PCGS Membership Memorial Tributes

Dorothy Jean (Brewer) Burchett Hopkins (1930-2023) Dorothy was a past member and dedicated genealogist who generously donated all of her research to us several years ago.
Dorothy Jean Burchett Hopkins was born June 27, 1930, in Phoenix, Arizona, one of four children of Carl and Bertha Brewer from Missouri. Dorothy died on July 28, 2023, at the age of 93 in Largo, Florida.

Dorothy's lifelong career was teaching. She earned her Associate Degree in Childhood Education at Southwest Baptist College in Bolivar, then her Bachelor's and Master's in Education at Southwest Missouri State in Springfield. She taught elementary school for 32 years, starting in Wheatland, and then in nearby communities of Bolivar, Pleasant Hope, and Springfield. She retired in 1989 and enjoyed time with her husband, Don, of 43 years before he passed at the age of 64 in 1991.

Her students include the current Governor of Missouri and the retired President of Baker University in Kansas and hundreds of other good and successful citizens. She certainly made her mark in the lives of many. In her classroom, she was known to have "the look" that would wither bad actors in their tracks and dimples that would light up a whole room.

Dorothy was married to Donald Ray Burchett from 1948 to his passing in November 1991 and they produced an only child, Sherryl Kay. They had so many interests in common and spent vacations traveling to Courthouses and Cemeteries in Virginia, Tennessee, Kentucky, etc. while researching genealogy clues as a lifetime hobby. Dorothy loved Don's parents, Edna and Emmett, and enjoyed spending time with them. She cared for Edna after the deaths of Emmett and Don.

In addition to teaching and family, Dorothy enjoyed sewing, cooking, taking long walks, shopping, and traveling, and she loved each of her three successive schnauzers. Over the years, she augmented her income by buying and selling Real Estate, both professionally and personally.

Not many widows get the opportunity of a second chance at love, but Dorothy married Rex Hopkins in 1996 in a Hawaiian wedding and were blessed with 21 happy years together. They were able to share so many experiences traveling by RV caravan through Canada, Alaska, Nova Scotia, Newfoundland, and the Copper Canyon in Mexico. They lived half the year in Bolivar and the other half in their home in Tucson. Rex fit right into the family with his dry wit and kind ways.

In 2016, their health declined, and they moved to a residential care facility in Florida near Dorothy's daughter, Sherryl, and her family. Rex passed in 2017 at 96-1/2 (as he liked to say) and was returned to Bolivar for burial in his family plot.

Upon her move to Florida, Dorothy donated many boxes of genealogy records to the Polk County
Genealogical Society in Bolivar who in turn did a wonderful job of indexing the files and preserving them. These files covered a variety of family trees around the Cedar, Polk, and St. Clair counties in Missouri and also related records that were gathered in many other states. The PCGS honored Dorothy with a nice write-up about the scope of these invaluable boxes of information, which are now available for viewing and copying at their Bolivar location or ordering on its website.

Dorothy is survived by her daughter, Sherryl Kay Florko (Kenneth); her granddaughter, Crystal Dawn Jagodzinski (David) and her grandson, Paul Matthew Belden (Amy); four great-grandchildren, David Joshua Belden, Daniel James Belden, Sarah Elisabeth Belden and Piper Jane Jagodzinski; and one step-great-granddaughter, Savannah Marie Jagodzinski. She is also survived by Rex's daughter, Jo Hopkins (Judge Bill) of Bolivar; and in Arizona a niece, Brenda Lee Gaskill, and two nephews, Brent and Temple Brewer.
Dorothy was predeceased by her first husband, Donald Ray Burchett, and her second husband, Rex Lee Hopkins in Missouri; her beloved inlaws, Lucy Edna (Clayton) Burchett and Emmett Loren Burchett; her father, Carl Dewey Brewer; her mother, Bertha May (Wyant) Brewer; and her three siblings, C. Richard Brewer, Donnie Brewer, and Ruby Lowry all passed in Arizona.

Gathering and Service: 11:30 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 26 at First Baptist Church, Rose Building, 114 N. Springfield Ave., Bolivar. Luncheon afterward: 1 p.m. Saturday, hosted by the family at Smith's Restaurant, 1340 State Hwy U, Bolivar. Graveside: 3 p.m. Saturday at Alder Cemetery, Hwy M, ½ mile east of Junction of M and AA. Interment next to Donald, Emmett, and Edna Burchett.

Condolences may be expressed online at obituaries.nationalcremation.com/obituaries. If desired, flowers may be ordered through The Flower Patch in Bolivar, or in lieu of flowers, a memorial donation may be made to First Baptist Church of Bolivar.

Juanita Ann (Gile) Hobson (1946-2023)
Juanita Ann Hobson, 76, known to many as GiGi, passed away unexpectedly on April 5th, 2023, at Cox Hospital. She leaves behind her husband of 60 years, Larry Hobson.

Juanita was born on August 6th, 1946, in Polk County, Missouri to Dale and Louise Gile. She worked for several years at Dr. Crippin’s Chiropractic clinic in Bolivar, MO. Prior to that she managed at P.N. Hirsch (later becoming Dollar General) for 20+ years. She loved baseball, the Kansas City Chiefs, quilting, bowling, genealogy, her life on the farm, and spoiling her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Juanita grew up working from a young age, which included helping raise her brothers, Bill, Roger, and Richard. She met Larry in her late teens while she was working at The Penguin in Bolivar, MO. They were married in July of 1962, which was the start of a 60+ year marriage.

That life started quickly with two strong-willed and vivacious daughters, Brenda and Pamela. The four of them enjoyed countless hours at the Hobson farm, lake days at Pomme de Terre, trail rides at Chadwick Motorcycle and ATV Use Area, and cross country trips to California for family visits and off-road riding in the Mojave desert. One of Juanita’s favorite pastimes on the lake was watching Larry solum ski while she drove the boat. She also enjoyed weekends away with Cheech in their highly competitive bowling tournaments across the country.

Juanita started her role as grandparent in 1984 with Anastasia, then soon after had Cheri, Kamron, and Tyler. She didn’t stop there though, she became a grandma to several other children when they needed her, including Emily and Timothy Kirklin. In the second part of grand-parenting life, she also had Ana join the bunch. Her life became ballgames, camping trips, teaching the grandkids to sew, pitch a ball, bowling like a professional, and baking pies. She was a specialist on Grandparents Day at school, stepping in for any student who didn’t have a grandparent to celebrate with. She was always there with open arms to be a grandma to anybody.

After years of practice, she took on the title of great-grandma in 2005. This was also when she was upgraded to be GiGi. She gave even more love to Cash, Jackson, Juan, JB, Joyce, Brock, Teagan, and even more over the last 18 years. Her open arms and doors remained welcoming to many other children who would come see her and their GiGi as well.

The farm and quilting were Juanita’s oasis. Her dogs, her cows, the deer, the hummingbirds, and her flowers were where she wanted to be, unless the Chiefs were on, then you would find her in red watching the game. Her quilting space is full of what ifs, let’s try this, and beautiful accidents. Her creative outlet had no boundaries. Whether she was inside or outside at the farm, she was able to do something she loved. She and Larry built their joy there together.

She is preceded in death by her mother and father, Dale and Louise Gile, brother, Richard Gile, several aunts and uncles, and grand-daughter, Anastasia Brewer.

She leaves her husband, Larry Hobson, her children, Brenda Nunn and Greg Cooper, and Pamela and Mark Hood, her grandchildren, Cheri and Brian Fisher, Kamron Hood and Kasey Bayer, Tyler Scheller, Ana Hood, her great-grandchildren, Cash, Jackson, Juan, JB, Joyce, Brock, Teagan, and many cousins and relatives.

Juanita taught love, strength, and a little sass to all in this family and to any who were a part of her world. She will be greatly missed by all.

Dorothy V. Black (1936-2022)
Dorothy was a longtime PCGS member and supporter. Her generous donations have greatly supported our society over the last few years.
Dorothy Vanita Black, age 86 of Pittsburg, MO, passed away Sunday, December 18, 2022, at Citizens Memorial Hospital Bolivar, MO.  She was born August 14, 1936, in Goodson, MO, to Cecil and Caroline (Shoman) Black.
She is preceded in death by her parents; three brothers: Kenneth, Clarence, and Buford Black; and a sister Doris Crawford. Dorothy is survived by many nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.
According to Dorothy’s wishes her body will be cremated.  Private inurnment will take place at a later date.  Online condolences may be made at: www.greenlawnfuneralhome.com.  Arrangements have been entrusted to Pitts Chapel Bolivar, MO.

Jack Glendenning (1927-2022)
Jack was our resident historian, longtime member and volunteer at PCGS. We have missed his presence greatly in recent years (after he entered the nursing home) but so much of our group's existence was intertwined with Jack and his boundless knowledge!
Jack Glendenning, loving husband and father of three, passed away at the age of 95, on Friday, September 16, 2022. Jack was born on May 17, 1927 in Joplin, MO to Frank and Edna May Glendenning.

Jack proudly served his country in the Korean War as a member of the United States Army. Upon his return, he attended Southwest Baptist University, and married his wife, Doris Jane Bean, on January 7, 1950. They lived and worked in Kansas City for the next 19 years. Along with his brother George Glendenning, he became owner and proprietor of a Bolivar staple, Polk County Electric, in 1969.

For the next nearly 40 years, Jack could be found working tirelessly at Polk County Electric, just off the square, serving the community. His business would become more than just a storefront, as on any given day you could find locals stopping by to drink coffee and catch up on the news, life and politics, grandchildren running around the showroom, and often a dog sleeping under the counter. People from all over the country would journey to see Jack, as a long- standing member of the Genealogical Society, to locate grave sites of past family members or further information on their family’s ancestry.

Jack was co-author of the book, “The Slicker Wars” written alongside his brother-in-law, Clarke Thomas, and also played a major role in the opening of the Polk County Museum & Historical Society on West Locust in Bolivar. He was an avid card player and loved baseball and football.

Jack is survived by his three children, Kerry Meinecke and husband Tim, of Liberty Missouri, Dana Eversoll and husband Lee, David Glendenning and wife Gabriela, all of Bolivar; his grandchildren, Aaron Eversoll & his wife Amy, Kimberly Adams, Abby Glendenning (granddaughter-in-law), Rachel Roberts & her husband Jake, Adam Glendenning, and Alex Glendenning & his wife Jessica; two step grandchildren, Diego Brawn, and Fernanda Brawn; as well as many great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his beloved sister, Olive Thomas, of Carthage, Mo.

He is preceded in death by his wife, Doris Glendenning as well as his grandson Andy Glendenning and siblings Mary Lea Phillips, Bud Glendenning, George Glendenning and Ralph (Icky) Glendenning.

A visitation for Jack will be held from 4-7 PM Wednesday, September 21, 2022 at the Butler Funeral Home in Bolivar. In lieu of flowers the family kindly asks that memorial donations be made to the Polk County Humane Society or to the Polk County Genealogical Society. These two organizations were very dear to him.

Benjamin Lewis Gravely (1944-2022)
Ben was a long-time officer, member and volunteer at PCGS. He was a wealth of knowledge and a great friend to all. His passing leaves a hole in our group that will never be filled!
Benjamin L. Gravely, 77, passed away suddenly after enjoying a gathering of friends on Thursday, June 30. Ben was born on September 28, 1944 in Springfield at St. John’s Hospital, to Marshall W. and Ola M. (Creed) Gravely Wells. He graduated from Bolivar High School in 1962 where he earned the FFA State Farmer Degree. He also attended Southwest Baptist College for a short time before entering the working world. Ben was united in marriage to Marquita Payne in 1967, a marriage that lasted 55 years. To this union was born James Lewis and Raymond Andrew Gravely.

Ben farmed as a young man. He was a press operator for several years at the Gravely family-owned newspaper, the Bolivar Free Press. The majority of his working life was spent in trucking with both local and long haul companies. He also drove busses for the Bolivar R1 Schools.

Ben received Christ as his Savior when he was a young adult and attended Calvary Missionary Baptist Church in later years until family health conditions prohibited attendance. His faith sustained him through life and he relied on the steadfast assurance of God’s saving grace and mercy.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his sister, Martha A. Byrd, an infant son, and his brothers-in-law, Cecil Byrd and Tony Payne. Ben is survived by his wife, Marquita, sons James and Andrew, a brother Bill Gravely (Karen), brother-in-law Marlyn Payne (Barbara) and sister-in-law Connie Payne. He will also be missed by nieces and nephews as well as friends and neighbors.

Ben was a lifelong Bolivar and Polk County native. He was an officer of the Polk County Genealogical Society where he was a trusted and knowledgeable volunteer. He was very happy to learn that his grandfather, Joe W. Gravely, long time publisher of the Bolivar Free Press will be a 2022 inductee to the Missouri Press Association Hall of Fame.  Ben loved stock car racing. He worked on a racing crew for a few years and attended races throughout the area. Ben went about his activities in a serious way, but he also enjoyed a good laugh with his family and friends.

Funeral services will be Thursday, July 7 at Pitts Chapel with Brother Michael Calhoun officiating. Visitation will be at 10:00 AM with the service to follow at 11:00 AM.  Burial will follow the service at Greenwood Cemetery in Bolivar, Missouri. Arrangements have been entrusted to Pitts Chapel.

Herb Boyce (1934-2022)
Herb and his wife Roseann were faithful members of PCGS until health problems kept them away. We could always count on Herb for a good story from his metal-detecting adventures. He will be so missed.
Herby "Herb" Franklin Boyce, 87 of Bolivar, MO, passed away Monday, May 16, 2022 at Citizens Memorial Health Care Facility in Bolivar. Herb was born on September 5, 1934, to Jesse and Katie (Shay) Boyce.

He graduated from Bolivar High School Class of 1953. After graduation he worked at the cheese factory in Kansas City before working at Leads Chevrolet for 14 years. Herb then starting working as a carpenter before working for CMH as a carpenter as one of the fist 20 employees after they opened their doors.

Herb married Roseann Davison on November 21, 1964 and the couple had two sons, Jeffrey and Rodney. He was a member of the Bolivar Masonic lodge #195 for over 60 years. He enjoyed coaching his sons little league baseball teams. Herb was a member of the Polk County Genealogical Society, Bolivar Coin Club, and could be seen using his metal detector all around Bolivar.

Herb is survived by his wife, Roseann; two sons, Jeffrey (Janet) Boyce, Rodney (Rachel) Boyce; grandchildren, Brian (Cheri) Fisher, Nikki Fisher and significant other Jeff Ayers; great grandchildren, Cash and Jackson Fisher.

A memorial service for Herb will be held at 1:00 PM on Saturday, May 21, 2022, at Greenwood Cemetery in Bolivar, Missouri.

Julian Pace (1938-2022)
Julian Hughes Pace, Sr., age 83 went to be with his Lord and Savior on January 12, 2022, at Parkview Care Center. Julian was born December 11th, 1938, in Abilene, Texas, to Julian and Ruby Pace. He was preceded in death by his parents Julian Henry Pace and Ruby Hughes Pace and by his brother Ray Henry Pace. He is survived by his wife Elizabeth Anne Mitchell Pace, son and daughter-in-law Julian Hughes Pace, Jr,, and Cynthia Rios Pace; daughter and son-in-law Emily Pace Huff and Timothy R. Huff; grandchildren: Henry Pace Huff, Elliot Mitchell Huff, Amelia Rios Pace, Nicholas Julian Pace, nieces; Keli Cullen, Karen Fetner, and nephew Evans Mitchell.

Julian graduated from Waco High School in Waco, Texas in 1957. Julian attended Baylor University in Waco Texas and graduated in 1961. After graduating from Baylor with a BA in history, he entered the master’s degree program at the University of Texas at Austin to obtain his master’s. He transferred to the University of Oklahoma in Norman and completed his master’s in Library Science in 1963.

While attending Baylor, he met his future wife of nearly 60 years. Julian and Elizabeth were married on August 25th, 1961, at Elizabeth’s home church, Sunshine Baptist Church, in Springfield, Missouri. After completing his master’s, he accepted a job at Southwest Baptist College as the Director of library services. While at Southwest Baptist, he oversaw the design and construction of the new Estep Library and oversaw the relocation of the entire library into the new facility.

In 1972, Julian accepted a position at Southwest Missouri State University as the Administrative Assistant to the Director of Southwest Missouri State University Libraries, and later as Head of Media Services at SMSU. While at SMSU, he oversaw the design, construction and relocation of the library collection to the new Meyer Library. On July 30th, 1998, Julian retired from SMSU, and shortly thereafter became a Member of the Board of Trustees of the Polk County Library and served in that position up to his death. While on the Board of Trustees Julian served as President of the Board of Trustees and also served in the role of Treasurer and Secretary of the Board of Trustees. Locally, he played an active role in planning and fund raising for the Rayl Family Library, located in Bolivar. In 2000, he helped with efforts to build a new Bolivar public library, and relocate the public library collection to the current Rayl Family public library.

Julian was the past chairman of the Missouri Association of College and Research Libraries and was a member of the American Library Association, the Missouri Library Association, the Springfield Library Association, the Secretary of State’s Council on Library Development, and the Continuing Education Advisory Committee. As an active member of the American Library Association, Julian would attend annual professional development conferences in major cities across the United States with his family. Elizabeth, Julian, Jr., and Emily treasure memories of traveling together as a family and exploring museums while attending ALA meetings.

On July 23rd, 1998, the Missouri House of Representatives adopted House Resolution No. 2017, a special resolution unanimously joining to commend Julian for his outstanding service to the state of Missouri’s higher education students. On September 4th, 2012, the Missouri Senate passed a special resolution congratulating Julian and Elizabeth Pace for their tremendous success in achieving 50 years of wedded bliss and wishing them the best as they continue their journey.

Julian was an active member of First Baptist Church of Bolivar since 1963. He was a member of Rotary Club and was a Paul Harris Fellow in Rotary.
Following his retirement, Julian traveled frequently, and traveled internationally on separate trips to Russia, Austria, Italy, and England. He was an avid reader and book enthusiast. Julian was a Packard automobile enthusiast and enjoyed owning a 1951 Packard, which he drove in numerous parades in Bolivar over the years.

