86 of Columbia, MO passed away, January, 20,
2026, at home in Columbia. Services will be 1:00pm, Saturday, January
31st at Memorial Funeral Home 1217 Business Loop 70 West Columbia,
followed by visiting time until 3pm at the funeral home. Thomas’ ashes
will be inurned later in Memorial Park Cemetery.
He was born, May
2, 1939, in Columbia to Thomas Benjamin Stewart, Jr. and Julie Lee
Merideth. He attended Lee Elementary School, Jefferson Junior High, and
was a graduate of Hickman High School. He attended Northeast Missouri
State College (Truman State University) in Kirksville, Missouri and the
University of Missouri in Columbia, Missouri where he was a member of
the Phi Gamma Delta Fraternity. On November 17, 1962, he married Cynthia
Ann (Morris) Stewart in and she preceded him in death. He was a brick
layer and mason for many years, raised, bred, and trained mules and was
enjoyed hunting deer, turkey, and elk. Also, he was a Master Mason in
Acacia-Twilight A.F.&A.M and a 32nd degree Scottish Rite Mason in the
Columbia Valley Ancient & Accepted Scottish Rite.
Thomas is
survived by his children, Charles Brent Stewart (Kris Stewart), Douglas
Preston Stewart (Gigi Stewart), Maria Jane Renner (Keith Renner,
deceased); grandchildren, Haden Stewart Renner (Abbie, engaged), Landon
Keith Renner, Benjamin Charles Stewart, Walter Doulgas Stewart, and
Thomas Edward Stewart. He was preceded in death by his parents, and
loving wife, Cynthia.
In lieu of sending flowers, you may donate
to a charity of your choice.
Condolences and fond memories may be
shared at
www.memorialfuneralhomeandcemetery.com.
Posted online on January 27, 2026
Published in Columbia Daily Tribune
Linda Sue
(Benedict) Cooper, 74, passed away Tuesday, January 20, 2026 at Bluff
Creek Terrace in Columbia, Missouri.
She was born on August 1,
1951, in Columbia, Missouri to her late parents, Charles Benedict and
Mattie Lee (Whitesides) Benedict.
Linda was united in marriage to
her husband, Thomas Joseph Cooper on February 9th, 1983. He preceded her
in death in 2020.
Above all, Linda was a devoted wife and mother
who cherished time spent with her family. She enjoyed her potted plants
and desserts, traveling to Las Vegas, Nevada, and spending time on the
water at the Lake of the Ozarks. She was also an avid fan of the Kansas
City Chiefs and the Mizzou Tigers.
She will be dearly missed by
her son, Christopher Verslues; her sister, Belinda Davenport; her
grandchildren, Jessica Holliday (Zach), Bryan Grieme (Stephanie),
Benjamin Verslues, Benjamin Cooper (Alaina), Meghan Volkmann (Jeremy),
Tanner and Tate Cooper, Tyler Shuey (Savanna), and Marissa Wilkins
(Scott); and her great-grandchildren, Madelyn Brooks, Evan, Everett,
Willow, and Woran Cooper, Easten and Raylynn Shuey, Ivan Lee, Jackson
Morris, Jameson and Jason Grieme.
In addition to her parents and
husband, she was preceded in death by her daughter, Kimberly Verslues;
eight siblings; and her great-grandchild, Landon Holliday.
Private services will be held at Memorial Park Cemetery, 1217 Business
Loop 70 West, Columbia, Missouri 65202.
Submitted by, Parker-Millard Funeral Service and Crematory
12
East Ash Street, Columbia MO 65203
Kenneth “Kenney”
Varrell Niles, age 84, of Hartsburg, Missouri, passed away on February
6, 2026.
Kenney was born on May 15, 1941, in Boone County,
Missouri, to Oscar and Audrey Niles. He graduated from Hickman High
School in 1960 and proudly served in the United States Army following
graduation.
Kenney was married to Mary Virginia “Jenny” Niles,
and together they shared a life and raised two boys. Kenney deeply loved
his wife, and every year of their marriage he gave her a single faux
rose. By the time Jenny passed, she had fifty-two roses, each one a
quiet symbol of his devotion.
Kenney was a subtly thoughtful man.
You might not have noticed it at first. His tough exterior often
overshadowed the deeply genuine and generous things he did for his
family and for others. But if you paid attention, you saw it clearly. He
loved hosting benefits for those in need, faithfully donating items to
auctions and often buying them back again, only to donate them right
back to the cause.
He loved dancing with his wife, and those
moments brought him obvious joy. In his younger years, he enjoyed quail
hunting, training his bird dogs, boating on the Missouri River, and
mushroom hunting.
Kenney was the owner of Big N Enterprises
L.L.C., a business that combined trucking and excavating. Driving his
trucks was not just his work, it was his passion, and he did it as long
as he was able.
Kenney is survived by his children, Ken (Gina
Sue) Niles, Shannon (Opal) Niles, and Cassie Bartels, his grandchildren
Cody, Taylor, Dylan, Connor (Abby), Hunter, and Dalton, and his brother,
Raymond (Mazie) Niles.
He was preceded in death by his parents,
Oscar and Audrey Niles, and his beloved wife, Mary Virginia “Jenny”
Niles.
Visitation will be held from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on
Wednesday, February 11, 2026, at Nilson-Millard Funeral Home in
Columbia, Missouri. A funeral service will take place at 10:00 a.m. on
Thursday, February 12, 2026, also at the funeral home, with burial to
follow at Church of Christ Cemetery in Hallsville, Missouri.
The
family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the staff at
Riverview Nursing Center for the fabulous care, compassion, and kindness
they provided to Kenney. In lieu of flowers please make donations to
Riverview Nursing Center, Mokane, MO.
Submitted by, The Quebec Place at Fairmount, 430 S Quebec Street,
Denver CO 80247
Nancy Tipton Obituary
February 8, 1923 - February 7, 2026
Born in St. Joseph, Missouri to Dr. Lloyd James Thompson and Jessie
Evans Williams Thompson Troxell and passed away February 7, 2026 in
Englewood, Colorado.
Class of 1940 of Hickman High School in
Columbia, Missouri and graduated from the University of Missouri in 1944
with a degree in journalism.
Worked as a cryptographer during
WWII. Worked in advertising journalism for 5 years at the Denver Post.
Married Jack (Tip) Tipton in 1946 and moved to Colorado.
Survived by 3 children Scott (Martha) Tipton, Anne (Jim) Hunt, and
Susan (Jim) Thompson. Along with 7 grandchildren and 16 great
grandchildren, with one on the way.
In lieu of flowers please
consider donating to one of these organizations below.
Meals on
wheels
American Parkinson Disease Association
Submitted by, Memorial Funeral Home, Crematory & Memorial Park
Cemetery/Columbia
Harvey Lee McCray,
age 94, passed away on February 9, 2026, at Mill Creek Village Assisted
Living in Columbia, Missouri. He was born June 1, 1931, in Columbia to
Marthareid (Young) McCray and William Victor (Vic) McCray. He is a 1949
graduate of David H. Hickman High School, Columbia. After spending two
years at the University of Missouri in the School of Agriculture, he was
drafted by the U.S. Army in November 1951 and served 18 months as a
paratrooper in the 11th Airborne, Fort Campbell, Kentucky. He made 17
parachute jumps. After his honorable discharge in 1953, he returned to
the University of Missouri, where he earned his B.S. degree in Business
Administration and Public Relations and was a member of the Missouri
Alpha Chapter of Phi Kappa Psi fraternity.
After graduating, he
served as a bakery flour sales representative for General Mills, Inc.,
Chicago, Illinois, for one year. He then became a writer, editor and
publisher of 61 fraternity and sorority chapter newsletters for the
Stewart Howe Alumni Service at the University of Illinois,
Champaign-Urbana, and later moved on with the same organization to
Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana, then to the University of
Kansas, Lawrence. In 1961 he joined Sertoma International, Kansas City,
Missouri, as Director of Publications and Public Relations. During a
14-year career with Sertoma that he ended as Executive Director, he
received five Freedom Foundation at Valley Forge awards as editor of The
Sertoman magazine.
In 1975 Harvey became Executive Vice President
of the National Auctioneers Association, in Lincoln, Nebraska, and moved
the headquarters to Overland Park, Kansas, in 1983. He then served as
Executive Vice President of the Association of Operative Millers,
headquartered in Kansas City, Missouri, and later Leawood, Kansas, from
1989 until his retirement on December 31, 2001.
Harvey was a
member and president of the Rotary Club of Overland Park, Kansas; was a
member of the Shawnee Mission, Kansas; Kansas City; and Lincoln Sertoma
Clubs and a Life Member of Sertoma International. He was a member of the
Kansas City, Missouri; Lincoln, Nebraska; and Overland Park Chambers of
Commerce, and the Overland Park Convention and Visitors Bureau, the
latter of whose board of directors he served on. He was a member of the
Kansas City Society of Association Executives and American Society of
Association Executives; the Greater Kansas City Chapter of the Public
Relations Society of America; and the American Association of Industrial
Editors. He also served with the U.S. Commission for Hiring the
Handicapped, Washington, D.C., now the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity
Commission (EEOC) and was an election worker and supervising judge for
the Johnson County, Kansas, Election Commission.
Harvey was a
member of the Presbyterian Church of Stanley from 1985 to 2014, where he
served as member of Session (Elder) for two terms and later as Clerk of
Session. He was a sponsor for the youth on several canoe, ski and
mission trips, was the moderator of the PCOS preschool, and sang in the
chancel choir. Upon moving to Columbia, MO in 2014, he and Linda became
members of First Presbyterian Church of Columbia, Missouri and sang in
the choir until 2020.
During his retirement years he worked as a
volunteer and players’ assistant at the Sykes/Lady Golf Course, Overland
Park, Kansas. One of Harvey’s disappointments in his life as a golfer
(he played his first game when he was 8 years old) was that he never
made a hole in one and never shot his age in scoring.
Harvey’s
survivors include one daughter, Melissa K. McCray, Kansas City,
Missouri; one son, Burke P. McCray, and his wife, Gail (Willis) McCray,
granddaughter, Ainsley Reid McCray and grandson, Quincy Stevens McCray,
all of Columbia, Missouri. Also surviving are several nieces and
nephews. He was preceded in death by his wife of 59 years, Linda Ann
(Burkhalter) McCray; mother, Marthareid (Young) McCray; father, William
Victor McCray; and two older twin brothers, William L. McCray and Edwin
V. McCray.
A memorial service will be held on March 9, 2026 at
11:00 am at Memorial Funeral Home Chapel, 1217 Business Loop 70 W,
Columbia, MO 65202. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial
contributions to the Disabled American Veterans at the Columbia,
Missouri VA Medical Center or Gentiva Hospice.
Submitted by the family Feb 15, 2026
Troy Eldon
Bentlage, 89, Aug. 27, 1936-Feb. 9, 2026, died peacefully in his home in
Columbia, Missouri, surrounded by loved ones.
A life well lived
in faith and family
Troy’s life began in Bates County, Missouri,
where he was born in the front yard of the family home, under an elm
tree. With no electricity, the farmhouse was too hot inside on that
August day. As the eighth of nine siblings, Troy spent his formative
years growing up and working on the family farm.
Moving to
Columbia at age 16, Troy graduated from Hickman High School and attended
the University of Missouri for one year. Troy ventured to Alaska where
he worked at Union Oil Company then to San Francisco where he was
manager of operations at California Electric.
Ultimately, he
returned to Columbia where he met his future wife Joan, settled down and
raised three children. He started a successful business with his brother
Ervin that spanned five decades – Bentlage Brothers – building houses in
Columbia and raising cattle on a farm in Ashland. Troy also served in
the Air Force Reserves 1957-1961 and was called up to active duty during
the Berlin Crisis 1961-1963.
In later years, Troy enjoyed
adventures around the world with Joan to far off places like New Zealand
and Australia, Tanzania, Thailand, South America, Canada, and Mexico.
The consummate family man, Troy was a doting husband, father,
grandfather, and great-grandfather who passed on his belief in a strong
work ethic. He would always give expert advice or lend a helping hand.
He will be greatly missed.
Troy is survived by his beloved wife
of 64 years, Joan; his children, Ken, Dave (Sunny), and Margaret (Don);
his grandchildren, David (Amanda), Troy (Amy), Brett, Blake, Caleb
(Hayley), Blaine, Grace, and Porter; seven great-grandchildren; brother,
Charles; and a host of nieces and nephews and extended family.
He
is preceded in death by his mother and father, six sisters, one brother,
and his granddaughter, Whitney.
The family wants to thank his
devoted caretakers, Karla and Carlis, as well as the Compassus hospice
team.
Private burial services will be held at a later time.
The family requests that those who wish to express sympathy consider
making a donation to Habitat for Humanity or Future Farmers of America
(FFA) in Troy Bentlage’s memory.
Submitted by, First Baptist Church of Pensacola Music Ministry, 500
N. Palafox St., Pensacola FL 32501
October 9, 1948 – February 10,
2026
Barry
Edward Hudspeth passed away peacefully on Tuesday, February 10, 2026.
A devoted husband, father, grandfather, veteran, and faithful
servant, his life was marked by service to his country, his church, and
his community.
Born in Pearsall, TX, and raised in Columbia, MO,
he attended the University of Missouri on an ROTC scholarship, earning a
degree in English and a commission as a United States Navy officer. He
completed flight training in Pensacola, FL, earning his Wings of Gold as
a Naval Aviator. He flew the H-3 Sea King with HS-8 “Eightballers” and
later served as a flight instructor in the TH-57. After leaving active
duty as a Lieutenant, he continued in the Navy Reserve and retired as a
Commander.
Following his military service, he earned a graduate
degree in accounting from the University of West Florida and worked in
various home health organizations. He also devoted time to teaching and
mentoring others.
A member of First Baptist Church of Pensacola
for more than 50 years, he faithfully served in the choir, Samaritan
Hands, as a deacon, and as a Sunday morning greeter.
He was
preceded in death by his beloved wife, Carolyn; his infant daughter,
Megan; his parents, Clara and Samuel; his parents-in-law, Miriam and Ray
Malone; and his brothers, Bruce and Brian.
He is survived by his
son, Brett (Amanda), and daughter, Collyn (Robbie); six grandchildren:
Haylee, Blake, Saradha, Sydney Grace, Abby, and Camp; one
great-grandchild, Ryker; and a host of beloved choir members, church
family, and dear friends.
Visitation will be held 9:00am until a
Memorial Service begins at 10:00am Friday, February 13, 2026, at First
Baptist Church, Pleitz Chapel with Dr. Dave Snyder officiating.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the
First Baptist Church of Pensacola Music Ministry, 500 N. Palafox St.,
Pensacola, FL 32501.
Submitted by,
Memorial Funeral Home, Crematory & Memorial Park Cemetery/Columbia
Roger Willard
Sprague, 76, of Columbia, Missouri passed away on February 15, 2026. He
was born on November 23, 1949, in St. Louis, Missouri.
In high
school, his mother Patricia relocated to Columbia with Roger and his
sisters Glenda and Patty. He graduated from David H. Hickman High School
in 1967 and later served six years in the Missouri National Guard, often
noting , “Missouri was never attacked under my watch.” In 1970, he began
a career in the loading docks at 3M and worked his way into an
engineering and leadership position at the plant before retiring in
2006.
He was proud of his work and did it well. Disciplined,
dependable and steady. But work was what he did, not who he was. The
measure of Roger’s life was not in job titles or years of service. It
was in love, in laughter and in the steady presence he offered to the
people who mattered most. He was far more interested in who people were
than what they did for a living. Titles never impressed him. Character
did.
He became a father in 1971 when David was born. In 1991, he
married the love of his life, Lori. Theirs was not simply a marriage. It
was a partnership that others admired and quietly hoped to emulate. They
completed each other in almost every way imaginable. Anyone who spent
time with them knew they were witnessing something real and rare. In
1995, they welcomed Kyle, and their family felt whole.
Roger
loved the water. A summer job at the Lake of the Ozarks in high school
began a lifelong devotion. The lake was never just a place, it was a
feeling. Later, he and Lori spent winters on Anna Maria Island, Florida,
again drawn to the shoreline. Whether boating on the lake, lounging at
the pool or walking along the Gulf, the water marked some of their
happiest chapters together. It was where they exhaled. Where they
laughed. Where time felt generous.
Music was another current
running through his life. In the 1960s he played keyboards in Columbia
bands before “retiring” when he became a father. But music never really
retired from him. After leaving 3M, he found his way back to the stage
with The Comic Book Society and later Blues Highway. That second act
filled his days with purpose, learning and joy. He loved the connection,
the rhythm and the community of Columbia musicians he proudly supported.
He was an avid sports fan, fiercely loyal to the St. Louis
Cardinals, Mizzou football and basketball, the St. Louis Blues and,
while they were still in St. Louis, the Rams. Games were better when
watched together, preferably with commentary and laughter.
Roger
loved simple things. A good meal. A cold drink. A shared joke. A game on
TV. Being near the people he loved. He believed life was meant to be
enjoyed, and that joy was something you made time for, not something you
waited on.
He never needed or wanted to be the center of
attention. In fact, he preferred to stand just off to the side — unless,
of course, there was a keyboard in front of him. Then he was more than
happy to let a solo do the talking.
His optimism wasn’t loud, but
it was steady. He didn’t dwell on blame or linger in the past. He
believed in fixing what could be fixed and moving forward. He brought
laughter into rooms. He was protective, deeply loyal and endlessly proud
of his family.
He adored celebrating the accomplishments of his
sons, David and Kyle, his daughter-in-law Jessica and Kyle’s partner
Erin. And he was especially proud of his grandchildren, Logan, Jackson
and Elise, attending every soccer game, volleyball game, baseball game,
taekwondo testing, play and concert he could. His grandchildren lit up
his life in a way that words hardly capture. Whether it was a fun-filled
trip to the lake or just getting ice cream, those were the moments that
mattered most to him.
If you were lucky enough to know Roger, you
remember his laugh and the way he made you laugh. Or the way he could
make an ordinary afternoon feel like enough. Or how safe it felt to
stand beside him.
He simply showed up. For his family, for his
friends, for the music, for the water, for the next game, for the next
season of life.
And in that steady presence, he built something
lasting.
Roger is survived by his wife Lori; sons David (Jessica)
and Kyle (Erin); and grandchildren Logan, Jackson and Elise. He is also
survived by his mother, Patricia Hoehle and sisters Glenda Akers and
Patricia Sprague.
Roger was preceded in death by his father Glenn
Sprague, stepfather Don Hoehle, father-in-law Galen Johnson and
mother-in-law Freida Johnson.
A celebration of life will be held
on Saturday, February 21, 2026, from 12-3 p.m. at The Atrium on Tenth,
22 N. 10th St., Columbia, Missouri. The family encourages attendees to
dress casually and comfortably. Suggested options include colorful beach
themes, sundresses, sports jerseys/shirts/hoodies (no Jayhawks or
Cubs-related attire, please), shorts, flip-flops, fun sneakers or
whatever you’d wear when hanging out with Roger.
In lieu of
flowers, the family requests donations to TRYPS Children’s Theater of
Columbia.
Submitted by, Simplicity
Funeral & Cremation Care, 125 West Sycamore St, Zionsville, Indiana
46077
John T. Whitlock Obituary
John T. “Jack”
Whitlock III, born January 27, 1936 in Chicago, Illinois. He passed away
peacefully at home on February 18, 2026 at the age of 90.
Jack
was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 52 years, Annette L.
Whitlock, and his son Steven G. Whitlock.
He is survived by his
loving children: Debbie McMasters (Scott), Mark Lewis (Paula), Cheryl
Kelley (Alex), Michael Whitlock (Marcia), John Whitlock (Carol), and
Chris Whitlock (Teresa), along with 14 grandchildren, 8 great
grandchildren, and extended family members who brought him great joy.
A proud graduate of the University of Missouri, Jack was a member of
Phi Kappa Psi Fraternity and went on to build a distinguished career in
the insurance and surety bail industry. He served as the former CEO of
American Surety Company, where his leadership and vision helped shape
the organization and earned him lasting respect in the field.
Jack was a dedicated member of The Junto of Indianapolis and the Country
Club of Indianapolis, where he enjoyed the camaraderie of fellow members
and the challenges of its renowned golf course. An avid golfer
throughout his life, he cherished time on the links with friends and
family, finding both relaxation and friendly competition in the game he
loved so much.
Jack lived a full life marked by strong family
ties, professional accomplishments, and a passion for simple pleasures.
He and Annette shared a love of travel, good food, and time with their
family. He loved nothing more than holding the newest baby in the
family. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
Visitation
will be held at Simplicity Funeral & Cremation Care in Zionsville, IN on
Monday, March 2, 2026 from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM. Funeral service will be
held at St. Alphonsus Liguori Catholic Church in Zionsville, IN on March
3, 2026 at 10:50 AM.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can
be made to The Bridewell Foundation’s Camp Esperanza
(campesperanza.org), a nonprofit organization that provides free,
medically supervised summer camp experiences for children with cancer,
inspiring hope and normalcy during difficult times. Jack’s family spent
30 years raising money for the Foundation through an annual golf
tournament, in memory of Steven.
Posted online on February 24,
2026
Published in Columbia Daily Tribune
Lawrence "Larry"
Eugene Barnes, 75, of Columbia, MO passed away Friday, February 20,
2026, at his home. Visitation will be Thursday, February 26, 2026, from
10-11am at Memorial Funeral Home 1217 Business Loop 70 West Columbia,
MO. Funeral service will begin at 11am, followed by committal service
with Military Honors in Memorial Park Cemetery.
Larry was born
May 16, 1950, in Columbia to William Floyd Barnes and Ruth Hendricks. He
was a 1969 graduate of Hickman High School. Larry joined the US Air
Force and served for four years from 1971-1975. He worked several jobs
after his discharge from the Airforce: most recently with the local
Wal-Mart and Coca-Cola. He worked with his brother on the family farm
raising cattle and row crops. When he wasn’t working, he enjoyed
gardening and giving away his vegetables, he enjoyed watching sports and
old westerns, and collected model tractors.
Larry is survived by
his brother, Kenneth Barnes of Columbia; and sisters, June Conley and
Doris Bundy of Columbia; nephews, Brent (Kay) Conley of Carnation, WA
and Kevin Conley of Columbia; and a niece, Diane (Ryan) Hargrave of
Maryville, MO. He was preceded in death by a sister, Ruth Barnes, a
niece, Carol Conley and his parents.
Memorial contributions can
be made to the American Diabetes Association.
Condolences and
fond memories can be shared at
www.memorialfuneralhomeandcemetery.com.
Posted online on March 04, 2026
Published in Columbia Daily
Tribune
Ann
(Cornett) Anderson died peacefully in her sleep Sunday, February 22,
2026 after a long battle with Parkinson's Disease. Ann was born in her
Dad's hometown of Pleasanton, IA on October 15, 1936. Shortly after her
birth, her parents Charles C. and Reva Hagan Cornett moved to Columbia
where Ann later began her education at Ridgeway Elementary.
Ann
also attended schools in Troy, Marshall and Springfied, MO before her
family moved permanently back to Columbia in 1947. Ann graduated from
Hickman High in 1954 where she was involved in many activities and was
recognized with an Award for Service her senior year.
During her
attendance at the University of Missouri she was a member of Gamma Phi
Beta sorority and was elected Queen of the College of Agriculture's
Farmers' Fair. It was also where she met and married John Kendrick of
Hermann, MO. Four daughters, who survive, were born to that marriage:
Linda (David) Chittock, Carrie Kendrick, and Ann Marie (John) Webster
all of Chagrin Falls, OH and Connie (Brad) Drees of Wellsville, KS.
