Clifford L. Bilyeu
Karla J. Cochran
Floycie Crain
John William Dennis
Armand F. Desgagnes
Herbert Hadley Dixon
Madelyn R. Duby
William H. Evans
Richard Lee Fillman
Edith L. Graves
William Ronald "Ron" Griffin
Frank D. Grisham
Ruby Louise Hyder
Gilbert O. Warnick Jr.
Ella L. McShane
Dwight Orrell
Patricia M. Petersen
Phillip E. Pursley
Joe B. Richards
Crescencio Rivera
James F. Rogers
Lena Scott
Venna Lavon Seamster
Glenn Eldon Sell
Arlington Ernest "Arlie"
Sherrard
Gerald "Jerry" David Smith
REV. DENNIS EDWARD SPEAR
Tessley D. Swearengin
Marie Walden
Donald Clay Whitlock
William P. Wright
Jackie Howard Wrinkle
Clifford L. Bilyeu, 70, Bolivar, died Thursday, May 3, 2001, in Citizens Memorial Hospital. He was born July 20, 1930, in Republic to William Homer and Lillie Pearl Bangs Bilyeu. He was united in marriage to Gloria K. Williams on Sept. 10, 1951, and to this union four children were born. He served in the United States Navy for four years and was a member and pastor of Cardwell Missionary Baptist Church. He is survived by his wife, Gloria of the home; two sons and a daughter-in-law, Phillip K. Bilyeu of Strafford, and Mark L. and Carol Bilyeu of Republic; two daughters and sons-in-law, Cynthia R. and Mark Anderson, and Natalee D. and Frank Smith, all of Springfield; two sisters and a brother-in-law, Betty L. Morgan of Richland, and Doris Lene and Charles Ramsey of Republic; a brother-in-law, Milburn Williams of the home; eight grandchildren, Johnny Copeland, Shawn Davis, Dusty Anderson, Cody Anderson, Dustin Smith, Jordan Booher, Travis Booher and Samantha Smith; two great-grandchildren, Shondra Davis and Clayton Anderson; and many nieces, nephews, friends and neighbors. He was preceded in death by his parents, two brothers, one sister, three brothers-in-law and one sister-in-law. Services were Sunday, May 6, in Pitts Chapel with burial with military honors following in Rock Prairie Cemetery. Pallbearers were Phillip K. Bilyeu, Mark L. Bilyeu, Mark Anderson, Frank Smith, Dusty Anderson, Cody Anderson, Jordan Booher and Travis Booher. Honorary pallbearers were his nephews and Milburn Williams. Memorial contributions may be made to the family in care of the funeral home. A00008B2001MY09
Tamara Leann Cochran Tiana Lorena Cochran Karla Jeane Cochran, 30, Tamara Leann Cochran, 8, and Tiana Lorena Cochran, 8, Fordland, died Saturday, May 12, 2001, from injuries sustained in an automobile accident at the intersection of Mo. 83 and Mo. 13 one mile south of Bolivar. Karla Cochran was born Feb. 22, 1971, in Kansas City, Kan. A former resident of Kansas City, Kan., she was a clerk at Underwood Texaco in Rogersville. She was a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. Her mother, Jacqueline Cochran Rhodes, preceded her in death. She is survived by a daughter, Tara Lynn Cochran, Kansas City, Kan.; her father and stepmother, James and Karen Cochran, Kansas City, Kan.; one brother and his wife, Stephen and Tina Cochran, Kansas City, Kan.; one sister and her husband, Kellie and Jay Hildebrand, Fordland; two stepbrothers and their wives, Kenny and Becky Collins, Kansas City, Kan., and Kevin and Bianca Collins, Fort Drum, N.Y. Tiana and Tamara Cochran were born May 18, 1992, in Kansas City, Kan. They were third grade students at Rogersville Elementary School. In addition, Tiana and Tamara Cochran are also survived by their father, Michael Tod Hurtado, Kansas City, Kan.; their paternal grandparents, Tom and Judy Hurtado and Carolyn and Bob Barkley; their great-grandmother, Ofelita Richards; and two aunts, Tina Fields and Tammie Ybarra and her husband, Tony, all of Kansas City, Kan. Services will be at 2 p.m. Thursday, May 17, in Murray Chapel, Bolivar, with Bishop Dale Sergent officiating. Cremation will follow services. Interment will be at 1 p.m. Saturday, May 19, in Dooley Bend Cemetery near Hermitage under the direction of Murray Funeral Home. A00008B2001MY16
Floycie Sarah Louise Eidson Crain, age 91 years, 8 months and 9 days, passed away Wednesday, May 9, 2001, in Springfield Health Care Center. She was born at the family home located in northeast Polk County, four miles from Goodson, on Aug. 30, 1909, to John and Ida Jump Eidson. On Dec. 22, 1935, she was united in marriage to Audie Crain, and to this union five children were born. Floycie was saved in a revival meeting helped by Sherman Bybee and later joined the Lindley Creek Missionary Baptist Church. She is survived by her five children, her dedicated caregiver daughter, Audra Crain of the home, Claudui and Jamie Erven of Goodson, Jerry and Diana Crain of Lebanon, Ben and LeAnne Crain of Springfield, and Paulene and Mike Midles of Flemington; grandchildren and great-grandchildren Michele and John Thiesfeld and their children, Lauren, Lindsey and Megan; Bob and Maria Midles and their children, Hannah, Hailey and Alex; Aaron and Teresa Erven and their children, Spencer and Tiara; Karla and John Spear and their children, Jake and Ashley; Gina and Ray Burroughs; Beth and Kirk Reynolds and their child, Brooke; Brian Crain and his fiancee, Robbi Hutson; Vance and Julie Crain; Amy and Jon Menges; nephews Willard, Wilbur, John and Wayne and nieces Ida, Mary, Erma Lee, Maxine and Marjie; a sister-in-law, Earlie Eidson of Bolivar; and many other relatives and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband of 61 years, Audie Crain; brothers Lloyd Eidson, Bert Eidson and Ray Eidson; a sister, Jewel Schooley; and a niece, Wanda Jean. Services were Saturday, May 12, in Pitts Chapel with Bro. Doyle Mayfield and Bro. Doug Skinner officiating. Burial followed in Lindley Creek Cemetery. Pallbearers were her grandsons Bob Midles, Aaron Erven, Vance Crain, Brian Crain, John Thiesfeld, John Spear, Kirk Reynolds, Ray Burroughs and Jon Menges. Honorary pallbearers were her nephews Wayne Schooley and John Eidson. A00008B2001MY16