Julian was a wonderful example of a loving husband, father, grandfather, brother and son, and he treasured his relationships with his entire family including his own parents before their passing. This example has been passed down to his children and grandchildren. Julian’s legacy and spirit will continue to live on in the lives of all those he knew during his life. As a librarian, community volunteer, husband, father, and uncle, he frequently would say and support the statement: “Can I help you?”. In lieu of flowers for the funeral, donations can be made to the “Rayl Family Library Building Campaign” in honor of Julian Hughes Pace, Sr. Julian will be missed by his friends and family.

. Services for Julian will be held on Tuesday, January 18, 2022 at the First Baptist Church in Bolivar at 2:00 P.M. A visitation will take place prior to the service at 1:00 P.M. Memorial contributions can be made to: Polk County-Library, Building Campaign, 1690 W. Broadway Street, Bolivar, MO 65613, Attn: Colleen Knight. Please note in the memo section, In recognition of Julian Pace.

Reva Fae Overcash Altic (1935-2021)
Reva and her sister Rena were invaluable volunteers at the PCGS Research Facility over the last 20 years.  She will be greatly missed!
Reva Faye (Overcash) Altic, 86, of Bolivar, Missouri was born on June 27, 1935, to Roy and Rosa Overcash, at their family home in Polk County, Bolivar, Missouri. Reva married Roy B (Toad) Altic on May 3, 1960, in Kansas City, Missouri. Reva was a factory worker for Springday, later Dayco Rubber Company, for 25 years before she retired. She was also a member of the Polk County Genealogical Society.

Reva died August 24, 2021.

Reva is preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Roy, and three siblings: Ruth E. Lane, Verna R. Edwards, and Leroy D. Overcash. She is survived by her daughter, Leta “Altic” Harmon (Clint); her twin sister Rena M. Smith; grandson Kelly Page, grandchildren Alexia, Skyler and Brooklyn Page, her great joy – Grand-dog Roofus Page; step grandchildren Angela (Justin) Bishop and Tyrel (Alissa) Harmon; great grandchildren Calvin and Logan Bishop; Allie, Raylee, June Payton and Remmington Harmon, and she is also survived by a host of relatives and friends.

Harlie Kay Gallatin (1933-2021)
Harlie Kay Gallatin, 87, of Bolivar, Missouri, entered into joy Monday, August 16, 2021, at Mercy Hospital in Springfield, Missouri.

Harlie was born December 15, 1933, on the family farm near Meadville, Missouri. The second son of Harlie Campbell Gallatin and Gladys Louise (Warren) Gallatin. Harlie was raised in the church and in 1945 he accepted Christ and about two years later made a public commitment to full-time Christian service. In May, 1951 he graduated from Meadville High school and enrolled at Hannibal-LaGrange College. While a student at Hannibal-LaGrange, he served as song leader at Immanuel Baptist Church, Hannibal, and was licensed to the ministry there in July of 1952. On March 28, 1954, he was ordained as a Gospel Minister by Mt. Olive Church, Linn County MO. As a young man, Harlie pastored several small churches and continued to fill interim pulpits and supply preach as he pursued his education.

Harlie Kay began his advanced studies by completing his A.A. Degree in Social Studies with Language Studies in Koine Greek from Hannibal-LaGrange in 1953. He earned his A.B. Degree in Modern History, Psychology, Philosophy with Language Study in German, from William Jewell College, Liberty, Missouri, in 1955, and his Bachelor of Divinity, Biblical Philology (Koine Greek, Hebrew & Aramaic), Historical & Archeological Studies from Central Baptist Theological Seminary, Kansas City, Kansas, in 1959. In 1961 he earned an M.A. in History: Modern Europe and United States with Language Studies in Latin & French, from The University of Central Missouri, Warrensburg. In 1972, Dr. Gallatin completed his Ph.D., in Ancient & Medieval History, from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.

While at Hannibal-LaGrange in 1952, Harlie met, as he would say, “the young lady who would one day be my wife,” Nancy Mae Morgan. They were united in marriage on August 5, 1954 and began a wonderful 67 year journey together. In 1961 Harlie and Nancy moved their three small children to Bolivar, Missouri, where Harlie began a 40 year career with Southwest Baptist University (then Southwest Baptist College) in the History and Political Science Department. He served as Chair of that Department, from 1970 until his retirement in 2001.

Harlie Kay served in various other positions during his tenure at SBU and continued to adjunct for several years following his retirement. It was in the early 80's that he graduated from the typewriter to the computer. He purchased his first personal computer in 1984. He taught himself hypertext markup language (html) and over the years built a cluster of web pages for the University.

Outside the classroom he was a man of few words but his words were always well thought-out, insightful and significant to those who knew him. He had a deep love for education and a pursuit of expanding knowledge through exploration and questioning. In addition to his service at the university, Harlie enjoyed years of leading a Men's Sunday School Class at First Baptist Church. He had the remarkable ability of creating that safe space in his home and classroom where a person could ask questions and grow in understanding and knowledge. Guided by his committed faith to the Lord of love, grace and mercy, Harlie was all about pointing others to God who has revealed Himself to us though the Bible and though His Son, Jesus Christ. Clearly, Harlie lived out his favorite scripture verse found in 2 Timothy 2:15. “Study to show yourself to God as one approved, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.”

Harlie was a truly devoted husband and father, adored and highly respected by his wife and children. Their home life was filled with lively, open conversation. Meal times often stretched into lengthy discussions or erupted into joyful storytelling and teachable moments. He often told his children “Nothing is a waste of time. You can learn something from every experience.” They saw him model the life of Christ. Harlie will be remembered by his family for his insight, his wisdom, and his gentle spirit; his commitment to God and the study of His Word; and by his heartfelt prayers at the dinner table, which few others had the wonderful privilege of experiencing. He will be sorely missed.

Harlie was preceded in death by his parents and infant brother Warren Dean Gallatin.

He is survived by his wife Nancy, two daughters Kaylene (Gallatin) Cox and husband J. Mark Cox of San Antonio, Texas, and Rhonda (Gallatin) Proffitt of Owasso, Oklahoma, and one son Morgan Dean Gallatin of Bolivar; four grandchildren, Andrew Cox and wife Kendall, Alyssa (Cox) Leal and husband Luis, R. Aaron Cox and wife Chelsea, and Isaac D. Proffitt; and four great grandchildren, Cole and Harper Cox, Esai Leal and Cohen Cox.

A Memorial Service will be held grave side on Sat. August 21, 2021 at 10:00 am at Greenwood Cemetery, Bolivar Missouri.

In lieu of flowers the family requests donations be made to either of the following.
• The Harlie Gallatin Memorial Fund at SBU. This endowment was established by Dr. Harlie Gallatin as Senior Professor Emeritus of History to provide annual funding to purchase history books that support student learning through courses taught by the Department of History and Social Sciences. (https://advance.sbuniv.edu/give)
• First Baptist Church, Bolivar, MO

Paula Kay Montgomery (1946-2021)
Obituary of Paula Kay Montgomery
Paula Kay Montgomery, educator, library media specialist, publisher, author and speaker, passed away on March 3 from natural causes at age 74.

Paula, daughter of Floyd W. Montgomery and Adelyn A. Peterson Montgomery, was born on September 23 in Omaha, Nebraska. She lived in Nebraska, Michigan, Okinawa and Florida before moving to Maryland in 1969.

After obtaining her bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Florida State University, Paula accepted a position with Montgomery County Public Schools as a library media specialist. She worked at seven schools over the next four years before being promoted to teacher specialist, first in Media Field Services and then Evaluation and Selection. Paula’s calendar also began to fill with speaking and consulting engagements.

Paula’s quest for knowledge and interest in other cultures fueled a list of travel destinations that carried through the rest of her life. Her explorations included Mexico, the Amazon and Machu Picchu, the British Isles, Denmark, Spain, Germany, Greece, Turkey, Egypt, Israel, Australia, New Zealand, Canada, and almost every one of the United States.

She was promoted again in 1979 to Chief of School Library Media Services with the Maryland State Department of Education where she continued until her retirement in 1988. Paula was a fierce proponent of equality in access to information, pushing the importance of library and internet accessibility for all. She was instrumental in the development of policies, programs and laws at all government and education levels. This included consulting with the U. S. Department of Education throughout the 1980s and 1990s, and presentations to the U. S. House Subcommittee on Education.

Paula’s initial writing ventures had begun about the time of her promotion, and ranged over the years from magazine articles to complete books. During this period, she also began publishing School Library Media Activities Monthly, an activity-driven magazine for school library media specialists to use in their lessons.

By 1989, Paula obtained her Ph.D. in Reading and became an Assistant Professor at Western Maryland College. Particularly fond of her roles as a publisher and educator, she began Crinkles, a magazine full of activities for children to help them explore topics while developing research and library-use skills.

Paula’s love of research spilled into her hobbies as well as she delved into her genealogical history. Working diligently with her father, they traced records long before the days of websites devoted to the subject.

In 2005, Paula sold both publications and began stepping back from the speaking engagements and writing to pursue more of her personal interests—further involvement in evangelism at Christ Lutheran Church, additional travels to follow genealogical paths, Scottish clan gatherings, quilting, her pets (previously Miss Pris and recently Prudence), and friends, family and frivolity.

Never completely leaving her educational fervor behind, she had more recently been Supervisor of School Librarianship interns at McDaniel College in Westminster.

She is survived by her sisters Marta Villacorta (Steve), Debra Goodrich (Mark), and Janet Montgomery; four nieces and nephews: Lauren Moffi (Carl), Rob Cox-Vari (Crystal and their children Jamieson, Thomas and Kailyn), Matthew Vari, and Amanda Ramos (Jerry).


Services for Paula Montgomery
The funeral service will be Saturday, April 10 at 11 am at Christ Lutheran Church, 701 South Charles Street, Baltimore. Zoom details are below for those who will be unable to attend in person. Graveside service will follow at Cedar Hill Cemetery, 5829 Ritchie Highway, Baltimore.

Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89477333919?pwd=MExvb2t4VFg2cHhick5iQlViVVZDQT09
Meeting ID: 894 7733 3919
Passcode: 290685

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Paula’s name to the Care Ministry at Christ Lutheran Church.

https://loudonparkfuneralhome.com/tribute/details/11217/Paula-Montgomery/obituary.html

Sharon Unruh Ikerd (1941-2020)

SHARON LEE IKERD
May 23, 1941 - May 22, 2020

Sharon was born on May 23, 1941 in Las Vegas, New Mexico the daughter of Walter A. and Eula B. Freeman Unruh.  She married William E. Ikerd on November 19, 1961 in Las Vegas, New Mexico.  He died on March 20, 2006 in Emporia.

Survivors include: son, Randall S. Ikerd of Emporia; daughter, Terri L. (Joe) Zumbrum of Americus; grandchildren, Christena K. (Caleb) Chaney, Michelle L. Zumbrum, Lane G. (Kalee) Ikerd, and Luke J. Ikerd; great-grandchildren, Berkley K. Chaney and Charlee L. Chaney, Miranda S. Taylor, and Jacob Zumbrum.

She is preceded in death by her parents, husband, and daughter-in-law Debra Ikerd.

Cremation is planned with a memorial service at a later date.  Memorial contributions to Grace United Methodist Church or Friends of the 4-H can be sent in care of the funeral home.  You can leave online condolences at www.robertsblue.com

Sharon met husband, Bill, in Las Vegas, NM when he began his career with ATSF Railroad.  They were introduced by a mutual friend and married shortly after.  Sharon and Bill moved to Chicago, IL where both of their children were born.  Bill’s next stop for the Railroad was La Junta, CO before moving their family to Emporia in 1970.

During the next 16 years, they raised their children who were actively involved in 4-H and Bill and Sharon both served as leaders.  Sharon also chaperoned groups of 4-Hers to Michigan and Pennsylvania.  After their children were in school, Sharon began working in Food Service at USD #253.  She then went to work for Butcher School where all the meals (including rolls, buns and pastries) were made from scratch.  Sharon loved meeting and working with the ESU student athletes that volunteered to serve lunches.

In 1986, Sharon and Bill followed the railroad to Topeka.  They lived in Meriden where Sharon worked in food service in Jefferson County schools.  In 1990, Sharon and Bill once again moved with the railroad to Kansas City.  In 1995, when Bill decided to retire early, Sharon’s only desire was to move back to Emporia to be close to her children and grandchildren.

Upon returning to Emporia, Sharon went back to work part-time at Village School serving lunches and rejoined Grace Methodist Church where she was a member of the Abigail Circle.  Sharon enjoyed spending time with her church family particularly “Coffee and Chat” on Thursday mornings.  Sharon also became active with Friends of the Library where she volunteered weekly assisting with book donations for the book fair.  Friends of 4-H was a natural fit for Sharon since both grandsons were actively involved.  She enjoyed watching them show their animals and supported them any way she could.  Sharon was also a member of the Prairie Hens extension unit.  Sharon and family continue to sponsor a trophy for the shooting sports each year.  Sharon was also a member of the Cosmopolitan Study Club where she was currently the Vice President. She enjoyed the monthly lunches and learning opportunities with her friends.

Sharon was a great supporter of all three grandchildren’s sports following them around the state cheering them on.  You couldn’t miss that Sharon was also an avid KU basketball and Royals fan.  Many days she would be sporting apparel from these two favorites.  Sharon rarely missed a game whether on TV or radio.  In 2016, Sharon treated her entire family to a trip to Kauffman Stadium to watch the Royals play.  It was one of her favorite memories.

Sharon never embraced technology and preferred to handwrite or type a letter or pick up the phone to catch up with friends and family.  After Bill’s death, Sharon decided to sell her home and moved to Ashley II where she lived for the past 11 years.  Sharon loved to bake and share with neighbors, friends and family.  She also enjoyed taking care of the “boys” mowing or doing maintenance at Ashley.  She would remind them that there were Schwan’s treats in the freezer in the Community Building.  Sharon also enjoyed taking care of the planters at Ashley II in the summer and loved attending the Christmas Brunch in December.

Sharon was diagnosed with Acute Myeloid Leukemia in March and immediately began chemotherapy.  During Sharon’s last days, she relied heavily on her faith and continued to read her bible passages when she able.  She never complained and passed quietly to be rejoined with her beloved husband.  Sharon will be deeply missed by her friends and family.

https://www.robertsblue.com/obituary/sharon-ikerd

Sue Carrolle Holbert Brown (1934-2020)
Sue and her husband Ray were faithful members of the society, attending every meeting until health problems required a move to Springfield.  Sue also spent lots of time volunteering on the archives floor of the facility, helping with preservation of records.

Sue Brown, 86, passed away Sunday Evening, Nov. 8, 2020 at Premier Rehabilitation in Springfield, Missouri. Sue was born to Henry and Marcia Holbert on January 29, 1934 in Bolivar, Missouri.

Tragically, Sue's mother passed away during childbirth and Sue was lovingly raised by her father and step-mother, Mary.

Sue graduated high school in 1952. On June 11, 1957 she married the love of her life, Ray Brown. To this union two children were born, Leisa and Greg. The couple were together until his passing on November 16, 2017.

When Sue was young she worked on the square as a soda jerk, serving soda and ice cream for all of her customers that came in. When she was older she worked in retail for a little while before finally working for nursing home in her later years.

When Sue wasn't working she could be found painting or playing BINGO. She also went to the casino for some amusement as well. However, Sue really enjoyed genealogy. She spent hours working on connecting lineage and tracing back roots.

Sue is survived by her daughter, Leisa Reif (John), her son, Greg Brown (Rhoda), three grandchildren, John Michael Brown, Joseph Ray Brown, and Chasity Miller, one great-granddaughter, Maddison Miller, several nieces, nephews, and caring friends.

Sue is preceded in death by her husband, Ray, her parents, Henry and Marcia Holbert, and her step-mother, Mary Holbert.

Sue was a loving mother and grandmother. We celebrate the wonderful life she lived and will always cherish the many happy memories we have with her.

Visitation for Sue will be from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. Wednesday, November 11, 2020 at Butler Funeral Home.

Graveside services will be at 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, November 12, 2020 at Mt. Gilead Cemetery, Bolivar, Missouri.

Darlene Piper Keith  (1939-2020)
Ona “Darlene” Keith, 81, of Springfield, passed away peacefully surrounded by her family on Sunday, July 5, 2020. Darlene was born July 4, 1939 in Colfax, IA to Clifford and Ona Piper. She was united in marriage to John Vance Keith on June 7, 1959. Momma dearly loved her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren as they were her blessing, and of course her church family and missions ministry that gave her a firm foundation and trust in Jesus Christ. She also loved traveling and camping.

She was preceded in death by her husband, parents, a brother and a sister.

Darlene is survived by three daughters and sons: Valerie & Rodney Stokes; Vanessa & Lee Beaman; and Venecia & Mike Scheid; sister Carolyn and Tom Evans; grandchildren: Vance & Nozomi Stokes; Lacie & Lee Hart; Matt & Amanda Beaman; Jeremiah Beaman; Micheal and Jacob Scheid. Also surviving are eight great-grandchildren: Weston and Maverick Beaman; Alyssa and twins—Bentley and Stella Beaman; Lincoln Hart; Evie and Aiden Stokes.

Funeral service will be held at 12:00 PM on Friday, July 10, 2020 at Glenstone Baptist Church, with a visitation from 11:00 AM until the time of service. Private family graveside will be held in Missouri Veterans Cemetery.

https://www.gormanscharpf.com/obituary/darlene-keith?lud=6E667CFE71AB3F8AF6EBC9EFECC034B0&fbclid=IwAR1AuGMhzTKBFLjoghe04UacnYKkek6MFbaOkiUOF-rLEWJGwHSyMJ7sDx8


Roy Wallace Hankey (1932-2020)
Roy was a great friend and frequent donor to PCGS. We could count on his books to grace our shelves first and he was always keeping us up-to-date on the goings-on in "Little Bolivar" (the area in Ventura County where many former Polk Countians settled in the mid 1900s).

Palm Springs - Roy Wallace Hankey was born June 2, 1932 in Benton, Polk County, Missouri to Waid and Zona (Hood) Hankey. He passed away May 26, 2020 in Palm Springs, California.

Roy had two brothers, one died in infancy, the other lives in Texas. After graduating Bolivar High School he studied at Drawings Business College in Springfield Missouri. He worked for the Mississippi Shipping Company in New Orleans before going to Los Angeles, at which time he was inducted into the U.S. Army and served two years of duty in Germany. Returning to Southern California Roy attended Woodbury College of Design studying photography.