In May of 1984 Ann's family grew when she married Neil Anderson. Her
new family included the addition of three step sons and their wives:
Doug and Karen Anderson of Bellvue, WA; David (deceased) and Denise
Anderson of Ballwin, MO and Scott and Michelle Anderson of Columbia and
a step daughter Sandy Anderson (deceased).
Ann always believed
her most important accomplishment was the birth and nurturing of her
four daughters who have done so well navigating the ups and downs of
life.
While living most of her life in Columbia, Ann was a member
of the Boone County Republican Women's Club; the Gamma Phi Beta Housing
Corporation; the Ruth Majors circle of the King's Daughters & Sons; the
P.E.O., Chapter MA and the Daughters of the American Revolution. She was
also a long and patient Mizzou football and basketball fan. She never
lost faith in the Tigers.
Ann lost her beloved husband Neil in
2024, but is survived by her brother C. Bruce Cornett and his wife Mary
Jo of Columbia, six grandsons, one granddaughter, four great-
grandchildren, and eight step-grandchildren.
A memorial service
is scheduled for 11:00am, Saturday, March 21 at the Fairview United
Methodist Church on Chapel Hill Road.
In memory of Ann please
make a donation to any animal rescue organization, the Central Missouri
Humane Society or The Coyote Hills Foster Care Ministries.
Posted online on March 03, 2026
Published
in Columbia Daily Tribune
Julia Ann “Judy”
Bennett Buckler, 90, of Columbia, passed away Thursday, February 26,
2026. Visitation will be Friday, March 6th from 10 a.m. to 11:45 a.m. at
Memorial Funeral Home in Columbia. A graveside service will be performed
at noon. Judy was born in Boone County, Missouri on July 27, 1935, to
Charles Monroe Bennett and Virginia (Turner) Bennett. She was a graduate
of Hickman High School. On December 24, 1951, she was united in marriage
to Kenneth Wren Buckler who predeceased her. They celebrated 70 years of
marriage before his passing in 2022. A daughter, Deborah Ann Buckler,
and a son, Phillip Monroe Buckler, preceded her in death.
Judy
was a proud mother and homemaker while her children were young. Judy was
an excellent seamstress making clothing for her family, including a
tuxedo for her son’s prom. She also made wedding dresses and special
occasion clothing for many people in the area. For many years, she
worked as a bridal consultant for The Bridal Shoppe and for Nolte’s
Bridal. She and her sister, Connie, worked closely together as bridal
consultants and seamstresses, often traveling on weekends to support
brides on their special days. In later years, Judy worked as a sales
consultant at The Pen Point.
Judy and Ken were founding members
of Broadway Christian Church and remained active in the church for most
of her life. In addition, she volunteered for many years at The Wardrobe
in Columbia with Ken. They enjoyed attending concerts and sporting
events for their grandchildren and traveling with family and friends.
Judy is survived by her sister, Connie Agan; three grandchildren:
Alexandra (Andrew) Boucher, William Buckler, and Gracelyn Buckler; three
great-grandchildren: Emma, Warren, and Lucas as well as several nieces
and nephews.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be
made to Broadway Christian Church or The Wardrobe.
Online
condolences may be made at
www.memorialfuneralhomeandcemetery.com.
Submitted by, Parker-Millard Funeral Service
and Crematory, 12 East Ash Street,Columbia MO 65203
Glen Ray Driskill,
84, of Hallsville, Missouri, passed away February 28, 2026, at Caring
Hearts in Columbia, Missouri.
Glen was born September 14, 1941,
in Columbia, Missouri, to John and Eliza (Wainscott) Driskill. He
graduated from Hickman High School in 1959 and went on to attend the
University of Missouri Linotype School, graduating in 1962.
On
October 5, 1962, Glen married the love of his life, Jennie Buhmeyer, in
Columbia, Missouri. Together they built a life and family, welcoming
Julie in 1965 and Tracy in 1967. Glen would often say that the girls
were the most important part of their lives.
Glen began his
working years at Leo’s Market, where he worked as a grocery delivery
man. He later spent much of his career in wholesale plumbing, working
for AY McDonald Manufacturing and Hampton Painter in wholesale plumbing
and heating. In 1989, he started his own business, Plumber’s Helper
Inc., where he sold plumbing repair parts to plumbers throughout the
area. His dedication and strong work ethic earned him the respect of
many in the industry. Over time, the business evolved into something for
everyone and became Ma’s Paws & Gifts, while still providing the same
great service to plumbers in the area. In 2004, Glen and Jennie retired
and closed the business.
Outside of work, Glen enjoyed bowling,
fishing, coaching little league softball, and cheering on his
grandchildren and great grandchildren. He had a special love for his
family and treasured time spent with his daughters, grandchildren, and
great grandchildren. He also loved Snoopy and the Peanuts characters,
acquiring many Snoopy related gifts over the years.
He is
survived by his wife of over 63 years, Jennie Driskill of Hallsville;
his daughter, Julie Begemann and husband Brian of Ashland, Missouri; his
grandchildren, Augie, Maggie, Beth, and Mikayla; his great
grandchildren, Aubry, Scypress, Iris, Myla, Kastyn, Zayden, Leah,
Kaiden, and Joseph; as well as six nephews.
He was preceded in
death by his nephew, Stephen Driskill; his brothers, Donald “Dusty”
Driskill and Donald R. Driskill; and his daughter, Tracy Sigman.
Visitation will be held Friday, March 6 from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m.,
followed by a funeral service at 11:00 a.m. at Parker Millard Funeral
Service and Crematory with Michael Will officiating.
In lieu of
flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Caring Hearts and Hands
of Columbia, 1307 W. Broadway, Columbia, Missouri 65203.
Submittedd by, Muehlebach Funeral Care, 6800
Troost Avenue, Kansas City MO 64131
Linda Mae Neenan (Loy),
age 79, of Kansas City, passed away peacefully on March 7, 2026,
surrounded by her loving family.
Mom was born on October 27,
1946, in Bonne Terre, Missouri, to A.B. and Evelyn Loy and was the
youngest with two older brothers, Kenny and Willis. They adored their
younger sister and she adored them. She had an especially close
relationship with her mother, so much so that they called each other
“sis”. She grew up in Columbia and was proud to be a Kewpie from Hickman
High School. She cherished her high school friends and stayed in touch
with many of them.
Mom was raised in the Baptist church and
regularly played the piano while her father sang at Sunday service. She
converted to Catholicism after discovering her love for the Blessed
Virgin Mary and the power of praying the rosary. Her faith was extremely
important to her, and she lived it every single day. She exemplified the
simplicity in our faith- she believed and she loved. Our mother was
devoted to the angels and taught us to appreciate their divine support,
protection, and comfort. She has earned her wings and we know they are
big, bedazzled, and beautiful.
During a dorm mixer at the
University of Missouri, she met the love of her life, Michael J. Neenan.
It was love at first sight. On June 18, 1966, they married at Sacred
Heart Church in Columbia. It was a beautiful sunny day, which would
foreshadow their life together. Mom and Dad shared almost 60 wonderful
years of marriage, raising their family and creating a home filled with
faith, laughter, love, and cherished memories. Their love for each other
was unmatched and inspirational up to the very end. Dad spoiled her like
a Queen as she so deserved.
It was in Columbia that they met
their dear friends Sandy and Jerry Lockett. Their friendship lasted a
lifetime, and she treasured the memories they made together on their
many trips around the world. Sandy was her soul mate. We are happy they
are laughing together again.
Her greatest joy in life was her
family. She was a loving mother of 8 children - 5 boys and 3 girls. Life
was challenging at times with 8 kids; but she showed us how to handle
the good and the bad times with grace. She created a secure, warm
environment and was our biggest supporter. Mom was a nurturing force and
our rock. Her arms were our safe place. She adored our friends and
welcomed every one of them with an open heart.
Her grandchildren
and great grandchildren made her especially proud and brought her
incredible joy. She loved supporting their activities, eating ice cream
with them, showering them with gifts, teaching them to play the piano or
arts and crafts or how to fish, weekends at the lake, beach trips,
decorating Christmas cookies, listening to their stories, and most
importantly loving on them and making each hug special. Gramma Linda was
the best!
Mom was such a wonderful human being and made a lasting
loving impression on everyone that knew her. We are all blessed she was
in our lives. She will be dearly missed; but she leaves us a legacy of
love, respect, strength, and selflessness.
Linda is survived by
her loving husband, Michael J. Neenan and her children: Louisa (Jeff)
Weinrich, Kevin (Lee) Neenan, Andrew (Lara) Neenan, Christy Shively,
Sarah (Mike) Mallon, Patrick (Megan) Neenan, and Michael Neenan; her
grandchildren: Morgan (Cole) Jurden, Melanie (Nick) Musto, Brady
Weinrich, Allison Weinrich, Samantha Shively, Olivia Shively, Lucy
Shively, Tyler Shively, Stephen Neenan, Connor Neenan, Daniel Neenan,
Kelly Neenan, Quinn Mallon, Avery Mallon, Camryn Mallon, Josh Neenan,
Maya Neenan, Chase Neenan; and great-grandchildren: Hudson, Remy, and
Maeve Jurden and baby girl Musto expected to make her appearance in
June.
She was preceded in death by her parents, (A.B. and Evelyn
Loy), her brother (Kenny Loy), her son, (Stephen Neenan), grandsons (Ian
Shively and Trevor Weinrich), son-in-law (Ben Shively), and dear friends
Sandy and Jerry Lockett.
A Mass of Resurrection will be held
Wednesday, March 11th at St. Thomas More Parish Church at 11:00 am
located at 11822 Holmes Road, Kansas City, MO 64131. Visitation starts
at 9:30 am with the Rosary following at 10:30 a.m. In lieu of flowers,
donations may be made to the Women’s Center of San Andres Itzapa in
Guatemala through St. Thomas More Parish.
Celebration of Life
immediately following at Blue Hills Country Club, 777 West Burning Tree
Drive, Kansas City, MO 64145.
Posted online on March 11, 2026
Published in
Columbia Daily Tribune
James T. Ausmus, Sr.,
88 of Centralia passed away Monday, March 9, 2026, at Boone Hospital
Center, in Columbia.
Family and friends are invited to Jim’s Life
Celebration 11 A.M., Saturday March 14, 2026 at Fenton-Kendrick Funeral
Home in Centralia, with burial to follow in the Centralia City Cemetery.
Visitation will be held from 10 A.M. until the time of the service on
Saturday at the funeral home.
Jim was born on September 10, 1937,
in Columbia, the son of Reginald E. Ausmus and Barbara M. Ausmus.
On August 16, 1959, Jim married Joan J. “Jody” Ausmus, who
predeceased him in death on January 8, 2024.
Jim was commissioned
as a 2nd Lieutenant in the United States Army on August 7, 1959 and was
honorably discharged on October 31, 1967 after achieving the rank of
Captain (Artillery).
Jim was a 1955 graduate of Hickman High
School, then attended the University of Missouri where he obtained his
undergraduate and law degrees. Jim became licensed to practice law on
September 8, 1962.
Jim’s legal career in Centralia spanned over
60 years and included acting as the general counsel for A. B. Chance
Company and the City Attorney for Centralia and Sturgeon, while also
maintaining his private legal practice up until the date of his death.
Jim was a proud member of the Alpha Tau Omega Fraternity which he
was initiated into on April 16, 1956.
Jim was also a lifelong
Detroit Tigers fan. His love affair with the Tigers began as a small boy
when his family would vacation in Michigan and he would listen to
baseball games on the radio.
Jim is survived by his children
James T. Ausmus, II (Sarah), Jeffrey K. Ausmus, Sr. (Julie), Joseph
Andrew Ausmus (Christy); grandchildren Janeka Ausmus, Brittany Ann
Heater, Jeffrey Kingsland Ausmus, II, Lindsey Brooke Ausmus, Adam
Reginald Ausmus, Alexander Kost Ausmus, Andrew Peter James Ausmus;
great-grandchildren Mikyan Ehnert, Avery Joann Wood, Benton Lee Palmer,
Levi Kingsland Ausmus, Charlotte Stocks Ausmus, Chase Alan Heater,
Reginald Lee Ausmus and Dawson James Heater; as well his nephews John
Ausmus, Kevin Ausmus and brother in law Larre Johnson.
Jim was
preceded in death by his brother Reginald E. Ausmus, Jr.
Memorial
donations are suggested to the Centralia Avenue of Flags and may be sent
in care of Fenton-Kendrick Funeral Home, 104 S. Collier St., Centralia,
MO 65240.
Online condolences may be left at
www.fentonkendrickfh.com.
Posted online
on March 16, 2026
Published in Columbia Daily Tribune
Tracy Mathis of Town
and Country, MO died on March 6, 2026, surrounded by family and friends.
She was an attorney at Lewis Rice in St. Louis who concentrated her
practice in health law, representing hospitals, physicians and other
providers for over 40 years. She was listed in Best Lawyers in America
from 1991-2025, among other recognitions. She was a founding director of
the St. Louis Area Health Lawyers Association, and served on the boards
of Boniface Foundation, Frontenac Bank and various nonprofit
organizations. Tracy’s principal charitable endeavor was as a director
and legal counsel for Youth in Need, which provides services to children
and young adults throughout eastern Missouri, building on their
strengths so that they can find safety, hope and success in life.
Tracy is survived by her brother, John Mathis, niece Sarah (Ken)
Siemens, nephew Drew (Shari) Hamilton, niece Alex (Corey) Bichel, great
nieces and nephews, and her dogs Stella and Polly. Her longtime
pseudo-husband, Terry Fuller, M.D., along with her parents, Mary and
Harry, and siblings Jody Hamilton, Jim Mathis and Becky Mathis
predeceased her.
A Celebration of Life will be held on May 2,
2026, at The Club at Old Hawthorne, 6221 E Broadway, Columbia, MO 65201
from 4:00-7:00 p.m. The family encourages friends and loved ones to
celebrate Tracy’s life by getting together to share stories and raise a
glass in her memory. Tracy would also urge everyone to heed and resist
threats to the rule of law in the U.S. In lieu of flowers, donations are
suggested to Youth in Need, 1815 Boone’s Lick Road, St. Charles, MO
63301, or to a charity of the donor’s choice. Notes of condolence may be
sent to Youth in Need for sharing with the family.
Submitted by
Freeman Mortuary, 915 Madison St, Jefferson City MO 65101
Stephen Lee “Steve”
Price, Sr., age 75 of Jefferson City, Mo., passed away Tuesday, March
10, 2026, at the University Hospital-Columbia surrounded by his family.
Steve was born on June 17, 1950, in Columbia, Missouri, to the late
Cecil and Ruth Ellen (Perkins) Price. As a student at Hickman High
School, where he graduated in 1968, he was a proud member of a
Barbershop Quartet. At that high school, he met his soulmate, Beverly
Beeson. The two were united in marriage in 1972 in Columbia, Missouri,
beginning a loving partnership that would span decades.
At the
University of Missouri–Columbia Steve earned a bachelor’s degree in
accounting in 1973. Demonstrating his strong work ethic early in life,
he worked throughout high school and college at Central Office Supply
and also spent many summer evenings painting dorms to pay for his
education. His dedication to learning continued later in life, and in
2005 he earned his Master of Business Administration in Military
Management, graduating Magna Cum Laude.
Steve proudly served his
country in the United States Army and Missouri Army National Guard,
where he dedicated 35 years of service and retired with the rank of
Lieutenant Colonel. Steve earned his CPA while working for MO Auditor’s
Office, then spent many years as Staff Director for Missouri House
Appropriations, now the Budget Committee. He retired from state
government after 25 years, then served as a civilian auditor with the
Missouri Army National Guard, until retiring for the third time.
Following retirement, Steve remained deeply involved in the community.
He volunteered his time, serving as treasurer for numerous
organizations, lending his expertise wherever it was needed. His
contributions included service with the local Sheltered Workshop, Oasis
United Church of Christ Council, Capital Region Foundation and Capital
Region Hospital Boards, the YMCA Board and Finance Board, Multipli
Credit Union Board, the National Association of Retired Federal
Employees (NARFE), Cole County Democratic Committee, the MOSERS Board,
the American Legion, and the Guard Retiree Association. Steve was a
dedicated supporter of the American Red Cross and proudly donated more
than 18 gallons of blood over the years.
Steve enjoyed sports and
spent nearly 20 years serving as a referee for high school volleyball.
With his good buddy Art, he had season tickets to MU sports for 50
years. Music also remained a lifelong passion, and he sang with
barbershop quartets and choruses. With the Oasis Church Choir, he sang
in Carnegie Hall in 2022. He also played bridge with Aces and Spaces
Bridge Club. Genealogy was another hobby he enjoyed.
Steve’s
greatest joy was his family. Everything he did was guided by love and
devotion to those closest to him. He was a constant and supportive
presence in his children’s lives, attending Tricia’s dance and
ice-skating recitals, coaching Steve Jr. in soccer and baseball, and
dedicating countless hours to the Boy Scouts of America. When Bev
coached volleyball and their son asked why boys could not play the
sport, Steve helped create a traveling boys’ club team. He took on the
fundraising, coaching, and organizational work necessary to make it
happen. Steve also treasured the time he and Bev spent traveling
together, exploring new places and creating lasting memories along the
way. Some favorite trips were a Mediterranean cruise with good friends
in 2019 and a 50th anniversary trip with their kids and grandkids to
Cape San Blas, Florida.
Survivors include his loving wife, Bev;
two children, Tricia Price (husband Jonathon Schultz) of Columbia, Mo.,
and Dr. Stephen Price, Jr., (wife Tamara Greer) of Warrensburg, Mo.;
three grandchildren, Aedan Price, Finnean Price and Norah Price Schultz;
two sisters, Nanci Price of Columbia and Lynne Lindner of O’Fallon, Mo.;
sister-in-law Patty Beeson of Columbia; and “adopted granddaughter”
Corrin Lepper of Kansas City, along with nieces and nephews. He was
preceded in death by his parents and parents-in-law.
** The
family invites those attending the visitation and celebration of life to
honor his memory by wearing Mizzou apparel or dressing casually in black
and gold.
Visitation will be held at Freeman Mortuary from 12:00
noon until 2:00 p.m. Sunday, March 29, 2026.
A Celebration of
Life service will be conducted at 2:00 p.m. Sunday, March 29, 2026, in
the Freeman Chapel with Reverend Dr. Soniyyah Blue-Key and Reverend Dr.
Jim Hill officiating. Military honors will be held at the funeral home
to conclude his service.
A webcast of Steve’s service will begin
at 2:00 p.m. Sunday for friends who are not able to attend by going to
his memorial page on Freeman Mortuary’s website.
In lieu of
flowers, memorial contributions are suggested to the following
organizations that were especially meaningful to Steve and benefited
from his generous gifts of time, talent, and treasure: Capitol Projects,
Inc., formerly known as “Sheltered Workshop”, 2001 E. McCarty St.,
Jefferson City, Mo. 65101;Oasis United Church of Christ, P.O. Box
104361, Jefferson City, Mo. 65110; Capital Region Medical Foundation,
1432 Southwest Blvd., Jefferson City, Mo. 65109; Jefferson City Area
YMCA, P.O. Box 104176, Jefferson City, Mo. 65110; or the Cole County
Democrats, 407 Jefferson St., Jefferson City, Mo. 65101.
Published by, The Columbia Missourian 221 South
8th Street, Columbia, MO
Norma Fay Showers,
90, of Overland Park, formerly of Columbia, passed away Wednesday, March
11, 2026, in Overland Park, KS, surrounded by her loved ones.
Visitation will be Thursday, March 19th from 10-11:30am at Memorial
Funeral Home 1217 Business Loop 70 West Columbia, MO. Graveside service
will begin at 11:30am In Memorial Park Cemetery.
Norma was born,
October 24, 1935, in Columbia to Roy and Josie Tharpe Wade. She was a
1953 graduate of Hickman High School. Soon after high school, on June
12, 1954, she married Robert Showers in Columbia, and they would spend
the next 72, years together.
She was a busy mother, working and
raising three children. She worked as a doctors’ assistant for Dr. Elrie
Rodgers for thirty years until his death. She later worked for the
American Red Cross and then Furniture World before she retired. She had
a deep love for cooking and playing golf around Columbia in the Women’s
league, going out on the town and having lunch and dinner with her
friends and family.
She is survived by her husband, Robert
Showers; daughters, Susan (Perry) Plummer and Carol (Bob) White both of
Olathe, KS; grandchildren, Paul Showers, and Megan and Melissa White;
great-grandchildren, Ella, Caden, and Ava Showers; many nieces and
nephews and a loving extended family. She was preceded in death by a
son, Danny Showers, her five siblings; Junior Wade, RP Wade, Lorene
Willis, Ruth Morgan, Phyllis Murray and her parents.
Condolences
and fond memories may be shared at
www.memorialfuneralhomeandcemetery.com.
Submitted by, Parker-Millard Funeral Service
& Crematory, 12 E. Ash Street, Columbia, MO 65203
Robert Dewayne
“Slugger” Wright, 55, of Columbia, Missouri, passed away on March 14,
2026, at University Hospital in Columbia.
Robert was born on
February 3, 1971, in Columbia, Missouri. He attended Hickman High School
in Columbia and was a member of the Blind Boone High Steppers Drill
Team. He continued to help the team even after his graduation in 1993.
Robert spent much of his professional life in the hospitality industry
and was well known for his work as a banquet manager at the Holiday Inn
Executive Center in Columbia, where he helped create memorable
gatherings and events for many in the community.
Robert was a
bright person with a warm personality and an easy ability to connect
with others. He was truly a people person who enjoyed conversation,
laughter, and bringing others together. Those who knew him appreciated
his welcoming spirit and the way he made people feel comfortable in his
presence.
In his free time, Robert enjoyed watching movies,
cooking, and trying his luck gambling from time to time. He was known
for his dancing and singing, and he always knew how to put on a show.
More than anything, he valued time spent with the people he loved, and
his family and friends meant the world to hiRobert is survived by his
partner, William Dickerson Crandall of Texas; his father, Bruce Wayne
Stephens of Columbia, Missouri; his brother, Michael Wright and his wife
Janet; their two daughters; and three great nieces and three great
nephews. He is also survived by his aunts, Sheridan McQuitty and Karen
(Cecil Jr.) Warren, along with many cousins and family friends whose
lives he touched.
He was preceded in death by his mother,
Margaret Jane Wright; his brother, Bruce Wayne Crum; his grandparents,
Natalie and Herbie Jordan and Hazel and Billie Wright; his step
grandfather, Robert Leroy Wright; his cousin, David Washington; and his
aunt, Helen Wright.
A visitation will be held on Thursday, March
26, at Parker Millard Funeral Service in Columbia from 2:00 p.m. until
3:00 p.m. Funeral services will follow at 3:00 p.m. at the funeral home
with Rev. James Gray officiating.
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
Henry Craig Lamm,
65, of Columbia, Missouri, passed away at his home on Friday, March 20,
2026.
Craig was born on July 27, 1960, in Fayette, Missouri, to
Henry Herman Lamm, Jr. and Lee Raye (Hopkins) Lamm. A lifelong resident
of Columbia, he attended local public schools and graduated from Hickman
High School with the Class of 1978.
On December 7, 1985, Craig
was united in marriage to Lisa Robb in Columbia, Missouri. Together,
they built a life grounded in love and family and were blessed with two
children, Will and Amy.
Craig dedicated over 40 years of his life
to his work as an electrician with Meyer Electric and was a proud member
of IBEW Local 257. He was also a Freemason and a member of Aleppo Grotto
where he valued the fellowship and principles that came with it.