John William Dennis, 84, Pittsburg, died at 1:25 p.m. Tuesday, May 8, 2001, at the Christian Health Care West in Springfield after a lengthy illness. He was born Nov. 7, 1916, in Pittsburg, the son of John Price Dennis and Helma Louise Johnson. He was a carpenter and cabinet maker for many years and had served for two terms as the presiding judge in Hickory County. He was a member of the Pomme de Terre Southern Baptist Church at Pittsburg. Surviving is one son, Gary L. Dennis of Springfield; a sister, Lillian Bell Jackson of Independence; three grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. Services were Saturday, May 11, in the Pomme de Terre Southern Baptist Church with the Rev. Don Keelsey officiating. Burial was in the Pittsburg Baptist Cemetery north of Pittsburg under the direction of Butler Funeral Home, Bolivar. Memorial contributions may be made to the Pomme de Terre Southern Baptist Church. A00008B2001MY16
Armand F. Desgagnes, 79, Bolivar, died at 10:35 a.m. Wednesday, May 23, 2001, in Citizen's Memorial Hospital, Bolivar, after a short illness. He was born on Nov. 17, 1921, in Hatton, N.D., the son of Vincent and Alma Champeux, during childbirth his mother died and Armand was adopted and raised by his stepparents Herman and Anna Desgagnes. Armand spent his childhood in North Dakota, and shortly after high school he enlisted in the U.S. Army during World War II. Armand spent time in the European Theater assigned to an infantry unit. He was wounded and sent home to the states. During his time in the Army he met and was united in marriage to Virginia Boyd, in Ventura, Calif., on Feb. 4, 1943, and to this union two children were born, Gary and Sherry. After the war he worked for the U.S. Postal Service and Northwest Airlines for a short period of time, but later moved to the milder climate of California in 1950, settling in Ojai and remaining there until his retirement. During his time in Ojai, he worked as a baker and with the Ojai School District for several years. He later took employment with the Ventura River Municipal Water District as a construction foreman, and ultimately finishing his career with the City of Ventura as a foreman for the Parks and Recreations Department. He retired in 1979 and moved to the Bolivar area to be near his wife's parents. He is survived by his wife, Virginia Desgagnes of Bolivar; one son, Gary Desgagnes of Camarillo, Calif.; one daughter, Sherry Dusinski of Parker, Colo.; a half-sister, Adeline Erickson of the state of Minnesota; three grandchildren, David, Derek and Arin; and three great grandchildren, Devin, Anthony and Zachery. Services for Mr. Desgagnes were Tuesday, May 29, in the Butler Funeral Home Chapel with the Rev. Harold Hendrickson officiating. Burial was in Mt. Gilead Cemetery, Bolivar. Memorial donations may be made to the Alzheimer's Association, C/O Butler Funeral Home, Bolivar. A00008B2001MY30
Herbert Hadley Dixon of Bolivar was born Nov. 25, 1908, in Eudora, the second child of Lloyd and Jerema Sell Dixon, and enjoyed living his entire life in Polk County. He passed away on Wednesday May 30, 2001, at 12:10 p.m. in Citizens Memorial Health Care Facility, Bolivar, at the age of 92 years, 6 months, and 5 days. Hadley graduated from Scaritt-Morrisville Academy in 1925 and Marion C. Early High School in 1927. He attended Drury College in Springfield during the 1927-1928 school term. His grandson, Jack, would graduate from Drury 60 years later. Hadley was united in marriage to Esther M. Alexander on Feb. 12, 1929, and to this union two sons were born, Jackie Alex and John Lloyd. Hadley owned and operated a milk route for nine years serving the Aldrich, Karlin, Pleasant Hope and Morrisville communities. He also drove a school bus for a few years. Together, Esther and Hadley owned and operated a dairy and then stock farm in the Morrisville community for 38 years. Hadley served as Polk County Assessor from 1958 until his retirement in 1973. He was president of the State Assessor's Association during part of his public tenure. In 1960 and 1961 Hadley was chairman of the Missouri State Legislative Committee in Jefferson City. Over his long lifetime, Hadley enjoyed quail hunting, fishing, interacting with nature, and playing cards and checkers. He was the Polk County Checker champion and district runner-up in the early 1950s. Hadley accepted Christ as his Savior at an early age, and at the time of his death was a member of the Bolivar United Methodist Church. He was preceded in death by his parents and his wife Esther M. Dixon. Hadley is survived by his two sons, Jack Dixon of Rogersville and John Dixon of Springfield; nine grandchildren, Jack Dixon II, Sherry Jorgensen, Gail Upp, Cindy Thomas, Chris Lill, and Sharon Davis all of Springfield, David and Mike Dixon of Bolivar and Jerri Whitecar of Seaside, Calif.; 15 great-grandchildren and two great-great-grandchildren. Funeral services were held Friday, June 1, 2001, in the Butler Funeral Home Chapel with the Rev. Harold Hendrickson and Rev. Dan Adkison officiating. Music was provided by Arvil and Carol Krueger. Burial was in the Hickory Grove Cemetery south of Morrisville. Casketbearers were Mike Dixon, Jack Dixon II, David Dixon, Chris Upp, Jay Upp, Jeromy Thomas and Todd Elder. Memorial contributions may be made to the Hickory Grove Cemetery in care of Butler Funeral Home, PO Box 11, Bolivar MO 65613. A00008B2001JN06