Later, Roy's professional photography career took off earning him recognition and accolades. He was associated with the Los Angeles Times, Rockwell International, and Photography Inc. Roy's free-lance work includes publications in Palm Springs Life magazine, Home magazine, U.S. News & World Report - Book Division and his photograph of the Hollywood Bowl received international recognition through publication in Life Magazine. Roy concluded his photography career with a cover photo and spread covering the last Space Shuttle, Endeavour in Aviation Week Magazine. He was named Photographer of the year by Rockwell International's Space Division in recognition of his accomplishments.

Roy had two historical books published; Bunker Hill: Last of the Lofty Mansions and Sunset Boulevard: America's Dream Street. He donated the body of his works to the Photographic Historical Archives at the Los Angeles Public Library.

After retiring to Palm Springs, Roy completed five genealogy books about his family lineage which were published. He enjoyed travel and did so extensively throughout his life until his health restricted him from traveling.

Roy is survived by his loving partner Douglas Darwin of Palm Springs; brother Harold L. Hankey and wife Judy of Texas; nephew Byron Kurt Hankey, wife Kim and their two children, Zoe and Jeremiah also of Texas; and his niece Lisa Hankey and her two daughters Sydney and Shelby all of Topeka, Kansas.

Roy's sincerity, charming personality and wit earned him many loving and dedicated friends. His many career accomplishments earned him acclaim. He will always be remembered. At Roy's request his body will be cremated and no formal service will be held.

https://obituaries.desertsun.com/obituaries/thedesertsun/obituary.aspx?n=roy-wallace-hankey&pid=196271320

Velma Miller (1926-2020)
https://www.evansfh.com/obituary/velma-miller

There is no public visitation/funeral. Inurnment: Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery, St Louis, MO at a later date

Following her wishes, memorials may be made to St Jude Children's Research Hospital Memorial Giving, 501 St Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105, www.stjude.org/give/memorials or Shriners Hospitals for Children- St Louis, 4400 Clayton Ave, St Louis, MO 63110, www.lovetotherescue.org

Obituary:

Velma Irene (Wimberly) Miller of Houston, MO, age 94, entered into rest on June 2, 2020. She was the dear wife of the late Rex Miller, Sr. They married on May 16, 1943 and were together for 63 years. She was the daughter of the late Otis and Grace (Keeling) Wimberly, born March 19, 1926 in Bolivar, MO; loving mother of Joan Smith (Eddie), Houston, MO, Rex Miller, Jr (Annie), Spring, TX, Patricia Starrett, Minnetonka, MN, Cynthia Jacob (David), Sanibel, FL, Mary Mizera (Rick),  St Louis, MO, and Greg Miller (Diane), Dardenne Prairie, MO; beloved grandmother of 12, step-grandmother of 2, great-grandmother of 8, and step-great grandmother of 6; sister Louise Wimberly, Bolivar, MO.

She was preceded in death by her grandson, Kenneth Miller, and sisters, Betty Hutcheson, Wanda Haralson, and brother Clyde Wimberly.

Velma was a graduate of Bolivar High School 1943. She was a lifetime member Order of the Eastern Star. She served as Worthy Matron of Everton, MO, Chapter #514, and after consolidating Greenfield, MO, Chapter #488. She also served as District Deputy Grand Matron. Velma was an active member of the American Legion Auxiliary #443, Everton, MO.

She was an avid St. Louis Cardinal Fan and had been to every Cardinal stadium through the years, just recently going to the newest. Velma will always be remembered and treasured for her devotion to her husband and family. She was loved as a daughter, sister, aunt, cousin, and friend.

Bob Springer (1934-2020)

Bud, a former member of PCGS, was a huge part of the facility's main floor renovation from the former public library building into the genealogical research library it is today. Bud and his wife Jennie were also gracious hosts of PCGS's collection of books from 1994-2002, (before there was a building to put them in.)
Mr. Bobby “Bud” Springer, “Grandpa Buddy”, age 85 of Bolivar, MO, passed away Friday, March 6, 2020, at Citizens Memorial Healthcare Facility Bolivar, MO. He was born December 30, 1934, in Bois D’ Arc, MO, to Wallace Marvin and Vivian Martisha (Julian) Springer. He was united in marriage to Jeanette Mae Steele January 15, 1956, and to this union three daughters were born.

Bud took part in Share your Christmas many years. He was involved in Kiwanis, A.L.E.R.T. volunteer fire, and Bolivar Masonic Lodge. Along with his wife Jeanette they received the Lucy Wise Girl Scout Award recognizing they’re many years of service to the Girl Scouts.

He worked for the Ford Motor Company in the Kansas City area, and then moved the family to Bolivar and purchased the Dairy Queen by the overpass and ran it until it burned down in 1980. They also ran the concessions stand at the ball field and had a cotton-candy concession trailer. Then they started a ceramic business selling flower pots until they started the Jenibob flower shop. After selling the flower shop they sold items at craft shows all over the area. Most recently he liked going to Show-Me Petroleum to work with Tony and help the guys on jobs. Bud never knew a stranger!!!

He is preceded in death by his parents; his wife of 52 years Jeanette; and a brother in-law Gene Bolin.

He is survived by his three daughters: Becky and Tom Wilson, Debra and Charles Tennison, and Mendy and Robin Manes all of Bolivar, MO; 10 grandchildren: Deadra (Josh), Tony (Amy), Mandy (Wally), Angel (Luke), Meleah (Shane), Deanna, Robie (Tracey), Dianna, Martisha (Justin), and Abby (Roy); 30 great grandchildren, and 5 great great grandchildren; one sister Barbara Bolin of Marshfield, MO; as well as many nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives and friends.

Funeral services will be held at 1:00 pm Wednesday, March 11, 2020, at Pitts Chapel, with Pastor Jim Downing, Jr. officiating. Burial will follow at Clear Creek Cemetery Willard, MO. Visitation will be from 6:00 to 8:00 pm Tuesday, March 10, 2020, at the funeral home. Online condolences may be made at: www.greenlawnfuneralhome.com. Arrangements have been entrusted to Pitts Chapel Bolivar, MO.


Virginia Campbell Roedder (1932-2019)
Longtime Bolivar resident Virginia Roselle Campbell Roedder died suddenly on Thursday, Aug. 30, 2019, at the age of 86.

Virginia was born Nov. 28, 1932, the third child of Jones and Jewell Campbell. She and her siblings were raised on the Campbell homestead near Aldrich.

She attended then-Drury College and received her degree as a registered nurse from Springfield Baptist Hospital in 1953.

She was the wife of a military man, Raymond W. Roedder (USAF Ret), with whom she had two sons, Stephen (Rocci) and Ricci.

Her husband's retirement from the military brought the couple back to Bolivar where Virginia was soon heavily involved in the establishment of the first modern nursing home in Polk County.

Virginia's real labor of love was the Polk County North Ward Museum. Much of her time during her later years was spent volunteering in the museum. The Campbell family room in particular owes much to her efforts.

Virginia loved genealogy and will be missed by members of the Polk County Historical Society.

In heaven, she will join her parents, husband Raymond, brother John Campbell, sisters Eloise Hurst and Carolyn Bays, granddaughter Maralyn Roedder and her son Rocci.

A private ceremony to honor Virginia's memory will be held for immediate family members.


Ronald Kemp (1936-2019)
Ronald Nuburn Kemp, age 82 went to be with his Lord and Savior on April 9, 2019, at his home.
Ron was born July 23, 1936, in Cyril, Oklahoma, to Luther and Lois Kemp. He was preceded in death by his parents Luther and Lois Kemp and his brother Rudy. He is survived by his wife Lou Thelen Peterson Kemp, son and daughter-in-law Ronald Nuburn Kemp Jr. and Marjorie Ann Kemp; son and daughter-in-law Luther Harrold Kemp and Peggy Anne Campbell-Kemp; son and daughter-in-law Wesley Don Kemp and Marla Jo Kemp; Grandchildren: Serenity Wilson and husband Charles; Levi Kemp and wife Diana; Laura Kemp, Erin Kemp, Tyler Kemp, Landon Kemp, Rylee Hayes and husband Brian, and 8 Great-grandchildren.

Ron graduated from Cyril High School in 1954 and graduated from Oklahoma Baptist University in 1958. While attending OBU, he met his future wife of 62 years, Lou Thelen Peterson. Ron and Lou were married on August 3, 1957. After graduating from OBU he entered Southwestern Theological Seminary where he obtained a Bachelor of Divinity. They moved to Huntsville, Texas, in 1962, where he served as pastor of two churches. While in Huntsville, he obtained his Master’s in Treatment and Social Services and he worked as an Alcoholic and Drug specialist for the Texas Department of Corrections. Ron was a lifelong learner and the family often teased that if he could find a way to make a living as a career student, he would have done so.

In 1969, he accepted a position as a Chaplain at Southwest Baptist College where he also moved into the classroom to teach in the Sociology and Psychology Department. In 1976, he obtained the Distinguished Teacher Award. Later that year, he went to work for the Missouri Baptist Children’s Home in their division of Christian Psychological and Family Services as a counselor for Southwest Missouri. In 1979, he went into private practice with Associates for Counseling and Consultation. After several years, Ron returned to school at Midwestern Theological Seminary and earned his Doctor of Ministry. In July of 1985, he founded Family Institute of the Ozarks in Bolivar. He also served as an adjunct professor at SBU, Drury, Evangel, and Forrest Institute of Professional Psychology. From 1991 through 2008 he shared his insights into family relationships by way of the Bolivar Herald Free Press through his weekly column, ‘Family Matters.’ Ron continued to practice at Family Institute of the Ozarks until his retirement in 2008. Following his retirement, he spent his time with family and traveling.

He was a member of First Baptist Church for 50 years. He was a member of the Bolivar Optimist Club where he had perfect attendance for many years. He was a member of the American Association of Marriage and Family Therapists and served as President for a time.

Ronald was a consistent example of a kind spirit and always showed compassion. He never seemed to complain and was always concerned with helping others. He always strived to make this world a better place. He spent the greater part of 56 years of his life either encouraging people through their spiritual walk or counseling families. Ronald’s spirit and legacy will continue to live on through the myriad of lives he impacted in his God-blessed time on this earth.

In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts can be made to the SBU Ronald N. Kemp Scholarship Fund.

Visitation for Ronald will be Saturday, April 13, 2019, from 4:00 to 6:00 P.M. at Butler Funeral Home. Services will be Sunday, April 14, 2019, at 2:00 P.M. at First Baptist Church, Bolivar, Missouri. A graveside service will be held privately.
 

Beverly Anne Hood (1937-2019)

Beverly Anne (Vitzthum) Hood of Bolivar, Missouri, was born May 2, 1937, in Newburg, MO, to Lee Joseph Vitzthum and Dorothy Marie (Hume) Vitzthum. She was the second of three children in the family. Beverly passed away at Cox South with her daughter, granddaughters, and great granddaughter by her side. Beverly was a very accepting and giving person, having many friends who had been the beneficiary of her generosity. Beverly married Norvell Dennis Hood on August 17, 1956, in Springfield, MO. They moved their growing family to Bolivar where all her family now continues to live. After 50 golden years, Dennis preceded her in death on September 2, 2007.

Beverly knew happiness as a child. She loved traveling with her family during the 1940’s in the western states, living in California, Arizona, and Texas before coming to Springfield to finish her education. She graduated from Central High School in 1956, and went on to Draughon Business College. She loved traveling with her husband to Alaska, Europe, South America, Mexico, and Canada with hopes of many more places. That hope was cut short by the death of her husband and her declining health. She loved reading, Hallmark, game shows, her friends, along with her passion for cooking. She also loved spending time with her beloved constant companion, a precious Boston terrier named Rocky. She was an active lady until her health problems slowed her down. She was a member of the Church of God, both in Bolivar (as a charter member) and in Springfield (Life Quest Restoration Church). She worked various jobs in her life including: a nurse’s aide for Mercy Nursing Home, typing in the office at Mercy Nursing Home, a clothing checker at GLO Cleaners, and independent consultant for Avon, a cook for Cherokee Junior High and Kickapoo High School, a babysitter, a clothing ironer for Vera Looney, a delivery woman for Carr Catering, a supervisor at the Bolivar Garment Factory, assembly line worker at Zenith, and a caregiver at Baker Management. Beverly was ready with a plan and most of the time with a plan B. She enjoyed spending days “painting the town red” with her sister, Carol, consisting of visiting favorite stores, doctors’ appointments and lunching at favorite restaurants in the Springfield area.

Beverly is survived by her daughter Denise Weeks and Son in-law Ralph; grandchildren: Sherry Austin, Sheila Austin, Joseph Connor and wife Victoria, Jenna Holder and husband Brian; five great grandchildren: Amanda, Marshall, Randilyn, Abigail, and Gwynevere. She is also survived by her sister Carol Alexander and husband Wendal; a brother Mickey and his wife Connie Hood; several nephews and nieces, and family friend Kelly Fife.

She is preceded in death by her dear husband Dennis; her son Dr. Michael Lee Hood; a baby granddaughter Carrie Austin; her parents; her parents’ in-law Tillman and Lois Hood; a sister and brother in-law Timmie and Don Juchemich; a baby sister Gayle Marie Vitzthum; and a son in-law Randy Connor.
Funeral services will be held at 3:00 PM Sunday, March 3, 2019, at Pitts Chapel, with Pastor Rick Harold officiating. Burial will follow at Star Ridge Cemetery Goodson, MO. There will be a visitation one hour before the service from 2:00 to 3:00 PM in the funeral home. Memorial contributions are asked to the Star Ridge Cemetery c/o Mick Hood. Online condolences may be made at: www.greenlawnfuneralhome.com. Arrangements have been entrusted to Pitts Chapel Bolivar, MO.


James Henry Whitman (1946-2019)
James or "Jim" was a faithful volunteer at the PCGS facility, spending most weekdays helping researchers. He was also instrumental in the renovation of the second floor into the archives floor. James also served on the PCGS board for many years.

James Henry Whitman, only child of Thomas William and Opal Mae (Akridge) Whitman was born October 17, 1946 in Ventura, California, and departed this life Thursday, January 10, 2019.

He was a jack of all trades, master of none. Worked for Dairy Farmers of America for thirty years and sometimes minister.

He was a member of Mt. Gilead United Methodist Church, Bolivar Lodge #195 Ancient Free and Accepted Masons, Bolivar Chapter #5, Royal Arch Masons, Zabud Council #25 Cryptic Masons, St. Elmo Commandery #43 Knights Templar, St. Christopher Conclave Red Cross of Constantine Bolivar Chapter Demolay, Polk county Genealogical society, and Historical Society of Polk County. He was preceded in death by his wife Carol Tucker in 2004. He is survived by a son, John and wife Leslie of Springfield, Mo, three daughters; Lynette Small of Halfway, Mo, Ruth Burley and husband Keith of Canterbury, England, and Diana George and husband Aaron of Hermitage, Mo, two granddaughters; Brittany Small, and Tiffany Small of Bolivar, Mo, and a special stepdaughter, Ellen Tucker Ryan and husband Pat of Rancho Palos Verdes, California, and Great Grandson; Aiden James Leroy Christianson, of Bolivar, Mo.

Visitation for James Whitman will be Wednesday, January 16, 2019 from 5:00 to 7:00 P.M. at Butler Funeral Home, Bolivar, Missouri.
Services for James will be at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, January 19, 2019 at Mt. Gilead Church, Bolivar, Mo.


Candice Vath Becker (1950-2018)
Candice was one of the members who were instrumental in the renovation of the old public library building which opened as the home of PCGS in 2002.
Candice Kathleen Vath Becker, age 68, passed away peacefully December 30th, 2018 after a long battle with Alzheimer's. She was born April 2nd, 1950 in Dodge City, Kansas to Irwin and Muriel Vath. She married Jack Edgar Becker December 16th, 1972. Jack was the love of her life even after his death March 19th, 1982 from cancer.

Candice (Candy) loved to spend her time on genealogy and working with the Daughters of the American Revolution. As a career, Candice worked in software quality assurance for insurance software companies such as Micro Magic, AMS, Duck Creek, and American National.

Candy is survived by her son and his wife Theron and Brianna Becker, granddaughters Ember and Brooke Becker, brother and wife Robert and Jane Vath, sister and husband Corinne Vath and Robert Kuegler, and numerous nieces, nephew, and extended family. Candy was preceeded in death by her husband, father Irwin Vath, mother Muriel Vath, and sister Carolyn Kay Vath.

Please join us in celebrating her life Friday morning, January 4th, 2018. Visitation will be at 9:30 a.m. with ceremony to follow at 10:30 a.m. Location is the Butler Funeral Home, 407 E Broadway St, Bolivar. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Daughters of the American Revolution(www.dar.org/giving).


Nadine Allen (1932-2018)
Nadine Allen, 86, of Urbana died Tuesday, July 10, 2018, at Cox Medical Center South, Springfield. 

She was born March 7, 1932, to Fennie Morgan and Selma Christina Miles Woods.  She graduated from Hermitage High School and from Draughon’s Business College. 

She was united in marriage to George Leonard Allen Aug. 26, 1953. 

She was a member of the Polk County Genealogical Society and the Hickory County Library. 

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, George Allen; and her youngest daughter, Patricia Lynn Allen.

She is survived by two daughters, Vivian Wasson and husband Dean of Springfield and Christy Allen-Mitchell of Houston, Texas; five grandchildren, Dennis, Doug, Casey, Bradley and Jacob; several great grandchildren; one brother, Vincent Woods and wife Connie of Flemington; one sister, Wannetta Bolin of Idaho; as well as many other relatives and friends.

A memorial service will be at 7 p.m. Thursday, July 19, 2018, at Pitts Chapel Bolivar, with Chaplain Buddy Liggenstoffer officiating. Inurnment will take place at a later date in Payne Cemetery Polk.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Hickory County Library.  Online condolences may be made at greenlawnfuneralhome.com.

Larry Ferguson (1939-2018)

Larry Kenneth Ferguson, 79, of Bolivar, MO went to be with his Lord and Savior on Friday, June 29, 2018. Larry was born on April 24, 1939 in Dresden, MO the son of Clyde Marshall (CM.) Ferguson and Hazel Irene (Edwards) Ferguson. Larry graduated from Smith Cotton High School in Sedalia, MO and furthered his education at the University of Central Missouri in Warrensburg, MO, where he received his Bachelor of Science degree in Agriculture Business.