Outside of work, Craig found joy in the simple and meaningful things in
life. He enjoyed coon hunting in his earlier years and spent over 25
years raising Kinder goats. At one time, he and his family also raised
tobacco—work that was often tough and demanding, but a testament to his
strong work ethic. Alongside his wife, he helped build and run
Tickleweed Hill Farm, where he could often be found embracing his “self
appointed” title of Farm Manager.
Above all else, Craig cherished
his family. Nothing meant more to him than the time spent with those he
loved, especially his grandchildren, who affectionately knew him as
“Gimp.” They held a special place in his heart, and he loved them
dearly.
Craig is survived by his loving wife, Lisa; his children,
Will Lamm and his wife Danielle, and Amy Lamm, all of Columbia,
Missouri; his mother, Lee Raye Lamm of Columbia; his beloved
grandchildren, Henry and Hazel Lamm; his sisters, Lori Meyer and her
husband Kevin of Rocheport, Missouri, and Caryn Ginter and her husband
Rodney of Columbia; as well as many nieces, nephews, extended family
members, and friends who will miss him deeply.
He was preceded in
death by his father, Henry Herman Lamm, Jr.
Craig will be
remembered for his dedication to his family, his generosity, his joy,
and the life he built surrounded by the people and land he loved.
Memorial contributions may be made in Craig’s honor to St. Jude
Children’s Research Hospital or Shriners Children’s Hospital.
Visitation will be held on Sunday, March 29, 2026, from 12:00 p.m. to
2:00 p.m. at Memorial Funeral Home in Columbia, Missouri. Services
honoring and celebrating Craig’s life will follow at 2:00 p.m. at the
funeral home chapel. Private committal prayers and burial will take
place at Mt. Nebo Cemetery at a later date.
Submitted through Boone County Journal by the family, April 8, 2026
Jeffrey Kent
Green, 54, of Hartsburg, MO, passed away peacefully at home on March 22,
2026, surrounded by loved ones.
Born on August 28, 1971, in
Quincy, Illinois, Jeffrey was the son of James D. Green and Mary Lou
Elliott Green. He spent his formative years in Columbia, Missouri,
attending both David H. Hickman High School (wrestling team) and Rock
Bridge High School. Catching neither the Kewpie nor the Bruin spirit, he
ultimately earned his GED; nonetheless, Jeffrey celebrated with the
class of 1989 at their all-night graduation party.
Jeffrey was a
member of the U.S. Marine Corps, having completed his training in San
Diego in 1994. He was honorably discharged from the reserves.
Jeffrey’s passion for cooking was a defining aspect of his life. During
his nineteen years in Tempe, Arizona, he worked primarily in this
vocation. Even as he later faced serious illness, he continued to share
his culinary talents with those around him. His prime rib at the 2025
Green family Christmas was lauded as the best all had tasted.
In
2021, Jeffrey returned to Boone County to be closer to family. He worked
remotely for McKesson while caring for his aging parents through his
exceptional cooking. He also took great pride in restoring and
maintaining “Green Valley,” the family’s beloved log home and land in
Hartsburg.
Jeffrey’s entrepreneurial spirit was evident in his
successful establishment and management of an Airbnb on the property.
Remaining to cherish Jeffrey’s memory are his son, JohnHenry Green
of Tempe, AZ, along with John Henry’s mother, Cherie Bartman-Sherman,
also of Tempe; Jeffrey’s parents, Jim and Mary Lou Green of Ashland, MO;
his sisters, Julie O’Reilly-Chapman (John Pfenenger) of Ashland, MO,
Jennifer Sanders of Columbia, MO, and Jan Imlay (Glen) of Huntington,
WV; ten nieces and nephews and fourteen great nieces and nephews.
Preceding Jeffrey in death were his sister, Mary Elizabeth Logan and
his nephew, James Hickem.
A Celebration of Life was held at the
Green Valley farm in Hartsburg.
Jeffrey suffered from a rare
autoimmune disease, PSC, for which there is currently no cure. Donations
in his memory can be sent to PSC Partners Seeking a Cure.
Special
thanks to Compassus of Columbia for their hospice care.
Submitted by Kenneth's family, April 17, 2026
Kenneth Wayne Butler,
age 73 passed away March 24, 2026 after a year long battle with
pancreatic cancer. He died at his home in San Antonio, Texas, surrounded by his children.
Ken was born on December 9th 1952 in Columbia, Missouri. His parents
were Alfred Butler and Clara (Huck) Butler. He graduated from Hickman
High School in 1971. He worked in retail all his life and was eventually
transferred to Poplar Bluff with JC Penney. He married Norma Manhart in
1978 and they had three children; Kyle, Leslie and Jennifer. His work
took him to Texas in 1987 and he lived there the rest of his life.
In his leisure he enjoyed playing golf and was a coach to all his
childrens' numerous sports. That was his passion. Teaching his children
to love the outdoors and sports as hd did. He took his son to Bennet
Springs every year and met life long friends from school days, Kerry
House and Bob Bodenhamer there. Some years, all the kids joined to fish.
Ken had planned to go again this year but now he will be there in
spirit.
Ken is survived by his three children and 6
grandchildren; Keith Piatt age 19, Riley Ramirez, age 15, Jace Ramirez
age 11, Madeleine Morrison age 7, Jordan Butler age 6 and 3/4 and
Penelope Ramirez age 18 months. His children and grandchildren have
wonderful memories of him and will miss the Papa.
Submitted by, Memorial Funeral Home, Crematory & Memorial Park
Cemetery/Columbia
Jim Drexler, 67, of
Columbia, MO passed away Wednesday, March 25, 2026, in Columbia. As per
his wishes, there will be no services, and his ashes will be inurned in
Memorial Park Cemetery in Columbia.
Jim was born September 15,
1958, in St. Louis, MO to S. James and Vita Athanas Drexler. They moved
to Columbia when he was in third grade and he would later graduate from
Hickman High School in 1976. Soon after high school, he went to work for
3M. He started as a line worker and over his career with them, he moved
up through several positions to a supervisor. He retired from 3M after
40 years. He was an avid golfer and enjoyed playing the local courses
and was a member of the Columbia Country Club. He loved to take his dog
Bailey on walks every day.
He is survived by his sister, Kathy
Drexler of Columbia; his niece, Hanna Drexler of Columbia; a loving
extended family and many dear friends from 3M, and by his beloved dogs,
Bailey and Remi. He was preceded in death by his Parents.
Memorial contributions can be sent to Central Missouri Humane Society
616 Big Bear Blvd, Columbia, MO 65202 or to Purrfect Paws Rescue in
Fulton, MO.
Condolences and fond memories may be shared at
www.memorialfuneralhomeandcemetery.com.
Submitted by Parker-Millard Funeral Service
and Crematory, 12 East Ash Street, Columbia MO 65203
Michael David
Rawson, 58, of Columbia, Missouri, passed away on March 27, 2026, at his
residence.
Michhael was born on September 28, 1967, in Columbia,
Missouri, to Lloyd David Rawson and Joan Elizabeth (Beck) Rawson.
He worked as a Senior Policy Advisor to Montana state senator Conrad
Burns and was involved in the consulting business. His work took him to
Nepal, India, and Kazakhstan, where he spent many years.
Michael
was an avid reader and owned an extensive collection of books. He also
had a passion for chess. While in Nepal, he became the national chess
champion and donated all of his winnings to a local orphanage. During
his time in Nepal and India, he also volunteered with local orphanages.
He is survived by his mother, Joan Rawson of Columbia, Missouri; his
father, Lloyd Rawson of Branson, Missouri; his sister, Elizabeth “Beth”
McLoughlin and her husband, Robert, of Vista, California; his nephew,
Gavin McLoughlin; and his niece, Gwyneth McLoughlin.
He was
preceded in death by his maternal and paternal grandparents.
A
visitation will be held Thursday, April 2, 2026, from 2:00 p.m. to 3:00
p.m. at Parker-Millard Funeral Service & Crematory, followed by a
funeral service at 3:00 p.m., with Father Dan Merz officiating.
Memorial contributions may be made to Coyote Hill Foster Care & Adoption
Association or Heart of Missouri CASA.
Submitted by News staff of Paso Robles Daily News, Paso Robles,
Obituary of Richard Wallace ‘Wally’ Murray
– It is with deep
sorrow we announce the passing of Richard W. “Wally” Murray, a man of
boundless energy and intelligence. Wally was born on January 6, 1939 and
passed on April 2, 2026 in Conroe TX. During his life of 87 years, he
touched many people with wisdom, humor, class and love.
Born and
raised in Columbia, MO he lived in California for the majority of his
life. Stationed in Fort Ord for his service in the Army, and graduating
from San Fernando Valley State College. His early careers included
memorable stints at Vicente Foods and Santa Ynez Inn. His professional
career included N.C.R. and many years traveling internationally for
Scantron Corporation, based in Lake Forest, CA.
His fondness for
cooking and entertaining lead him to his final career in life as the
founder of Bon Niche Cellars. A boutique vineyard and small bonded
winery in the Paso Robles AVA of California. If he wasn’t on a golf
course, or whipping up a gourmet meal, he could be spotted mowing his
vineyards and sampling wine with devoted wine club members.
He is survived by his loving wife Joyce (Campbell MacKay) Murray. Two
sons Scott Murray of Mountain View, CA and Kevin Murray of Morgan Hill,
CA. His daughter-in-law, Gloria (Kevin) Murray, three granddaughters,
Megan, Amanda and Alexandra Murray, and their doting grandmother Sonia
Murray-Johnson of Palm Springs, CA.
In addition, he is survived
by his half-sister Alice (Joe) Callison of The Woodlands, TX, and
half-brothers Charles (Jean) Rouse of Montgomery, TX, and Will (Maria)
Rouse of Anchorage, AK.
He was preceded in death by his parents
Ernest Nelson Murray and Mary Elizabeth Dey, his grand-parents Nelson
Clyde and Lina May Murray of Columbia, MO, and his brothers Nelson
Whittfield (Sandra) Murray of Sioux Falls, SD. Barry (Sandra) Murray of
Rock Hill, SC, Cheryl (James) Bolt of Pilot, VA, and Larry (Bonnie)
Rouse,
A Celebration of Life using video conferencing will be
held to allow the many friends and family members to join and share
stories of their time with Wally without the need to travel. The date
for the virtual celebration is currently planned for the US Memorial Day
weekend with further details to come. An in-person memorial service will
also be held in Montgomery, Texas at a later date.
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, BACH-YAGER FUNERAL CHAPEL,
1610 North Garth Avenue, Columbia MO 65202
Teresa Voorheis,
62, of Columbia, passed away peacefully on April 6, 2026, at the
University Hospital and Clinics.
A visitation will be held on
Friday, April 17, 2026, from 3:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. at Carr-Yager Funeral
Home, Fayette, Missouri followed by a graveside service at the Fayette
City Cemetery.
Teresa was born in Columbia, Missouri on October
11, 1963, to James “Buddy” and Mary Katherine (Linhart) German. On June
22, 1985, she married Donnie Voorheis in Columbia, Missouri and he
preceded her in death.
Teresa, a Columbia native, born at Boone
Hospital Center and Hickman High School graduate living in a home “her
Daddy” built, and has spent the last couple of years across the street
from this home in another home that was built by her father.
Teresa enjoyed feeding the neighborhood cats, along with an occasional
Racoon. She connected with family through facebook messenger and could
always be counted on for uplifting messages. She cared deeply for her
family. She never missed a birthday or anniversary and always ended a
conversation with a “Thank you! Love you! Bye!”
Teresa is
survived by her mother, Mary “Katherine”; three siblings, Jamie German
(Debi), Lecil German and Heidi German (Justin Page); and two nieces,
Kimberly (Turner) Schuster and Kara German.
The family would like
to thank her cargiver, Shelia, for her great care and companionship.
She was preceded in death by her father, James German and her
nephew, Deyton Page.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may
be made to the Central Missouri Humane Society, 616 Big Bear Blvd,
Columbia, MO 65202
Bach-Yager Funeral Chapel is honored to serve
the Voorheis family.
Online condolences and tributes may be
shared with the family at
www.bachyager.com.
Submitted by,
Memorial Funeral Home, Crematory & Memorial Park Cemetery/Columbia
Larry Ewing
Burnett, 82, of Columbia, Missouri, passed away peacefully at his home
on Sunday, April 12, 2026. He was born on March 12, 1944, in Fulton,
Missouri, to William S. “Bud” and Louise (Harrison) Burnett.
Larry was raised in Columbia, where he built a life rooted in family,
friendship, and community. He graduated from Hickman High School in
1962, where he left a lasting mark as both a student and an athlete.
Larry was the high school quarterback and a proud member of the 1962
Hickman state championship basketball team, a team later inducted into
the Hickman Legacy Athletic Hall of Fame. In track, Larry set the
Hickman High School record, jumping 21 feet 8 inches in the long jump
during his senior year.
Larry carried his love of sports
throughout his life. He was a member of the D Sport slow pitch softball
team for several years. This team qualified to play in the national
tournament in Parma, OH in 1982. Later he traveled throughout the state
of Missouri officiating high school football for many years. He was a
member of the “Three Dollar Golf Club”, where laughter and friendship
were just as important as the game itself. Larry actively supported his
children and grandchildren by cheering and encouraging them in any
activity they chose from dance recitals to track, volleyball, football,
soccer, gymnastics, softball and baseball.
Larry married Paula
Hundley on March 11, 1967, and together they had two children, Michael
and Stacy. Though their paths eventually separated and they divorced,
they remained united in their love and support for their children. He
later married Barbara Hitt on July 7, 1975, in Columbia, Missouri, and
together they built a warm and loving home, raising two daughters,
Whitney and Brie.
Larry worked for many years as a meat cutter
and was a dedicated member of Local 576 of the U.F.C.W. Meat Cutters
Union. He took pride in his work, but nothing meant more to him than his
family.
His greatest joy in life was being “PaPa.” He treasured
every moment spent with his grandchildren—driving them to and from
school, preparing their lunches, and making them feel loved in the
quiet, everyday ways that mattered most. Those moments will forever live
on in their hearts.
Larry is survived by his wife, Barb Burnett,
of the home; his children, Michael Burnett (Laurie) of Mound, Minnesota;
Stacy Brizendine (Rich) of Trophy Club, Texas; Whitney Jackman (Julian)
of Columbia, Missouri; and Brie Burnett (Eric) of Columbia, Missouri. He
is also survived by his cherished grandchildren, Zack, Seth, Addisen,
Brenner, Cami, Cordell, CJ; his twin great-granddaughters; his sister,
Sandy Beair of MO and TX; along with many nieces, nephews, extended
family members, and dear friends.
He was preceded in death by his
parents, Bud and Louise Burnett, and his brother-in-law, Errol Dean
Beair.
In lieu of flowers memorial donations in Larry’s honor may
be made to an organization of the donor’s choice.
A celebration
of Larry’s life will be held on Sunday, June 14, 2026, 1:00 p.m. to 4:00
p.m. at the Moss House, 1905 Hillcrest Dr., Columbia, MO 65201.
Arrangements are under the care of Memorial Funeral Home.
Obituary
published on Legacy.com by Crevasse's Simple Cremation - Gainesville on
Apr. 17, 2026.
Pamela "Pam" McElroy
Sand, 75, of Gainesville, Florida, passed away on April 16, 2026.
Born on June 13, 1950, in St. Louis, Missouri, Pam lived a life
defined by warmth, strength, and a deep love for her family, her
community, and the livestock industry she was so passionate about. She
had a remarkable gift for making people feel welcome, valued, and cared
for-whether through a kind word, mentorship, or simply her presence.
Pam graduated from the University of Florida with a bachelor's
degree in elementary education and enjoyed teaching before deciding to
stay home and raise her own children, a role she embraced with pride and
devotion.
Pam dedicated much of her life to supporting and
shaping youth through her work as a 4-H leader and her involvement in
youth livestock associations. She played an active role in the Florida
State Fair agribusiness community and was a familiar face at countless
livestock events across the country. Her influence reached far beyond
the show ring, as she mentored young people, encouraged growth, and
helped instill confidence, responsibility, and a love for agriculture in
the next generation.
She had a deep love for horses, cattle, and
all animals, and found great joy in the life and community that
surrounded them.
Pam will be remembered for her generous heart,
her steady spirit, and the unmistakable sarcasm and wit that brought
laughter to so many. She leaves behind a legacy of spirit, sass, and
strength that will continue to live on in all who knew her.
She
is survived by her loving husband of 54 years, Dr. Robert "Bob" Sand
Sr.; her children, Robyn (David) McIntire, Kelli Sand, and Robbie Sand;
her cherished grandchildren, Chris and Savannah McIntire, and Aiden
Lepianka; and her brother, Glenn McElroy Jr. She will be deeply missed
by her family, friends, and the extended agricultural community she
loved so dearly.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Glenn
and Mary McElroy.
In true Ms. Pam fashion, she'd probably remind
us not to fuss too much-and to make sure the stories are good and the
laughter is loud.
Crevasse's Simple Cremation is honored to serve
the Sand family.
Submitted by,
Memorial Funeral Home, Crematory & Memorial Park Cemetery/Columbia
Eddie Jean
Burks, 93, a lifelong resident of Columbia, MO passed away, Thursday
April 16, 2026, in Columbia. Visitation will be on Friday, April 24 from
10-11am at Memorial Funeral Home, 1217 Business Loop 70 West Columbia,
MO. Funeral service will begin at 11am, followed by burial in Memorial
Park Cemetery.
Eddie was born in Columbia, MO on November 15,
1932, the daughter of Ed and Doris Davis. She was a 1949 graduate of
Hickman High and married Shirley Sam Burks on August 26th that same
year. For several years she did clerical work for the Wilson Meat Market
and later for Stephens College. She and Sam enjoyed square dancing and
trout fishing at Bennett Springs. She was a skilled crafter and enjoyed
sewing. She also loved to play BINGO.
She is survived by her
daughters, Darlene (Norman) Tjhang of Columbia, Paula Blount of
Sturgeon, and Phyllis (Scott) Smith of Lee’s Summit; grandchildren,
Christopher Williams, Brad (Tana) Hagen, Emily (Heitor) deMelo, and Evan
Smith; eight great grandchildren, three great-great grandchildren; a
brother, Joe Davis of Ashland, many nieces and nephews, and a loving
extended family. She was preceded in death by her husband, Shirley Sam
Burks, her siblings, Tutor, Georgia, and Lena, her parents and her
beloved dog, Jack.
Memorial donations can be made to the Central
Missouri Humane Society 616 Big Bear Blvd Columbia, MO 65202.
Condolences and fond memories may be shared at
www.memorialfuneralhomeandcemetery.com.
Posted online on April 23, 2026
Published
in Columbia Daily Tribune
Connie Pugh
elevated to the majestic golf courses and bridge tables of the
afterworld on April 17, 2026, after passing away in Columbia. She lived
a vibrant and highly social life for a vast majority of her 86 years
before falling into declining health on the 18th hole and final shuffle
of her incredible round and deal of life, particularly following the
death of her husband, Bob, in 2024. Wherever they end up together, Bob
will be thrilled to see her again but will refuse to challenge her in
golf or bridge. “Old gal (he sometimes used a less affectionate term)
always beats my a** in everything.”
“You should take lessons and
you could get better,” Connie always replied. Bob always refused. Connie
persevered and with her incredible wit and creativity, provided “life
lessons” to her family and multitude of friends throughout her time on
earth.
She was born Connie Jo Grogger on February 18, 1940, in
Chillicothe, Missouri to Harold and Irene Grogger. Her father’s job as a
soil scientist for the State of Missouri brought them to Columbia when
she was in elementary school and they moved into a house on West Blvd.
where Connie’s brother still resides today.
Connie attended the
University Lab School and was an avid dancer throughout her childhood
when not ruling the neighborhood kids. She next attended Hickman High
School, where during her junior year, she became smitten with a shy
track star named Bobby Pugh and asked him to accompany her to the “Sadie
Hawkins Dance.” It was a successful first date and they remained
together for 58 years until Bob’s death.
In 1958, Connie enrolled
at the University of Missouri and pledged to the Pi Beta Phi sorority.
She remained active with the Pi Phi’s even after her graduation from
Mizzou in 1962 with a degree in Education, serving as alumni rush week
coordinator and advisor for many years.
She became engaged to Bob
Pugh (Beta Theta Pi) shortly after graduation and they were married on
August 18, 1962, at United Methodist Church in Columbia. Connie became
employed as a seventh-grade biology teacher at West Jr. High School (now
West Middle School) to make ends meet while Bob spent a “bonus semester”
tying up some loose ends to complete his degree in accounting.
Connie next headed to Fort Still, OK when Bob was commissioned as a
Second Lieutenant in the U.S. Army, then to Fort Knox, KY where they
celebrated the birth of their son, Douglas. Shortly thereafter, they
returned home to Columbia, celebrated the birth of their daughter,
Lesley, and remained in Boone County until their deaths.
Connie
was a devoted wife and mother, organizing and maintaining the family
household and her kids’ numerous activities while Bob served as mayor of
Columbia in the mid-1970’s, then launched a successful business career
as CEO of MBS Textbook Exchange. It was a perfect combination and fit.
Connie and Bob enjoyed a comfortable and lucrative existence, and
neither could have accomplished it without the other.
During her
adulthood, Connie was no longer an avid dancer (although she could more
than hold her own in the living room following Mizzou football games, at
wedding receptions and the like. She was also the champion of Missouri
Contemporary Ballet’s “Dancing With the Missouri Stars” in 2010.
Instead, she fell in love with golf and bridge. She became damned good
at both. She ended her career on the links with a ridiculous seven
holes-in-one. She competed in regional, then national, tournaments in
bridge, ultimately achieving the designation of “Life Master.” One may
wonder how many humans ever accomplished BOTH of these things during
their lifetimes? Connie was supremely fit in both body and mind.
She enjoyed socializing at the Country Club of Missouri, where she and
Bob became “regulars,” welcoming friends and family to the house at the
Lake of the Ozarks, and holiday vacations with her children and
grandchildren.
Connie was preceded in death by her parents,
Harold and Irene Grogger, and her husband, Robert Pugh. She is survived
by her son Douglas Pugh (wife Amy) of Columbia; daughter Lesley Pugh of
Columbia; brother Robert Grogger of Columbia; her grandchildren: Parker
Adam (wife Sara) of Scottsdale, AZ; Tatum Pugh of Denver, CO; Logan Adam
of Scottsdale, AZ; and Sadie Pugh of Kansas City; and one
great-grandchild, Robert “Bobby” Adam, born two months prior to her
death.
Connie was laid to rest beside Bob in a private family
ceremony. A Celebration of Life will be held at the Country Club of
Missouri on a future date to be announced by her children. Connie will
not be able to hit the driving range or bridge room during the event. Or
maybe?
Condolences and fond memories may be shared at:
www.memorialfuneralhomeandcemetery.com.
Submitted by, Parker-Millard Funeral Service &
Crematory, 12 East Ash St, Columbia MO Apr. 25, 2026
Rickie Lee Batye,
74, of Columbia Missouri passed away peacefully at his home on April
18th 2026. Born on the 26th of December to Aurther and Vera Batye at
Scott Airforce Base, Illinois.
Rickie was known for his humor and
larger than life personality. In addition to his home being a refuge for
cats he was known as the "mayor" of his neighborhood street. He was a
Vietnam War veteran and recently went on the honors flight in 2022.
Rickie is survived by his sisters Mary Lou Gray, Rhonda Robb (Terry
Robb), brother Gale Batye, his two nieces Heather Roberts (Brandon
Roberts) and Brittany Robb (Blair Cook), two nephews Kevin Gray (Nicole
Gray) and Johnathan Bayte, and great nieces Vera Cook.