Madelyn Rachelle Duby, age four months, died at 2:30 a.m. Saturday, May 12, 2001, in her home. She was born Jan. 7, 2001, in Springfield, the daughter of Shawna Duby. In addition to her mother, she is survived by a sister, Katelyn Marie Duby; her maternal grandmother, Shirley Jones and Jerel Brittain of Hollister; her maternal grandfather, Michael Duby and his wife, Kay, Hastings, Okla.; two aunts, Mieka Duby of Hastings, Okla., and Shelly Bassham and her husband, Jay, of Pleasant Hope; and many other relatives and friends. Services will be at 2 p.m. today (Wednesday) in Morrisville United Methodist Church with the Rev. Robert McGinnis officiating. Burial will follow in Morrisville Cemetery. Arrangements are under the direction of Ayre-Goodwin-Lee Funeral Home at Rivermonte, Springfield. A00008B2001MY16
William H. Evans, 71, Springfield, formerly of Hermitage, died Wednesday, May 2, 2001, at Manor Care, Springfield. He was a retired insurance broker. He had lived at Kansas City and Hermitage several years prior to moving to Springfield four and a half years ago. He was a member of the Redeemer Lutheran Church of Springfield and a former member of the Pomme de Terre Golf Club. He was born April 19, 1930, at Little Rock, Ark., the son of Edward Sidney and Marguerite Linziner Evans. He was preceded in death by his parents and a son, Stephen E. Evans. Survivors include his wife, Roberta "Bobbie" Evans of Springfield; one grandson, Brent A. Evans of Warrensburg; and one sister, Georgia A. Klein of Port Huron, Mich. Services were Saturday, May 5, at Hathaway-Peterman Funeral Home Chapel, Wheatland, with Pastor William Marler officiating. Burial was in Dooly Bend Cemetery. A00008B2001MY09
Richard Lee Fillman, 58, Wheatland, died Saturday, May 26, 2001, in his home, following a lengthy illness. He was born in Monmouth, Ill., on March 18, 1943, to Lawrence Paul and Esther Marie Fillman. He was a manager for a lumber company and baptized member of the First Christian Church of Monmouth, Ill. He is survived by his wife, Shirley of the home; his father, Lawrence Fillman of Illinois; his mother, Esther Hays of Illinois; two daughters of Illinois; and two brothers of Illinois. Also surviving are two stepsons; four stepgrandchildren, Tyler Steele, Amber Steele, Britney Steele and Bailey Waddell; and many special friends. Private family services will be held at a later date. Arrangements are under the direction of Pitts Chapel in Bolivar. A00008B2001MY30
Edith Lucille Graves, 84, Half Way, died Sunday, May 20, 2001, in Citizens memorial Hospital following a short illness. She was born in Polk County on Nov. 24, 1916, to Archie Julen and Addie Golden Waggoner Childress. On April 28, 1935, she was united in marriage to Loren Silas Graves and to this union two children were born. She was a homemaker and a member of Providence Missionary Baptist Church. She is survived by her son, Jerrell Graves of the home; a brother and sister-in-law, Clifford and Carolyn Childress of Springfield; a sister, Velma Tummons of Elsworth, Kan.; three stepsisters, Thelma Graves of Flemington, Helen Shanahan of West Palm Beach, Fla., and Sylvia Wilson of Half Way; as well as many other relatives and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Bro. Loren S. Graves; an infant daughter, Zelda Graves; three brothers, Arthur Childress, Ralph Childress and Richard Childress; three sisters, Crystall Bell Childress, Fern Childress and Geneva Childress; a stepmother, Macy Fulk; and a stepbrother Cecil Fulk. Services will be Thursday, May 24, in Pitts Chapel with Bro. Red Ankrom officiating. Burial will follow in New Bethel Cemetery. Music will be provided by the Providence and Pleasant Hill Missionary Baptist Church choirs with mary Childress as accompanist. Pallbearers will be Randy Childress, Doug Childress, Glenn Childress, Kenneth Childress, Bob Tummons and Terry Childress. Honorary pallbearers will be Clifford Childress, Donald Lee Tummons, Sam Tummons and Greg Childress. A00008B2001MY23
William Ronald "Ron" Griffin, age 52, Bolivar, passed away on Sunday, May 27, 2001, at 3:30 p.m. in Citizens Memorial Hospital, Bolivar, after a short illness. He was born on Dec. 4, 1948, in Springfield, the son of Billy Harding and Daisy Marie Akins Griffin. Ron worked as a carpenter and was in the U.S. Army during the Viet Nam Era. Ron spent many happy hours drinking coffee with his friends at Hannahs Store. He loved to fish, tinker with cars and trucks and took great pains with his carpentry. Ron was a hard worker at any job he did. Ron took great joy in his family. He was always quiet, kind and loving, and he always put others first. He was a wonderful husband, loyal and patient son, loving father, grandfather, brother, and helpful friend. He is survived by his wife, Barbara Griffin of Fair Play; one son, Bryan Griffin of Fair Play; one daughter, Bethany McGuire of Overland Park, Kan.; his mother, Daisy Marie Griffin of Bolivar; one brother, Terry Griffin of Fair play; his mother-in-law, Marie Brakebill of Bolivar; and one grandson, Luke McGuire of Overland Park, Kan. Funeral services are at 11 a.m. today (Wednesday) May 30, 2001, in Butler Chapel with Bro. Jack G. Brakebill and Bro. Harlan L. Graham officiating. Burial will be in New Bethel Cemetery. Casketbearers are Donald Sterling, Jeff Shover, Terry Vines, Rodney Fleeman, James Robert Fleeman and Jerry Sukovaty. Honorary Casketbearers are Dusty Garzee, Joe Freeze, Ron Drake, Lonnie Dorth, Kyle Fleeman, Jack McGuire and Clyde Gibson. Services are under the direction of the Butler Funeral Home, Bolivar. A00008B2001MY30