He is survived by his wife Arleen Ferguson of 57 years, two sons Mike Ferguson and his wife Pam, two grandchildren, Shane and Hannah Ferguson of Clinton, MO. Marc Ferguson of Bolivar, MO and two grandchildren, Ryan and Malorie Ferguson. Daughter, Amber Ferguson of Bolivar, MO. Larry is also survived by two brothers, Bob Ferguson and wife Kathy, La Monte, MO and Bill Ferguson and wife Patty, Sedalia, MO. Larry is also survived by five nieces and one nephew.

Larry truly enjoyed a long and successful career in agriculture as a feed salesman where he always focused on improving the health and productivity of livestock and the profitability of the livestock producer. His dedication allowed him to be the recipient of many awards for his achievements in the animal nutrition business. He developed many lifelong friendships through his occupation and various organizations that he belonged to and served in such as Bolivar Rotary Club President, Bolivar Booster Club President, Abou Ben Adhem Shriners, Masonic Lodge, Gideons International President, Polk County Cattlemen's Association and he certainly enjoyed all the people in his church family at Brighton Highway Assembly of God Church.

Services for Larry will be held 2:00 PM Thursday, July 5, 2018 at the Butler Funeral Home Bolivar, MO. Visitation will be held 1:00 Pm - 2:00 PM at the Butler Funeral Home Thursday, July 5, 2018. Burial will take place 11:00 AM Friday, July 6, 2018 at the Memorial Park Cemetery in Sedalia, MO.

Ramona Jones (1939-2018)
Ramona was a faithful member of the society as her health permitted and she was a master of the jigsaw puzzle. Many members and visitors enjoyed sitting at the big table and visiting with Ramona while they worked on a puzzle (during a break from research).

Ramona Darlene Jones was born October 10, 1939 in Centralia, Illinois. She died Friday, June 22, 2018 following a long illness.

Ramona was preceded in death by her mother Avis (Lambert) Jones, and her father Rev. Lester C. Jones all of Bolivar, Mo as well as a sister Linda Strunk, her brother- in-law John Strunk.

Survivors include her brothers Robert Jones of Lexington, KY and Michael and wife, Beverly Jones of Long Lane, MO. Two nieces, Elizabeth Strunk of Bolivar and Michelle Frazier of Canton, MO, one nephew Jason Jones, Edwardsville, Illinois, one great niece Lauren Frazier, and four great nephews, Kyle Frazier, Tyler Frazier, Sawyer Jones and Cooper Jones.

Ramona attended Mt. Gilead church in Bolivar and was saved at an early age.

She belonged to the genealogical society in Bolivar and enjoyed many hours of research into the history of Polk County.

She enjoyed classical and religious music and was a constant reader. As long as she was able, Ramona was a walker and logged many, many miles during her lifetime.

Services for Ramona will be Monday, June 25, 2018 at 2:00 p.m. at Butler Funeral Home, Bolivar, Missouri. Burial to follow at Greenwood Cemetery, Bolivar, Missouri.

Charles David Johnson (1927-2018)

Obituary:  Springfield - Mr. Charles "David" Johnson, the son of Jasper and Dorthea Pauline (Henson) Johnson was born July 28, 1927 in Springfield, MO and passed away on Friday evening, March 2, 2018 in Springfield Rehab and Health Center, Springfield, MO. His age was 90 years, 7 months and 2 days.

David grew up in the Graydon Springs, MO area. David and his wife Helen, moved to the State of California and resided there for 26 years and later to the Las Vegas area for 19 years as he worked in the concrete and mining industries. After retiring, he and Helen moved back to Missouri to the family farm near Walnut Grove and resided there the past 20 some years. David was a true outdoorsman; he was an avid hunter and fisherman. David loved going to Alaska to fish for salmon and halibut with his best friend Joe. He also traveled to the Rockies and would guide elk hunting trips. David also enjoyed spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren, whom he adored. He will be fondly remembered and greatly missed by all those that knew and loved him.

David and Helen Louise Hodges were united in marriage on April 1, 1949. To this union 3 daughters were born. Together, David and Helen were privileged to share over 65 years, before Helen's passing in 2014. He was preceded in death by his parents; one brother; and one sister.

David is survived by his loving family; three daughters; Kathryn Mattucci, Tina Marie Walling both Springfield and Glenda and husband Mike Oparnico of Harrisonville, MO; 8 grandchildren and 5 great grandchildren; 1 great-great grandchild; numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, other family and many friends.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday March 10, 2018 at 2:00PM in the Eudora Baptist Church, with Rev. Jim White officiating and Terry Crocker and Barry Lee Johnson giving the eulogy. Interment will follow in the Turkey Creek Cemetery, Walnut Grove, under the care and direction of Wilson-Griffin Funeral Home, Walnut Grove, MO.

Family will receive friends in the church on Saturday, from 1:00PM until service time.
Published in the News-Leader on Mar. 7, 2018

Ray Gene Brown (1936-2017)
Ray and his wife Sue were faithful members of the society, attending every meeting until health problems required a move to Springfield.  Ray also served for several years as vice president of the Society.

Ray Gene Brown, 81, of Bolivar died Friday, Nov. 16, 2017, at Quail Creek in Springfield.

Ray was born Jan. 15, 1936, in Morrisville, the son of Ray W. and Velma Carter Brown. He grew up in the area and graduated high school, before working for the Missouri Department of Transportation for 43 years.

He married Sue Holbert on June 11, 1957, at her parent’s home in Bolivar. They celebrated 60 wonderful years together, and to this union two children were born.
Ray was preceded in death by his parents, Ray and Velma; a brother, John Brown; and a sister, Eva Brown.

Survivors include his wife, Sue Brown; a daughter Leisa Reif, and husband John of Springfield; a son, Greg Brown and wife Rhoda of Bolivar; his grandchildren, Joe Brown, John Brown, both of Bolivar, and Chasity Miller and husband Jacob of Springfield; five great-grandchildren; a brother, Ronnie Brown; and two sisters, Pat Smith and Vicki Cribbs.

Visitation was Monday at Butler Funeral Home, Bolivar. Graveside services were Tuesday, Nov. 21, at Mt. Gilead Cemetery in Bolivar, under the direction of Butler Funeral Home, Bolivar.

Charlotte Hoppers (1934-2017)

Charlotte Lorraine Burger Hoppers was born in Topeka, Kan., on Feb. 9, 1934, and died Sunday July 16, 2017, following a long battle with cancer.

Charlotte spent her early years in Kansas City, until she was 12 when her family moved to Weaubleau to run the store at Burger Junction.
She graduated as salutatorian from Weaubleau High School in 1952. Charlotte loved Hickory County and treasured the lifelong friendships she made there.

Charlotte met Bill Hoppers at the Wheatland Skating Rink, and they married six weeks before he left for a two-year stint in the U.S. Army. In Bill's absence, Charlotte began attending Southwest Missouri State University part-time while also working in Springfield. Ultimately, she received a bachelor's degree in education from SMSU and a master's degree in education from Drury College.

Charlotte began her teaching career in a one-room schoolhouse and retired after many years of teaching in various school districts in Polk and Hickory counties. She continued to have close friendships with many of her former students and colleagues until her death.

Charlotte was also active for many years in summer workshops on the SMSU campus, teaching her colleagues how to utilize newspapers in the classroom. During her teaching career, Charlotte was honored to receive the Humansville CTA Educator of the Year Award, the Lakes Country Counsel International Reading Association Literacy Award, a Community Service Award from Drury College among others.

Charlotte was a member and past Grand Matron of Eastern Star.

Although Charlotte was a member of the First Christian Church in Bolivar at the time of her death, she was a certified lay speaker in the United Methodist denomination. She had many hobbies and interests and was an avid china painter.

Charlotte is perhaps best remembered for her humor, and her "Talkative Tilly" character was well known at local events. One of her greatest joys was making others laugh, even at her own expense. She also had a true teacher's ability to speak frankly, and yet her words were always full of love and encouragement.

She was a woman of many gifts and talents, including the ability to connect on a personal level with people from all the different areas of her life. Her mothering style was just as passionate and unique as the rest of her. It was her favorite role, and she often said she raised her two best friends. Many will vouch that she had a hand in raising them as well.

Charlotte was preceded in death by her parents, Harry and Doris Burger; her spouse of 53 years, Bill J. Hoppers; and a half-brother, Hadrian Burger of California.

Charlotte is survived by her two daughters and their husbands, Charla and Steve Lear of Bolivar and Marsha and Rick Floyd of Fair Grove; her grandchildren, Jarett Lear and wife Sarah of Lenexa, Kan., Kristopher Keller and wife Megan of Springfield and Tara Williams and husband Cody of Fair Grove; and four great-grandchildren, Steven Lear, Truitt and Eloise Keller and Emmett Williams. She was looking forward to the arrival of her fifth great-grandchild and namesake, Ada Charlotte Williams, due next month. In addition, Charlotte has two step-grandchildren, Kristy Schuetz and Dustin Floyd and wife Cheryl, all of Springfield; and four step-great-grandchildren, Chelsea Ambriz and husband Caleb of Springfield, Madison Hernandez and husband Stepheny of Conway, Ark., and Lance and Trevor Floyd of Springfield. Charlotte is also survived by her niece, Sandra Woodward of La Quinta, Calif., whom she thought of as a younger sister; as well as numerous other relatives and friends.

Visitation is 5-7 p.m. Tuesday, July 18, at Butler Funeral Home in Bolivar. A celebration of life service will be at 10 a.m. Wednesday, July 19, at Butler Funeral Home. Interment will follow at Crutsinger Cemetery in Hickory County.

She received treatments for many years under the care of Dr. Leo at Central Cancer Care Center in Bolivar.

Charlotte, who was an avid dog lover, was noted as saying that in addition to seeing loved ones when she enters heaven, that she hopes to be greeted on the other side by a pack of dogs. Therefore, in lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Polk County Humane Society or the Central Care Cancer Center in Bolivar.

Martha Carolyn Mustain Mott (1930-2017)
Carolyn Mott was a descendant of the Campbell family who settled Polk County and often dressed as her ancestor, Matilda Polk Campbell, while presenting programs on the history of Polk County.

Carolyn Mustain Mott of Bolivar died Monday, Feb. 6, 2017, at the age of 86.

Carolyn was born July 27, 1930, in Bolivar, the daughter of the Rev. Claud J. Mustain and Ruth Keeling Mustain.
She graduated from Mountain Grove High School in Mountain Grove in 1948 and from Southwest Baptist College in 1950. She married Paul A. Mott on June 9, 1950, and was married to him for 64 years.

As a proud and patriotic descendant of Polk County settlers, Carolyn served many years in local and national organizations such as Daughters of the American Revolution, Matilda Polk Campbell chapter, Bolivar (organizing regent); Colonial Dames - 17th Century; James Knox Polk Memorial Auxiliary, Columbia, Tenn. (life member); and Polk County Historical Society, Bolivar (life member).

Mrs. Mott sang in many church choirs in her life, as well as Bethany College Oratorical Society in Lindsborg, Kan.; Shawnee Choral Society in Shawnee, Okla.; and Salina Community Chorus, Salina, Kan. While residing in Salina, she was a member of the Treble Clef Music Club, served as organist and children’s choir director at Bethel Baptist Church and Bel-Air Southern Baptist Church. She also conducted musical therapy programs for 15 years in area nursing centers.

Carolyn was a member of First Baptist Church and a former board member of the Bolivar Community Concert. In 2005, she received the Life Service Award from Southwest Baptist University.

Carolyn worked hard, not only in church and civic organizations, but also in her home as a wife and mother of four daughters. She designed and sewed many of their clothes during their growing-up years, as well as their wedding dresses.

Carolyn was preceded in death by her husband, Paul A. Mott; her parents, the Rev. Claud J. Mustain and Ruth Keeling Mustain; two brothers, Richard Arnold Mustain and Kenneth Mustain; two grandchildren, Christopher Michael Warren and Timothy David Warren; and two great-grandchildren, Halley Rae Livers and Porter Hemingway Livers.

Survivors are her daughters, Paula Hemingway and husband Mark of Denton, Texas, Teresa Kendall and husband Ray of Fort Wayne, Ind., Dana Warren and husband Bill of Wichita, Kan., and Anita Robidou and husband Robert of Trophy Club, Texas; 13 grandchildren; 22 great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Visitation is 5-7 p.m. Friday, Feb. 10, at Butler Funeral Home in Bolivar.

Services are at 9:30 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 11, at First Baptist Church in Bolivar with Pastor Billy Russell officiating. Interment will take place in the Greenwood Cemetery in Bolivar immediately after the funeral.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Martha Carolyn Mott Music Scholarship at Southwest Baptist University.

Friends and family can send online condolences at butlerfuneralhome.com.

Norma Nadine Crain Green (May 30, 1931 - January 26, 2017)
Norma was the daughter of Samuel Henry Crain and Revia Edell Smith and wife of Charles Edward Green.

Norma N. Green, 85, of Belton, MO, entered into eternal peace on January 26, 2017. A memorial service will be held at 11am, Wednesday, February 1, 2017, in the McGilley & George Funeral Home, 611 Chestnut St. Belton, MO. Visitation 10-11am. Burial in the Belton Cemetery. Contributions are suggested to Heartland Baptist Church, 810 S. Cedar St., Belton, MO 64012. Arrangements under the direction of McGilley and George Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Belton, MO. 816-322-2995
http://obits.dignitymemorial.com/dignity-memorial/obituary.aspx?n=Norma-Green&lc=2519&pid=183760570&mid=7271125

Delbert Taylor (1930-2016)
Obituary:
Delbert Lawrence Taylor, 86, passed away peacefully at his home on Wednesday December 14, 2016, after courageously battling a long illness.

Delbert was born November 19, 1930 in Parsons, Kansas, the first born son to John "Clarence" Taylor and Lucy Corda Grimes. He graduated from Parsons High School & Parsons Junior College. He began his career with the MKT Railroad in Parsons in 1950 & held several different jobs on the railroad before getting a position in the accounting department in 1954. In 1957, when the Katy moved their offices from Parsons KS to Denison TX, Delbert moved with them. He worked a total of 39 years for the Katy Railroad, retiring in 1989.

Delbert married Betty Neel Rainwater in Parsons, KS on March 2, 1956 & instantly became the father to two daughters, Phyllis and Sherry. After moving to Denison, two sons were born, Richard "Rick" & Randy. Delbert & Betty divorced in 1972. Delbert & Betty Pecoraro remained friends over the years, often socializing together after both remarried.

On March 16, 1974, Delbert married Patricia "Pat" Ward LaFon in Grand Prairie, Texas at her home. He gained two more children with this marriage, Sandra LaFon Lewis & Thomas LaFon. Pat passed away in February 2010.

Delbert was a loving husband, father, brother, grandfather, great-grandfather & friend to everyone who knew him. He knew no stranger & was a very special man to a lot of people. He enjoyed traveling all over the country doing Genealogy research & walking 10K's in all 50 states, including London England. He was a long time member of multiple organizations & held officer positions in many of them for years. Some of the organizations that he was a member of are: SAR, NAVRE, American Volkssport Association, Denison Genealogy Society & he was known as "The Record Keeper" of the Red River Railroad Museum. He most enjoyed watching his grandson's ball games whether it was football or baseball & the tailgating & traveling that came with those ball games.

Delbert is survived by his sons, Rick Taylor of Moss Point, MS, Randy Taylor and his wife Karen of Denison TX, Tommy LaFon and his wife Terry of Bluff Dale, TX , his daughters, Phyllis Rainwater and Sherry Rainwater both of Frisco, TX, Sandra Lewis and her husband Clyde of Garland, TX, his grandsons, Ryan Taylor of Tyler, TX, Jordan Taylor of Denver CO, Jason LaFon & his wife Jo Ann of Arlington, TX, his granddaughter, Stephanie Lewis of Little Elm, TX as well as his great-granddaughters, Kimberly LaFon & Jessica LaFon both of Arlington, TX and his special good friend, Jacque VanHooser of Denison, TX.

Delbert was preceded in death by his parents, Clarence & Lucy Taylor and his two younger brothers, Orville Taylor & Charles Taylor.

The family would like to thank all of the wonderful nurses, nurse aides, physical therapists, case workers & doctors who treated & cared for Dad over the past couple of years at Texoma Medical Center, Carrus Specialty Hospital, Gunn Lane/200 Hall at Beacon Hill & Heart to Heart Hospice.

Family & Friends visitation will be Monday, December 19, 2016 from 6-7 pm at American Funeral Services, 4312 W Crawford St, Denison, TX. Funeral Services will be held Tuesday, December 20, 2016 at 10 am at Morton Street Church of Christ, 2225 W Morton, Denison, TX with Pastor Jess Whitlock officiating. Interment will follow at Fairview Cemetery in Denison, TX.

Pall bearers for Delbert will be Ryan Taylor, Jordan Taylor, Jason LaFon, Craig Epperly, Johnny Brown, and Don Tarbot.

Delbert would be honored if Memorials were sent in his name to the following two organizations that he proudly served as a volunteer:

Red River Railroad Museum (RRRM), c/o Caboose Restoration Project, 101 E Main St STE 145, Denison, TX 75020

http://redriverrailmuseum.org/

Heart to Heart Hospice Foundation-Sherman, 600 E Taylor St STE 3005, Sherman, TX 75090, Phone: 1-855-HEART26 (432-7826)

https://www.htohhfoundation.org/
Published in The Herald Democrat on Dec. 18, 2016 -

Deva Louise Kirchner (1932-2015)
Deva Louise Kirchner departed this life at 2:46 a.m. Wednesday, Sept. 9, 2015, as a resident of Citizens Memorial Healthcare Facility in Bolivar with her daughter, Christena, holding her hand. She died of natural causes after a gradual decline of health at the age of 83 years, 2 months and 19 days.

Deva was born June 21, 1932, in the home of her maternal grandmother, Viola Thatch, in the south part of Wheatland in Hickory County. She was the daughter of Jesse “Jess” Fay Poe and Jessie Katherine Thatch Poe. Her first home with her parents was on a farm that was about 1 1/4 miles west and 3/4 mile south of Elkton.

Deva attended grade school for two years at Shady Grove, a country school about 4 miles west of Elkton. Next, she attended Sunny Slope, a country school about 1 mile north of Flemington, where she graduated from the eighth grade. She attended Humansville High School for three years and then attended Weaubleau High School for one year where she graduated in 1952.