He is
preceded in death by his father Aurther, mother Vera, and sister Susan.
A celebration of life will be held later this summer.
In lieu of
flowers, donations can be made to:
Veterans of Foreign Wars
https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/donation-form/donate-to-make-a-difference-10568
Special Olympics of Columbia https://somo.org/donate/
Second
Chance https://www.columbia2ndchance.org/donate
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, Crist Mortuary & Cremation and Mountain View Memorial
Park, 3395 Penrose Place, Boulder CO 80301
Nancy Melinda Smith,
of Yampa CO, passed away peacefully on Saturday, April 18, 2026 due to
complications arising from Alzheimer’s disease.
Nancy was born on
December 22, 1943 in St. Joseph, MO to Arthur William Nebel and Angeline
Willard (Ayers) Nebel. She was a graduate of Hickman High School and
attended the University of Colorado for one year (pledging Kappa Alpha
Theta) before transferring to the University of Missouri, where she
graduated with a B.A. in Sociology.
In 1966, Nancy and her
husband Jerry moved from Columbia, MO to Boulder, CO where Nancy worked
for the Boulder Valley School District for more than 20 years. In 2000,
Nancy and Jerry moved to Steamboat Springs where they designed and built
a barn and ranch house outside of Yampa, CO. Nestled at the base of the
Flat-Top Mountain's they enjoyed retirement and their love of the
outdoors while meticulously managing and harvesting certified hay. In
addition, Nancy enjoyed reading, yoga, hiking and biking with her
husband, puzzles, quilting, gardening, and teaching Tai Chi for NW
Colorado's Aging Well program. An avid volunteer, Nancy was a lifelong
member of the DAR and P.O.E., served as a volunteer and board member for
the Tread of Pioneers Museum, and as a volunteer and board member for
Routt County Historic Preservation Board where she was actively involved
with an initiative to preserve and restore Crossan’s M & A Market in
Routt County, which received the Governor’s Award for Historic
Preservation in 2020.
On July 16, 2025, Nancy and Jerry
celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary.
Nancy is survived by
her husband, Gerald Lee “Jerry” Smith; daughters Melinda Kathryn (Smith)
Chrestman and Jennifer Lynn Smith; son-in-law Melvin Eugene “Mel”
Chrestman, Jr.; granddaughter Melinda Kathryn “Kate” Chrestman; and
sister-in-law Betty Sue (Smith) Brown. She will be laid to rest in
Memorial Park Cemetery in Columbia, Missouri.
In lieu of flowers,
memorial contributions may be made to Historic Routt County, the
Alzheimer’s Association, historic preservation efforts in your local
community, or by supporting anyone you may know that is living with or
caring for someone with Alzheimer’s.
Online condolences and fond
memories may be shared at www.dignitymemorial.com.
Submitted by
The Columbia Missourian,
Jill Marie Libby
(Beaumonte), of Columbia, Missouri, passed away on April 19, 2026, at
University Hospital in Columbia, Missouri, at the age of 53.
She
was born in Columbia, Missouri, to John and Wendy Beaumonte. Jill grew
up in Columbia and attended Russell Boulevard Elementary, West Junior
High, and Hickman High School. She had one sister, Amy Courtney
(Beaumonte).
Jill married the love of her life, Jeff Libby, on
May 18, 2002, in Wisconsin. They met through the FM106 radio station’s
Dateline program and dated for five years before marrying. Together,
they shared many wonderful years, including a five-year restoration of
their 1970 Chevy Nova.
Jill and Jeff loved attending car shows
with their car clubs in both Wisconsin and Missouri, especially the
Street Machine Nationals in Springfield, Missouri, with their close-knit
group: Jill & Jeff, Amy & Dave Courtney, Randy & Kathy Smith, Wendy &
Jack, and Aidan & Kylie Paustian.
In addition to cars, Jill
enjoyed playing cards, playing World of Warcraft, and spending time with
family — especially group outings to Kobe for hibachi dinners.
She was also a devoted supporter of the military: Her father is a
Vietnam veteran who was wounded, receiving a Purple Heart with Oak Leaf
Cluster; her grandfather was a World War II veteran, prisoner of war who
was awarded two Purple Hearts with Oak Leaf Clusters; and her brother,
Aidan, is currently serving in the U.S. Army and stationed in Hawaii.
Jill faced a lifetime of medical challenges with extraordinary
strength. She was born a hypopituitary dwarf as a result of Agent Orange
exposure (highly suspected by the family) her father encountered during
Vietnam. Much of her early life was spent in hospitals, and as she grew
older, she administered her own human growth hormone injections. Her
story was featured in several newspaper articles, even earning her the
nickname “Thumbelina.”
As an adult, Jill suffered a serious back
injury at work that greatly limited her mobility. She was later
diagnosed with end-stage renal failure and had been on dialysis for
several years.
Most recently, she struggled with severe low blood
pressure, resulting in many hospital stays. Despite the pain and the
countless hours spent as an inpatient, Jill remained focused on the
people she loved. Her family and friends were always her priority. She
especially cherished her long Wednesday phone calls with her dad.
Jill’s mother, Wendy Paustian, was her constant support in recent
years, living with Jill and Jeff as her caretaker. Wendy spent countless
hours taking Jill to dialysis and doctor appointments, preparing meals
that fit her dietary needs, and always searching for new recipes or
canning ideas that Jill might enjoy.
In 2010, Jill’s mother and
stepfather, Jack Paustian, adopted Aidan and Kylie, who quickly became
the center of the family. Jill embraced her role as the big sister with
wisdom to share. She was patient, thoughtful, and often the voice of
reason.
Jill had many dear friends who held a special place in
her heart, including Lisa Reed, Kris Overton Remus, Sage Buchanan, Staci
Fbusuck Matney, Kevin Marquardt, Jenny Rebarchek, Heather Coates,
Heather Duncan, Melissa Hayes, Lisa Jeffries Pagett, DeeAnn Sparkle
Nowlin Green, Jane Coulter, Jill Martens, Marci Mitchell, Jamie Clark,
Tom Harmon, Christina Edmondson, and Crystal Vaughn. The recent losses
of Tom, Christina, and Crystal deeply affected her.
Jill is
survived by her husband, Jeff Libby, of the home; mother, Wendy
Paustian; father, John Beaumonte; stepmother, Nicole Beaumonte;
mother-in-law, Judy Libby; brother-in-law Jerry (Bonnie) Libby;
sister-in-law Joy Libby Hahn; sister, Amy Courtney; brother-in-law David
Courtney; brother Aidan Paustian; sister Kylie Paustian; and her special
best friends who were like family, Randy and Kathy Smith. She also
leaves behind many aunts, uncles, and cousins.
She was preceded
in death by her stepfather, Jack Paustian; maternal grandparents, Hal
and Nana Lister; paternal grandparents, Sam and Jean Beaumonte; and Jill
and Jeff’s beloved dog, Lucky, a Yorkie–Chihuahua mix.
The family
would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to the countless nurses,
doctors, and staff at the dialysis clinics, especially Drs. David and
Michael Gardner in the Endocrinology Department at Mizzou, and Dr. Lynn
Wung at Keene Family Medicine, for the exceptional care and compassion
they provided to Jill.
At this time, no services are planned.
However, a Purple European Beech tree with a memorial plaque will be
planted by the University of Missouri’s Landscape Services on campus.
Purple was Jill’s favorite color — always and without wavering!
In lieu of flowers, a gift may be made to the Mizzou Botanic Garden
Tribute Tree Program through MU Advancement at Mizzou using the
following link: https://formizzou.missouri.edu/jill-libby-memorial-tree
Submitted by Memorial Funeral Home,
Crematory & Memorial Park Cemetery/Columbia
Robert Showers,
93, of Overland Park, formerly of Columbia, MO passed away Monday, April
20, 2026, in Overland Park, KS. Visitation will be Monday, April 27 from
12p-1:30pm at Memorial Funeral Home 1217 Business Loop 70 West Columbia,
MO 65202. Funeral Service will begin at 1:30pm followed by the Committal
Service and Military Honors in Memorial Park Cemetery.
Robert was
born November 1, 1932, in Shenandoah, IA to Myron and Alice Mae Springer
Showers. The family later moved to Columbia where Robert would grow up.
He was a 1951 graduate of Hickman High School and soon after earned his
bachelor’s degree in political science from MIZZOU. He served in the US
Marines for ten months, before the unexpected death of his mother
released him from service. On June 12, 1954, he married Norma Fay Wade
in Columbia. They were married 72 years before she passed just forty
days before him. Robert had a long successful career in insurance sales;
working with Barnes Insurance Group and All State Insurance before
retiring after over 30 years of service. He enjoyed hunting, fishing,
and watching old Westerns on tv. Robert’s kindness, generosity, and love
for his family will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew him.
He is survived by his daughters, Susan (Perry) Plummer and Carol
(Bob) White, both of Olathe, KS; grandchildren, Paul Showers, and Megan
and Melissa White; great-grandchildren, Ella, Caden, and Ava Showers;
many nieces and nephews and a loving extended family. He was preceded in
death by his beloved wife, Norma Fay; a brother, Richard Showers, and
his parents.
Condolences and fond memories may be shared at
www.memorialfuneralhomeandcemetery.com.
Posted online on April 23, 2026
Published in Columbia Daily Tribune
James “Roy”
Eichelberger passed away April 21, 2026, at the age of 96. He was born
on March 10, 1930, to the late, James W. and Ida Kathleen (Cannon)
Eichelberger in Columbia. Roy is now at home with his heavenly Father
and his Savior Jesus Christ. He has also been reunited with his beloved
wife, Jeannine.
Roy graduated from Hickman High School in 1949
and attended the University of Missouri – Kansas City. He was a Veteran
of the Army National Guard 128th Field Artillery Battalion. Roy married
Jeannine Dothage on Aug. 5, 1950. Together they had three children: Rob
Eichelberger, married to Debbie, of Columbia; Rhonda Granrath, married
to Torry, of Bartlett, Ill.; Sylvia Patton, married to John of Forest
Green.
Roy loved the Lord and he and Jeannine were diligent in
seeing that their children were raised in church and the importance of
giving their lives to the Lord. Roy had six grandchildren: Taylor
Wilson, husband Aaron, of Austin, Texas; Ashley Marquez, husband Matt,
of Wayne, Ill; Natalie Wuest, husband Tim, of Columbia; Robyn Connell,
husband Dillon, of Hallsville; Patrick Maher, wife Heidi, of Columbia;
Zach Maher, wife Amanda, of Ozark. Roy also had 14 great grandchildren,
and a great great granddaughter.
Roy’s career consisted mostly of
working for Atkins in the Maintenance Janitorial department where he
retired as President over that department.
Funeral services will
be 10 a.m., Monday, April 27 at Parkade Baptist Church with a Gathering
of family and friends from 4-6 p.m., on Sunday, April 26 at Bach-Yager
Funeral Chapel. Burial will follow the service at Memorial Park
Cemetery.
Memorial contributions are suggested to the charity of
the donor's choice to Parkade Baptist Church, 2102 N. Garth Ave.,
Columbia, MO 65202.
Bach-Yager Funeral Chapel is honored to serve
the Eichelberger Family.
Online condolences and tributes may be
shared with the family at
www.bachyager.com.
Posted online on April 28, 2026
Published in Columbia Daily
Tribune
Patricia
Ann (Duncan) Cook, age 95, passed away Thursday, April 23, 2026 at Pin
Oaks Living Center, in Mexico, Missouri.
She was born November 3,
1930, in eastern Boone County, Missouri, the oldest child of the late
Orville and Gladys (Moreau) Duncan.
Pat was a 1949 graduate of
Hickman High School, in Columbia, Missouri. She was also a secretary in
Agronomy Extension, Animal Husbandry, and the Secretarial Pool, at the
University of Missouri for over 38 years. She strove for excellence in
everything she did whether at home or on the job. She was an incredibly
fast typist, and could manually format extension bulletins, and other
complex documents. She also mastered word processing when computers
began to appear on desktops. She managed and provided support to as many
as six faculty members at a time. She was the secretary for the
Professional Secretary Association, and brushed up her short hand when
taking minutes. In other words she was awesome!
On July 8, 1951,
she married C. Gene Cook, who until his dying day loved her more than
anyone else in the world. Their marriage was far from perfect as Gene
could be a handful, but she loved him quietly and continually.
She was preceded in death by her parents (Orville and Gladys), one
brother (Buzz) with whom she was very close, her husband (Gene) and her
oldest son (Daniel). She is survived by three sisters, Betty Johnson of
Springfield, MO, Peggy Burnett of Coffey, MO, and Kathy Duncan of
Springfield, MO. She is also survived by her daughters Debra (Richard)
Bass, of Columbia, MO, Judy (Ric) Penley, of Mexico, MO, and her
youngest son Michael (Mark) Cook, of Columbia, MO. She had seven
grandchildren; three by Debra: Amy, Andrea and Angela, and four by Judy:
Rebecca, Adam, Jessica and Christy. She also had 22 great grandchildren,
and 3 great, great grandchildren, all of whom will greatly miss her
quiet strength, dignity, and smiling face.
Pat was a shy woman,
who rarely spoke first, but always had a wisdom which made those around
her listen intently when she spoke. She was raised in a rural setting
during the Great Depression and the Second World War. On Friday nights,
her mom and dad would pile them into their car and socialize with
friends in downtown Columbia. She could hitch a team of mules, cultivate
a field with a horse drawn plow, grow an immense garden, can and
preserve her harvest, hand make her children's clothes, drive them all
on their newspaper routes, work a full day, and have dinner on the table
by six.
It wasn't until adulthood that we realized just how much
she always did for us and we became fiercely protective of her. In later
life, once she had helped her kids fly away from the nest and she had
finally retired, she enjoyed flower gardening and yard work, needle
point and cross stitch, crocheting, reading historical novels, bird
watching from her deck, and watching her “stories.” She was an avid fan
of Days of Our Lives, and later contemporary fantasy shows like Grimm
and Once Upon a Time. She also enjoyed shows about UFOs and old Godzilla
movies. She loved animals, and they were drawn to her. One time, while
sitting on her deck, enjoying a sunny morning, a hummingbird
spontaneously landed on her hand and stayed for several minutes. She was
prudent with money, but generous to her children and grandchildren. Her
guilty passions were a collection of over 500 antique toothpick holders,
wearing hats and over one hundred purses.
Pat... Mom, was a truly
unique woman of many talents, grace, good sense, and quiet strength. She
touched the lives of all those around her and was deeply loved, and will
be missed—especially by her children.
A Remembrance Gathering
will be held at Memorial Funeral Home, 1217 Business Loop 70 West,
Columbia, MO, on Friday, May 1, 2:00-4:00 pm. Light refreshments will be
served.
Condolences and fond memories may be shared at
www.memorialfuneralhomeandcemetery.com.
Posted online on May 01, 2026
Published in Columbia Daily Tribune
Mary Jane Caldwell
Talmadge died Thursday, April 23, 2026.
Born December 29, 1951,
and adopted as a war baby by Charles F. Caldwell and Jane Maxine
Caldwell, she lived life on her terms and with a great deal of humour.
Mary graduated from Hickman HS in Columbia, MO, in 1970. She was the
first girl to play trumpet in the high school band, a role reserved for
boys at the time. She moved to California and worked on a boat that
sailed to Catalina Island for a time. She went to Woodstock, inspired
Tom Petty among others, loved animals of all varieties and faced life's
adversities with a wacky sense of humor that continues to motivate and
move her lifelong friends to this day.
Mary is pre-deceased by
her husband, Paul Talmadge, and son Brandon Talmadge. Mary is survived
by her daughter Brooke Talmadge, son-in-law Juan, and grandchildren
Julia Arriaga, Isabella Arriaga and Louis Cuno.
There will be a
celebration of life service at Fairview Church, 1729 W. Broadway, Ste
10B, this Sunday, May 3, 2026, at 2p.m.
Her ashes will be
buried in her family plot in Elmwood Cemetery, Mexico, MO, at a later
date.
Posted online on May 11, 2026
Published in Columbia Daily Tribune
Marilyn Phyllis
Fleetwood 87, died, May 4, 2026, at her home in Montgomery City,
Missouri.
Mrs. Fleetwood was born October 24, 1938 at Walker, MO,
the daughter of Harvey Benton McCrory and Edna Newland McCrory. She
lived on a farm near Columbia, MO from 1943 to 1968 and has resided in
Montgomery City for the past 58 years.
On January 27, 1961, she
married J. Ross Fleetwood, Jr., DVM, who preceded her in death. She is
survived by two sons, Chauncey Edwin Fleetwood and wife, Marilyn, of
Boston, MA and Stephen Ross Fleetwood of Kansas City, MO.
Other
survivors are granddaughters, Stephanie and Lillian Fleetwood of
Shawnee, KS, step-granddaughter Amy Niedzwiecki, two step great
grandsons, Adam and Silas and several nieces and nephews. A brother and
sister-in-law, Knox and Nelda Rohr McCrory and sister, Marie McCrory
Cook preceded her in death.
Mrs. Fleetwood grew up on a farm near
Columbia and attended Midway Elementary School which was a one room
country school house. She was a 1956 graduate of Hickman High School and
received BS and MS degrees from the University of MO From 1960-1966, she
was employed as a Dietitian at the University of MO Residence Halls Food
Service. From 1966-1968 she was a Graduate Assistant teaching Quantity
Food Production at University Hospital. From 1968 to 1980 she assisted
her husband with his veterinary practice. She was a Registered, Licensed
Dietitian and from 1980-2015 worked in area nursing homes and hospitals.
She, also, worked in several counties in Public Health offices as a
Nutritionist with the WIC (Women, Infant and Children) program.
Professional organizations included a 50+year membership in the Academy
of Nutrition and Dietetics and MO Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.
From 1977-1986 she served on the Montgomery County R-II Board of
Education and was President from 1979-1986.
No services are
scheduled at this time. Any future memorial arrangements will be
announced by the family.
Memorial contributions are suggested to
food bank/pantry or to charity of your choice.
Submitted by, Neptune Society, 100 NW 70th Avenue, Suite 100
Plantation FL 33317
Kirk Sumpter
February 16, 1948 – May 6,
2026
Obituary of Kirk Sumpter
Kirk Sumpter of
Longview, Texas, died peacefully in his sleep on May 6th, 2026 at the
age of 78 years. Kirk was born in Columbia, Missouri to Don and June
Sumpter at Boone County Hospital.
Kirk was a faithful follower of
Jesus Christ, and is now resting at peace with his Heavenly Father. He
was a loyal, loving husband and a dedicated father and grandfather. His
sense of humor and jovial nature were his way of bringing joy, laughter
and happiness to others, while also offering wisdom and spiritual
guidance. Kirk was an avid reader; he loved studying the Bible, but also
enjoyed books of numerous other genres. He was a history buff who
enjoyed visiting museums, traveling, and appreciating nature. During his
life he had the privilege of living in and being with friends and family
in numerous Missouri towns and cities, Virginia, Tennessee, and Texas.
Although Kirk was an only child, when he married into the Atwood family
he embraced his extended family through Mary Beth and relished his role
as son, brother, and uncle to her family members.
He is survived
by his wife of 56 years, Mary Beth (Atwood) Sumpter, his son Kirk
Anthony Sumpter, and four grandchildren: Joshua Anthony Sumpter of
Tucson, Arizona, Jeremy Daniel Sumpter (Kara) of Tucson, Arizona, Alexia
Joy Sumpter of Knob Knoster, Missouri, and Jenna Rachelle Sumpter of
Longview, Texas. He rejoiced at the birth of twin great-granddaughters
to Jeremy and Kara in 2025: Evelyn and Cecilia.
No public
services will be held. If you wish to make a donation in Kirk's memory,
please consider donating to one of the ministries he was a strong
supporter of:
Jesus Film Project (https://www.jesusfilm.org/) or
One For Israel (https://www.oneforisrael.org/).
Posted online on May 08, 2026
Published in
Columbia Daily Tribune
November 22, 1945 – May 6, 2026
Terry Lynn Sapp, 80,
of Columbia, passed away suddenly from a heart attack on May 6, 2026.
Funeral services will be held at 12:00 p.m. on Tuesday, May 12,
2026, at Memorial Funeral Home, 1217 Business Loop 70 W, Columbia,
Missouri 65202. Visitation will take place from 10:00 a.m. until the
time of the service. Entombment will take place at Memorial Park
Cemetery.
Terry was born on November 22, 1945, in Boone County to
Andrew and Ella Sapp. He was the sixth of eight children and grew up on
a farm, where he learned how to work hard, help others, and make do with
what he had. He graduated from Hickman High School in 1963 and married
the love of his life, Glenda Glass, in 1965.
Terry started
working young. At just 19 years old, he started a brick-laying business,
and throughout the 1970s, he also built rental properties in the
Columbia area. In 1976, Terry and Glenda, along with his brother Mike
and wife Sherry, opened Good Time Country, a country music dance hall
that drew more than 1,000 dancers every Saturday night. Terry could
always be found there playing his left-handed fiddle, surrounded by
music, family, and friends.
In the early 1980s, Terry moved his
family to Weatherford, Oklahoma, where he learned the concrete flatwork
trade. He returned to Columbia in 1984 and continued in the concrete
business, working alongside his son, Nathan, until the day he died.
Terry will be remembered as someone who worked hard, gave freely,
and loved his horse racing. He planted a big garden every year and took
real joy in giving away tomatoes, corn, and whatever else he had grown
to anyone who stopped by the farm. That was Terry. If he had something
to give, he would share it.
One of the clearest pictures of
Terry’s love was the way he cared for Glenda after she suffered a
massive stroke in December 2018. For more than four years, he cared for
her day and night until her passing in February 2023. He did it
faithfully, without complaint, because that was what love meant to him.
Terry is survived by his daughter, Denise Nelson and her husband,
Rick, of Columbia; his son, Nathan Sapp and his wife, Anjee; and three
beloved grandchildren, Nicholas Nelson and his wife, Lauren, of
Clearwater, Florida, Brittany Nelson of Columbia, and Talon Sapp of
Columbia.
Terry leaves behind a life marked by hard work,
loyalty, music, generosity, and deep love for his family. He will be
missed more than words can say, but the way he lived, the things he
built, and the love he gave will stay with those who knew him.
Submitted by the "Greeley Tribune, May 15,
2026
Dulcie
Maryann Camp, 83, of Greeley, died on Wednesday, May 6, 2026 at her home
with her beloved husband, Ron at her side. She was born December 2, 1942
in Columbia, Missouri to John Ogden and Ida May (McCurry) Creasy.
A music prodigy, Dulcie began playing the piano at age 4 and by age
10 was playing cello in concerts with the Stephens College Conservatory.
She graduated from Greenwood High School in 1960. While attending the
University of Missouri-Columbia on a music scholarship, Dulcie found her
true calling was theatre and she performed and starred in many
University productions. It was also at MU that she met her future
husband, Ron Camp. After earning a Bachelor of Arts in Music and
Theatre, Dulcie auditioned in New York and won a place in the summer
stock company of the prestigious Barn Theatre in Augusta, Michigan. She
performed at The Barn during the 1964, ’65, and ’66 seasons. Ron and
Dulcie were married in Augusta on June 28, 1965.
Moving to
Greeley in 1968, Dulcie continued her theatrical career by starring in
productions at Greeley’s Chuckwagon Dinner Playhouse and the UNC Little
Theater of the Rockies, and writing as theater/music critic for the
Greeley Tribune. In 1981 Dulcie signed with talent agent, JF Images in
Denver and until her retirement performed in two feature length motion
pictures, several episodes of the Father Dowling and Perry Mason TV
series, and a great number of TV and radio commercials. She was a member
of Actor’s Equity, the Screen Actors Guild (SAG), and the American
Federation of Television and Radio Artists (AFTRA) and served for
several years on the regional SAG-AFTRA Board of Directors. She was also
a member of the National Organization for Women, the American
Association of University Women and the Colorado Film Association.