Frank D. Grisham, 64, Pleasant Hope, died at 2:39 p.m. Thursday, May 31, 2001, in Springfield. He was a U.S. Army veteran. He had worked for Dayco for 10 years. He loved auctions. He was preceded in death by his parents, Clyde and Tessie Grisham, and two brothers, Milford and Willard. Survivors include his wife, Patty; two children and their spouses, Allen and Amy Grisham of Springfield, and Glenda and Phil Hamilton of Kenosha, Wis.; a stepson and his wife, Larry and Connie Robertson of Fair Grove; six grandchildren, Kayla and Calley Roberston, Justin and Kevin Grisham, and Gregory and Jordan Hamilton; and many friends. Graveside services will be at 11 a.m. Friday, June 8, at Greenlawn Memorial Gardens. Visitation will be from 7 to 8 p.m. Thursday. A00008B2001JN06
Ruby Louise Hyder, 81, Fair Grove, died at 2:30 a.m. Thursday, May 17, 2001, at Citizens Memorial Hospital. She was born June 12, 1919, at Coldwater, Kan. The first born of Robert and Calla Guyer Keesee. She was the retired manager of the Fair Grove High School Cafeteria. During her life she had been a member of the Fair Grove United Methodist Church and the Marshfield Eastern Star, a homemaker and a professional seamstress and quilt maker. She married Joseph Lorenza Hyder Jr. on Nov. 27, 1937. He preceded her in death April 15, 1988. She is survived by one son, Donald D. Hyder and his wife, Nancy, of Bolivar; one daughter, Polly Ann Williamson and her husband, Jim, of Springfield; three granddaughters, Dawn Shive and her husband, Allen, of Mt. Hope, Kan., Mary Ellis and her husband, Doug Terry, of Fair Grove, and Sheila Swihart and her husband, Kurt, of Bolivar; a grandson, Jody Wilson and his wife, Lisa of Springfield; six great-grandchildren, Ruby Grace Shive, Sydnee Ruth Shive, Joey Wilson, Rachel Swihart, Ashley Swihart and Seth Swihart; two sisters Opal Hoffman and Dorothy Kyser, both of Wichita, Kan.; and 19 nieces and nephews and a host of other family and friends. Services were Saturday at the Fair Grove United Methodist Church. Burial followed at the Pleasant Ridge Cemetary, Fair Grove. A00008B2001MY23
Gilbert O. Warnick Jr., 40, Half Way, died Saturday, May 5, 2001, in Springfield as the result of a homicide. He is survived by three sisters, Enid Taylor of Arcadia, Kan., Debra Tennon of Kansas City and Julie Warnick of Half Way; and one brother, Robert Keener of Livingston, Texas. He was a member of First Baptist Church, Mulberry, Kan., and had served in the U.S. Army. Services will be at 3 p.m. Saturday, May 19, at Greenlawn Funeral Home North, Springfield. Burial will be at a later date in Springfield Veterans' Cemetery. A00008B2001MY16
Ella Lona McShane, 97, Humansville, died Sunday, May 20, 2001, in Big Spring Care Center, Humansville. The daughter of Alonzo and Laura Wilson Kearney, she was born Sept. 5, 1903, at Collins. She married Neil McShane Sept. 15, 1923. He preceded her in death Sept. 21, 1982. She was preceded in death by a son, Wendell McShane; a great-grandson, Brian Eppinger; three sisters, Elsie Simrell and two who died in infancy; and four brothers, Vora Kearney, Fred Kearney, Dewey Kearney and Wilson Kearney. A homemaker, she and her husband lived on a farm south of Flemington. She was a long-time member of the Flemington United Methodist Church, later joining the Humansville United Methodist Church. Survivors include her daughter and son-in-law, Carol and Jim Peters, Indian Wells, Calif.; five grandchildren and their spouses, Sandra and Ed Eppinger, Patsy and Mike Sprowls, Wendy and Billy Garver, Kenny and Deb McShane and Kathy Hill; 11 great-grandchildren; and three great-great-grandchildren. Services will be at 2 p.m. Thursday, May 24, in Murray Chapel, Humansville, with the Rev. Dan Good officiating. Music will be by Jon Neill accompanied by Arlene Lear. Pallbearers will be Troy McShane, Tyler McShane, Jeff Sprowls, Tyler Lear, Barry McCoy, Nathan Garver and Cody Garver. Interment will be in Flemington Cemetery under the direction of Murray Funeral Home. Visitation will be today (Wednesday) from 7 to 8 p.m. A00008B2001MY23
Glen Dwight Lee Orrell, 57, died Wednesday, May 2, 2001, at the Veterans Administration Medical Center in Kansas City after a lengthy illness. He was born February 23, 1944, to William Lee and Amanda Elizabeth Robertson Orrell. Dwight served in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War from 1960 to 1963. He then went to Kansas City where he worked as a drywall finisher for over 30 years. He was a member of Howard S. Keeling American Legion Post. His parents and three brothers, Lloyd Junior Orrell, Delmer Gene Orrell and William Ralph Orrell, preceded him in death. Survivors include a son, John Allen, Hemet, Calif.; two daughters, Monica Gail, state of Arizona, and Yvonna Faye, state of Arkansas; two brothers, Kenneth Dean Orrell, Bolivar, and Charles Arthur Orrell, Collins; four sisters, Ruth Rowan, Springfield, Vonda Truelove, Holland, Texas, Norma Smith, Van Buren, and Velma Gilmore, Half Way; four grandchildren and several nieces and nephews. Graveside services were Saturday, May 5, at New Bethel Cemetery, south of Half Way, with the Rev. Harold Hendrickson officiating. Amvets Post No. 114 Honor Guard conducted military rites. Services were under the direction of Murray Funeral Home. A00008B2001MY09