Deva moved with her mother to San Bernardino, Calif., in December 1952. Deva married Roy Stanley Kirchner Jr. on April 7, 1954, in the Church of the Nazarene in San Bernardino. They first met when Deva was a freshman and Roy was a senior at Humansville High School.

Roy had enlisted in the U.S. Air Force in July 1951, and they led a military life together until Roy retired in August 1971. Some of their homes together during this time included Wiesbaden, Germany, Le Vesinet France-near Paris, Washington, D.C., San Bernardino, Calif., and Albuquerque, N.M. Deva and Roy met for five days at Ft. DeRussy near Honolulu, Hawaii, during Roy’s Vietnam year of ’67-’68. They called this their second honeymoon.

After Roy’s retirement, they lived a few months in Humansville with Roy’s parents. On Jan. 1, 1972, they moved to a home which they bought at 604 S. Lillian Ave. in Bolivar. Deva remained in this home until April 28, 2014. Roy had passed away there on April 10, 2014.

They were blessed with 60 years and three days of marriage. Three children were born to their union, Christena, Angelena and Roy III.
 
Deva also had a son before her marriage to Roy. His name was Terry Lee Poe.

Deva was a homemaker her entire life. She was a kind, sweet, loving wife and mother. She enjoyed being a member of the Polk County Genealogical Society, where she was an original member for more than 20 years. She attended church with Roy at various churches in Bolivar. She lastly attended church with her two daughters at Rock Prairie Missionary Baptist.

Deva was preceded in death by her husband, Roy; her daughter, Angelena Jean Kirchner Mollet Hirsch of Mexico, Mo.; her son, Terry; her sister, Maxine; and her parents.

Deva is survived by her daughter, Christena Louise Kirchner Barber of Bolivar; her son, Roy Stanley Kirchner III of Clinton; her grandchildren, Atha Barber Schatz and husband Benjamen of Kansas City, Nathan Barber and wife Misty of Ozark, Ala., Joshua Barber and wife Lauren of Olathe, Kan., Marissa Barber and companion David Hasler of Willard, Glen Mollet and Mike Mollet, both of Rush Hill and Jesse Hirsch of Mexico, Mo.; her great-grandchildren, Emily Schatz of Kansas City, Olivia Barber of Ozark, Ala., Owen Barber of Olathe, Kan., and Aiden Hasler of Willard (due Oct. 8). Other survivors are her brother, Ross Poe of Colorado Springs, Colo., and her sister, Lois Jean Morris, address unknown.

Visitation is 7-9 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 19, at Murray Funeral Home, Bolivar. Services are at 2 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 20, at the funeral home, Bolivar. Interment will be in Greenwood Cemetery, Bolivar.

Online condolences may be submitted at www.murrayfuneralhomes.com.

Betty Beason Ammerman (1929-2015)

Obituary:
Mrs. Betty Ammerman, age 85, of Springfield passed away June 10, 2015 in her home. She battled Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease with grace and courage. She was a survivor of breast cancer in 1998 and lung cancer in 2009.

Betty Jean was born near Fair Play, Missouri, July 7, 1929, the first child of Forrest Beason and Grace Roberts Beason.

On December 21, 1946 Betty and Claud F. Ammerman were married in Fair Play. They lived in Bolivar until 1949 and then moved to Springfield.

A graduate of Fair Play High School, and valedictorian of her class, she was a member of the orchestra, and competed in vocal solos and ensembles, some at the state level. She was active in 4-H, winning several local and state level ribbons. Betty was a former bookkeeper and was employed by the Bolivar Free Press and in Springfield at the American Milking Shorthorn Society; Webster Oil Company; and Nixon, Simpson and Shipp Insurance Company.

Betty was a Life Member of Queen City Chapter #226, Order of Eastern Star, and Pleiades White Shrine, Order of the White Shrine of Jerusalem serving as Worthy High Priestess in 1960.

Her family was the most important part of her life and when the children were younger she participated in their activities: Camp Fire Girls, Cub Scouts, PTA and School Volunteer and taking them to swim, karate and other classes.

Betty had a passion for family history and genealogy and began research in the 1940s. She was a charter member of the following organizations: Ozarks Genealogical Society (OGS), Springfield, organized in 1969; Historical Society of Polk County, Missouri, Missouri State Genealogical Association; and the Polk County (Missouri) Genealogical Society. She was a member of Rachel Donelson Chapter, Daughters of the American Revolution in Springfield for over 25 years. She was served on the Editorial Board of Ozar’kin, the OGS quarterly, 35 years of its 36 year publication. She also served as an officer and chair of several OGS committees. She was a published co-author of books including A Branch of the Wright Tree and compiled a number of genealogical articles. On August 2, 2014, she was presented with the Missouri State Genealogical Society’s “Award of Merit” for her outstanding contributions to genealogy in Missouri.

Betty and her siblings were very close and they all met once more in Springfield recently. Betty was the family historian and maintained contact with close cousins as well as many extended cousins from coast to coast.

She was preceded in death by her parents, an infant son, Richard Robert, December 1, 1949 and husband, Claud, August 30, 2004.

Betty is survived by her daughter, Kay Wilson and her husband, Raymond “Boots” Wilson, Strafford; her son, Jim Ammerman, Springfield; two grandchildren, Ben Wilson and friend Jessica Roemer, Springfield and Tara Ammerman, Nashville, Tennessee; and two step-grandchildren, William Wilson and Christy Wilson Fair.

Other survivors include her siblings and their spouses: Joe and Rosemary Beason, Stevensville, Montana, Dolores Huff Tucker, McKinney, Texas, Charles and Shirlynn Beason, Forney, Texas, Lee and Gwen Beason, Sherwood, Arkansas; step-brother, Bill and Gerry Beamon, Phoenix, Arizona; step-sister, Mary Beamon and Don Witter, Laguna Niguel, California; brother-in-law, David W. Ammerman, Archie, Missouri, and many nieces, nephews and cousins.

The family expresses gratitude to Good Shepherd Hospice and Home Sweet Home for their special care during Betty’s last illness.

More extensive obituary on www.gormanscharpf.com.

A visitation will be held from 9-10 am on Friday, June 12, at Gorman-Scharpf Funeral Home. A graveside service will be held at 10:30 am at Hazelwood Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are suggested to Ozarks Genealogical Society, 534 W. Catalpa St., Springfield, MO 65807.

Bobbie Floyd Cook (1937-2014)
Obituary:
Born Feb. 7, 1937 on a hilly farm east of Walnut Grove, Missouri just a short distance off of BB highway, Bobbie F Cook passed at his home at 9:05 pm, Tuesday, Nov. 25, 2014 in Haines City Florida surrounded by family members.

Born to Isaac and Daisy Cook, Bobbie attended Springfield, Aldrich and Fair Play schools in Missouri. HMC Bobbie F Cook was a Vietnam veteran having served in the U.S. Navy for over 20 years and attaining the rank of Chief Hospital Corpsman. After retiring from the military, Bobbie attained his BS in Accounting from San Jose State University in San Jose, California. After graduating from SJSU, Bobbie completed his 2nd retirement with a management position at a Dialogue, one of the information predecessors of the World Wide Web. Following his retirement, Bobbie moved "home" to Ozark, Missouri with his wife Carol. A tireless worker, Bobbie continued to contribute after those retirements by assisting the NASA shuttle astronauts with their experiments.

Bob married was married to Carol Locke for 39 years from Nov. 5, 1960 (in Miami, Ok.) until 1-5-1999. Together they raised 4 children. Joy Cook and Shelley (Cook) Neis who were from Carol's previous marriage and the 2 children they made together, Ernest and Melissa Cook. In his final 14 years Bob was married to Linda Springs who had one daughter, Susan Lansing and one son, Robert Lansing. Prior to his death Bob relocated to Haines City, Florida with Linda where they lived until Bob's death. Bob was baptized at East Ave Baptist Church in Missouri at an early age and at the time of his passing was attending the Chapel by the Lake in Haines City.

Bob was preceded in death by his father, Isaac Cook, mother, Daisy Hall, 3 brothers, Paul Cook, Silas Cook, and Raymond Merrick, 3 sisters, Alma (Cook) Booth, and Phyllis Cook.

He is survived by his wife Linda, his son Ernest Cook and 3 daughters Joy Cook, Shelley (Cook) Neis, Melissa Cook together with 5 grandchildren, Jared Neis, Tara Neis, Jonathan Cook, Lauren Cook, Cassandra Cook, and the children' s mother Carol Cook, sister Nora Jane (Cook) McAnualty ,brother Jerry Hall as well as many nieces, nephews and cousins.

Funeral services will be at 11:30 am, Wednesday, Dec. 3, 2014 in Herman Lohmeyer Funeral Home, 500 E. Walnut, Springfield, MO. Graveside services and Burial will be at 1:00 pm in the Missouri Veterans cemetery at 5201 South Southwood, Springfield, MO 65804

Roy Stanley Kirchner, Jr. (1932-2014)
Roy or "Mr. K" was an original member of the society, along with his wife Deva. They attended almost every meeting, conference, class and event presented by PCGS.  He was a valuable member of the genealogical society and will be missed, not only for his interest in preserving family histories, but for his many contributions to our organization. Roy purchased computers and printers, microfilm, books and other supplies for the genealogy library. He is another about whom we can rightfully say that "PCGS wouldn't be where we are today without him."

OBITUARY:
Roy Stanley Kirchner, Jr., was born Oct. 25, 1932, in the home of his parents, Roy Stanley Kirchner & Lillie Ellen (Newcomb) Kirchner, on a farm in Jefferson Twp., Cedar Co., Mo., that was about 3 miles NW of Dunnegan and about 5 1/2 miles SW of Humansville. Roy passed away at age 81 yrs 5 mos and 16 days unexpectedly from heart failure about 2am on April 10, 2014, in his home in Bolivar, Mo., while sitting at his computer working on the Thatch family history. It was his goal to complete his work on the Kirchner, Poe, Newcomb, & Thatch families, our main four branches. He was very close to this goal, having completed the first three.

He attended grade school at High Point, a country school in Cedar Co., about 2 miles west and a little south of the farm where he was born, and at Union, District No. 5, a country school about 3 1/2 miles east of Flemington in Polk Co., where he graduated from the 8th grade. He then attended the Humansville High School where he graduated in 1949 and was salutatorian of the class that year. During the following year, he again attended the Humansville High School and took post-graduate courses. Much of his time was spent mowing lawns all over the town during summer vacations. He was a member of the Boy Scouts in Humansville.

Roy married Deva Louise Poe on April 7, 1954. They were married in the Church of the Nazarene in San Bernardino, California. They first met when Roy was a senior and Deva was a freshman at Humansville High School. To this union were born three children: Christena Louise, Angelena Jean, and Roy Stanley, III. Roy & Deva happily celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary three days before his passing.

Roy enlisted in the U.S. Air Force on July 11, 1951, and retired as a Staff Sergeant on Aug. 1, 1971, after serving for 20 years and 20 days. His occupation during that time was typist and stenographic technician . He was stationed at Lackland AFB near San Antonio, Texas, for basic training. Next, he was at the University of Alabama for additional technical training. He was the No. 1 Honor Student in the class. The overseas locations which he was stationed included Wiesbaden, Germany (twice); Paris, France; Phan Rang, Vietnam; Johnston Island in the Pacific; and Hickam AFB near Honolulu, Hawaii. After discharge, Roy, Deva, & children returned to Humansville. On Jan. 1, 1972, they moved into the home they bought at 604 S. Lillian Ave. in Bolivar, Mo., where Roy & Deva still lived at the time of his death.

Roy attended the Southwest Baptist College in Bolivar and received an Associate of Science degree in General Education on May 19, 1979. His first and ONLY car was a 1955 Ford Customline, bought new in Hayward, Calif., for $2,500 in Aug. 1955, which was still being driven by him shortly before his death. He was particularly interested in pursuing his favorite hobby of genealogical research which was commenced on Jan 1, 1957. He was also interested in stamp collecting, coin collecting, old books, old phonograph records, song collecting, tape recording, and computers. Roy & Deva mainly attended First Assembly of God Church of Bolivar.

Roy is survived by his wife, Deva Louise Kirchner, of the home; daughters Christena Barber of Bolivar, Mo., Angelena Hirsch and husband Johnya of Mexico, Mo.; son Roy S. Kirchner, III of Clinton, Mo.; grandchildren Atha Marie (Barber) Schatz and husband Benjamen of Kansas City, Mo., Nathan Daniel Barber and wife Misty of Clarksville, Tn., Joshua David Barber and wife Lauren of Olathe, Ks., Marissa Jean Barber of Bolivar, Mo., Glen Roy Mollet of Rush Hill, Mo., Mike Martin Mollet of Rush Hill, Mo., and Jesse John Seth Hirsch of Mexico, Mo.; great-grandchildren are Emily Elizabeth Schatz of Kansas City, Mo., Olivia Danielle Barber of Clarksville, Tn., and baby Barber due Oct 20 of Olathe, Ks. Roy is also survived by ex-son-in-laws Richard Barber of Fairplay, Mo. and Ray Mollet of Rush Hill, Mo.; brother-in-law Ross Poe of Colorado Springs, Co.; 1st cousin Nancy (Newcomb) Mann of Great Falls, Va.

Roy had many dear friends from the Polk County Genealogical Society, which he was an original member of 20 years. Susan Sparks was like a daughter to him. Roy's unique personality and quirkiness will be greatly missed by family and friends! He was loved.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the PCGS in Bolivar, Mo. Online condolences may be made at www.butlerfuneralhome.com

Service: 2 p.m. Tuesday, April 15, at Butler Funeral Home, Bolivar, with the Rev. Gary Ankrom officiating and interment following in Greenwood Cemetery, Bolivar.

Visitation: 5:30-7:30 p.m. Monday, April 14, at the funeral home.
Friends and family may sign the guestbook or leave private condolences at www.butlerfuneralhome.com

ARTICLE:
‘There will never be another Mr. K’
Published Wednesday, April 23, 2014 Bolivar Herald-Free Press by Jessica Drews, reporter jessicad@bolivarmonews.com
Friends and family of Roy S. Kirchner Jr. of Bolivar will remember him for his commitment to and love of family and genealogy. Kirchner, 81, died April 10.
Susan Sparks, Leta Gass and Betty Doyle, members of the Polk County Genealogical Society, remember Kirchner as a very generous man. He and his wife, Deva, were charter members of PCGS, joining 20 years ago.

“He was a very generous man,” Gass said. “He had a sense of humor, and he was very shy.”

 Kirchner completely funded the society’s first published book, Sparks said, and even gave the society 100 copies to sell. He visited at least half of Polk County’s 174 cemeteries to collect cemetery records to keep at the genealogical society.

After he and Deva finished collecting records from the cemeteries, Kirchner again published a book with his findings and gave the society some to sell. Roy and Deva even visited the Greenwood, Flemington and Lehman cemeteries every Memorial Day (since 1972) to decorate the graves of relatives. “We admired this tradition,” daughter Christena Barber said.

Kirchner began his favorite hobby, genealogy work, on Jan. 1, 1957, although he was also interested in stamp collecting, coin collecting, old books, phonograph records, song collecting, tape recording and computers.

In an email from PCGS following Kirchner’s death, Kirchner was remembered for his involvement with the organization. “Roy and Deva attended almost every meeting, every conference, every event PCGS had. He even enjoyed coming to our beginning genealogy classes because he thought he might learn something ‘new.’”

Gass said Kirchner, known as “Mr. K” to them, helped the society over the years by helping purchase computers, microfilm machines and copy machines, in addition to his countless hours of research.

“He didn’t really want accolades,” Sparks said. “We call one of the computers he used Mr. K’s computer.

“When we started our journey, I called him Mr. Kirchner. He said, ‘That’s my dad.’ So we gave him the nickname Mr. K. We meant it affectionately.”

Sparks, Gass and Doyle also remember Kirchner for the high level of precision in his work. “Personally, as I create something, I think, ‘Now what would Mr. K say about this?” Gass said.

Kirchner’s contributed genealogy work includes contributions to the PCGS history book and more than 50 volumes of research on Polk County families, including three out of the four main lines of his and his wife’s family. At the time of his death, Kirchner was researching the fourth line of his family, the Thatch family line.
“He also did genealogy work for other people,” Gass said. “It was his life’s work.”

The genealogical society intends to publish the last of Kirchner’s work with a memorial to him at the end.

“There will never be another Mr. K,” Gass said.

The ladies agreed that the best word to describe Mr. K was “unique.”

“I think people are put in your path for a reason,” Sparks said of her interaction with Kirchner over the years.

Kirchner’s daughters, Barber of Bolivar and Angelena Hirsch of Mexico, Mo., said they did not always know what genealogy project their dad was working on but that they are grateful for the family history he has completed for them. “We are extremely grateful for our own personal family that he made these books. We hope to do one-tenth of the job he did,” Barber said about continuing their dad’s genealogy work.

The girls said their dad lived a very independent and simple life. “He was very old fashioned, and had an old-fashioned way of doing things. According to Barber, he still used a push reel mower and was still driving his one and only car, a 1955 Customline, just three days before his death. Hirsch said her parents never owned a microwave or a clothes dryer, and they still used a rotary phone. They have no cell phone or answering machine.

Just a few weeks ago, the Kirchners upgraded from dial-up to high-speed Internet so he could continue his genealogy work at home. Kirchner owned a microfilm machine and still had a small collection of microfilm.

“He had his clipboard at his side any time he was working,” Hirsch said.

Sparks said family was most important to Kirchner, and Barber said Kirchner loved for his girls to call and share about their lives. “He loved for us to share our lives with him, for my sister and I to tell him about our daily lives,” she said. “He loved to hear what we had going on.”

Kirchner was very proud of his family, including one of his grandsons for following in his footsteps and going into the military. Kirchner served for 20 years, 20 days in the U.S. Air Force. “He was proud of his grandson for doing that,” Sparks said.

Barber and Hirsch said that some of the most important things their dad instilled in them were to carry on a written heritage and to be precise. “It is extremely important to carry on your written heritage,” Barber said, “to document your heritage for future generations.” “He also taught us it is important to be as correct as possible, to be precise,” Hirsch said. “To do things correctly and accurately.”

“He was his own editor,” Barber said. “When he sent something to us (at the genealogical society) we were under strict orders not to touch it,” Sparks said about editing his work.