Dulcie sang with the Greeley Chorale for 20 years, and traveled with
them on international tours to Italy, Greece, Germany and Ireland. She
attended UNC from 1984-86 and earned degrees in Spanish Language and
Culture and Creative writing, and served on the Union Colony Civic
Center Board from 2005 – 2011.
Dulcie had a truly remarkable zest
for life. She will be sorely missed.
Thankful to have shared her
life are her husband, Ron, their son, Jason (Christina) Camp, their
grandson, Cooper, and her daughter, Stephanie (Jerome) Sikes-Lerner.
She was preceded in death by her parents and a brother, John Ogden
Creasy II.
Cremation will be completed and Dulcie’s family will
host a Life Celebration at a later date in the summer of 2026. Memorial
gifts may be made to “The Greeley Chorale” in care of Young’s Funeral
Service, 102 E. Charlotte Street, Johnstown, CO 80534. Condolences may
be shared at youngsfunerals.com.
Submitted by, Gorman-Scharpf Funeral Home,
1947 East Seminole St, Springfield MO 65804
George McAfee
Johnson, 80, of Springfield, passed away on Monday, May 11 from
complications related to the Parkinson’s Disease he had lived with for
several years.
George was born in Greenwich, Connecticut on
September 28, 1945, though when he was only three months old his mother
Louise Kuhn Johnson placed him in a basket and travelled with him and
his older brother Clayton Henry (Mike) Johnson III by train to Columbia,
MO, where his father Clayton Henry Johnson, Jr. soon joined them to
begin work as a professor of Geology at the University of Missouri.
George graduated from Hickman High School in 1963, where he sat in
front of Marcia Diane Sublett in trigonometry class. After serving in
the Army in Germany from 1966 to 1968, he married Marcia in 1970.
He graduated with a degree in English from the University of
Missouri, and completed law school at Mizzou in 1973. He and Marcia
moved to Springfield in 1974 and George worked as an attorney at the
Missouri Highway Commission. He became the attorney for Show-Me Power in
the late 1970’s, and in 1990 joined the firm of Andrereck, Evans, Milne,
Peace, and Johnson, where he worked for the rest of his career. George
and Marcia were married for 55 years, and had two sons, Benjamin George
Johnson, of Kansas City, and Nicholas Dean Johnson, of Indianapolis.
George was an avid outdoorsman, who loved deer hunting with his
brother and his friends, canoeing on family float trips, and fishing
with his best friend Mike Jones. He also loved “camping” and fishing
with the Bennett Spring Barrister’s Club. He pitched slow-pitch softball
so effectively that one of his meatballs was lined directly into his
right eye, ending his illustrious athletic career. He also loved to
travel with his family and friends, especially to Europe and National
Parks in the United States.
He volunteered extensively with the
Boy Scouts, and served as Scoutmaster of Springfield Troop 7 from 1989
to 1992. He was proud to see both his sons become Eagle Scouts. He was
involved in his sons’ sporting attempts, and coached several of the
worst teams in YMCA history. He was also an avid band dad for the
Parkview High School Marching Band in support of Nick. He drove a truck.
He unloaded gear. He loaded gear. He drove a truck back. He was also a
generous donor to the Parkview Debate Team, in support of Ben.
He
was a long-time parishioner of St. Agnes Cathedral, where he served on
the Parish Council for several years, and was a frequent lector and
Eucharistic Minister during Sunday mass. He called Bingo at the Knights
of Columbus Hall, and participated enthusiastically in activities for
the Parkinson’s Group of the Ozarks.
He loved the Missouri
Tigers, who always disappointed him, and the St. Louis Cardinals, who
sometimes didn’t. Fans seated rows and even sections away from him were
well aware of his passion.
He is survived by his wife Marcia; his
sons Ben (Ruth Sanders) and Nick (Chloe Boelter); his nieces Emily
LaValle (Matthew), Virginia Shetler (Joseph), and Letitia Sangster
(Robert); his grand-nephews and nieces Clayton Sangster, Eleanor
LaValle, Susanne Sangster, and Everett Sangster. He was preceded in
death by his brother Mike and his sister-in-law Eleanor Johnson. The
family would like to give particular thanks to Josh and Lindsay Douglas
for their love, friendship, and neighborly support over the decades, but
especially in the last year.
Visitation will be held Sunday, May
17, 2026, from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM at Gorman-Scharpf Funeral Home.
Funeral Mass will be Monday, May 18, 2026, at 10:00 AM in St. Agnes
Cathedral.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be
made in his name to the Parkinson’s Group of the Ozarks
(www.parkinsonsgroup.org/).
Submitted by,
Memorial Funeral Home, Crematory & Memorial Park Cemetery/Columbia
Koy David McNary, 63, passed away peacefully on May 12, 2026.
Born March 30, 1963, in Carthage, Missouri, Koy spent most of his life
in Columbia and was a graduate of David H. Hickman High School.
Throughout his career, he worked in the family framing business, Frame
Works, owned and operated Zoo Too clothing stores in Columbia and
Jefferson City, and later founded Professional Turf Works. He took great
pride in his work and especially valued his partnership and friendship
with Cord Godbey, who became like a son to him.
Koy married
Margie McNary on December 30, 2003. Together they enjoyed traveling,
cruises, and especially spending time at the lake riding Sea-Doos,
taking boat rides, and making memories with family and friends.
His greatest joy was his family and grandchildren, whom he loved deeply
and supported wholeheartedly.
Koy is survived by his wife, Margie
McNary; step-son Matthew Detherage-Gromer and husband Joshua
Detherage-Gromer and their children Shelby and John; and step-daughter
Courtney Glascock and husband Brandon Glascock and their daughters Lola,
Emma, and Ella.
He was preceded in death by his mother, Lee
Gilliam, and father, Arlo McNary.
Visitation will be held
Tuesday, May 19, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at Memorial Funeral
Home, with funeral service and burial immediately following.
In
lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made out to the Koy McNary
Memorial Fund and checks may be dropped off at any Bank of Missouri
location.
Posted online on May 19,
2026
Published in Columbia Daily Tribune
Burdet Wesley
“Perk” Hoecker, 83, passed away peacefully at EverTrue Lenoir Woods in
Columbia, Missouri on May 13, 2026, from complications of dementia, a
disease he had lived with for many years, while exhibiting his
characteristic good nature along the way.
Perk was born on June
7, 1942, in Ames, Iowa, one of three children born to Dr. Wesley Henry
Hoecker and Grace Semon Hoecker. During his childhood, the family lived
in many college towns, following Dr. Hoecker's academic career. As Perk
and his siblings approached high school age, the family settled in Boone
County, Missouri, where his mother had grown up, and began a life of
farming on part of the Semon family farms.
Perk graduated from
Hickman High School in 1960, then earned two Bachelor’s degrees in
Agriculture at the University of Missouri, graduating in 1965.
Throughout those years, along with every member of the family, Perk
worked full-time on the farm, learning every aspect of the business and
the culture.
The Vietnam War brought an abrupt end to that life
for Perk, who served as a U.S. Navy pilot, flying over 500 missions
aboard the U.S.S. Constellation, in an F-4 Phantom, known by the call
sign “Rock River,” serving with distinction.
Upon returning home
to Missouri, Perk earned two more graduate degrees at “Mizzou,” an MBA
in Finance, and an MS in Accounting, before beginning a career in
banking in St. Louis, specializing in construction and mortgage lending.
His life took an unexpected turn when he was relocated to Kansas
City to open an office for Mercantile Mortgage Company. There he met a
lady banker, Marilyn Hughes, to whom he was married in October of 1977.
The couple returned to St. Louis for several more years, then were
pleased to have the chance to move to Columbia, Perk’s hometown, where
he was regional President of what was then Centerre Bank. The family
settled into the happy life of a smaller community, raising their three
children, Julie, Henry and Wesley.
Perk retired from Centerre
Bank, now Bank of America, to begin a more than 25 year adventure in
no-till farming. He took great pride in implementing sustainable
agricultural practices that not only enhanced the productivity of the
Hoecker family’s farmland, but also improved soil health and reduced
environmental impact for future generations. His daughter, Julie, now
continues and adds to that legacy by cultivating a chestnut orchard on
the family land.
Perk’s passion for the business world motivated
him much like his passion for farming did. So, when the opportunity
arose, he returned to banking, at First National Bank, now Simmons Bank,
in early 2000, serving as an Executive Vice President, for nearly a
decade. There he continued to be involved in charitable and civic
projects promoting business and community service, before retiring and
returning to full-time farming a second time.
Perk was preceded
in death by his brother, Wayne Howard Hoecker and his son-in-law, Robert
Benjamin “Ben” Anderson.
He is survived by his beloved wife,
Marilyn Hoecker, of Columbia, Missouri; daughter, Julie Hoecker Anderson
of Rocheport, Missouri, and her children, Grace, Russell, and Margaret
Mae; son Henry Hughes Hoecker and daughter-in-law Amber Hoecker of Eden
Prairie, Minnesota, and their children, Samuel and Madelyn; son Wesley
Russell Hoecker and daughter-in-law Alexandra Hoecker of Big Sky,
Montana, and their daughter Hope; sister Kay Geuder and her husband Fred
Geuder of Petoskey, Michigan; sister-in-law Sara Hoecker of Kansas City,
Missouri, and many other loving family members.
A celebration of
Perk’s life will be held at Trinity Community Church, 201 S. Fairview
Road, Columbia, Missouri 65203, at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, May 22, 2026,
with a reception to follow at the Club at Old Hawthorne, 6221 E.
Broadway, Columbia, Missouri 65201.
In lieu of flowers, memorial
contributions are suggested to The Foodbank for Northeast and Central
Missouri, www.sharefoodbringhope.org
Condolences may be left for
the family online at
www.parkermillard.com.
Submitted by
Classmate (Robert Kent Grant)
DEAN ZANEIS PASSED AWAY ON MAY 18TH
IN JACKSONVILLE, FLORIDA.
DEAN WAS BORN
9/19/37 IN GALLATIN, MISSOURI BUT THE FAMILY MOVED TO COLUMBIA SOON
AFTER HE WAS BORN. HE ATTENDED BENTON ELEMENTARY, JEFFERSON JR HS, AND
GRADUATED FROM HICKMAN HS IN 1955 WHERE HE LETTERED IN FOOTBALL,
BASKETBALL, AND BASEBALL.
AFTER GRADUATION DEAN ENLISTED IN THE U
S ARMY AND SERVED HIS ENLISTMENT IN GERMANY. UPON HIS RETURN HE
ATTENDED THE UNIVERSITY OF MISSOURI AND GRADUATED IN 1964.
DEAN
OWNED AND OPERATED AVERY SUCCESSFUL FOOD AND ENTERTAINMENT BUSINESS IN
KALAMAZOO, MICHIGAN FOR A NUMBER OF YEARS AND THEN CHANGED COURSE AND
DID THE SAME WITH A SUCCESSFUL CHARTER FISHING BUSINESS LOCATED ON MARCO
ISLAND, FLORIDA.
RETIREMENT TOOK HIM FIRST TO LADY LAKE, FLORIDA
AND THEN TO MOUTH OF WILSON, VIRGINIA.
HE IS SURVIVED BY HIS WIFE
VICKI, DAUGHTER KRISTI
CUCINELLA, SONS CHAD AND MIKE AND THEIR
FAMILY’S.
Posted
online on May 21, 2026
Published in Columbia Daily Tribune
Isabel Bennett
MacLeod Burggraaff, 84, of Columbia, Missouri, died on May 20, 2026 in
Columbia, Missouri.
Isabel was born in Columbia on April 22,
1941, to Ellsworth Allan and Mary Bennett MacLeod. She grew up in
Columbia and attended the University of Missouri Lab School before
graduating from Hickman High School in 1959. She later attended Rollins
College in Winter Park, Florida, earning a Bachelor’s degree in English
in 1963.
After college, Isabel spent more than a decade living
and working in Boston and Washington, D.C. She especially enjoyed her
work in production for both the Smithsonian and Washingtonian magazines.
During those years she also enjoyed traveling throughout the United
States and abroad. In 1976, she returned to Columbia, where she taught
English as a Second Language to foreign adults until her retirement.
On August 1, 1981, Isabel married Winfield J. Burggraaff at Calvary
Episcopal Church in Columbia. Together they shared 44 years of marriage
and enjoyed traveling, spending time at home, and summers in
Quonochontaug on the Rhode Island coast, where her family maintained a
beach cottage for many years.
Isabel was actively involved in
Calvary Episcopal Church, serving as a vestry member as well as junior
and senior warden. She was active in several women’s organizations,
including the National Society of Colonial Dames and the Pi Beta Phi
Sorority alumnae club, along with local book and investment clubs. She
also volunteered with the Park Avenue Early Learning Center and the
Salvation Army Harbor House.
Survivors include her husband,
Winfield “Win” Burggraaff of Columbia, Missouri; sister in law Anne S.
MacLeod of Newport News, Virginia; Judith MacLeod of Westerly, Rhode
Island; Gertrude Pojman of Cockeysville, Maryland; and nieces Ruth F.
Pojman of Vienna, Austria, Elizabeth MacLeod Guillemette of Johnson
City, Tennessee, Lucia MacLeod of Kalamazoo, Michigan, Suzanne MacLeod
of Sydney, Australia, and Laura MacLeod Hawkins of Westerly, Rhode
Island.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Ellsworth and
Mary MacLeod, and her brothers, Daniel and Burnam MacLeod.
A
Memorial Service will be held at Parker-Millard Funeral Service &
Crematory, 12 E Ash St. Columbia, MO on June 4, 2026 at 11 a.m. with an
hour of visiting time to follow. The service will be live streamed on
the funeral home website under Isabel’s obituary page at
www.millardfamilychapels.com.
Memorial contributions may be made
to the Food Bank for Central & Northeast Missouri, 2101 Vandiver Dr.
Columbia, MO 65202, the Salvation Army 1108 West Ash, Columbia, Missouri
65203, the Central Missouri Humane Society, 616 Big Bear Blvd. Columbia,
MO 65202 or a charity of the donor’s 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.
Submitted by, Parker-Millard Funeral Service & Crematory, 12 East Ash
Street, Columbia MO 65203
Pamela J. Mertz, 67,
passed away May 22, 2026. Pam faced her cancer diagnosis with courage
and strength, remaining brave throughout her journey as she continued to
fight through difficult complications that ultimately became too much
for her body, but never her spirit.
Born on March 23, 1959, in
Charles City, Iowa, Pam was the beloved daughter of the late Keith and
Nancy Byington.
Pam graduated from Hickman High School in 1977
before pursuing her passion for helping others through nursing. She
earned her nursing degree from Central Methodist University and
dedicated her entire career to psychiatric nursing, where she cared
deeply in advocating for her patients and made a lasting impact through
her compassion, patience, and kindness.
Outside of her family,
Pam’s greatest love was horses. She found peace, joy, and freedom in
their presence. Although a horse lover and owner all her life, her heart
horse, Roper, held a special place in her soul. If she wasn’t already at
the barn, she enjoyed accompanying her daughter, Maria, to Cowboy
Mounted Shooting events.
Pam shared her life with her husband,
Daniel Mertz. Together, they built a life centered on family, loyalty,
and companionship, remaining a constant presence in each other’s lives
through their 46 years together. She was a devoted mother who provided
steady support and encouragement, always helping her daughters, Emily
(Josh) Woodruff and Maria (David Spratt) Mertz, pursue and achieve their
dreams. Pam was also a loving Grandma to her grandchildren: Eloise,
Isla, Lane, and Harlow, who brought her endless pride and happiness.
Pam was preceded in death by her parents, Keith and Nancy Byington,
and her sister, Ann Byington. She is survived by her brothers, Jay (Pat)
Byington and Bill (Tammy) Byington, along with many beloved nieces,
nephews, and extended family members and friends who will miss her
deeply.
Pam will be remembered as someone whose quiet wisdom
carried tremendous weight. She had a way of giving honest, thoughtful
advice that made people feel steadier and stronger simply by talking
with her. Her caring heart, resilience, fierce love for her family, and
unwavering presence will be deeply missed by all who knew her. Her
memory will live on in the lives she touched, the family she loved, and
the countless moments shared around laughter, horses, and home.
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, 1217 Business Loop 70 W, Columbia MO
65202
Douglas
Michael Botner of Norman, Oklahoma, passed away on Friday, May 22, 2026
in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, at the age of 72.
He was born on
February 4, 1954, in Columbia, Missouri, to Dr. Stanley and Dixie
Botner. In his younger years he was known as “Micky” by almost everyone.
Later, he used the name “Doug,” although his family still lovingly
referred to him as “Micky” or “Mick.” His early years were shaped by
visits to the family farm in north Boone County.
Doug graduated
from Hickman High School in 1972. He then attended the University of
Missouri – Columbia where he earned a bachelors and a masters degree in
Atmospheric Science.
His first job took him to Fairbanks, Alaska,
where he worked as a meteorologist for the National Oceanic and
Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). He then worked for NOAA in Silver
Springs, Maryland, for a few years before finally moving to Norman,
Oklahoma, where he continued to work until his retirement.
Doug
had numerous and varied interests. He and his family shared a life-long
interest in St. Louis Cardinals baseball. He was a lifetime member of
Mensa, and he was published in both the national magazine “The Mensa
Bulletin” and the Oklahoma regional newsletter “Mensokie.” He knew
almost all the answers when watching TV Jeopardy, especially excelling
in geography, state and world capitals, U.S. presidents, and world
leaders.
He could shoot a winning game of pool (eight-ball). He
was an award-winning poet in the 2025 writing contest sponsored by the
Norman Galaxy of Writers, taking first place in Unrhymed Poetry with his
entry “Divided Highways,” and second place with his entry “Cat Yarn.”
Doug was as funny as he was intelligent, easily able to make people
laugh so hard that they’d cry. He had a lifelong interest in aviation
and astronomy. He was generous, kind-hearted, and he will be missed
tremendously by those who were blessed to know him.
Doug is
survived by his sisters, Linda (Ray) Noll and Carol (David) Larsen, both
of Columbia; nephew John (Helen) Weston, Jr. and their children Thomas
Chen Weston and Julie Chen Weston, all of Suzhou, China; niece Kathryn
Gayle Weston of Columbia; and his dear friend Lisbeth McCarty of Norman,
OK. He was preceded in death by a sister, Janet Crow, and by his
parents.
A graveside service will be held in Memorial Park
Cemetery in Columbia, Missouri on Wednesday, June 3 at 10:30 AM.
Condolences and fond memories can be shared at
www.memorialfuneralhomeandcemetery.com.
Posted online on June 07, 2026
Published in Columbia Daily
Tribune
Robert
Lionel Northup, 83, passed away on May 23, 2026, in Boonville, Missouri.
Born on June 17, 1942, Bob grew up in Columbia, Missouri, attending
Columbia public schools and graduating from Hickman High School in 1960.
He continued his education at Central Methodist College in Fayette,
Missouri.
Bob was a dedicated professional optician, beginning
his career with Lee Optical before opening his own store, The Optical
Shop, in Columbia during the mid-1970s. He later expanded his business
to include hearing aids and eventually established the Columbia Hearing
Center, which remains in operation today under the management of his
youngest son, Nathan.
A talented musician, Bob played saxophone,
piano, guitar, and accordion. In his youth, he performed with his
father’s band, "The Rhythm Kings," entertaining audiences with big band
music across central Missouri. His musical journey evolved as he became
active in his church, transitioning from deacon and music leader to
pastor of two churches in Centralia and Columbia. Bob also expressed his
creativity through songwriting, publishing numerous works, and even
dabbling in minor inventions and construction projects, including
building his family home.
Bob’s passion extended to patriotic
activism, organizing campaigns and running twice for State Senator. He
was an energetic and enthusiastic individual who loved meeting new
people and embraced life with tenacity and a touch of showmanship.
He is survived by his four children: Jon (Sherie) Northup of St.
Charles; Elizabeth (Kurt) Kaiser of Severance, CO; Daniel (Carolyn)
Spratley of Columbia; and Nathan (Jessica) Northup of Boonville; their
mother, Peggy Northup of Columbia; eight grandchildren; two
great-grandchildren; and many nieces, nephews, and extended family. He
was preceded in death by his siblings Bill Northup, Lanny Northup, and
Diane Smith.
A visitation will be held on June 13, 2026, from
10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at Memorial Funeral Home, 1217 Business Loop 70
West, Columbia, MO. A Celebration of Life service will follow at 11:00
a.m., with interment at Memorial Park Cemetery. Memorial contributions
may be made to Liberty Baptist Church. Bob’s memory will live on in the
hearts of all who knew him.
Posted online on May 30, 2026
Published in Columbia Daily Tribune
James “Leon”
Schmidt, 82, of Columbia, Missouri, passed away on Monday, May 25, 2026,
at University Hospital of Missouri.
James was born on February
19, 1944, to the late James Bryan and Betty Jean (Chipley) Schmidt.
James is survived by his siblings, Linda K. Coleman, Michael E.
Heisler, Debra S. Heisler, Rita V. Holly (David); son, James Brandon
Schmidt; three grandchildren, Sylas Schmidt, Mason Schmidt, and Kennedy
Schmidt.
James was preceded in death by both parents, one sister,
Martha A. Schmidt, and a brother-in-law, Harold Coleman.
A
Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.
Bach-Yager
Funeral Chapel is honored to serve the Schmidt family.
Online
condolences and tributes may be shared with the family at
www.bachyager.com.
Submitted by, site image Bach-Yager Funeral
Home, 1610 North Garth Avenue, Columbia MO 65202
Douglas Jay
Bolerjack, 70, of Columbia, Missouri, passed away unexpectedly on
Wednesday, May 27, 2026, at Columbia’s University Hospital.
A
Memorial Service and lunch will be held at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, June
13, 2026, at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 4708
Highlands Parkway, Columbia, MO 65203. Following the service, there will
be an Open House Celebration of Life Gathering at D. Rowe’s Restaurant,
1005 Club Village Dr, Columbia, MO 65203, from 2:00-5:00 p.m. A family
burial will be held at a later date.
Doug was born in Moberly,
Missouri on March 4, 1956, to the late Chauncey Arden and Margery Ellen
(Wright) Bolerjack. On March 21, 1982, he married Laura Mackie in
Houston, Texas.
Doug attended Hickman High School, Southwest
Baptist College, and the University of Missouri. Through his business,
Bolerjack Insurance Agency, Doug cultivated many, long-lasting
friendships; friendships he held dear. For many years, Doug was active
with the Columbia Jaycees, holding several positions including 4 years
as Board President. With the help of its members, Doug was instrumental
in raising funds for many local non-profit organizations. He was also
active for many years with the Columbia Northwest Rotary Club and the
Boy Scouts of America.
Doug was an adventurer. In his youth, he
liked spelunking and rock climbing with friends in Easley, MO. He
enjoyed white water canoeing and rafting, hiking, and camping with his
family. Doug was an avid golfer, wallyball and softball player, umpire,
and duck hunter.
Doug is survived by his wife Laura and daughter
Mallory Bolerjack; brother, Paul Bolerjack (Arlene); nephew Charles
Kincannon, nieces Amy Hansen (Ryan) and Jodi Himmelberg (Marcus);
sister-in-law Robyn Mackie Impero (Jim); nieces Megan Impero and Nikki
Demchenko (Ihor); brother-in-law Scott Mackie (Madelyn); nieces Laura
Mackie, Lynda Lee (Dylan), Brianna Mackie and nephew James Mackie, and
many wonderful cousins.