Patricia Mae Petersen, 76, Humansville, died at 10:10 p.m. Monday, May 7, 2001, in her home. The daughter of Walter and Charlotte Lasater Babbitt, she was born at St. Louis May 1, 1925. She married Wallace D. Petersen Sept. 24, 1948, in Kansas City. A homemaker, she had lived in Humansville since 1978, previously living in Colorado for 15 years. Survivors include her husband, Wallace of the home; three daughters, Patricia A. Hudgens and Nancy L. Webster, both of Humansville, and Lynn M. Fisher, Denver, Colo.; nine grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren. No services are planned. Her remains will be scattered in Colorado at a later date. Cremation was under the direction of Murray Funeral Home. A00008B2001MY09
Phillip E. "Phil" Pursley, Bolivar passed away on Friday, May 18, 2001, at 6:35 a.m. in his home after a short illness, at the age of 80 years, 7 months and 20 days. Phil was born Sept. 28, 1920, in Bolivar the son of Harry H. and Vera Johnson Pursley. He was united in marriage to Marie Davidson in March of 1942 and to this union three daughters were born; Phyllis, Dixie and Freddie. He was a member of the First Assembly of God Church in Bolivar, where he attended until the time of his illness. Phil served his country in World War II, being stationed at Fort Sill, Okla. He was Honorably Discharged from service in 1943. He had worked as an electrician for more than 50 years. Phil was a loving husband, father, grandpa, and great papa. He is survived by his wife of 59 years Marie Pursley, three daughters and their husbands; Phyllis and David Davis, and Dixie and Danny Hitchcock, of Bolivar, and Freddie and Larry Moore of Polk. Also a sister, Avonell Strader of Springfield, and a brother, Lano Pursley and his wife Pauline of Walnut Grove. Nine grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren, one sister-in-law and her husband, Vinnie and Bud Bridges. Funeral services were Sunday, May 20, 2001, in the Butler Funeral Home Chapel with Pastor Finis R. Roberts and Pastor Mark Summers officiating. Music was provided by the Parsons Sisters, with Donna Cole as the pianist. Phil's request for musical selections were: "The Everlasting Arms," "The Last Mile Of The Way" and "In The Garden." Burial was in the Greenwood Cemetery with Pastor Gary Parsons officiating. Full Military Honors were conducted by the Galmey V.F.W. Post No. 9638. Casketbearers were Frank Kepes, L. D. Silvey, Jerry Carson, Robert Breshears, Dudley Huckaby and Jerald Hofstetter. Honorary Casketbearers were Lavern Moore, Allen Capehart, Danny Breshears, Rusty Lashinske and Gerald Wistance. A00008B2001MY23
Joe B. Richards, 70, Kansas City, Kan., died Friday, May 11, 2001, at his home. He was born in Sentinel and had lived in kansas City, Kan., for the past 48 years, moving from Bolivar. He was a self-employed barber in the Kansas City stockyards for 44 years after graduating from barber college in California. He was a corporal in the Marine Corps serving in the Korean War and was a member of the American Legion and the Last Man's Club. He was preceded in death by his mother, Pearl Richards, in 1998 and his father Joe Richards, in 1930. He is survived by his wife, Sue of the home; a son and daughter-in-law, John Joseph and Karen of Linwood, Kan.; a daughter and son-in-law, JoBeth and Steve Roper of Kansas City, Kan.; a sister, Mari Frances Andrews of Ojai, Calif.; an aunt, Alice Hicks of Bolivar; his brothers and sisters-in-law; six granddaughters and numerous cousins, nieces and nephews. Services were Wednesday, May 16, at the Highland Park Funeral Home with burial in Chapel Hill Memorial Gardens. A00008B2001MY23
Camerino Rivera Crescencio Rivera, 23, and Camerino Rivera, 21, both of Kansas City, Kan., died Saturday, May 12, 2001, from injuries sustained in an automobile accident one mile south of Bolivar at the intersection of Mo. 83 and Mo. 13. The sons of Crescencio Rivera Montero and Modesta Suriano Mauricio, they were born in Acayucan, Vera Cruz, Mexico. Crescencio was a printing company machine operator and Camerino was a farm laborer. They were Roman Catholic. Survivors include their parents, Crescencio Rivera and Modesta Suriano, Acayucan, Vera Cruz, Mexico; two brothers, Beato Rivera and Fabian Rivera, both of Kansas City, Kan.; and one sister, Ana Luz Rivera, Acayucan, Vera Cruz Mexico. Services and burial will be in Acayucan, Vera Cruz, Mexico. Local arrangements were under the direction of Murray Funeral Home. A00008B2001MY16
James F. Rogers, 55, Pleasant Hope, died at 8:10 p.m. Monday, May 14, 2001, at his home. He was retired from the U.S. Air Force and Marine Corp. Graveside services will be announced at a later date. Arrangements are under the direction of Greenlawn Funeral Home North, Springfield. A00008B2001MY23
Lena Scott, 53, Flemington, died Tuesday, May 22, 2001, at St. John's Regional Health Center, Springfield. She was a homemaker and had moved to the Flemington area in 1983. Survivors include her husband of 25 years, John E. Scott of the home; two sons, John Scott Jr. of Ozark and Christopher Scott of the home; a daughter, Reva Spencer of Osceola; a sister, Mona Harrison of Carl's Junction; and three grandchildren. Services were Saturday, May 26, 2001, at Hathaway-Peterman Funeral Home Chapel, Wheatland, with the Rev. Larry Sherman officiating. Burial was in Lehman Cemetery, north of Elkton. A00008B2001MY30