The girls said Kirchner also taught them to be responsible with their finances.  “He was very good with keeping his personal finances straight,” Barber said. “He wrote down every penny he spent, and he tried to instill in us how important financial stability was.”

When he was not busy working, Kirchner liked to play games. When the whole family was together in March, they played Scrabble, Barber said.
“He had a lot of fun times when you could drag him away from his work,” Barber said.

Kathryn Lorraine Parkman Kincaid (1922-2013)
Dear, sweet Lorraine--PCGS wouldn't be here without you. Lorraine spoke to friends about the idea for a genealogical society in Bolivar and hosted the first planning meeting at her house in February 1994. The group was formed and Lorraine was a constant supporter, even when she could no longer get out and about. We will all be forever grateful to her vision!

OBITUARY:
Lorraine Kincaid, 91, of Bolivar departed this life on Friday, October 25, 2013 in Citizens Memorial Hospital following a brief illness.

She was born in Burtonsville, Maryland and married William H. Kincaid on September 27, 1941. They lived in Silver Spring, Md., Laurel, Md., and Fort Lauderdale, Fla., where she retired from her position with U.S. Customs in Miami before moving to Bolivar in 1988. She was a member of Southern Hills Baptist Church.

Lorraine was active in the Bolivar community. She belonged to the Friends of the Polk County Library and the Polk County Genealogical Society. She enjoyed wood carving and belonged to the Polk County Wood Carvers group.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband William; son Wayne M. Kincaid; sister Eleanor Park and brother George H. Parkman, Jr.
Lorraine is survived by her son Chester E. Kincaid and his wife Stacey of Bolivar; granddaughter Jessica Prentice; granddaughter Lacey Kincaid; grandson Shane Kincaid; 2 great-grandchildren; several nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be held at Donaldson Funeral Home, Laurel, Maryland at 11:00 AM Thursday, October 31st with visitation to be held 1 hour prior to the service. Interment will take place in Union Cemetery, Burtonsville, Maryland.
Local visitation for Lorraine Kincaid will be held from 2-4 PM Sunday, October 27th at Murray Funeral Home in Bolivar.

Memorial contributions may be given to Southern Hills Baptist Church or the Polk County Library.
Online condolences may be submitted at www.murrayfuneralhomes.com.

Helen Lillian Brown Pierce Nottingham (1930-2013)
Helen was a longtime member of PCGS. She was one of our original "obituary party" ladies and then later volunteered at the facility occasionally when her health permitted it.

OBITUARY: Helen L. Nottingham (April 17, 1930 - October 22, 2013)
Helen Lillian Nottingham, 83, of Fair Play, Missouri passed away Tuesday, October 22, 2013 in Bolivar, MO. She was the only living child born to Fred and Cora Brown in Cliquot, Missouri.

During her teen years Helen's family moved to Mesa, Arizona where she graduated from high school. Upon graduation, she began working at Valley National Bank where she held several positions over many years. In December 1950 she married Gordon Pierce and to this union two sons were born. Gordon passed away in December 1965 leaving Helen with 2 young sons to raise and support. Helen eventually became re-acquainted with childhood beau Don Nottingham while visiting relatives in Missouri. She and Don married and the family moved back to Missouri. To this union a son was born. Don passed away in February 1988.

Upon moving to Missouri Helen was a homemaker for a number of years. In the mid-seventies she began working for Polk County in the Recorder's Office and subsequently in the Clerk's Office. She retired in 1995.

Helen was a 50 year member of the Mesa Starlight Chapter #16, Order of the Eastern Star. While living in Arizona she belonged to the sewing club and the bridge club. For many years she served as Sunday School secretary and was active in the women's fellowship group of the Spring Creek Cumberland Presbyterian Church in Dunnegan. She also enjoyed volunteering at the Polk County Genealogical Society. She was an excellent homemaker and cook and enjoyed sewing and quilting, producing many fine quilts for family and friends.

Helen was preceded in death by her parents; husbands Gordon Pierce and Don Nottingham. She is survived by three sons: Dan Pierce and wife Jenny of Moscow, Idaho; Scott Pierce of Clever, Missouri and Joe Nottingham of Fair Play, Missouri; grandchildren Amy (Pierce) Garwood, Emily Pierce, Kyle Don Nottingham, Chase Malen, Sheena Malen, and Britney Nicole Pratt; sister-in-law Virginia Stauffacher of Bolivar and brother-in-law Larry Nottingham and his wife Peggy of Stockton.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 AM Saturday, October 26, 2013 at Murray Funeral Home at 911 W Broadway in Bolivar officiated by Rev. Scott Garner with burial immediately following at the Dunnegan Cemetery. Visitation will be held from 6-8 PM on Friday evening at the funeral home.

Memorials are suggested to the Cumberland Presbyterian Children's Home; 909 Greenlee St.; Denton, Texas 76201. Online condolences may be submitted at www.murrayfuneralhomes.com.

Walter Bo Russell (1920-2013)
Bo Russell was a past member of PCGS. He also presented on the Russell Family at one of our Living History Tours at Greenwood Cemetery.
OBITUARY: Walter Bo Russell, age 92, entered into the presence of his Heavenly Father on Friday, September 13, 2013 at 6:35 AM. He had resided at Garden Valley Nursing and Rehabilitation in Kansas City, Missouri for the past 2 ½ years after moving to Kansas City from Bolivar, Missouri in 2006. Bo was preceded in death by his parents Walter and Lena (Spurgeon) Russell, his wife of 63 years, Ida Mabel (Teters) Russell and his infant grandson, Christopher Bo Russell.

Born on October 5, 1920 in Towanda, Kansas, Bo was a resident of Bolivar, Missouri and a graduate of Southwest Baptist College in Bolivar and Drury College in Springfield, Missouri in 1942. After graduation he worked in Washington, D.C. for the Coast and Geodetic Survey as a photogramatrist and served in the United States Army Air Force in the South Pacific Theatre of Operations until the end of World War II. Bo attended Officers Candidate School in Brisbane, Australia and as the war ended, he was serving as a photo intelligence officer in the Air Force Headquarters of General Douglas MacArthur in Manila, Philippines.

In 1942, Bo married his high school sweetheart, Ida Mabel Teters and they raised their family in Bolivar, MO where his wife was a beloved elementary teacher for many years in the Bolivar School District. Bo commuted to Rolla, Missouri, where he worked with the Missouri State Geological Survey. During this time, he was in charge of the field operations which determined the prehistoric river channels of the Missouri River. In 1958, Bo moved his family to Kansas City where he worked until his retirement in 1986 for the Layne-Western Company. Bo retired as district manager and vice president of the Layne-Western Company and his pride with this company was reflected in the training of over thirty young managers/engineers for the company.

Bo and his family were active throughout life in the pursuit of Christian ideals. Bo and Ida Mabel worked tirelessly for many years with the First Baptist Church of Bolivar, Missouri and later with young college students at the First Baptist Church of Raytown. Bo was ordained a deacon in First Baptist Church of Raytown, where he served for a number of years on various committees helping to direct church growth.

Bo’s family include his daughter and son-in-law Susan and Dennis Rogers, Kansas City, MO, his son and daughter-in-law Walt and Marty Russell, Yorba Linda, CA, granddaughters, Amy Rogers-Johnson, Susanne Dilly and husband Jason, Elizabeth Hoops and husband Justin and grandson, Jonathan Russell and wife Noel. Bo was also blessed with five beloved great grandchildren, Avery Dilley, Olivia Dilley, Gavin Dilley, Reese Johnson and Cohen Johnson.

Bo’s life was long and filled with wonderful memories of a gracious man who lived the concept of a strong Christian leader within his family. People valued him as friend, business associate and model of integrity and character. He was named the “Kindest Citizen in Bolivar” in 1999, an award which reflected the love and affection of his community.

A Celebration of Life for Walter Bo Russell will be held on Wednesday, September 18, 2013 at 1:00 PM in the Butler Funeral Home Chapel with Dr. Harlan E. Spurgeon officiating. The reading of the Eulogy will be by Rev. Billy Russell. Personal Reflections will be by Bob Jester and Pat Mullen. Elizabeth Hoops and Jonathan Russell will have a reading entitled “A Life Well Lived”. Musical selection will be “It Is Well With My Soul” by soloist Brad Wommack, a congregational song, “Because He Lives” and “I Can Only Imagine” by Mercy Me. Burial will be in the Greenwood Cemetery in Bolivar under the care and direction of the Butler Funeral Home of Bolivar. Dr. Walter Bo Russell, III will be reading “Resurrection Day” at the cemetery. Military Honors will be held at the Greenwood Cemetery by the Fifth District Honor Guard of the American Veterans. Casketbearers will be jason Dilley, Justin Hoops, Bob Jester, Jonathan Russell, Henry Teters and Larry Teters.

A Visitation will be held from 11:00 to 1:00 PM at the Butler Chapel just prior to services.

On Thursday, September 19, 2013, At 1:00 PM A Celebration of Life for Bo will be held at the Platte Woods United Methodist Church, 7310 N.W. Prairie View, Platte Woods, MO 64051 with Rev. Ginger Pudenz officiating. Elizabeth Hoops and Jonathan Russell will have a reading entitled “A Life Well Lived”. Personal Reflections will be by Amy Rogers-Johnson and Susanne Dilley. Musical Selections will by “Blessed Assurance”, “Great Is They Faithfulness” and “When The Saints Go Marching In” with Walter Bryant as the pianist.

Bo’s Family would like to express their sincere gratitude to the caregivers of Garden Valley Nursing and Rehabilitation for the loving attention paid to Bo. Daily they were a godsend and encouragement during the years he spent in their home. Also a special thank you and profound gratitude to the Crossroads Hospice and Palliative Care.

Memorial Contributions may be made to the Garden Valley Nursing and Rehabilitation, 8575 N. Granby, Kansas City, MO 64154. The Crossroads Hospice and Palliative Care, 2900 N.E. 60th St., Suite 150, Gladstone, MO 64119. Also the Lifting Hands Network, 5962 Short St. Yorba Linda, CA 92886, Dr. Walt Russell, Chairman of the U.S. Lifting Hands Network.

Friend may sign the guest book online at www.butlerfuneralhome.com


Macelia "Macy" Nell Breithaupt True (1943-2013)
Macy founded the "Lost Higgenbothams newsletter and always had encouraging things to say about PCGS. She was always sending nice emails and dropping by to say "Hi" to those at the facility.
OBITUARY: Macelia Nell “Macy” True, age 69, passed away on Monday, February 18, 2013 at Mercy Hospital in St. Louis, Missouri.
Macy was born Nov 4, 1943 to Stanley Breithaupt and Juanita (Higgenbotham) Breithaupt in Springfield, Missouri.
On September 18, 1987 Macy was united in marriage to Daryl True in Webster Grove, Missouri.
Macy retired from Automatic Data Processing, she was a home-maker, was a former President and Newsletter Editor of "The Lost Higgenbothams", and started a cancer support group this past year in her church.
She is preceded in death by her parents; Stanley and Juanita, and three brothers; Romie Cole Harris, Stanley Con Breithaupt, and Donald Gene Breithaupt.
She is survived by her husband; Daryl True of the home, a brother; Holace Frank Breithaupt and his wife Patty of Springfield, Missouri, step-son; David True and his wife Tina of Austin, Texas, step-daughter; Sarah Mulligan and her husband Frank of Gilbert, Arizona, a granddaughter; Claire Rose Mulligan of Gilbert, Arizona, an aunt; Freda Bruer of Daleville, Alabama, along with numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
Funeral services will be held at 10:00am on Saturday, February 23, 2013 at Butler Funeral Home in Bolivar, Missouri with Pastor Debbie Peebles and Pastor Gloria Jones officiating under the care and direction of Butler Funeral Home.
No visitation will be held.
Burial will follow at Pleasant Hill Cemetery East of Bolivar.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Cancer Support Group, Fenton United Methodist Church, 800 Gravois Road, Fenton, Missouri 63026
Friends and family may sign the guestbook or leave private condolences at www.butlerfuneralhome.com

Sylvia Lee Simmons Thomas (1936 -2013)
Sylvia was a hard-working member of the society, spending many hours collecting newspaper clippings and compiling scrapbooks for use by the society's members and customers.
OBITUARY:
Sylvia "Sally" Thomas, 76, of Bolivar, formerly of Colorado and Nebraska, passed away at Citizens Memorial Healthcare on Monday, January 28, 2013. She was born as a twin daughter of Bennie and Genevieve Lyle Simmons in Bolivar.

She married Jerry Breshears in 1954 and they were the parents of a son, Bruce. In 1967 Sylvia married Robert Hall Cruse and in 1977 she married Calvin Thomas in California.

Sylvia attended Bolivar Schools graduating from Bolivar High School Class of 1954. She worked as a meatwrapper for the Lucky's Store chain in California and while living there she enjoyed going to concerts at Knotts Berry Farm. Sylvia has written a family history, a history of the town of Peetz, Colorado with the information stored at the Sidney, Nebraska Library, and she has compiled information concerning Polk County School graduates with the information stored at the Polk County Genealogical Society.

She was a member of the American Legion Post 138, a member of the First Assembly of God in Bolivar, the Over 50 Club, the Senior Center $5 Club, and worked as a volunteer for the Genealogical Society and Historical Society as long as her health permitted.

She was preceded in death by her parents, twin sister Sue and her husband Max Kinsey, sister Doris Pyle, brothers Lewis Simmons and Glen Simmons, husbands Robert Hall Cruse and Calvin Thomas; and nephew Jeffrey Thomas.

Sylvia is survived by her son Bruce Earl Breshears of Broomfield, Colorado; sister Mary Box of Buffalo; nephew John Box, Roger Box and family; niece Roberta Brasher of Halfway; sister-in-law Helen Burec Simmons and her children Susan Parks and Nancy Hammond and their families; cousins Wayne Simmons of Florida, Zelma Phelps of Kewanee, Illinois, Mary Jackson of Moline, Illinois; and other family members.

Gravesite services for Sylvia Thomas will be held 11 AM Friday, February 1st at the Shady Grove Cemetery in Humansville where she will be buried next to her grandparents. The service will be officiated by Rev. Gary Ankrom, friends James Whitman and Bill Bob Kallenbach, under the care and direction of Murray Funeral Home of Bolivar. The cremains of her husband will be buried with her as well.

Memorial contributions may be given in Sylvia's memory to either the Genealogical Society of Bolivar or the Shady Grove Cemetery % David Ross, 408 W Fisher, Humansville, MO 65674.

Sylvia wishes a special thank you for help during her sickness to dear friends James Whitman, Steve and Renee Sagaser.

Online condolences may be submitted to www.murrayfuneralhomes.com

Lula Mae Mustain Kent (1935-2013)
Lula knew everyone in town because she was either related to them or helped them at Roweton's Home Center. She was always glad to see you and always had a smile on her face. She will be missed.
OBITUARY:
Mrs. Lula Mae Kent of Bolivar, Missouri passed away Monday, January 7, 2013 at Select Specialty Hospital in Springfield, Missouri at the age of 77 years, 10 months, and 27 days. Lula was born on February 11, 1935 to Dora Blanche (Mitchem) Mustain and Richard “Harrison” Mustain in Fair Play, Missouri. Lula was raised in the Bolivar area and made her home in Bolivar for most of her adult life.

She married Eugene Albert “Pinky” Kent at the First Christian Church on July 6, 1962. They were blessed with a total of three children: Jayne, Kevin and Michael. They made their home in Bolivar where Lula took a part time job over the holidays at the local Western Auto. That part time job was to become a career that spanned over 51 years. Known today as Roweton’s Home Center, Lula felt fortunate to be able to work there right up till the day the pneumonia she developed required her hospitalization. Lazy was a foreign concept to Lula and she took great pride in being able to work. She was a veritable fountain of knowledge in all things relating to hardware.

Lula was a member of the Genealogical Society, Historical Society, Rebecca Lodge and had been honored by the Rotary Club in 2007 as the first recipient of the Second Mile Award. She was a believer in giving back to her community, but did not seek recognition for doing so. Instead, she was an anonymous contributor to various charities in which she found merit. To honor that memory, the family would like to challenge everyone that hasn’t, to please find a similar way in which to support your own community. Whether it be time or money, it was important for Lula to give back. Also, Lula was not only an SBU Booster but probably the best cheerleader that any of the local teams could possibly have. Her favorite sport was basketball and over the years she became a lexicon of knowledge as related to not only local teams but college as well. She always enjoyed March Madness and was usually pretty accurate in predicting its outcome. Lula loved her family and enjoyed spending time with them as well as her many friends. She was never too busy to say “Howdy” or stop for a minute to chew the fat. In fact, Lula loved to eat out so that she could have more time to visit. Why waste all that time in the kitchen when she could spend more time with family and friends by going out?

Lula is survived by her daughter Jayne Dobbs and husband Darren of Mtn. Grove, MO., two sons; Kevin Kent of Fair Play, MO., and Michael Kent and wife Aline of Pelham, NC., four grandsons; Michael Kent, Jr., Jonathan Kent, David Kent, and Allen Dobbs; five great grandchildren, Shawn Kent, Merci Kent, Chris Carter, Lauren Carter, and Brad Carter; two sisters, Shirley Trammell and husband Bud of Bolivar, MO., Cookie Witt of Ash Grove, MO., two brothers, Ted Mustain and wife Ginger of Hemet, CA., Robert Mustain and wife Judy of Brighton, MO., sister-in-law Evelyn Toelle of Oklahoma City, OK., , many nieces, nephews, and other relatives, plus a host of friends.

Lula was preceded in death by her husband Eugene “Pinky” Kent, a brother Tom Mustain, two sisters-in-law, Connie Mustain and Helen Rice; and two brothers-in-law, Jerry Witt and Charles Toelle.

Visitation will be held from 6:00-8:00pm Thursday evening at the Butler Funeral Home in Bolivar.

Funeral services will be held on Friday, January 11 at 11:00 AM in the Butler Funeral Home Chapel. Burial will follow and be at the Dunnegan Cemetery under the direction of the Butler Funeral Home.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Tremain Hospitality House in Bolivar, Missouri.