Memorial contributions are suggested to
The Boy Scouts of America, The Food Bank for Central & Northeast
Missouri, or Voluntary Action Center.
Bach-Yager Funeral Chapel
is honored to serve the Bolerjack family.
Submitted by, Memorial Funeral Home, Crematory & Memorial Park
Cemetery/Columbia
Stanley James Lynn,
71, of Columbia, Mo, passed away at Boone Hospital Center, on May 30,
2026. He was attended by family and friends.
Stan was born on October
15, 1954, in England, to Merlyn and Muriel Lynn.
Stan leaves
behind his wife Linda Kay (Barnes) Lynn and son, Travis Lynn. Siblings
who survive are Linda Shives (Norm), Dale Lynn (Joetta), Debra Patterson
(Chris); Don Lynn (Venus); and his brother/sister-in-laws: Terry
(Cheryl) Barnes, Jerry (Tina) Barnes, Lillian Lynn and Alan Reed. There
are also numerous nephews, nieces, and cousins.
Preceding him in
death were his parents, three brothers: David, Robert, and Ronald Lee
Lynn, a sister: Donna Carpenter-Reed, his in-laws: Cecil and Helen
Barnes, and nephew: Tyler Barnes.
Stan came into the family as
the second son, and the third of nine children. The family was a
military one, so there were several moves in those early years. Stan
learned early how to make new friends and he made many lifelong friends.
Stan was the second of his siblings to graduate from Hickman High
School in 1973. He served six years in the US Army Reserves as a Supply
Specialist. In his early adult life, he held a variety of jobs,
including working at VitaFresh and Kmart. Stan’s long-time career was
spent working for the City of Columbia Street Department, retiring after
32 years. He then worked at Sydenstricker Nobbe Partners as a truck
driver, and finished working part time as a delivery driver at Ri-Mor.
Stan’s passions (after his family) were playing baseball in his
youth, in FFA Alumni support, collecting and working on his collection
of Farmall Tractors, a camping club, and curing champion Boone County
Hams. He worked with the youth of several 4-H clubs curing up to 100
hams in some years. He also loved time spent outdoors, and being with
people. He will be remembered as a family man, a hard-worker, a
jokester, and someone who could be counted on when you needed him.
Services are under the direction of Memorial Funeral Home with
internment at Memorial Park Cemetery. Visitation will be held Wednesday,
June 3, 2026, 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Memorial Funeral Home. Services
will be Thursday, June 5, 2026, 10:00 a.m. at Memorial Funeral Home
Chapel.
In lieu of flowers consider making a donation to the
Englewood Community Clubhouse, in Ashland, MO, (in care of Linda Lynn),
as they were active members there.
Submitted by, Memorial Funeral Home, Crematory & Memorial Park
Cemetery/Columbia
David Lee "Dave"
Jones, 82, of Columbia passed away peacefully on Saturday, May 30, 2026
at South Hampton nursing home in Columbia, Missouri.
David was
born April 2, 1944 in Boonville, MO to Alvie Raymond Jones and Jamilee
(Baldwin) Watts. The family later moved to Columbia, MO and David
graduated from Hickman high school. He attended the University of
Missouri.
Dave went on to a career in the movie theater business,
including stops in Rolla, Missouri, and Lawrence, Kansas he spent a
majority of his career as the Columbia city manager for Commonwealth
Theaters.
For 35 years, Dave oversaw the Acolyte program at
Missouri United Methodist Church, his beloved church home. He also
served in a variety of roles and for the last 15 years of his ministry,
was the Director of Parish Visits for MUMC. He also led a team of
volunteers to do worship services at care facilities all around the
Columbia area, providing faith and hope to so many. Throughout his time
at the church, he worked with, mentored, and comforted generations of
families.
He is survived by his brother, Howard Jones of Grove
City, Ohio. He is also survived by numerous nieces, nephews, great
nieces, great nephews, and dear friends who felt like family
He
was preceded in death by his parents; step-father, Donald Watts, and his
nephew, Danny Jones.
Services will be at Missouri United
Methodist Church on Thursday, June 11, 2026. A visitation will be from
9:30 AM until the funeral hour at 10:30 AM. Graveside burial will follow
in Memorial Park Cemetery 1217 Business Loop 70 West Columbia, MO.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Missouri United
Methodist Church.
Condolences and fond memories can be shared at
www.memorialfuneralhomeandcemetery.com.
Posted online on June 08, 2026
Published in
Columbia Daily Tribune
On the 6th day of
June 2026, Helen Louise Gish got her angel wings. Born to James Albert
and Opal Irene Boggs Watson on December 28, 1945, at Boone Hospital in
Columbia, Missouri.
Helen grew up in Boone County where she went
to Hickman High School and married Larry Coleman. They had 2 children –
Tina Zeller and Martin Coleman.
Helen later married Bill Gish and
they had 2 children as well – Dennis Gish and LaVerna Gish. Helen worked
in Columbia, Missouri all her adult life – from Daniel Boone Hotel to
Kemper Auction to square D now Schneider Electric for almost 30 years
until her retirement at 80 years old.
There were a lot of jobs,
from cutting and selling firewood to raising her children. Helen was a
hard worker all her adult life. She loved her family totally, heart and
soul. Upon retirement and a brief illness, she has went home to rest in
the skies above.
To mourn her loss is her 4 children, 4
grandchildren and 6 great grandchildren, along with many friends and
extended family.
Helen was preceded in death by her parents,
ex-husbands and dear friends.
Services will be at Parker-Millard
Funeral Service in Columbia, Missouri on Thursday, June 11, 2026,
visitation from 8:00 a.m. to 10:00a.m. with service to follow at
10:00a.m. Burial will follow services at Columbia Cemetery.
God
speed, gone but never forgotten, go rest High!
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
Barbara Jean
“Bobbie” Freeman, of Columbia, Missouri, passed away peacefully on
Tuesday, June 23, 2026, at Boone Hospital Center. She was 85 years old.
Born on December 23, 1940, in Boone County, Missouri, Barbara was
the daughter of Wren and Margaret Nelline (Coats) Niles. A lifelong
Boone County resident, she spent part of her childhood in Rocheport
before her family moved to Columbia. She graduated from Hickman High
School and, on August 14, 1959, married the love of her life, James
Edward Freeman. Together they built a life centered on faith, family,
hard work, and lasting memories.
Barbara dedicated many years of
service to Shelter Insurance in Columbia before retiring. While she took
pride in her work, her greatest joy came from her family. She was a
loving wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, aunt, and
friend whose warmth and kindness touched the lives of many.
She
cherished time spent with those she loved and found happiness in
gathering family together. Barbara also had a passion for travel and
enjoyed exploring the country, creating treasured memories along the
way. Her gentle spirit, caring heart, and unwavering love for her family
will be remembered and missed by all who knew her.
Those left to
cherish her memory include her children, Marsha Schafer, Lance Freeman
and wife Becky, and Tim Freeman and wife Karen, all of Columbia; six
grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; her sister, Sue Vermillion and
husband Tom of Lubbock, Texas; and numerous nieces, nephews, extended
family members, and dear friends.
She was preceded in death by
her parents; her beloved husband, James Edward Freeman; her daughter and
son-in-law, Belinda and Kenny Hulen; her brother, Edwin Niles; and her
sister, Nadine Sargent.
In lieu of flowers, memorial
contributions may be made to the Food Bank for Central and Northeast
Missouri.
Graveside services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on
Saturday, June 27, 2026, at Memorial Park Cemetery. Arrangements have
been entrusted to Memorial Funeral Home.
Family submitted obituary from The
Columbia Missourian
Russell Thompson, Feb. 11, 1966 — June 26,
2026
Russell
William Thompson, age 60, passed away peacefully in his sleep after a
short battle with cancer on June 26, 2026.
Beloved husband of
Mary Beth (Luetkemeyer) Thompson, the greatest dad of Cooper (Lyss
Erhardt), Iris, Sammi, and Luke. Dear son of Warren and Mary (Martinek)
Thompson and son-in-law of Hank and Betty (Shulte) Luetkemeyer, who all
preceded him in death. He was an exceptional brother to Sara Thompson
(Mark Femenella) and Wyatt Thompson (Stacey Yates). He was an uncle,
nephew, cousin, godfather, and friend.
Russell’s dry sense of
humor and wit was the source of much laughter. He loved to go on bike
rides any day that the temperature was above 55° and his favorite parks
to hike in were Castlewood, Emmenegger, and Elephant Rocks.
He
admired planes and cars, often taking his family to air shows at the
Spirit of St. Louis Airport and Scott Air Force Base, touring car
museums, and sharing photos of cars or a really hilarious license plate.
Russell was a voracious reader and enthusiastic movie-goer. His
favorite themes were science fiction and westerns. Russell loved
spending as much time with his family as he could and was in his happy
place during family meal times. New Year’s Eves were spent talking about
goals that had been achieved that year and making new goals for the
upcoming year.
He cheered his children on in all their activities
from sports to band to theater. He encouraged them to look for ways to
help those in need, to try new things, and to give their best efforts in
all they did. Russell thoroughly researched everything he was curious
about and meticulously planned family vacations and camping trips. He
was the family photographer at all gatherings.
Russell was born
in St. Louis on February 11, 1966. He grew up there and in Columbia,
Missouri. He loved spending summers of his childhood on his aunt and
uncle’s farm in Hawk Point, Missouri, and visiting family in Oklahoma.
A graduate of Hickman High School, Russell then attended Kansas
University, University of Missouri at Columbia, and University of
Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, earning Bachelors and Masters degrees.
Post graduation, Russell’s professional life was defined by his work
in the information technology healthcare field. His meaningful career,
including at Prime Therapeutics and Magellan Health Services, was built
on his professional skill, loyalty, and genuine camaraderie. Alongside
his academic and professional achievements, Russell found time for team
sports, particularly soccer, softball, and volleyball.
Russell
was committed to maintaining relationships that endured throughout his
life. He unreservedly shared his affection and time, driving any
distance, attending every event, and giving the best hugs. Russell
recognized that his 33-year marriage to Mary Beth was fundamental to his
happiness.
He will be deeply missed.
Visitation from
4-8:00pm on Tuesday, June 30, at Bopp Chapel, 10610 Manchester Rd.,
Kirkwood, MO. Funeral Mass 10am on Wednesday, July 1, at St. Peter
Catholic Church, 243 W. Argonne Dr., Kirkwood, MO. Interment St. Peter
Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, please consider memorials to Stray
Rescue, Room at the Inn, or perform random acts of kindness.
Posted online on July 09, 2026
Published in
Columbia Daily Tribune
Tommy Lee Stone, 84,
died peacefully in Columbia on June 27, 2026. His unstoppable work
ethic, keen sense of humor, and no-nonsense approach to turning problems
into opportunities will forever be remembered and appreciated by his
family and friends.
Tommy was born August 16, 1941, in Columbia,
Missouri, the first of three sons to the late Earl and Doris (Reed)
Stone. He graduated from David H. Hickman High School, where he met the
love of his life, Donna Kewley. The two married on August 4, 1960,
welcomed a son David and daughter Terri, shared a lifetime of adventures
and, in 2022, celebrated their 62nd wedding anniversary before Donna
passed away.
Early on, Tommy was drawn to the golf course world,
sharing his Dad's love of the game. While he was a good player, his
mastery would come as a golf course turf management expert. He got his
start in the golf course business at the University of Missouri golf
course in 1959. In 1968, he landed his first golf course superintendent
position at the Columbia Country Club. And that was just the start as he
took on superintendent roles at the Country Club of Missouri
(1972-1994), the prestigious Old Warson Country Club in St. Louis
(1994-1999), and A.L. Gustin Golf Course, where he was director of golf
course operations and taught several turf classes at the University of
Missouri (1999-2006).
In 1991, Tommy along with friends and
colleagues Rich Poe and Ed Scott bought 45 acres of farmland and hoped
to design and build a golf course together one day. It took years, but
in the spring of 1999, Perche Creek Golf Course officially opened in
Columbia featuring a driving range and an 18-hole par-3 course. Tommy
also designed the par 72, 18-hole Hail Ridge Golf Course in Boonville,
Mo., that opened in 2005. And, as if he wasn't busy enough, he started
Country Club Turf Lawncare in 2006 with Stewart Bigelow, his former
assistant at Country Club of Missouri, and his father Stew Bigelow.
Tommy was one of the original members of the Missouri Valley
Turfgrass Association and served on its board of directors. He was also
an active member of the Golf Course Superintendents Association of
America (GCSAA) for 57 years.
He earned numerous awards
throughout his career, including 2013 Hall of Fame Honors from the
Columbia Golf Foundation. In 1972, he was also recognized for helping to
establish the first zoysia golf course in Missouri.
Through it
all, he and Donna never lost sight of the importance of family, friends,
love and laughter.
He is survived by his beloved daughter, Terri
Lea Stone; and brother-in-law, Larry (Kay) Kewley. He also leaves behind
many nieces and nephews, who he loved to tease. They loved it too
because they knew behind Uncle Tom's gruff act was a very big heart.
Tommy was preceded in death by his wife, Donna Rae Stone; his son,
David Randall Stone; parents Earl and Doris Stone; brothers Larry Stone
and Richard (Dicky) Stone; brother-in-law, Ronald Wayne Kewley;
sister-in-law, Rita Mae Kewley; and loving in-law parents, Ray and Edna
Kewley who he adored.
A gathering of family and friends to
celebrate Tommy's life will be held from 1:00-3:00 p.m., Saturday, July
18, 2026, at Bach-Yager Funeral Chapel, 1610 N. Garth Ave., Columbia,
Mo., 65202.
Online condolences and tributes may be shared with
the family at www.bachyager.com.
Submitted by Columbia Missourian
John (Johnnie) Old
passed away peacefully at the home he loved on July 2, 2026.
Born
and raised in Columbia, Missouri, John was the only child of John and
Grace Tate Old. He graduated from Hickman High School, where he was an
outstanding athlete, lettering three years in football, two years in
basketball, and two years in baseball.
John’s athletic
accomplishments continued beyond high school. In 1954, he was a member
of the Kewpies Conference Championship football team and earned
All-Conference, All-District, Honorable Mention All-State, and Wigwam
Wiseman All-American honors. He also still holds the Kewpie record for
the longest touchdown by interception.
On the baseball field,
John was the starting shortstop for the Kewpies and later played for the
American Legion and Ban Johnson teams. His love for the game never
faded, as he continued organizing baseball and fast-pitch softball
leagues well into his 80s. Bill Clark once described him as “one of the
outstanding athletes in Columbia.”
John had a passion for travel
and enjoyed seeing new places, experiencing different cultures, and
creating memories with those he loved. Whether exploring new cities or
spending time with family and friends, he embraced life with enthusiasm
and curiosity.
John met the love of his life, Shirley, by chance
after calling the City of Rocheport, where she was working as a city
clerk. They were married in 2007 and shared many happy years together.
John is survived by his wife, Shirley Old; his children, Stacy Ann
Kneibert (Phillip Kneibert) and Jeffrey Daniel Old; as well as many
grandchildren and one great-grandchild, born just seven months ago.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, July 10, 2026, from
1:00–3:00 p.m. at 4901 Lytham Drive.
Floyd Sloan Obituary
Obituary published on Legacy.com by Beyers
Funeral Home & Crematory - Lady Lake on Jul. 22, 2026.
Russ Sloan was born in
Sioux City Iowa March 28, 1938 to the late Floyd and Marian Sloan.
Russ and his parents lived in Los Angles during WWII and in 1945
they moved to Columbia, Missouri. Russ was Student Body President at
Hickman High School and was 4 sport lettermen and named 3rd team All
State Football as an End. Russ received a football scholarship from the
University of Missouri in 1956. While at Missouri Russ received 1st team
All-Conference honors and was the only unanimous All-Conference choice
as selected by the coaches. Russ played on the Tigers 1960 Orange Bowl
team and the 1960 All Star Hula Bowl played in Honolulu Hawaii. Before
the end of his senior year Russ was drafted by the Los Angeles Chargers
who immediately traded him to the New York Titans, now the Jets. He was
also offered a baseball contract with the St. Louis Cardinals. An injury
in training camp and the exhibition season ended his pro aspirations.
He returned to Missouri to obtain his Master's degree and begin his
coaching career. Russ coached at Hickman High School, Mo, Higginsville
H.S. Mo, Centralia H.S Mo, Carthage H.S Mo and Northeast Mo State
University, now Truman State University. During his 3yr tenure as Head
Coach at Northeast Mo State his Bulldogs garnered 3 MIAA Conference
Championships. Three of his players went on to the NFL and two more in
the World Football League. In 1972 Russ resigned from coaching to run
for Congress in Missouri 6th district. Although unsuccessful he became
the Director of Motor Vehicles and Licensing for the State of Missouri
and received recognition for saving Missouri tax payers one million
dollars a year! Russ returned to collegiate athletics as Athletic
Director at Southeast Missouri State University. In 1979 Russ was named
the Executive Director of the Bulldog Foundation at Fresno State
University in Fresno, Ca. and one year later became the Athletic
Director at Fresno State. Russ returned to the private sector 2 years
later as Executive Director of the Fresno City and County Chamber of
Commerce and for the next 20 years Russ headed three Chamber of
Commerce, Fresno Ca, Muncie In. and St. Petersburg Fl. Russ was selected
by the Chamber Executives to also serve as State President of the
State's Chamber Executives for the states of Indiana and Florida. After
eleven years Russ retired from the St. Petersburg Chamber. Retirement
didn't last long as he headed up the New Business Assistance Center at
Lake Sumter Community College. While doing that he also began writing a
weekly column for the Leesburg, FL paper, The Daily Commercial. Russ
retired from Lake Sumter Community College at 75 but continued to write
his column for the paper until the age of 84 and spent his remaining
years in Leesburg and Lady Lake Florida.
Russ and his wife Peggy
Fisher Sloan were married 66 years and they have 3 adult children
Douglas, Matthew and Lori Sloan Quandt, 8 grandchildren Matthew Sloan,
Jordan Sloan, Luke Sloan, Ryan Sloan, Allison Aubuchon, Christina
Aubuchon, Jessica Aubuchon, Daniel Aubuchon and 3 great grandchildren,
Nathan Clement, Sadie Pfister and Chevelle Pfister.
Russ was an
inductee of the University of Missouri Athletic Hall of Fame, the
Missouri Sports Hall of Fame, Northeast Missouri State Athletic Hall of
Fame and the Truman State University Athletic Hall of Fame.
A
celebration of life will be held at a later date.
Submitted by, Parker-Millard Funeral Service
& Crematory, 12 E. Ash St., Columbia, MO 65203
Marjorie “Margie”
Jean Merideth, 96, passed away on July 19, 2026, surrounded by her
family. She was born August 9, 1929, in Boone County to William Keith
and Georgia (Cundiff) Adair. On September 1, 1947, she married George W.
Merideth.
While raising her four children, Margie began working
as a bookkeeper for Dalton Material Co in 1962 then Columbia Ready Mix
in 1976 and retired as Office Manager in 2006 after 64 years of service.
She also volunteered for 12 years (1996–2008) in the beauty salon at The
Bluffs retirement community, where her mother had been a resident.
Margie had a remarkable gift for making everyone feel like family.
Her friendships were genuine and lasting, and she welcomed everyone with
warmth, kindness, and an open heart. Whether you were a lifelong friend,
a neighbor, or someone she had just met, she had a way of making you
feel at home and like you belonged. She gave generously of her time and
heart, always putting the needs of others before her own. Deeply loved
by all who knew her, Margie will be remembered for her kindness, quiet
strength, and the joy she brought to others. She cherished time with
friends at Hartman Village, enjoyed her daily walks, and found beauty in
watching the birds and the contrails stretching across the sky.
She was preceded in death by her husband of 73 years, George W.
Merideth. She is survived by her four children: Sandy (Merideth)
Bemboom; Judie (Merideth) Akin (David); Billy G. Merideth; and John W.
Merideth (Sandy); along with 10 grandchildren, 21 great-grandchildren
and many nieces and nephews.
A Celebration of Life is planned for
a later date. The family requests that donations be made to the St.
Jude's Children's Research Hospital in memory of Margie.
Arrangements are under the direction of (573) 449-4153. Condolences may
be left online for the family at
www.parkermillard.com.
Posted
online on July 30, 2026
Published in Columbia Daily Tribune
Billie H. Silvey,
95, of Columbia, Missouri, passed away peacefully at her home on
Saturday, July 25, 2026.
Born on May 21, 1931, in Columbia to
Charlie Hopper Jr. and Lena Marie (Gibson) Hopper, Billie was a proud
lifelong resident of the community she loved. She graduated from Hickman
High School before continuing her education at the University of
Missouri, where she earned her bachelor's degree. Education remained one
of the guiding principles of her life, and she believed wholeheartedly
that everyone deserved the opportunity to learn.
On June 6, 1954,
Billie married the love of her life, James M. "Jim" Silvey, in Columbia.
Together they built a beautiful life centered on family, faith, service,
and an unwavering commitment to their community. They were blessed with
one daughter, Sheryl, who was the joy of their lives.
Billie and
Jim shared countless passions throughout their years together. They
loved to dance and were known for their extraordinary talent on the
dance floor, often captivating everyone around them. They were also
devoted University of Missouri alumni and among the Tigers' most loyal
supporters. As longtime season ticket holders dating back to 1951, they
faithfully supported Mizzou athletics for decades, with a special love
for the women's basketball program. They traveled across the country
cheering on the team, established scholarships to benefit
student-athletes, and gave generously to support the program they
cherished. In recognition of their extraordinary generosity, the
University of Missouri Women's Basketball offices bear their name. Yet
despite the many honors they received, Billie remained remarkably
humble, never giving for recognition but simply because she believed in
making a difference.
Traveling the world was another of Billie's
greatest joys. She and Jim embraced every opportunity to explore new
places and cultures, creating treasured memories as they journeyed
together across the globe. Wherever they traveled, Billie carried her
camera, capturing the beauty of the people, landscapes, and experiences
they encountered. Photography became one of her lifelong passions,
allowing her to preserve the stories of their adventures and share them
with family and friends for years to come.
Her dedication to
education extended beyond her own academic pursuits. Billie served for
20 years as a secretary in the Journalism Department at Stephens College
before later working in the University of Missouri's Special Education
Department. She believed education had the power to change lives and was
passionate about ensuring opportunities for others.
Service to
others was at the heart of everything Billie did. She volunteered with
the Columbia Police Department for seven years and, alongside Jim,
served as co-chair of the
Columbia Police Foundation in 2002.
Their generosity provided K-9 units and training, supported the D.A.R.E.
program, and funded police motorcycles to help officers better serve the
community. Their support extended equally to the Boone County Sheriff's
Office and the University of Missouri Police Department, reflecting
their deep appreciation for those who dedicated their lives to
protecting others.
Billie devoted herself to countless
organizations that strengthened the Columbia community. She was a member
of Citizens for a Stronger Columbia, supported the Tiger Scholarship
Fund, and volunteered with CrimeStoppers Neighborhood Watch during the
1980s. She gave faithfully to The Food Bank and numerous other
charitable causes, always seeking ways to help those in need. She was
honored with the Altrusa International Community Service Award in
recognition of her extraordinary dedication to serving others. She was
also the largest and longest-standing donor to the Learning Disabilities
Association of St. Louis, a cause that was especially meaningful to her.