Venna Lavon Seamster, age 67 of Polk, died at Noon, Sunday, May 6, 2001, at Citizen's Memorial Hospital in Bolivar after a sudden illness. She was born in Jamesport to Robert D. Barnes and Jewell Simpson Barnes on April 15, 1934. She lived most of her childhood in Polk. She was saved and baptized into Sentinal Missionary Baptist Church at a young age where she remained a member. She was united in marriage to Alvie K. Seamster on Nov. 11, 1950, and they spent most of their lives together in Wichita, Kan., where Venna made a career as a merchandiser and Alvie as a carpenter. They returned to Polk in 1998. Surviving is her husband, Alvie K. Seamster of the home; a daughter, Sandra Schmidt and her husband, Mick, of Rogersville; and two sons, Alan Seamster and his wife, Karla, of Yates Center, Kan., and Leslie Seamster of Polk; two brothers, Grimes Barnes of Polk, and Ronald Barnes of Aiken, S.C.; her eight grandchildren, James Seamster of Oklahoma, Jeremy Dale Seamster, Tracy Anderson, Sheri Resser, and Shane Skelley all of Wichita, Kan., Samatha Seamster of Yates Center, Kan., and Stasha Schmidt and Angela Schmidt of Rogersville; and five great-grandchildren, Cody Resser, Jacob Seamster, Christian Seamster, Keisha Anderson and Angela Anderson, all of Wichita, Kan. Venna was preceded in death by her parents; one brother, Darrel Barnes; and a grandson, Chad Seamster. Venna knew no stranger. She was a wonderful wife, mother, grandmother and a friend to all. She had many young people who also called her grandma. She loved and accepted each of them as if they truly were her grandchildren. She loved the new house Alvie so lovingly built for them. Her family was very special to her. She had a precious gift of knowing just the right things to do and say that made each family member feel the love she had for each of them. Venna loved working outside with her flowers, watching the birds, and also spent many hours crocheting or embrodering gifts for others. She will be missed tremendousley by all who knew her, but knowing she is with the Lord and reunited with her parents, brings some comfort to her loved ones. Funeral services will be at 1 p.m. today (Wednesday) in the Butler Funeral Home Chapel in Bolivar with Bro. Donnie Lightfoot officiating. Musical selections will be "Amazing Grace," "Precious Memories," and "I'll Fly Away." Burial will be in the Payne Cemetery north of Polk. Casketbearers will be James Seamster, Jeremy Seamster, Shane Skelley, Dave Anderson, Leroy Seamster, Randy Barnes, Gary Seamster and Bobby Monier. A00008B2001MY09
Glenn Eldon Sell was born may 12, 1935, in Claremore, Okla., the son of Oscar Eldon and Elsie Inez Blackwell Sell. He grew up and attended school in Piper, Kan., where he excelled in basketball, football and track. He graduated from high school in 1954. Glenn served his country in the U.S. Navy from 1954 to 1958. After his honorable discharge, he traveled around. He made his home in Kansas City during the 1950s and '60s where he founded Edcore Safety and served in the Kansas City Police and Fire Department. From Kansas City, he moved to Detroit where he worked in sales. He moved to Bellville, Texas, in 1976 and had made his home in Sealy, Texas, since the early 1980s where he owned and operated Town and County Real Estate until his death. He enjoyed coin collecting and computers. Although he enjoyed rodeoing and saddle bronc riding, Glenn used to say, "There's got to be a better way to make a living than this." He passed away suddenly Saturday, May 26, 2001, in Houston, having celebrated his 66th birthday. He is survived by his aunt Elva Blackwell of Bolivar; nieces and nephews, Mildred Frances Sell of Kansas City, Rebecca Martens of Chicago, Ill., Carolyn Sell Zinn of Elkland, David A. Sell of Peculiar, John F. Sell of Poteau, Okla., Donald Wayne Sell II of Kearney, jeffrey F. Sell of Lancaster, Kan., Tracy Keeling of Overland, Kan., Tammy Sell of Cummins, Kan., Deborah Sell Kordes of Osage, Okla., and Sissy Bass of Bellville, Texas; great-niece, Shawn M. Hunt of Springfield; and numerous other great-nieces and nephews and many friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, five brothers and one nephew. Funeral services for Glenn E. Sell were held Thursday, May 31, 2001, at the Schmidt Funeral Home Chapel in Bellville, Texas, with the Rev. Tom Knight officiating. Graveside funeral services were Saturday, June 2, in the Flemington Cemetery in Flemington under the direction of Pitts Chapel. Memorial gifts to the Glenn Sell Memorial Fund may be made in care of The National Bank of Bellville, 100 E. Main, Bellville TX 77418. A00008B2001JN06
Arlington Ernest "Arlie" Sherrard
Arlington Ernest "Arlie" Sherrard, Bolivar, was born on Feb. 24, 1922, in Lohrville, Iowa, the son of Robert Marshall and Blanche McCready Sherrard. He passed away on Thursday, May 31, 2001, at 10:08 p.m. in Citizens Memorial Hospital, Bolivar, after a brief illness, at the age of 79 years, 3 months and 7 days. After high school, he enlisted in the U.S. Air Force. Arlie spent his working career in Federal Aviation, most of it at LaCrosse, Wis. He had enjoyed retirement for about 20 years. Arlie was happiest out in his shop working on small motors. Once in a while he would take time out to go fishing, but he couldn't wait to get home and work on those motors. Arlie had a couple of hobbies that he really enjoyed and they were weather watching and trap shooting. On July 2, 1950, he was united in marriage to Avis and they had two lovely children (twins), Connie and Ronnie. They met because his mother had Avis picked out for him before he got out of the service, so when he came home, she introduced him to a special girl, and mom did a good job. He was preceded in death by his parents, his sister and brother-in-law, Lavern and Claude West, and his brother, Robert Sherrard. He is survived by his wife, Avis Sherrard; one son, Ronald Lee Sherrard; one daughter, Constance Lynn; four grandchildren and three great-grandchildren; three sisters-in-law, Margaret Eskee of Buffalo, Dolores Heizelman of Columbia and Dorothy Sherrard of Northwood, Iowa; a brother-in-law and his wife, Roger E. and Clarice Miller of Bellevue, Neb.; and a host of other relatives and friends. Funeral Services were held on Sunday, June 3, 2001 in the Butler Funeral Home Chapel with the Rev. Dan Adkison officiating. Burial will be today (Wednesday) at 1:30 p.m. in the Sunset Rest Cemetery in Northwood, Iowa. A00008B2001JN06