Friends and family may sign the guest book or send private condolences at www.butlerfuneralhome.com

Vernon Henry Drewa, Jr. (1930-2012)
Vernon Henry Drewa Jr., 82, passed away Tuesday, Nov. 13, 2012. Funeral: 10 a.m. Tuesday, Nov. 20, at First Baptist Church of Keller. Interment: Dallas-Fort Worth National Cemetery. Visitation: 6 to 8 p.m. Monday at Greenwood Funeral Home. Memorials: In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Scottish Rite Hospital or the Wounded Warrior Foundation.
Vernon was born Jan. 17, 1930, and raised in Fort Worth. He was a veteran of the Korean and Vietnam wars where he earned two Purple Hearts. He retired from the U.S. Navy after over 30 years of service as a naval intelligence officer. He then worked and retired as the southwest regional manager of the Federal Aviation Administration at D/FW Airport, Dallas. Vernon was a Master Mason for 52 years and a charter member of the Elks Lodge Midcities. He served on the board of Baylor Hospital and Scottish Rite hospitals in Dallas. He was a member of the Tin Can Sailors, Amphibious group, Navy League, First Baptist Church of Keller and numerous other organizations. Vernon was dedicated to his family genealogy and loved fishing and hunting. Most of all, he was a man who loved his family and friends, God and country, who never met a stranger.
Survivors: Wife, Gail; daughters, Karen Skrasek and husband, Johnnie, Danna Kuyper and husband, Dick, and Kristi Lucas; brother, Robert Wayne Drewa and wife, Laverne; brother-in-law, Gerry Wren and wife, Barbara; grandchildren, Jason Skrasek, Joey Martinak, Brittney and Brooke Elliott, and Natalie, Sarah, Amanda, Josh and Mark Lucas; great-grandchildren, Macy and Maddy Martinak.
Published in Fort Worth, TX Star-Telegram on November 18, 2012.

Martha Jane Fullerton (1929-2012)
Jane and her sister Mary joined PCGS a few years back after attending our "Genealogy Basics" class but they weren't really "new" since many of us had known them for years.

OBITUARY:
Martha Jane Fullerton, the third of five children of Donald Raif “Jerry” and Grace Jane Hargis Fullerton, was born October 19, 1929, in Polk County, Missouri. She passed away September 7 at the age of 82.

Jane lived her entire life in or near Bolivar. She attended one-room rural schools and graduated from Bolivar High School, where she was a member of the Bolivar High School Hall of Fame. She attended Southwest Baptist University and earned a bachelor’s degree in education from Southwest Missouri State University. She also earned two master’s degrees — one in administration and one in guidance and counseling — from Drury University, where she was awarded a Drury Alumni University Award for service to education. She taught in a one-room rural school for three years and at Morrisville for three years. She then taught for 40 years in the Bolivar school system, retiring in 1993.

For more than 60 years, she was a member of the Missouri State Teachers Association, where she was chosen 1988 MSTA Leader of the Year. For more than 50 years, she was a member of Kappa Kappa Iota, a teacher service sorority. In her later years, she was a member of the Missouri Retired Teachers Association, where she served as state president of both the MRTA Association and MRTA Foundation.

At an early age, she accepted Jesus Christ as her savior. At the time of her death, she was one of the oldest members of the Mount Gilead United Methodist Church.

Jane was preceded in death by her parents and two brothers, Robert Eugene Fullerton and his wife, Marjorie Ball Fullerton, and Donald Dean Fullerton. She is survived by two sisters, Mary Ellen Fullerton, with whom she resided, and Lucinda Lee Fullerton Stewart and her husband, Glenn, of Bolivar. She also is survived by nine nieces and nephews:
• Bob’s daughters, Marilyn, and her husband, Roy Albin, and their children Marcie, Kelsey and Andy of Bolivar; and Carolyn and her husband, Clint McAllister, and their son Kyle of Springfield.
• Cindy’s sons, Jerry Dale Stewart, and his wife, Trudy, step-daughter Jennifer, husband John Lamosi and son, Jacob; and step-daughter Heather, all of Springfield; and Terry Glenn Stewart and his wife, Ronda, and daughters Addie and Emma, of Bolivar.
• Don’s children, Jane Ellen, and her husband, Terry Lemons, and their children Benjamin and Sarah, of Bristow, Va.; Leslie and her husband, Jim Hutter, and their children Tate, Hayes, Gibbs and Tess, of Republic; Betsy and her husband, Stewart Eckols, and their sons Blace and Trey, of England, and their daughter, Alexandra, of Lubbock, Tex.; Jeffrey and his wife, Tommi Fullerton, and their children Logan, Raif, Reed and Rhett, of Bolivar; and Jennifer and her husband, Jim Ernst, and their daughter Carly, of Bedford, Ia.

Services will be held Monday, September 10, at 11 a.m. at Butler Funeral Home in Bolivar with the Rev. Clint Lambeth officiating. Burial will follow at Mt. Gilead United Methodist Church cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Missouri Retired Teachers Foundation Endowment or the Mount Gilead United Methodist Church.

Friends and family may sign the guest book or send private condolences at www.butlerfuneralhome.com

Marilyn Quitt Rogers (1933-2012)
Marilyn was one of the first members of the society when it was formed in 1994. Although her health hadn't permitted her to attend meetings recently, she was still a strong supporter of PCGS.

OBITUARY: Marilyn Ann Rogers, 79, of Halfway, MIssouri passed away Monday, September 3, 2012, at Citizens Memorial Hospital, Bolivar. Marilyn was born in Kenmare, North Dakota the daughter of Arthur Benjamin and Violet Viola Fennell Quitt who lived long lives in Minnesota.

Marilyn married James Edward Rogers on June 20, 1951 and he preceded her in death in 1982. She was baptized into the Lutheran Church in Glenwood, Minnesota and retired from the U.S. Postal Service in Independence, Missouri.

Marilyn moved with her family to the area in 1980 and she became enthralled with the community of Halfway. She researched and wrote a book about the history of Halfway and the book is in the Polk County Library. She was a member of the Halfway Volunteer Fire Department, she was a volunteer cafeteria worker the the Halfway School, and a member of the TOPS Club in Buffalo. She loved to travel and was a voracious reader. She loved to paint, quilt, crochet, sew and work in her garden, but her special passion was genealogical research. She was very meticulous in whatever she attempted to do.

Marilyn was preceded in death by her husband and her parents.

She is survived by sons Michael A. Rogers of Halfway and Sonny Jimmy Cal Rogers and wife Lisa of Independence, Missouri; daughter Rosetta Grace Hernandez and husband Luis of Miami, Florida; eight grandchildren Benjamin Donald Rogers, James Arthur Rogers, Shannon Denese Rogers, Robin Renee McClain; Nicholas William Hernandez; Barbara Sternberg-Garmon, Suzanne Logan, and Luis F. Hernandez, Jr.; and five great-grandchildren Lauren Vaughn, Amanda Palacio, Aaron Sternberg, Willow and Summer Hernandez.

A celebration of Marilyn's life will be held at her residence, 2019 Highway 32, Halfway, Missouri on Saturday, September 8th, 2012 from 2-4 pm with the burial of her cremains at 3 pm.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Marilyn's name to the Disabled American Veterans (DAV) Chapter 62, 1100 Maple Street, Buffalo, MO 65622.

Online condolences may be submitted to http://www.murrayfuneralhomes.com. Published in the Bolivar Herald-Free Press Friday, September 7, 2012

Lucille Castle Peterson (1910-2011)
Mrs. Peterson and her foundation, The Peterson Foundation, were instrumental in the success of the Polk County Genealogical Society Research Facility. Thanks to her generous donations over the years, the PCGS has been able to complete the purchase of the building and enact many needed improvements over the years.

OBITUARY: Mrs. Lucille Castle Peterson joined her husband Harrold Richard Peterson and other family members in heaven on Wednesday August 17, 2011. She resided at the Bolivar Parkview Healthcare Facility. Lucille was the daughter of Hattie Lee Mann Castle and George Thomas Castle and was born September 22, 1910 in Pecan Gap, Texas. She would have celebrated her 101st birthday next month.

She graduated from Ozark High School near Altus, Oklahoma in 1931. She married Harrold Peterson on January 6, 1932 at the pastor’s home in Friendship, Oklahoma. They spent over 40 years in the rural telephone business. Their company became the first rural dial system in the state of Oklahoma.

Lucille is preceded in death by her mother and father, her husband, her brothers George Lafayette, William Bryan and Ray Randolph and her sisters Thelma Lee Owens, her twin Lorraine DeVilliers, her younger sister Hattie Maxine Houston and her daughter-in-law Janis Stoup Peterson.

Lucille is survived by her daughter and son-in-law Lou Thelen and Ronald Kemp of Bolivar, Missouri and her son Dwight Harrold Peterson of Roosevelt, Oklahoma, her grandchildren Ronald Nuburn Kemp, Jr. and wife Marjorie, Luther Harrold Kemp, Wesley Don Kemp and wife Marla, Debora Dawn Peterson Williams, and Don Wayne Peterson, her great grandchildren Serenity Ann Kemp Wilson and Charles Wilson, Levi Nuburn Kemp and Diana Kemp, Tyler Don Kemp, Landon Holt Kemp, Rylee Lou Kemp, Laura Alyssa Kemp, Erin McKenzie Kemp, Kyle Don Wager, Kelsey Marie Wager and Daniel Wade Peterson, her great-great grandchildren, Evan Nuburn Kemp, Ariana Marie Kemp, Mia Joann Wilson, Michael Luther Wilson, nieces and friends.

Lucille was a lady of integrity and honesty. She was very resilient, able to accept many challanges and a great problem solver. She was an adventurous person and was willing to try many new things and ideas. She will be missed and continually loved by her family as they strive to continue her legacy.

Funeral services will be held at 10:00 am Saturday August 27, 2011 at the Butler Funeral Home in Bolivar, Missouri with Rev. Bill Hooper and Dr. Ron Kemp officiating. Visitation will follow the services at the funeral home. Pallbearers will be Donnie Peterson, Ron Kemp Jr., Luther Harrold Kemp, and Wes Kemp. Honorary Pallbearers will be Tyler Don Kemp, Landon Kemp, Levi Kemp, Charles Wilson, Kyle Wager, Daniel Peterson, and Guy Jackson.

Funeral services in Oklahoma will be held at 10:00am Monday August 29, 2011 at The First Baptist Church in Roosevelt, Oklahoma. Burial will follow at the Altus City Cemetery in Altus, Oklahoma.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Polk County Genealogical Society Library, P.O. Box 632, Bolivar, Missouri 65613

Friends and family may sign the guestbook or leave private condolences at www.butlerfuneralhome.com Published in the Bolivar Herald-Free Press, Wednesday, August 24, 2011

Dr. William K. Hall (1918-2011)
Dr. Hall was a friend to many genealogical societies and took a special interest in our little society.  The members loved to receive letters from him and he enjoyed receiving them back.  His books make up the bulk of PCGS's section on Greene County.

Article: "Historian helped families track past", posted 12 Mar 2011 by Kathleen O'Dell, community relations director of the Springfield-Greene County Library District.

The man who preserved our past in scrapbooks of newspaper clippings -- now the most-used volumes in the library system -- has, himself, become an entry in local history.

Dr. William K. Hall, who earned the gratitude of genealogists and amateur researchers alike, died March 2 in St. Louis. He was 93.

If you've never searched old family records or birth announcements, "Hall's Collection" may mean little. But news of his death is rippling through the communities of genealogists and historians because of what he gave us.

Hall spent nearly a lifetime creating an index and scrapbooks of the vital records that appeared in Springfield-Greene County newspapers dating to 1865. These kinds of records are an invaluable resource for anyone interested in family research or the history of southwest Missouri. People use them to trace relatives -- perhaps family fortunes -- through birth records, marriage or engagement announcements or obituaries.

Local History Librarian Michael Glenn praised Hall's contribution. "Dr. Hall's 145-year index to items of genealogical interest from Springfield newspapers has proven to be an invaluable tool for historians and genealogists, saving many people countless hours of searching newspapers day by day for death, marriage and divorce information," Glenn said.

Hall began indexing the newspaper items while attending Central High School. He said he did it to keep up with hometown news and to support his own research while at Yale, studying medicine at Harvard, serving 20 years in the U.S. Navy and World War II, and practicing medicine in St. Louis and St. Charles. Hall also wrote numerous genealogy books.

All the while, he continued to cut and paste articles into old magazines. He indexed the items in the back and had photocopies made and bound into books, which he then gave to the library and genealogical groups. The library's collection of 230 volumes stretches 45 linear feet.

Ongoing work to digitize his books and indexes appears on Missouri Digital Heritage, under "Hall's Index & Items of Genealogical Interest from the Springfield, Greene County, MO Newspapers."

"I was saddened to learn ... of Dr. Hall's recent death," said historian Sally Lyons McAlear. "There are many genealogical and historical discoveries I owe to his contributions."  McAlear's hope is to see a notice honoring his passing in the 2011 Hall's Index. She added, "His death certainly needs to make the index, after he included countless thousands of other deaths and items of local interest."

Excerpt from article posted Sep 2009:  
Dr. Hall began indexing Springfield newspaper items of genealogical interest while still in high school and has continued to do so since.  He would cut and paste articles into old magazines and then index the items in the back and have photocopies made and bound into books, which he then gave to the library.  This set of books are the most used books in the Springfield-Greene County Library system.  Often patrons from near and far will fill several carts full of books in a day, especially during a holiday week.  People use the books to find birth announcements, marriage or engagement announcements and divorce notices.

The most popular use of the indexes is to look up obituaries.  While it may sound morbid, obituaries can be a gold mine of information for genealogists.  Dr. Hall has also indexed Springfield newspapers from the 1800’s forward into the 1940’s. 

Dr. Hall is the son of Edward B. and Mary Kearney Hall.  His mother's father was Michael Kearney, master mechanic with the Frisco Railroad.  Dr. Hall attended Boyd, Pipkin Junior High and Central High schools here in Springfield.  He graduated from Yale in 1939 and received his medical degree from Harvard in 1942.  He was an officer in the Navy during World War II.

From Ozarks Genealogical Society Newsletter, April 2011:

William K. Hall was born October 9, 1918, in Springfield, Mo., the son of Edward B. Hall and Mary (Kearney) Hall. He attended Springfield schools and then earned a BS degree from Yale University (class of 1939) and an MD degree from Harvard Medical School (class of 1942). He joined the Navy and served 20 years, retiring in 1962 as a Captain, Medical Corps, U.S. Navy.

William Hall's avocation was Springfield, MO history. While in the Army he began compiling scrapbooks of vital records and obituaries from Springfield, MO newspapers. Those original scrapbooks are in the OGS Library and bound copies are at TLC, the Library of Congress and the LDS Library in Salt Lake City, UT. He also published a book, "Springfield, Greene County, Missouri Inhabitants in 1880," compiled an index to biographies in Greene County histories and produced genealogies of the following families: Hall, Bennington, Bussing, Perkins, Simms, and Delaney.

Dr. William K. Hall was born October 9, 1918, in Springfield, MO, the son of Edward B. Hall and Mary (Kearney) Hall. He died March 2, 2011, at the age of 92. He attended Springfield schools and then earned a BS degree from Yale University (class of 1939) and an MD degree from Harvard Medical School (class of 1942). He joined the Navy and served 20 years, retiring in 1962 as a Captain, Medical Corps, U.S. Navy. Dr. Hall then entered private practice as a dermatologist in St. Charles, MO, retiring in 1982. He was a diplomat of the American Board of Dermatology, an assistant professor of medicine in dermatology, emeritus, at Washington University School of Medicine, and an emeritus staff member of Barnes Hospital. William Hall's avocation was local history and genealogy. He compiled an index of obituaries in the Springfield, MO newspapers from 1865 through 2008. He also compiled genealogies of the following families: Hall, Bennington, Bussing, Perkins, Simms, and Delaney. His latest research related to history of Central West End neighborhoods in St. Louis, MO. His books are in the Library of Congress as well as local libraries. William Hall never married. He is predeceased by his brother Edward B. Hall and sister Jean H. Seyfarth, and survived by two nephews and five nieces.

Marsha Hoffman Rising (1945-2010)
Marsha was known across the USA as an excellent genealogist and researcher but she always had time for and the desire to help her local genealogical societies. The Polk County Genealogical Society Research Facility now houses over 400 research and reference books used by Marsha to research. Marsha generously and graciously donated the books to PCGS after publication of her work, "Opening the Ozarks: The First Families in Southwest Missouri."

OBITUARY: Marsha Hoffman Rising died peacefully in her bed on the seventeenth of February 2010 after a thirteen and a half year battle with ovarian cancer. She was born on the nineteenth of August, 1945 in Kansas City, Mo. to Paul and Zella (Deschner) Hoffman. She graduated from Winter Haven FL High school. She received her BA in Psychology from the University of South Florida and her MSW from Florida State University. She then taught for a year at Troy State University before being hired to become the first Director of the MSU undergraduate Social Work program. She guided that program though accreditation. In her early days in Springfield she was on the steering committee for the Child Advocacy Council and was the President of the local ACLU.

She then changed directions, left the University and became a Certified Genealogist. In that capacity she became the President of the Genealogical Speakers Guild, the President of the Federation of Genealogical Societies, a Fellow and President of the American Society of Genealogists, the Vice-President of the National Genealogical Society and a Trustee of both the New England Historic Genealogical Society and the Association of Professional Genealogists. She published several books, the most popular of which was The Family Tree Problem Solver. She also published several genealogical references the magnum opus being Opening the Ozarks: The First Families in Southwest Missouri.

In time she was given by the excellent surgery by Dr. Albert Bonebrake and experimental chemotherapy after her cancer diagnosis she chose to become a traveler. She visited 7 continents, 42 countries and all 50 states. She leaves to mourn her husband Dean; her sister , Carol; step-daughter, Amy and Amy's husband Brian Brown, all of whom want to thank St. John's Hospice for their care in the final days of Marsha's illness. Her body has been cremated and at her request there will be no service. There will be a visitation at Gorman-Scharpf Funeral Home Friday, February nineteenth, 7 to 9 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to: FGS, 1812 Fund-Rising Tribute, P.O. Box 200940 Austin, Texas 78720-0940.   Published in the Springfield News-Leader Feb. 2010

James Woodrow "Woody" Kinsey (1922-2010)
Woody and his wife Ernestine are newer members of PCGS but are well known around Polk County as retired educators. Woody could always be counted on for a good joke :-)

OBITUARY : James Woodrow (Woody) Kinsey, born September 27th, 1922, passed away on January 20 after a long illness. He was the first of four brothers all born to Ordie and May Kinsey on a small farm north of Bolivar located near Huron.