Those who knew Billie will remember her not only for her generosity
but for the genuine joy she brought into every room. She possessed an
infectious laugh, an outgoing spirit, and a gift for making everyone
feel welcomed and valued. She quietly influenced countless lives through
her kindness, compassion, and steadfast belief in giving back. Her
humility was one of her defining qualities; she never sought recognition
for the many lives she touched, choosing instead to let her actions
speak for themselves. Her legacy of generosity, service, and love will
continue to inspire all who were blessed to know her.
She is
survived by her beloved daughter, Sheryl Silvey of Ellisville, Missouri;
her nieces and nephews, Jean (Dave) Landon of Coronado Island,
California, Michael (Sally) Bauer of San Diego, California, and David
(Liza) Bauer of Columbia, Missouri; along with other cherished relatives
and many dear friends.
She was preceded in death by her parents,
Charlie Hopper Jr. and Lena Marie Hopper; her beloved husband, James M.
"Jim" Silvey; her sister, Betty Bauer; her brother-in-law, Edward Bauer.
Memorial contributions may be made in Billie's honor to the Learning
Disabilities Association of St. Louis, https://ldastl.org/donate/ ,
13537 Barrett Parkway Drive, Suite 110, Ballwin, MO 63021; The Food
Bank, https://sharefoodbringhope.org/donate/ , 2101 Vandiver Drive,
Columbia, MO 65202; or First Christian Church, 101 N. 10th Street,
Columbia, MO 65201.
Words of comfort and support may be shared
with the family at the visitation, Monday, August 3, 2026, 10:30 a.m.-
11:30 a.m. at the Memorial Funeral Home Chapel. Services honoring and
celebrating Billie’s life will follow at 11:30 a.m. Committal prayers
and burial will be in Memorial Park Cemetery, Columbia, MO.
The
family extends their heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Doug Vogt for the
exceptional compassion, care, friendship, and unwavering support he
provided Billie throughout the many years he served as her physician.
His kindness, dedication, and genuine concern for her well-being brought
great comfort to Billie and her family, and his impact on her life will
always be remembered with deep appreciation.
Condolences and fond
memories can be shared at
www.memorialfuneralhomeandcemetery.com.
Submitted by, Parker-Millard Funeral Service & Crematory, 12 East
Ash Street, Columbia, MO 65203
Samuel Christopher
Moore, known to his family and friends as Chris, passed away leaving
behind a legacy of service, curiosity, and deep love for his family.
Chris was born in Columbia, Missouri on April 4, 1959 to Samuel
Presley Moore and Helen Virginia Moore (nee Gardner). After graduating
from Hickman High School in 1977, Chris joined the United States Air
Force. He served honorably as a specialist in ground radio
communications, with assignments taking him across the globe, including
stationed tours in Korea, Japan, and Hawaii.
Following his
military service, Chris earned numerous specialty certifications and
built a long, distinguished career in the technology sector. Though he
lived and worked in several areas across the United States, he proudly
called Atlanta home for the past 13 years.
Technology was not
just Chris's profession; it was his lifelong passion. Always ahead of
the curve, he was an early adopter who frequently managed to get his
hands on the latest tech before it even hit the market.
Chris was
a passionate traveler who loved exploring new places and immersing
himself in different cultures. He had spent a long time preparing for
his next great adventure: moving to Indonesia, where he was set to
retire this August.
Chris enjoyed movies, cats, Sci-Fi, and
music, with classic rock as his favorite genre. A true music lover, he
built an impressive collection of around 2,500 vinyl records, acquired
from all around the world, spanning classic rock, jazz, and more. Above
all else, his greatest joy was his family. He was deeply proud of his
children, Christine, Jacob, and daughter-in-law Michelle. He was devoted
to his wife Lola, with whom he shared 20 years of love.
Despite
all his travels, Chris remained a proud Missourian at heart, where he
will be laid to rest alongside his parents.
Chris was predeceased
by his parents, Sam and Helen Moore, and his brother, Terry Moore. He is
survived by his wife, Lola Moore; daughter, Christine Moore; son, Jacob
(Michelle) Moore; brother, Charles (Connie) Moore; brother, Mark Moore;
and nephew, Graham Moore.
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 August 04, 2026
Published in Columbia Daily Tribune
Linda Lou
(Colvin) McKenzie passed on July 31, 2026, at Stuart House in Centralia,
MO. She was born to Joseph Martilus Colvin and Hallie Bass (Ellis)
Colvin on January 21, 1941, at a home in rural Boone County, MO, near
Whoop-Up. An only child, Linda considered her maternal cousins, Glenda
(Ellis) Scanlan and Saundra (Ellis) Sapp, like sisters. Childhood friend
Almeda (Sapp) Curtis was also like a sister to her. Linda attended
Nashville School, a one room schoolhouse near Whoop-Up and graduated
from Hickman High School in Columbia, MO in 1959.
After
graduation, she began working at Boone County Oil Company. There she met
a client, James Edward Ballenger, who introduced her to his cousin,
Henry Raymond McKenzie. Ray and Linda were united in marriage at
Nashville Baptist Church on August 6, 1961, and were blessed with nearly
65 years together. They resided in the community of Hallsville, MO for
their entire marriage.
Linda was a beloved mother to daughters,
Kimila (David) Boyle of Marquette, MI, Kara (Donald Jr.) McDaniel of St.
Charles, MO and Kena (Andrew) Neely of Wentzville, MO. She was blessed
to be Grammy to grandsons, Tyler (Annie) Boyle of Hancock, MI, Colin
McDaniel of Kirkwood, MO, Bryce McDaniel of St. Charles, MO and Aidan
McDaniel of Chicago, IL. Her first great grandchild is expected in
November.
After all her daughters entered school, Linda began
employment at 3M in Columbia, MO, where she worked until her retirement
in 2002.
Linda was a talented homemaker, known for the Red Velvet
cakes that she created for family birthdays and holidays. A gifted
seamstress, she made her wedding gown and bridesmaids dresses. She also
did the same for the weddings of her daughters. Always a night owl, it
was not uncommon to hear the purr of her trusted Singer sewing machine
operating well after midnight. Although she didn’t take up quilting like
her paternal grandmother or wood carving like her father, she had a
lifelong interest in arts and crafts. It brought Linda joy to share her
paper cutting, origami and stamped greeting card creations with family &
friends to celebrate birthdays, graduations, anniversaries and births.
Prior to Pinterest and TikTok, she taught many how to create beautiful
ribbon bows. Linda was blessed with the talent of being able to play the
piano by ear, just as her mother had.
Although quiet and not fond
of attention, her warm cheery smile and twinkle in her eyes made
everyone feel noticed, loved and welcome. Linda offered a compassionate
ear and shoulder to those in need of a good venting session. Despite
working overnight shift for numerous years, she was always present for
her daughters and rarely missed their basketball and softball games.
She was a member of Park Lane Community Church (formerly Hallsville
United Methodist). Thank you to her church community, friends, neighbors
and family for their prayers and many acts of kindness during Linda’s
journey with Alzheimer’s.
The family extends their thanks and
gratitude to Right At Home, St. Croix Hospice and Stuart House for their
compassionate care, gentle guidance, kindness and love through this
heartbreaking process.
Linda is survived by her husband,
daughters, sons-in-law, grandsons and granddaughter-in-law. She is also
survived by sister-in-law, Julie (Henrikson) McKenzie, brother-in-law,
Ronald Albin and brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Robert and Jane
(Durk) McKenzie, along with nieces, nephews and cousins.
In
addition to her parents, father-in-law, Robert Raymond “Jack” McKenzie
and mother-in-law, Anna Maxine (McCauley) McKenzie, she was preceded in
death by brother-in-law, Bobbie Dean McKenzie and sister-in-law, Wanda
Jean (McKenzie) Albin.
Visitation for Linda will be held
Wednesday, August 12, 2026, from 9:00-10:30 a.m., with funeral service
at 10:30 a.m. at Memorial Funeral Home, 1217 Business Loop 70 W,
Columbia, MO, 65202. Burial will follow at Memorial Park Cemetery.
Please consider contributions in Linda’s memory to Park Lane
Community Church, 11700 N. Route B, Hallsville, MO 65255 or Alzheimer’s
Association.
Posted online on August 08, 2026
Published in Columbia Daily Tribune
Kathryn Lynne
Thompson, age 65, of Northfield, passed away on Monday, August 3,
2026 at home.
Kathy (aka"The Tanta") was born on April 25,
1961, in Columbia, Missouri, to James and Jane (Locke) Thompson. She
grew up in Columbia and graduated from Hickman High School in 1979.
She attended Luther College, where she studied Norwegian, Spanish,
and Nursing. She was an extremely bright, energetic, devoted,
compassionate and excellent nurse.
Her patients were always a
top priority. Kathryn began her nursing career at Columbia Regional
Hospital, then worked at The University of Missouri Student Health
Service, and most recently, at Northfield Hospital. She devoted more
than 40 years to caring for her patients.
Kathy loved life,
theater, (especially musicals) movies, music, and, above all, her
family and friends. Her nieces, nephews, and Godchildren always held
a special, and enormous place in her heart. She was the number one
cheerleader for everyone. She was a light to those around her, known
for her kindness, generosity, and compassionate spirit. Kathryn was
an amazing sister, cousin and loyal friend to all. She freely gave
of her time, energy and resources to help anyone in need. She was
the Skip-Bo queen. She was also hilarious, at times irreverent, and
one sassy soul who was full of love.
She experienced her
share of suffering and loss, but consistently rose above it to
embrace the Joy and gifts of life. She had an unmatched exuberance
for life, and especially for all gatherings of friends, and family.
From infancy to adulthood, Kathy was deeply rooted in her wonderful
memories of Flandreau, SD, on the banks of the Big Sioux River. The
log cabin in the park was truly a sacred space, not only for Kathy,
but all of her family. Summers were magical, and full of several
generations of extended family love in Flandreau, She also loved
loons, lake life, and the Northern lights.
Tanta loved
dragonflies, and saw them as a sign of hope and promise throughout
her life, especially during times of loss. They never failed to
restore her spirit. She will be deeply missed by all who knew and
loved her. Our hearts are broken by her unexpected loss, but we are
so grateful for the memories, laughter, tears, joy and abundant life
we were so blessed to share with her. Now, she gets to dance with
the Northern Lights. And there is great comfort in knowing that she
is reunited with all those whose loss she mourned so deeply.
Kathy is survived by her father, James Thompson of Northfield; her
siblings, Robert (Terri) Thompson of Rockaway Hills, South Carolina,
Elizabeth Thompson of Lincoln City, Oregon, Kimberly Thompson of
Idaho, and Judy Thompson-Reitz of Northfield; as well as her beloved
nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews. She was proceeded
in death by her dear mother, Jane Thompson.
A memorial
service will be held at 11 AM, Monday. August 17, 2026, at St.
John's Lutheran Church. Visitation will be one hour prior to the
service at the church and a reception will follow.
www.northfieldfuneral.com
Submitted by, Memorial Funeral Home, Crematory & Memorial Park
Cemetery/Columbia
Donald H.
Cunningham died on 8 August 2026 in Columbia, MO.
Don, the son of
Hartley H. and Ethel Frances (Crane Cunningham McKee), was born in
Columbia, Missouri, on 21 May 1935. His great-, great -, great-
grandfather, Ira P. Nash (1786-1844), a land surveyor for the Spanish
Government, was one of the earliest settlers in what was to become Boone
County, and he founded the village of Nashville south of Columbia on the
Missouri River. Don is survived by his son Mark. His wife Patsy Ann
Dickson Cunningham died 19 July 2020.
Don grew up in Columbia and
was involved in many public school activities: captain of the Ridgeway
Elementary School Boy Patrol (precursor of today’s Street Crossing
Guards), co-captain of the Jefferson Junior High School Cyclones
basketball team, and captain of the Hickman High School track and field
team.
After graduating from high school, Don joined the US Navy,
serving as recruit commander of Company 249, which was the “Meatball
Company” (highest scoring company) in 14 weeks of boot camp at San
Diego. He served three years sea duty at various times on the USS
Eversole (DD789), a destroyer with the United Nations Combined Fleet in
Japan and Korea, and the USS Kishwaukee (AOG 9) and the USS Natchaug
(AOG 54) with the Seventh Fleet in the Formosa (now Taiwan) Straits and
French Indo-China (now Viet Nam). His last assignment was shore duty at
Camp Elliot, the US Navy and Marine Corps Retraining Command in San
Diego. He was awarded the National Defense, Navy Good Conduct, and China
Service (Extended) medals.
After being honorably discharged in
1957, he enrolled at the University of Missouri where he earned his
B.A., M.A., and Ph.D. in English. As an upper-classman, he was a grader
for Professor Donovan Rhynsburger, Director of Theatre (Introduction to
Theatre) and Professor Willoughby Johnson, Director of Composition,
(History of Motion Pictures). As a graduate instructor, he taught
Freshman Composition, Advanced Composition, American Literature, British
Literature 1 and 2, Introduction to Fiction and Drama, and Introduction
to Poetry.
His first position as a tenure-track faculty member
was at Southern Illinois University—Carbondale. In 1972, he moved to
Morehead State University as an associate professor. Later he served as
tenured professor of English and Director of Writing Programs. He also
served as Director of the MSU Writers Workshop and as Acting Head of the
Department of Languages and Literature. In 1983, he accepted the
position of tenured professor and Director of Technical Writing at Texas
Tech University. He later was hired as tenured professor and Coordinator
of Technical and Professional Communication at Auburn University. He
retired from Auburn as Professor Emeritus of English in 2005.
Initially attracted to the study of literature (his major area in
graduate studies was 19th Century British Literature), Don’s interests
turned to rhetoric, technical and professional communication, and
writing program administration. He contributed much to advance the
development of technical and professional communication as an academic
and scholarly discipline.
In addition to 40 refereed articles and
25 solicited book reviews, Don was the author or editor of a dozen
textbooks and trade books with various other authors. His academic
service was not restricted to publications. He also served for several
years as the Chair of the National Council of Teachers of English (NCTE)
Committee on Technical and Scientific Communication, as President of the
Association of Teachers of Technical Writing, and as the founding editor
of the organization’s journal and anthology series.
Among his
most honored achievements were receiving the Society for Technical
Communication’s Jay R. Gould Award for Excellence in Teaching
Communication, the Texas Tech College of Arts & Science Outstanding New
Faculty Award, and the Council for Programs in Technical and Scientific
Communication Honorary Distinguished Service Award. In 2002, he was
elected a Fellow of the Society for Technical Communication and of the
Association of Teachers of Technical Writing.
Don remained active
professionally after retirement from Auburn, serving one semester as a
visiting faculty member at the University of Missouri at Rolla (now
Missouri University of Science and Technology) and a seven-year term as
a member of the Board of Trustees of Cottey College. His most recent
publication was as co-author of Technical Editing: An Introduction to
Editing in the Workplace, published in 2019 by Oxford University Press.
For more information on Don, see Daniel Maddux, “A Conversation with
Don Cunningham: An ‘Idiosyncratic’ and ‘Unpredictable’ Career ″ in
“Legends of Technical Communication “ Intercom 64, no.6 (June 17, 2017):
10-13.
Please consider donating to your favorite charity or to
the endowed faculty Award at Cottey College (Nevada, Missouri), named
the Donald H. Cunningham Faculty Development Fund to Support Cottey
Faculty Members for Original Research or Work that May Lead to
Publication or Public Presentation. Contact advancement@cottey.edu for
more information.
Posted online on
August 18, 2026
Published in Columbia Daily Tribune
Margaret “Terry”
Jennings Hume, 71, of Columbia, Missouri, passed away peacefully on
Saturday, August 8, 2026.
Visitation will be held from 11 a.m. to
2 p.m. Friday, August 21, 2026, at Memorial Funeral Home, followed by a
graveside service. Burial will be in Memorial Park Cemetery.
Terry was born May 26, 1955, in Columbia, Missouri, to Vernon and Peggy
Phillips Jennings. She graduated from Hickman High School in 1973 and
went on to earn a Bachelor of Arts degree in Journalism from the
University of Missouri.
In 1976, Terry began her long and
dedicated career with MFA Insurance, now Shelter Insurance. During more
than 45 years of service, she held positions in several departments,
including Mailing, Accounting, Communications, and Purchasing, before
retiring in 2021. She was perhaps best known for coordinating the
Shelter Garden concerts, annual tree lighting, and fountain turn-on
events.
In 1985, Terry welcomed her son, Corey King, from her
first marriage. She was a devoted and loving mother who was always there
for Corey. She supported him throughout his life, helped plan multiple
graduation celebrations, and even followed him across the country during
the early stages of his career. Her love and devotion to her son were
among the greatest joys of her life.
Terry was known for her
compassionate and caring nature. She often put the needs of family and
friends before her own and was always willing to lend a helping hand to
anyone in need. She enjoyed cooking, reading, traveling, animals, and
adding to her extensive collections of antique frogs and Kewpies.
Above all, Terry cherished her son, her family, and her many
friends. She will be remembered for her generous heart, kindness,
loyalty, and the love she shared so freely with those around her.
Terry is survived by her son, Corey King, numerous cousins, and many
friends.
She was preceded in death by her beloved furry
companion, Mr. Jinks; her father, Vernon Jennings; her brother, Doug
Jennings; and her husband, John Hume.
Memorial contributions may
be made in Terry’s memory to the Central Missouri Humane Society, 616
Big Bear Blvd., Columbia, MO 65202, or the American Heart Association,
P.O. Box 840692, Dallas, TX 75284-0692.
Posted online on August 17, 2026
Published in Columbia Daily
Tribune
Erma
Faye Pauley of Columbia, Missouri, passed away on August 10, 2026, at
the age of 89. She was born in Columbia on Thanksgiving Day, November
26, 1936, to Hillman W. Coleman and Myrtie “Mae” (Redman) Coleman. Erma
was the oldest daughter of seven children and lived her entire life in
the Columbia area.
After graduating from Hickman High School in
1954, Erma began working for MFA Oil Company, where she had also worked
part-time while attending high school. It was there that she met her
husband, Terry O. Pauley. They were married on June 22, 1958, and shared
68 loving years together. They became devoted parents to two children,
Karla and Tony.
Erma chose to stay home during her children’s
early years, cherishing her time as a mother and wife. She later
returned to the workforce, joining Terry at Shelter Insurance Company.
The Shelter family became an important part of their lives, and Erma and
Terry enjoyed attending company meetings and social events, including
dances, picnics, and ball games. Erma and Terry retired together in
1998, following Erma’s 26 years and Terry’s 46 years of dedicated
service to Shelter Insurance.
Erma was an accomplished seamstress
and baker. She was also known for her generosity with her time, her warm
heart, and the love she freely gave to her large family and circle of
friends. Her greatest joy was the people she loved, and she leaves
behind many wonderful memories that will be treasured for years to come.
Erma was preceded in death by her parents; her brothers, Dewayne and
Philip Coleman; her sister, Judy Coose; her son-in-law, Andy Brandolese;
and her daughter-in-law, Angi Pauley.
She is survived by her
husband, Terry Pauley, of the home; her daughter, Karla Brandolese of
Grandview, Missouri; her son, Tony Pauley; her only granddaughter,
Brooke Austin (Stephon); and her only great-grandson, Elijah Austin, all
of Columbia.
She is also survived by her siblings, Charles and
Larry Coleman and Diane (Will) Watson, all of the Columbia area, along
with numerous cousins, in-laws, nieces, and nephews.
Visitation
will be held from 1:00–2:00 p.m. on Friday, August 21, 2026 at Little
Bonne Femme Baptist Church, with a memorial service to follow. Light
refreshments and memories will be shared afterward at the church.
Donations may be made to Caring Hearts and Hands or Little Bonne
Femme Baptist Church.
We’ll miss ya, “Erm.”
Posted online on August 25, 2026
Published
in Columbia Daily Tribune
Timothy Clark Flynn
January 5,
1948 – August 13, 2026
Tim Flynn was a gentle,
witty and endlessly thoughtful man, who wore life like a loose garment.
Easy-going and empathetic, he had the Irishman’s gift for story-telling
and a true music-lovers collection of over two thousand vinyl records.
Put on a Bob Dylan album and light a cigar and you had a content Tim—add
the love of his life, his wife, Jane Robinson Flynn, and a few good
friends, and you had a very content Tim.
Tim was born in
Columbia, Missouri, to Doral Flynn and Dorothy (Dysart) Flynn, both of
whom preceded him in death. He attended Hickman High School and earned a
master's degree in journalism from the University of Missouri.
Tim was raised in a family that valued learning, curiosity, and
thoughtful inquiry. He was a keen writer and observer – affinities that
would serve him well throughout his life. He journaled nearly every day;
chronicling his life after college, as he and his friend and business
partner, George Liggett, bounced around the country buying and selling
antiques and seeing as many concerts as they could. It was just the
beginning of Tim’s love for concert-going: Over the decades, he saw
legends from The Doors to Bruce Springsteen to Neil Young.
In the
early 70s, Tim and George opened Columbia’s celebrated Nostalgia Shop.
Over the years, the Nostalgia Shop became a Columbia tradition. The shop
evolved from antiques to Halloween costumes to fine tobacco and spirits,
but Tim's kind and easygoing nature, along with his wonderful sense of
humor, remained constant. He could always be counted on for a good
conversation about music, movies, books, current events, antiques, and
just about anything else. More importantly, he was a great listener. His
quiet wisdom and steady presence made him a touchstone for countless
friends, family members, customers, and acquaintances throughout his
life.
It was at the Nostalgia Shop that Tim met the love of his
life, Jane Robinson. It took a little time for Tim to work up the
courage to ask her out…but …well, his idol Bob Dylan put it best in The
Wedding Song: “You’re the other half of what I am, you’re the missing
piece/ And I love you more than ever with that love that doesn’t cease.”
Tim and Jane married in 2010 and traveled to National Parks and
museums and flea markets all over the country. West was his favorite
direction any time they traveled. They shared a lifelong love of music,
books, movies, and animals.
Tim was preceded in death by his
parents; his sisters, Leslie Garrett and Michael Elizabeth Basler; his
stepmother, Rose Page; his aunt, Billie Flynn of Maple Valley,
Washington; and his nephew, Travis Flynn.
He is survived by his
wife, Jane, of Columbia; his brother, Matt (Judith) Flynn of Kansas
City; his stepsisters, Carolee Ward of Elgin, South Carolina, Leslie
Wright of Asheville, North Carolina, and Ginger (Fred) Kelley of Warsaw,
Missouri; his nieces, Christy Baioni, Kerrie (Scott) Sinott, Kathy
Heverly, and Gillian (Brett) Flynn Nolan; his nephew, Jim Basler; his
brother-in-law, Jerry Basler; and a host of cousins, great-nieces, and
great-nephews.
In addition to his family, Tim will be remembered
by the countless individuals he mentored and sponsored. Tim was a friend
of Bill W. for 37 years. While he would never have acknowledged it, he
changed lives profoundly and permanently, quietly offering
encouragement, guidance, and hope without seeking recognition. His
kindness, humility, and presence leave a lasting legacy in the lives of
those he touched.
You always came away from a conversation with
Tim feeling fortified, or encouraged, or supported or enlightened—or
still grinning from a good laugh. You will be missed, Uncle Groovy.
Condolences and fond memories can be shared at
www.memorialfuneralhomeandcemetery.com.
A private
celebration of life will be held at a later date.
Posted online on September 10, 2026
Published in Columbia Daily Tribune
Sherry Kaye Dobbs,
76, died on August 31, 2026 at University Hospital. She was born on
April 29, 1950, in West Plains, MO. The Dobbs family spent their early
years in southern Missouri and Indiana before settling in Columbia.
Sherry graduated from Hickman High School in 1968, then earned a B.S.
and M.Ed. from the University of Missouri-Columbia.