Gerald "Jerry" David Smith of Dunnegan, formerly of Lockwood, eparted this life on Monday, May 21, 2001, in St. John's Regional Health Center, Springfield. Gerald was born on Aug. 28, 1921, in Golden City to Herbert and Maude Greely Smith. He was married to Billie Georgia Kelly on May 4, 1941, in Greenfield. Billie preceded Gerald in death on Aug. 30, 2000. Mr. Smith served his country in the Navy in World War II. He was a member of the Carpenters Local 61 and had received his 50 years Gold card. He had been a dstrict chairman. Preceding him in death are his father and mother; his wife, Billie Smith; five brothers, Loren, Max, Al, Bob, and Milton "Mip" Smith; and one sister, Denzel. Survivors include one daughter, Becky Sue Smith of Dunnegan; one sister, Clarice Selvey of Webb City; a host of nieces and nephews and other family. He will be greatly missed by all. Services were Thursday, May 24, in Lockwood Funeral Chapel with the Rev. Danny Decker officiating, with military rites by Lockwood American Legion Post No. 372. Burial followed in Lockwood Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the Lockwood Cemetery. A00008B2001MY30
Dennis Edward Spear, was born February 10, 1924, in his family's home near Louisburg, MO. He was the son of Joe and Nora (Harris) Spear. He departed this life at 5:55 AM, Friday, May 4, 2001 at the age of 77 years, 2 months, and 24 days. He was preceded in death by his parents and one brother. He is survived by his wife of 53 years, Dorothy, his five children; Denise Jessen and her husband Don, Neosho, MO; Diane Clark and her husband Norm, Alamosa, CO; Donna Gaynor and her husband Gaylord, Pleasant Hope, MO; Doyle Spear and his wife Ronda, Halfway, MO; and Denelle Spear, Halfway, MO. Eight Grandchildren, Jeff Jessen, Christine Regan, and her husband Tony, Sarah Rovenstine and her husband Chuck, Holly Jessen, Steven Gaynor, Melinda Jones and her husband Casey, Michael Spear and Morgan Spear. Also three great grandchildren, Justin and Jarrett Rovenstine, and Cassidy Opal Regan. Other survivors include his two brothers, Marion and Joe, and two sisters, Merlee Parker and Wanda Fastle, and many nieces, nephews and other relatives. Dennis graduated from Emma D. High School at Goodson, and later joined the United States Navy during World War II and served in the South Pacific. Dennis was saved at Lindley Creek Church when he was a boy between the age of 12 and 13. He was a member of the Pleasant Hill Missionary Baptist Church at the time of his death. He was ordained by Lindley Creek in 1957 and pastored churches in Polk, Dallas, Jasper and Hickory counties for over 40 years. He held numerous revivals and drove many, many miles preaching the gospel and serving God. Dennis and Dorothy were married September 21, 1947, at their home near Louisburg. They made their home there until 1956 when they moved north of Halfway, where he resided until his death. Dennis loved farming and always worked hard at whatever he did, whether it was farming or serving God. He was always willing to help a neighbor or anyone else in need, and he made friends everywhere he went. He loved his family very much, and truly enjoyed the time they spent together. He will be sadly missed and often remembered by his family and friends. Funeral services for Dennis E. Spear were held on Sunday, May 6, 2001 at 2:00 PM in the Butler Funeral Home Chapel with Bro. Doyle Mayfield and Bro. Joe Sprague officiating. Musical soloist was David Barham, with Janice Barham as the Pianist. Gene Agee was the Songleader. Burial was in the Ragsdale Cemetery northeast of Halfway under the direction of the Butler Funeral Home of Bolivar. Casketbearers were: Jeff Jessen, Tony Regan, Chuck Rovenstine, Steven Gaynor, Casey Jones, and Michael Spear. Memorial contributions may be give to the American Cancer Society or the Community Hospices of America-Southwest Missouri. Donations may be sent to Butler Funeral Home, P.O. Box 11-Bolivar, MO 65613 A00008B2001MY09
Tessley "Red" D. Swearengin, 57, Collins, died Thursday, May 17, 2001, at St. Luke's Hospital in Kansas City. He was an automobile mechanic, working several years for Bill Roberts Chevrolet in Bolivar, and was a long-time area resident of Collins. He was born Nov. 18, 1943, at Theodosia, the son of Roy L. and Alaska Herd Swearengin. Survivors include two sons, Keeton Swearengin of Wheatland and Billy Swearengin of Collins; three daughters, Karmin Giroua of Wichita, Kan., Chris Swearengin of Cross Timbers and Kelle Huntsman of Wheatland; his parents, Roy and Alaska Swearengin of Collins; two brothers, Lesley Swearengin of Shawnee Mission, Kan., and Darrell Swearengin of Stockton; two sisters, Wanda Cassell and Thelma Underwood of Stockton; and eight grandchildren. Services were Saturday, May 19, at Hathaway-Peterman Funeral Home Chapel, Wheatland, with the Rev. Kent Parson officiating. Burial was in Holsapple-Freeman Cemetery in Collins. A00008B2001MY23
Amanda Marie Walden, 88 of Bolivar died on at 5 a.m. Friday, May 25, 2001, in Parkview Health Care Facility in Bolivar after a short illness. She was born on Sept. 16, 1912, in Dallas County, the daughter of Walter David and Rebecca Jane Gann Wilkerson. In 1956 she was united in marriage to Price Baker Walden, and had been a Polk County resident for the past 44 years. She was preceded in death by her parents and two brothers. Marie is survived by her husband of 44 years, Price Baker Walden; two daughters, Doris and her husband, William L. Hooper, of Bolivar and Helen Marie Gill of Ozark; one brother, Fred Otis Wilkerson of Springfield; three sisters, Violetta Craig of Springfield, Edna Ewing of Roaoke, Va., and Hazel Broad of Broken Arrow, Okla.; and seven grandchildren, 19 great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild. Services were Tuesday, May 29, in the Butler Funeral Home Chapel, Bolivar, with the Rev. William L. Hooper officiating and a reading by Donna Nelson. Music will be provided by George and Susan Baker. Burial was in Greenlawn Cemetery, Springfield. Casketbearers were Bill Hooper Jr., Rick Hughlett, Steve Hughlett, Kelly Wester, Mark Duree and Gene Nelson. A00008B2001MY30
Donald Clay Whitlock, 53, Pleasant Hope, passed away Thursday, May 8, 2001, in his home after an extended battle with cancer. He was born Jan. 2, 1948, in Springfield to Scotty Clay and Mildred Elene Freeman Whitlock. Both preceded him in death. He was united in marriage to Laurie Marie Albright on Feb. 6, 1971, and to this union two sons were born, Justin Clay and Jim Ellis. Don grew up on his family's farm and was active in FFA. After graduating from Pleasant Hope High School in 1966, he served four years in the U.S. Air Force. He retired as a rural mail carrier for the Pleasant Hope Post Office on Feb. 2, 2001, after 22 years of service. He was a member of the Methodist Church and served his community as a school board member, member of the rural fire department board and city council. He earned his private pilot's license in 1983 and enjoyed flying, building and restoring airplanes. He also enjoyed spending time in the outdoors hunting, fishing and playing golf. He is survived by his wife, Laurie; two sons, Justin and hsi wife, D'Nette, of Amarillo, Texas, and Jim of Springfield; two grandsons, Austin and Coltin; three brothers, Dave and his wife, Janet, and Darrell, all of Pleasant Hope, and Dale and his wife, Sheila, of Amarillo, Texas; and a host of other relatives and friends. Services were Friday, May 11, in Klingner Mortuary Chapel, Springfield, with the Rev. Harold Hendrickson and the Rev. Keith Lee officiating. Burial was in Mount Comfort Cemetery. Pallbearers were Wes Campbell, Bob Harralson, Mickey Hillenburg, DonKimble, Larry Skidmore and Mike Stokes. "In the Garden," "Amazing Grace," "It is Well With My Soul" and "Open My Eyes" were sung by Theresa Hillenbuug and Connie Robertson with Gail Devore as pianist. Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society or to Hospice of Southwest Missouri. A00008B2001MY16
William P. "Pete" Wright went to meet the Lord on Friday, May 18, 2001. He walked on this earth for 90 years. He was a former teamster construction worker in Kansas City and retired to Bolivar in 1973 with his family. He is survived by his wife of 64 years, Ruby L. Wright of the home; six children, Joyce Wright, Diane Floyd of Bolivar, Linda Browning of El Dorado Springs, Buddy Wright of Grandview, Gregory Wright of Bolivar and Jana Wright of Springfield; seven grandchildren, Brenda Spruance and Kenny Floyd, both of Springfield, Shane Floyd of Bolivar, Debbie Peres of Overland Park, Kan., Sharri Hacker of Independence, and Amber Clark and Tracy Wright, both of Grandview; four great-grandchildren, Dylan Spruance and Brady Spruance, both of Springfield, and Melinda Hacker and Jessica Hacker, both of Independence. In honoring Mr. Wright's request, his body has been cremated and a private family burial will take place at a later date in Greenwood Cemetery. The family requests that anyone reading this take a moment to tell someone you love them and are grateful for their presence in your life. Arrangements are under the direction of Pitts Chapel. A00008B2001MY23
Jackie Howard Wrinkle, 65, Rolla, died Wednesday, May 9, 2001, at his home after a lingering illness. He was born in Bolivar on Feb. 13, 1936, to Willard Thomas and Augusta Alberta Ammerman Wrinkle who preceded him in death. He attended Bolivar public schools until 1953 when his family moved to California. After completing his high school education, he joined the U.S. Navy and retired after 20 years as a Chief Naval Officer. After retiring, he served as a Naval Recruiter in the Rolla and Springfield area for some time. Survivors include his wife, Jean of the home; one son, Richard of Redding, Calif.; two daughters, Sandra Kurts or Eureka and Tracy Beavers of Dow, Ill.; one stepdaughter, Shanna Deardorf; two stepsons, Darin and Tom Deardorf; five grandsons, three granddaughters and one stepgranddaughter; one aunt, Eunice Payne of Springfield; two brothers, Baryl Gene Wrinkle of Stockton and Willard Thomas Wrinkle of Redding, Calif.; and four sisters, Dixie Loui Payne of Goodson, Shirley Ann Church and Sharron Kay Bradley of Shasta Lake City, Calif., and Norma Lee Culbertson of Weed, Calif. Also surviving are a host of nieces, nephews and cousins. Services were held in Kordes Funeral Home in Rolla on Friday, May 11, with burial in Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery in St. Louis with full military honors. A00008B2001MY30