From
1975-2008 Sherry taught English and writing at West Junior High School
and was herself a beautiful writer. A dedicated master teacher, she
inspired thousands of students to enjoy reading and to write clearly.
She mentored many new teachers from UMC. As a professional educator she
was well respected for her thorough, articulate, sensible input. She was
active in Philanthropic Educational Organization (P.E.O. International),
which provides educational assistance to deserving women.
Sherry
had a warm personality, superior intellect, and a positive outlook. As a
friend she was dependable, loyal and true. Her loving kindness, quiet
strength, steady hand, listening ear, and generous heart will be greatly
missed.
She is survived by her sisters Marilyn Schappert, Jeanie
Dobbs, Sue Dobbs, and Carol Kvanvig; nephews David Schappert, Philip
Schappert, and Jared Kvanvig; niece Brittany Kvanvig; and stepchildren
Seena Spessard, Dirk Boyle, and Quint Boyle. She was preceded in death
by her parents Ralph C. and Edna Dobbs, and by her husband Rodney Boyle.
A celebration of life will be held on October 17, 2026, at 11:00 AM
at First Christian Church, 101 N. Tenth St., Columbia MO 65201, with
visitation the hour before. Interment will take place on October 19,
2026, at 11:00 AM at Missouri Veterans Cemetery, Jacksonville, MO.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to First Christian
Church.
Condolences and fond memories can be shared at
www.memorialfuneralhomeandcemetery.com.
Submitted by, Parker-Millard Funeral Service
September 16, 2026.
George Patterson
Wilson, 97, of Columbia, Missouri, passed away peacefully at home in the
company of his wife, Roxanne Reed Wilson, on September 4, 2026.
George was born near McBaine, in Boone County, Missouri, to Clarence and
Mary Williamson Wilson. He graduated from Columbia Hickman High School,
completed his Bachelor of Science in Agriculture at the University of
Missouri – Columbia, earned his Medical Doctor degree from Washington
University in St. Louis, and completed his medical residency at the
University of Minnesota in Minneapolis, specializing in radiology.
From 1961-1963, George served as General Medical Officer and Nuclear
Safety Officer for the Northeast Region in the United States Navy at the
Naval Academy at Annapolis, Maryland. He achieved the rank of Lieutenant
Commander.
George was married to Suzanne Rowe Wilson from 1956
until her death in 2002. He married Roxanne Reed in 2006, and they
recently celebrated their 20th anniversary.
After completing his
military service, George returned to Columbia, Missouri, and entered
medical practice with Dr. Charles M. Waggoner. At the time, Waggoner &
Wilson (later Waggoner, Wilson, & Blackwell) was one of few radiology
practices serving Central Missouri.
They practiced locally and at
many regional hospitals, including Fayette, Fulton, Moberly, Marceline,
and Mexico, Missouri, as well as running the Radiology Department at
Ellis-Fischel State Cancer Research Hospital. Waggoner, Wilson, &
Blackwell introduced mammography to Central Missouri and provided free
screening to patients in need. George later earned his Certification in
Nuclear Medicine to further enable cancer treatment therapies.
In
1972, George founded Columbia Regional Hospital with a group of nineteen
local physicians, where he led the Radiology Department until his
retirement. He achieved one of the highest honors in the profession when
named a Fellow by The American College of Radiology. Thanks to his
efforts, Columbia Regional Hospital became one of the first private
hospitals in Missouri licensed to perform magnetic resonance imaging
(MRI). After retirement, he worked part-time at the Veterans
Administration (VA) Hospital.
Born and raised as a Boone County
farmer, George retained the property around his childhood home and, with
the aid of other local farmers, raised beef cattle and silage crops.
When asked publicly, he always self-identified first as a Boone County
farmer.
While he enjoyed farming, woodworking, metal work, and
all kinds of home and auto repairs, his passion was flying. He achieved
ratings for visual, instrument, and multi-engine flying. His children
remember weekends with dad as he logged flight practice hours and have
vivid recollections of trips taken together in a very small airplane.
He was a member and officer in numerous organizations, including the
American Medical Association, the Society of Nuclear Medicine, the
American College of Radiology, the Missouri Radiological Society,
Washington University Medical School Alumni, University of Missouri
Alumni, the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association, and Sons of the
American Revolution. George was also a long-time supporter of Coyote
Hill Foster Care Ministries.
George was preceded in death by his
first wife, Suzanne, and step-grandson, Finneas Robert Flesner.
George will be deeply missed by his family: his wife, Roxanne Reed
Wilson, step-daughter, K. Cheryl McKenzie (Jim Rettinger) of Albany,
Oregon, daughter, Barbara Wilson (Michelle Fox) of Leawood, Kansas, son,
Thomas Wilson (Lesley) of Austin, Texas, step-son, Shan Rich (Emily
Rodhouse) of Columbia, step-daughter, Patricia Flesner (Andy) of
Columbia, grandchildren, Suzanne Specker (Vince Mazzoni), Sarah Edging
(Cole), Alexander Wilson, Caroline Wilson, and step-grandchildren,
Aiyana Rich, Emery Rich, Ella Rich, and Margot Flesner.
Following
a private graveside service at Columbia Cemetery, a celebration of life
will be held at the Club at Old Hawthorne from 1:00 – 3:00 p.m. on
November 14, 2026.Passed away unexpectedly and far too soon on September
18, 2026.
Submitted by, Memorial
Funeral Home, Crematory & Memorial Park Cemetery/Columbia
Katie Lynn Andrews,
30, was born on July 28, 1996, in Columbia, Missouri and passed away
unexpectedly and far too soon on September 18, 2026.
Katie graduated
from Hickman High School in 2014, where she was active in band
throughout. That same dedication carried her to the University of
Missouri, where she earned a degree in Psychology in 2018—an education
that reflected an attentiveness to others, and a heart inclined toward
understanding.
As a teenager, Katie earned the Gold Award in Girl
Scouts, a prestigious honor that spoke to the care and commitment she
brought to the world even then. In May of 2019, she began working for
Ameren, where she remained employed until her passing.
On
September 18th, 2021, Katie and Zach were married in Columbia, Missouri.
Over the course of their 10-year relationship, they shared many
adventures together—moments shaped by the pull of distant horizons and
the simple joy of being side by side. Katie was drawn to the mountain
scapes of Alaska and loved to be near the water, places where the world
feels both vast and peaceful, and where reflection comes naturally. In
2025, they welcomed their daughter, Madelyn Fay, into the world and into
a home rich with affection; above all else, Katie loved being a mother.
Katie cherished time spent with her friends, family, and beloved
animals. She found delight in putting together Lego sets, patient with
each small piece until it became something whole. She was also gifted
with a beautiful singing voice—one she tended to keep somewhat private.
Through it all, she remained deeply cherished and beloved, the kind of
presence that made life
feel warmer simply by being near.
Katie is survived her loving husband: Zach Andrews and their daughter
Madelyn Fay Andrews of Jefferson City, MO; Mother: Janie Mills of
Columbia, MO; Mother in law: Julie Andrews of Columbia, MO; Sister in
law: Kayla Andrews of Columbia, MO; Brother in law: Anthony Christopher
of Columbia, MO; beloved pets: Sadie, Pammi, and Finn; and numerous
close friends and
aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces and nephews who
care for her immensely.
She is preceded in death by her maternal
grandparents, James and Delores Daly, and her niece Rayanna Fay
Worthington.
A visitation will be held at Memorial Funeral Home,
1217 Business Loop 70 W, Columbia, Missouri 65202, on September 26,
2026, from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm. A Funeral will follow at Memorial
Funeral Home on September 26, 2026, from 12:00 pm to 12:30 pm.
Donations may be made to a GoFundMe set up to help support Katie's
family throughout this difficult time at https://gofund.me/573b616b8.
Katie was a beautiful soul and made her mark in this world by the
close relationships she built and the brightness she could bring into
any room. She was one of a kind and her memory will be treasured by all
who were fortunate to know her.
Posted online on
September 21, 2026
Published in Columbia Daily Tribune
Rose Marie Douglass
Berry was born October 20, 1930 in Columbia, Missouri to Millard Earl
Douglass and Norma Christian Douglass. She graduated from Hickman High
School, Christian College, and the University of Missouri. She earned a
Bachelor of Science and a Master of Science in Education and was Vice
President of Delta Gamma Sorority. She retired after teaching for 33
years at Field and Ridgeway Elementary, and later as a Title 1 Reading
Specialist at Lee and Derby Ridge.
Rosie was an active member of
Calvary Episcopal Church serving on the Vestry and Altar Guild. She was
also a member of PEO Chapter GK, National Society of Colonial Dames of
America, Jamestown Society, Daughters of the American Revolution,
Assistance League of Mid-Missouri, Retired Teachers Association, and a
past member of Delta Kappa Gamma.
She married John Evans Long in
1952 and William Francis Berry III on September 30, 1989.
Rosie
is survived by her children Deborah Long Alongia (Peter) of Morganza,
LA, Mimi Long Koonse (Michael) of Columbia, and Winifred Long Crowder
(Jim) of Hattiesburg, MS, and William’s children Michael G. Berry
(Janie) of Columbia, and Elizabeth Berry of Hallsville.
Her
grandchildren are Katie Choi (Ben), Peter Alongia (Jacque), Douglass
Alongia (Rachel), John Alongia (Christine), James Berry (Resa), and Anna
Berry (Robert). Great grandchildren are Charlotte, Rose, Finn, Dougie,
Arthur, Maggie, Edie, Olive, Kennedy, Rivers, Serena, Erica, and Elanor.
Arrangements are in the care of Parker-Millard Funeral Service in
Columbia. A memorial service will be held at Calvary Episcopal Church,
123 S. Ninth St., Columbia at 11:00 am, Saturday, September 26, 2026.
Lunch will follow the service. The burial will be private.
To
honor Rosie’s years of teaching reading, the family invites guests to
bring their favorite children’s book to the service. The books will be
donated to Columbia Public Schools. In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts
may be made to the Boone County Historical Society, 3801 Ponderosa St.,
Columbia, 65201.
Heartfelt appreciation is extended to Compassus
Hospice Care.
Submitted by,
Parker-Millard Funeral Service & Crematory, 12 East Ash Street,
Columbia, MO 65203
Evelyn Turner
Wilson, 79, passed with loving family at her bedside on September 19,
2026 at University Hospital in Columbia, Missouri.
Evelyn was
born January 2, 1947 in Columbia, Missouri to Sherman and Cynthia
(Guthrie) Turner. Evelyn graduated from Hickman High School and was a
proud member of the "class of ’65.” Evelyn continued her education at
Lincoln University in Jefferson City, Missouri, and graduated with a
degree in elementary education. She briefly taught at Immaculate
Conception Catholic School until her love of learning and books led to
her work as a librarian at Inman Page library on the campus of Lincoln
University. She enjoyed interacting with students as a reference
librarian and further building her knowledge base, which she passed
along to her children and others in conversation.
Along with
education, Evelyn valued her role as a mother. She married Marvin Lee
Wilson in 1970 and her three children were born to this union of 23
years. She extended her home as a foster mother, assisting in raising
three goddaughters. Evelyn loved nurturing the curiosity of children and
providing them with love, support and education. Evelyn was a long-term
member of Second Baptist Church where she served as an announcement
clerk, usher and member of the culinary committee for several years. She
also created Black History month presentations with youth involvement
and participated in Sunday School. Evelyn was a member of Alpha Kappa
Alpha Sorority, Inc., initiated into the Gamma Epsilon Omega chapter.
Evelyn enjoyed traveling, reading, exercising her green thumb,
sports and staying abreast of current events. She had a knack for making
everyone feel seen and heard with her kind spirit, active listening and
sound wisdom. Her smile, friendship and advice will be forever
cherished.
Evelyn is survived by her children, Shawn of Cedar
Park, TX and Ché of Jefferson City, MO; three goddaughters, Vashinette
Kelly of Waterloo, IA, Yoshi Rucker of Jefferson City, MO and Lexus
Herndon of Lithonia, GA; three grandchildren, Kayla Wilson of Houston,
TX, Caden Wilson of Jefferson City, MO and Nicholas Kelly of
Springfield, IL; one sister, Norma Jean Hackman of Abilene, TX; two
nieces, Karen (Preston) Butler of Columbia, MO and Kimberly (Darrell)
Kemp of Columbia, MO; in-laws, Helen Wilson of Chicago, IL, Carolyn
Joyner of Dayton, OH, Nylon (Gloria) Wilson of St. Louis, MO, Wanda
(Joseph Thomas) Johnson of Greensboro, NC, Lillie Wilson of Wardell, MO,
Minnie Wilson of Jefferson City, MO, Kathryn Wilson of Jefferson City,
MO, Brenda Etheridge of Detroit, MI, Sharon Wilson of Wardell, MO; and,
numerous nieces and nephews.
Evelyn was preceded in death by both
parents, Sherman and Cynthia; former husband, Marvin; son, Jeffrey; and,
two sisters, Darlene Turner and Ruth Mitchell.
A graveside
service will be held Thursday, September 24, 2026 at 12:00p.m. at
Memorial Park Cemetery with Rev. W.T. Edmonson officiating.
Expressions of sympathy may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research
Hospital or the National Kidney Foundation.
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 September 29, 2026
Published in Columbia Daily
Tribune
Walter
James "Jim" Wesselmann, 82, of Columbia passed away peacefully in his
home on September 24, 2026, fortified by the Rites of Holy Mother Church
and surrounded by his loving family. He was born in Columbia, Missouri
on March 13, 1944, the son of Walter Joseph Wesselmann and Mildred Mary
(Gerke) Wesselmann, who preceded him in death.
After attending
high school in Columbia, he then proudly served our country in the
United States Airforce as a Sergeant.
He was united in marriage
on November 22, 1969, at First Baptist Church of Wright County to Judy
(Davidson).
During their blessed 57 years of marriage they had 8
children. His greatest joy was his family. In his dedication, Jim worked
very hard owning and operating Wesselmann Pole Frame Buildings. He
brought happiness to other families by establishing Pineberry Farms, a
choose and cut Christmas tree farm. Jim enjoyed card nights with the
boys and good conversations on the back porch.
He is survived by
his wife Judy; daughters: Mindy (Jeff) Demsich, Caree Wesselmann, Kayla
(Jay) Spry, and Bethany (Manny) Wesselmann; sons: James (Cindy)
Wesselmann, Daniel (Terri) Wesselmann, and Andrew (Puay) Wesselmann;
brothers: Dale (Karen) Wesselmann and Donald (Cindy) Wesselman; sisters:
Helen Ancell, Glenda Wagner; grandchildren: Josie Spry, Poppy Spry,
Adley Spry, Teller Spry, Ozlo Spry, Patrick Gage Wesselmann, Misty
(Demsich) Kaffer, and John Demsich. He was also preceded in death by:
son Patrick Eugene Wesselmann, sister Janet (Wesselmann) Fahlsing.
Mass of Christian Burial will be held 11:00am on Thursday, October
1, 2026, at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church with Fr. Roberto
Officiating. Inurnment will follow at Memorial Park Cemetery in
Columbia.
The family appreciates floral Expressions of Sympathy
or asks you to plant a tree in honor of Jim.
Bach-Yager Funeral
Chapel is honored to serve the Wesselmann Family.
Online
condolences and tributes may be shared with the family at
www.bachyager.com.
Posted online on September 29, 2026
Walter
James "Jim" Wesselmann, 82, of Columbia passed away peacefully in his
home on September 24, 2026, fortified by the Rites of Holy Mother Church
and surrounded by his loving family. He was born in Columbia, Missouri
on March 13, 1944, the son of Walter Joseph Wesselmann and Mildred Mary
(Gerke) Wesselmann, who preceded him in death.
After attending
high school in Columbia, he then proudly served our country in the
United States Airforce as a Sergeant.
He was united in marriage
on November 22, 1969, at First Baptist Church of Wright County to Judy
(Davidson).
During their blessed 57 years of marriage they had 8
children. His greatest joy was his family. In his dedication, Jim worked
very hard owning and operating Wesselmann Pole Frame Buildings. He
brought happiness to other families by establishing Pineberry Farms, a
choose and cut Christmas tree farm. Jim enjoyed card nights with the
boys and good conversations on the back porch.
He is survived by
his wife Judy; daughters: Mindy (Jeff) Demsich, Caree Wesselmann, Kayla
(Jay) Spry, and Bethany (Manny) Wesselmann; sons: James (Cindy)
Wesselmann, Daniel (Terri) Wesselmann, and Andrew (Puay) Wesselmann;
brothers: Dale (Karen) Wesselmann and Donald (Cindy) Wesselman; sisters:
Helen Ancell, Glenda Wagner; grandchildren: Josie Spry, Poppy Spry,
Adley Spry, Teller Spry, Ozlo Spry, Patrick Gage Wesselmann, Misty
(Demsich) Kaffer, and John Demsich. He was also preceded in death by:
son Patrick Eugene Wesselmann, sister Janet (Wesselmann) Fahlsing.
Mass of Christian Burial will be held 11:00am on Thursday, October
1, 2026, at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church with Fr. Roberto
Officiating. Inurnment will follow at Memorial Park Cemetery in
Columbia.
The family appreciates floral Expressions of Sympathy
or asks you to plant a tree in honor of Jim.
Bach-Yager Funeral
Chapel is honored to serve the Wesselmann Family.
Online
condolences and tributes may be shared with the family at
www.bachyager.com.
Submitted by, Memorial Funeral Home,
Crematory & Memorial Park Cemetery/Columbia
Phyllis June
Crawford, 91, of Columbia passed away peacefully on September 26, 2026,
at Lenoir Woods Greenwood Memory Care. A private graveside service will
be held at Memorial Park Cemetery.
Phyllis was born July 2,1935, in
El Dorado Springs, Missouri, to Forrest Chester Sumner and Emogene
Sullivan Burks. She graduated from Hickman High School in 1953. Phyllis
married Charles Walter Crawford on February 14, 1982. She retired from
the University of Missouri Comptrollers office after over 30 years of
service and was recognized for outstanding service to the Retirement &
Staff Benefits Committee.
After retirement, Phyllis and her
husband, Charles, spent winters at their home in Hilton Head, SC, and
summers back in Columbia where they could be closer to family. She loved
her flower garden and tended to it with love - especially her miniature
roses. She spent her leisure time sewing and crafting. She leaves behind
many beautiful works of needlecraft, holiday crafts, and yarn crafts
that will be cherished for many years to come by her loved ones. Her
curio cabinet filled with her collection of Precious Moments figurines,
miniature cups and saucers, and hobnail milk glass were a joy to her.
She looked forward every year to decorating for Christmas and loved her
Christmas village and tree ornaments.
Survivors include three
daughters, Teresa Wade Powers (Roy) of Lexington, SC, Becky Wade-Carlson
of Centralia and Lori Lynn-Wade Ellis (Kevin) of Harrisburg; four
grandchildren, Dustin Timmerman, Emily Scoggins, Carli Ellis and Macie
Ellis and one great-granddaughter, Avery Timmerman. She is also survived
by one sister Sandra Burks Lee (Walker) of Wardsville.
Phyllis
was preceded in death by her husband, Charles Crawford, her father,
Forrest Sumner, her mother, Emogene Burks, a sister, Nancy Coleman and a
grandson, Brandon Timmerman.
The family wishes to extend their
deepest gratitude to the dedicated staff at Greenwood Memory Care and
the compassionate nurses and caregivers with Compassus Hospice for the
loving care and support provided to Phyllis.
Memorials may be
made in lieu of flowers to Alzheimer’s Association, P.O. Box 96011,
Washington, DC 20090-6011.
Submitted by,
Parker-Millard Funeral Service and Crematory, 12 East Ash Street,
Columbia MO 65203
John Acton Obituary
John Acton, a
dedicated family man and community servant of Columbia, Missouri, passed
away peacefully on September 28, 2026, at the age of 79. John was
preceded in death by his parents Ivan and Helen Acton; his
brother-in-law, David Hyde; his sister-in-law, Mary Northern; and his
beloved great-granddaughter Rosalie.
John leaves behind his wife,
Martha Acton, and his three children, John Acton Jr. (and his wife
Amber), Bobby Baker (and his wife, Kristin) and Elizabeth May (and her
husband,Curtis). He is also survived by his brother, David Acton (and
his wife, Sharon); his sister, Trish Hyde; and numerous nieces and
nephews. He leaves behind a rich family legacy through his ten
grandchildren: Celeste (and her husband, James), Andrew, Jared (and his
wife, Colby), Kalea, Spencer, Danny, Will, Alison, Gavin, and Luke; as
well as his six cherished great grandchildren: Bumi, Bobbie, Percy,
Essi, Noah and Gavin. To his family he was much more than the roles he
held in the community; he was a devoted husband, father, grandfather,
brother, uncle and great-grandfather whose presence will be deeply
missed.
John gave generously of his time to the city of Columbia
and the surrounding area. He proudly served as a volunteer firefighter
for Boone County, answering the call to protect his neighbors.
Additionally, through the Diamond Council of Columbia, John spent many
years coaching youth baseball and softball and serving as a dedicated
board member. Through his leadership he made it possible for generations
of young people to learn a game, experience the joy of being part of a
team, and grow in confidence. The countless hours he spent showing up
for local youth form a vital part of the legacy he leaves behind.
His family will forever cherish the life and memories they shared
with him, and Columbia will long remember his many years of selfless
service. John’s influence lives on in his family, in the players he
coached, and in the community to which he gave so much of himself.
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
Judith Gail
Alspaw, 85, of Columbia, MO, passed away October 1, 2026.
Judith
(“Judy” or “Mema”) Alspaw embarked on her final adventure, leaving
behind a legacy of laughter and boundless kindness.
She was born
in Austin, TX on December 10, 1940 before moving to Missouri as a young
girl, but Texas always held a special place in her heart. She then
graduated from Hickman High School in 1959 in Columbia, MO. “Forever a
Kewpie”. Judy went on to marry Philip L. Alspaw on June 20, 1959.
She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, and survived
by her sons; Mark Alspaw and spouse Amanda; Michael Alspaw and spouse
David Politte; honorary children, Steven and Karen Grieshaber;
grandchildren, Jon Alspaw and his spouse Ashley; Jacob Alspaw and his
spouse Aemilee; James Alspaw; Josephine Alspaw; Bailey Foley and her
spouse Austin, Matthew Grieshaber; great-grandchildren, Brooklyn and
Jillian; sister, Delon (Pookie) Wilson; brothers, Kenny Anderson and his
spouse Sigrid; Keith Anderson; and many dear cousins, nieces and
nephews.
Judy and Phil, co-owned and successfully operated first
the House of Carpet and later Carpet for Less, both in Columbia, MO. She
loved gardening, baking, and hosting family gatherings that often lasted
well into the evening. She created a warm, welcoming home that became
the family gathering place, “The Alspaw Ranch.”
Judy adored being
outdoors with nature. She enjoyed the family property with all its
flowers, water features, statuettes, and pets, which mostly adopted her.
Her home was her haven and there was always a bed and pillow for another
head.
Judy will be fondly remembered by family and friends as a
loving wife, mother, companion with a caring soul and big heart. Her
life was a blessing, her memory a treasure. She is loved beyond words
and will be missed beyond measure. We love you “Mema”!
Visitation
will be held at Memorial Funeral Home in Columbia, MO from 11:00 am –
1:00 pm, Saturday, October 10, 2026. Funeral services will be held
onsite immediately following the visitation from 1:00 pm – 2:00 pm.
Committal prayers and burial will be in Memorial Park Cemetery.
Floral memorials are welcome or contributions may be made to St, Jude
Children’s Hospital in Judy’s honor.
Condolences and fond
memories can be shared at
www.memorialfuneralhomeandcemetery.com.