After graduating from Goodson High School in 1941, he entered the Army/Air Force in December of 1942. After completing basic training, the Army/Air Force assigned him to the 583rd Signal Air Corp located in the Pacific Asian theatre. He participated in five land invasions, including New Guinea, the Philippines and the East Indies. He was preparing to be part of the invasion force of Japan when President Truman signed the surrender treaty with the Japanese. He in turn became part of the occupation force on mainland Japan.

After the discharge from military service in 1945, he found employment as an assistant at Carver Jewelry Store. While serving at the jewelry store, he met Ernestine Stewart. They were to marry five years later in August of 1950. By 1946 Woodrow had completed an Associate’s Degree from Southwest Baptist and started what became a 35 year career as an educator mostly in the Bolivar School Systems. During that 35 year span, he first taught in the high school classroom teaching classes in the social sciences; in the later part of his career he was promoted to assistant principle and principle until his retirement in 1982. During the course of those 35 years he went on to earn a Bachelor’s Degree from Southwest Missouri State and a Master’s Degree from Drury College.

Woodrow’s organizational ties included a membership in the First Baptist Church for 45 years, serving as a Sunday School teacher and a lifelong member of the Rotary Club where he served as President. Other civic clubs included the Junior Chamber of Commerce and American Legion. A contribution Woodrow made to many civic organizations in the Bolivar Community was preparation and cooking of several thousand broilers.

Woodrow took great pride as a charter member of the World War II Memorial on the national mall in Washington DC and had the opportunity to visit this site twice during the past decade.

He was politically active serving as on Polk County Committee of the Democrat Party and participated directly in many of the activities of the party including accompanying his wife to two separate Democrat Conventions in 1980 and 2008. One special event for both his wife and he was an attending a reception at the White House hosted by President Carter. Woodrow found popularity among his students over the years he served on the faculty as students time and again selected him as senior class sponsor, which resulted in over a dozen trips to Washington DC with the senior classes.

Woodrow most importantly will be remembered as a wonderful husband and Father by his son and wife. He is survived by his wife Ernestine of 59 years, a son Timothy Stewart Kinsey and wife Cynthia in Leesburg, VA, three children: Rachael of Honolulu, Hawaii, Jacob and Rebecca both of Leesburg, VA. A brother Tom Kinsey and wife Lee reside in Springfield, while a second brother Don and wife Nancy reside in St. Louis. Further survivors include a sister-in-law Harlene Easter of Bolivar and several nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers, donations to the St Jude Children’s Hospital would be appreciated. Funeral services will be held on Sunday, January 24, 2010 at 1:00 PM in the Butler Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Billy Russell officiating. Bob Martin will be giving a Eulogy. Burial will be in the Greenwood Cemetery in Bolivar. Military Honors will be conducted by the AMVETS Post #114, Flemington, MO

A Visitation will be held on Saturday Evening from 6-8 PM in the Butler Chapel.

Friends may sign the guest book or send private condolences at www.butlerfuneralhome.com Published in the Bolivar Herald-Free Press Friday, January 22, 2010

Roger A. Morrison (1938-2010)
Roger was a brand new member (2009) of PCGS and we all were looking forward to getting to know him.

Roger A. Morrison, 71, Humansville, died Friday, April 9, 2010 at his home. The son of Boyd L. and Pearl L. (Brown) Morrison, he was born July 23, 1938 in Humansville.

Roger graduated from Humansville High School in 1956. He continued his education at Southwest Baptist College receiving an Associate of Arts degree in 1959. In 1966 he received a Bachelor of Science degree from Southwest Missouri State University and in 1979 he received a Master of Education degree from Drury University.

He and Bonnie Morrison were married for 30 years.

Roger taught school for 17 years. He then was employed by the Missouri Division of Family Services and later by the Missouri Department of Corrections. He also served as a preacher for 7 years. His hobbies included genealogy, writing and just being in the country.

Survivors include 2 children, Sheila Gibson and husband, Joel, Sparta, and Sean Morrison and wife, Amy, O’Fallon; 5 grandchildren, Krista Allen-Barnard, Lee Gibson, Hannah Morrison, Samuel Morrison and Haley Morrison; 3 sisters, Virginia Jones, Springfield, Emma Slone, Brookline and Linda King, Springfield; 1 brother, Wayne Morrison, Flemington; and 2 uncles, Robert Brown, Humansville and Arthur Brown, Phoenix, Arizona.

A memorial service will be at 11:00 AM Friday at Murray Funeral Home, Humansville with Rev. Mike Brixey officiating. Inurnment will follow in Humansville Cemetery. Published in the Bolivar Herald-Free Press Wednesday, April 14, 2010

Frank Thomas Dickerson (1930-2010)
Frank and his wife Dolores were longtime members and faithful supporters of PCGS. It was because of their generosity that the beautiful shutters on display throughout the PCGS facility were made possible. These shutters were handpainted with local scenes from Polk County and placed in the windows. Frank and Dolores donated the entire cost of the artwork. Frank and Dolores were also faithful meeting attendees until their health kept them away.

OBITUARY: Mr. Frank Thomas Dickerson, age 79, of Bolivar, MO, passed away May 9, 2010, in the Citizens Memorial Hospital Bolivar, MO. He was born December 21, 1930, in Polk County, MO, to Ernest Earl and Ann Lee (Hughes) Dickerson. He is a US Army Korean War veteran. He is a member of the First Christian Church of Bolivar.

He was united in marriage to Dolores Jean (Ritter) Appleby June 1, 1974. His parents; his first wife Cora Sue Ragsdale; and a great granddaughter Karla Dee Robles precede him in death. He is survived by his wife of 36 years Dolores of the home; his son Russell Dickerson and wife Debbie of Polk, MO; his daughter Dee Ann Robinson and husband Dan of Bolivar, MO; step-children: Teresa Barker and husband Danny of Bolivar, MO, Robert Appleby and wife Lavonne of Bolivar, MO, Dana Peak and husband David of Marshfield, MO; four grandchildren: Dustin and Ryan Dickerson of Polk, MO, Dylan and Denae Robinson of Bolivar, MO; eight step-grandchildren: Travis, Curtis, and William Barker of Bolivar, MO, Josh and Rachel Appleby of Bolivar, Becky Robles of Colorado Springs, CO, Megan Parrott of Marshfield, MO, Nick Peak of Marshfield, MO; two great grandchild and six step-great grandchildren; as well as many other relatives and friends.

Funeral services will be held at 3:00 PM Thursday, May 20, 2010, in Pitts Chapel with Rev. Jerry Book officiating. Burial will follow in the Greenwood Cemetery Bolivar, MO. Pallbearers will be Travis Barker, Curtis Barker, William Barker, Dustin Dickerson, Ryan Dickerson, and Nick Peak, with Josh Appleby as an Honorary Pallbearer. Visitation will be held Thursday, May 20th from 2:00 to 3:00 pm one hour before the service in the funeral home. Friends and family may sign a guest book or send private condolences at: www.greenlawnfuneralhome.com. Arrangements have been entrusted to Pitts Chapel Bolivar, MO. Published in the Bolivar Herald-Free Press on Wednesday, May 19, 2010

Gary W. Routh (1942-2010)
Gary was a longtime member of PCGS. Although he never met most of the members of PCGS, we could always count on him to drop us an encouraging note. He was very excited about the First Families project and volunteered many suggestions and samples to get us started in the project. He was looking forward to submitting his paperwork for certification but passed away before he was able to.

OBITUARY: Passed away the evening of Feb. 14, 2010. He was born Sept. 9, 1942 in Lamar, CO to Earl and Eva (Lamle) Routh. He married Sally Turner in Las Animas in 1971 who passed away in 1988. He married Janice LaBorde on March 21, 1993, in Denver. He is survived by his wife Janice; sons Odie (Kristin) of Vermont and Jon (Lisa) of Oregon; brothers, Roy ( Joan) of NC and Mel (Lois) of CO; grandchildren Wylie and Cade of OR, Quinn, Elliott and Delia of VT, and numerous nieces and nephews. Gary served in the U.S. Army for four years.

After retirement Gary and Jan became passionate genealogist, spending most of their time researching information about their ancestors online and making genealogy trips to Kansas, Missouri, Illinois, Nebraska, and the genealogy library in Salt Lake City. Gary compiled a family history of his mother's Lamle family. He valued knowledge and learning and dedicated his life to the pursuit. He was a member of the Columbine (Colorado) Genealogical and Historical Society. A memorial service will be on Sat., Feb. 20 at 10:00 a.m. at Olinger Chapel Hill Mortuary, 6601 S. Colorado Blvd., Littleton, CO. To share a memory of Gary please visit www.MEM.com. Published in Denver Post on February 18, 2010

Martha Morrison (1931-2009)
Martha was a longtime member of PCGS. She was a faithful attendee of our annual conferences and could always be counted on for help with questions about the Humansville area.

OBITUARY: Martha L. (Andrews) Morrison was born August 11, 1931 to Ray and Pearl (Franklin) Andrews in Hickory County northwest of Flemington. She passed away at her home near Humansville Monday, April 6, 2009.

Martha was the youngest of nine children, seven brothers and a twin sister. Martha and Kenneth Morrison were married September 25, 1949. To this union four children were born, all of whom survive.

Martha was a retired librarian. She loved all crafts and was good at all she tried whether it be oil painting or quilting. Quilting was her last big craft that she took up after retirement. She made many beautiful quilts before the cancer got out of control. Martha was very generous. She gave her time, her love and her cooking to all. Her pie crust was the best.

Survivors include her husband, Kenneth; her children, Donna Huffman and husband, Jim, Ozark, Ken Morrison and wife, Helene, St. Louis, Debbie Murray, Fair Grove and Dennis Morrison and wife, Nancy, Clovis, CA; grandchildren, Casey Barclay, Brad Huffman, Kristen Huffman, Jay Morrison, Sarah Morrison, Andrew Morrison, Abby Murray, Martha Claire VanZante and Matthew Morrison; great-grandchildren, Chase and Brenner Barclay and their father, Jeremy Barclay; 3 brothers, John Andrews and wife, Sandy, Oceanside, CA, Joe Andrews and wife, Margaret, Bellflower, CA, and Rolland Andrews and wife, Mary Anna, Milton, IA; her twin sister, Mary Brown, Edgerton, KS; and a host of cousins, nieces and nephews.

Some of her special friends who helped her through her most difficult days were Treadene Keightley, Sharon Truitt and Jeanette Kimes.

Funeral services will be Thursday, April 9, 2009 at 11:00 AM at the Humansville United Methodist Church with Rev. Janice Beadleston officiating. Interment will be in Humansville Cemetery. Visitation will be Wednesday from 6:00 to 8:00 PM at Murray Funeral Home, Humansville. In lieu of flowers donations are requested to the Humansville United Methodist Church, CMH Hospice or the American Cancer Society. Online condolences may be made at www.murrayfuneralhomes.com.

Frank Speer (1930-2009)
Frank was one of our "silent" supporters. We never got to spend a whole lot of time with him but we could always count on his and his wife Marge's support.
OBITUARY: Mr. Frank Roy Speer, age 79 of Bolivar, MO passed away at 7:18 AM Saturday, February 21, 2009 at the Citizens Memorial Hospital in Bolivar after a lingering illness.

He was born in Chicago, IL on February 13, 1930 the son of David DeMoss Speer and Marie Anna (Mueller) Speer.

Frank served in the Illinois National Guard from 1947-1950 before he went in the United States Marine Corps from 1950-1951 during the Korean Conflict.

Surviving is his wife of 54 years, Marjorie (Thatcher) Speer of the home, Three sons, Frank Alan Speer and his wife Janet of McHenry, IL; Roy David Speer and his wife Kathy of Barrington, IL; and Robert Paul Speer of West Dundee, IL; one brother Carl Speer of Scottsdale, AZ and one sister Gladys Lisson of Arkansas, 3 Grandchildren; Elizabeth Marie Speer, Daniel Alan Speer, Bradley Paul Speer, and 2 Great Grandsons; Jordan Acocks and Jessie Acocks.

Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, February 24, 2009 at 10:30 AM in the Butler Funeral Home Chapel with Mr. Lynn Flick, Bolivar Police Chaplain officiating. Musical selections will be “The Old Rugged Cross” by Tennessee Ernie Ford, “Amazing Grace” by The Statler Brother and “Just A Closer Walk With Thee” by Patsy Cline. Burial will be in the Greenwood Cemetery in Bolivar under the care and direction of the Butler Funeral Home of Bolivar. Visitation will be held on Monday Evening from 5-7 PM in the Butler Chapel.

Memorial contributions may be made to the “Shop With A Cop” c/o the Bolivar Police Department, 345 S. Main, Bolivar, MO. 65613.

Friends may sign the guest book or send private condolences at www.butlerfuneralhome.com Published in the Bolivar Herald-Free Press Wednesday, February 25, 2009

Kim Brubeck Wilson (1970-2009)
Kim was a new member of PCGS and had spent some time in our facility researching and getting to know some of the regulars.
OBITUARY: Kimberly Dawn Wilson was born September 18th, 1970, to Donald Brubeck and Alice Curtis Brubeck at Humansville, Mo and departed this life August 11, 2009 at Barnes Jewish Hospital in St. Louis, Mo.

Kim attended Bolivar schools and graduated in 1988. And was currently attending UMKC to finish her Bachelors of Science degree. She graduated from Dental Hygiene school in 2005.

She was united in marriage to Lynn Wilson on February 14, 1997, at Wheatland Christian church. They were blessed with 2 children, Hunter & Avery of the home.

Kim was a dental hygienist in Bolivar and a former teacher of the dental program at OTC College. She was also President of the Missouri Dental Hygienist Association, member of Bolivar PTA, former member of the Wheatland School Board, and Hickory County Republican women, she was a dedicated legislative liaison for promoting rural dental health care issues in Jefferson City.

Her hobbies included spending time with her kids and their ball games, scrapbooking, genealogy, and playing cards and coed softball. Kim loved to spend time with her nieces, making crafts and taking them to the movies. She also loved getting family and friends together for BBQ's and dinners.

She was a loving wife and mother and loved assisting Lynn at coaching their son's baseball and football games. She was always friendly and compassionate and always ready to help anyone in need.

Her faith in God has always been strong her entire life, and she accepted the Lord as her Savior and was baptized on July 31, 2009.

Kim is survived by her loving husband, Lynn of 12 years, a son Hunter and daughter Avery of the home, mother Alice Brubeck of Bolivar, father Don Brubeck and Helen McCoy of Bolivar, sister Kris Hargis and Jeff Fugett of Bolivar, father and mother-in-law Larry and Linda Wilson of Flemington, sister-in-law Tiffany and husband, Brett Harrison, and four nieces; Jordan and Allyson Hargis, Olivia and Jorja Harrison, and many aunts and uncles.

Those preceding her in death were her grandparents: John and Alice Brubeck and Ralph Curtis, grandparents- in-law: Vincent and Rita Strope and Homer and Evelyn Wilson.

Funeral services will be at 10:00 AM Saturday, August 15, 2009 in Murray Funeral Home, Bolivar with Pastor Rick Walters officiating. Interment will be in Greenwood Cemetery. Pallbearers will be Jeff Fugett, Brett Harrison, Dario Segui, Jeff Stiles, Jason Brummell and Brian Overall. Visitation will be Friday from 6:00 to 8:00 PM. Donations in memory of Kim may be made to the Stem Cell Transplant Unit, Barnes Jewish Hospital, 1 Barnes Jewish Hospital Plaza, St. Louis, MO 63110.

Jennie Springer (1936-2008)
Jennie was a past president of PCGS and was on the fundraising committee when the old public library was purchased by us in 2001. She and her husband Bob spent many hours helping with the renovation of the main floor of the facility and were there on our opening day of July 4, 2002. Jennie's home was also the storage place of all papers, books and obituary files belonging to the PCGS before we were able to move in to the facility. She was also the hostess for the early "obituary parties." (Getting together to clip obituaries and paste them onto index cards for our files.)
Obituary:  Jeanette Mae Springer, 71, of Bolivar, died Thursday, July 10, 2008, in Cox South Medical Center, Springfield.

She was born Nov. 4, 1936, in Springfield to Joe and Mary Renfro Steele.

She married Bobby "Bud" Springer Jan. 15, 1956, in Benton Ave. Methodist Church, Springfield, and to this union, three daughters were born.

She was a member of the Bolivar United Methodist Church; a Girl Scout leader for more than 30 years, receiving the Lucy Wise Award in 2006; and a charter member of the Matilda Polk Campbell Chapter Daughters of the American Revolution.

Her parents, father-in-law Wallace M. Springer and brother-in-law Gene Bolin preceded her in death.

She is survived by her husband Bud of 52 years of the home; three daughters, Becky and husband Tom Wilson, Debra and husband Charles Tennison and Mendy and husband Robin Manes, all of Bolivar; sister Reta Steele Dyson of Osceola; 10 grandchildren, Deadra and husband Josh Ervin, Tony Wilson and wife Amy, Mandy Wilson, Angel Wilson, Meleah Johnson and husband Shane, DeAnna Tennison, Martisha Manes and fiancé Justin and Abby Wilson; 11 great-grandchildren and one on the way; mother-in-law Vivian M. Springer of Willard; sister-in-law Barbara Bolin of Marshfield; and numerous nieces, nephews and other relatives.

Funeral services were Monday, July 14, at Pitts Chapel, with the Rev. Jim Downing officiating, under the direction of Pitts Chapel of Greenlawn Funeral Homes. Burial followed in the Clear Creek Cemetery in Willard. Friends and family may send private condolences at greenlawnfuneralhomes.com.

Mildred Close (1924-2007)
Mildred was one of our original "obituary party" ladies.

Obituary: Mildred "Millie" Jane Brooks Close, 82, of Bolivar died Thursday, May 10, 2007.

She was born Sept. 29, 1924, in Kansas City, Kan., the daughter of Stephen "Stewart" Brooks and Mildred "Emma" Fox Brooks.

She married her high school sweetheart, Elmer "Bruce" Close on April 26, 1940, in Harrisonville. To this union two children were born, Lee Bruce and Stephanie Jane. The couple made their home in the Kansas City area, but spent their summers "down home" in the Wishart area. Upon Bruce's retirement in 1963, they moved to "the farm" at Wishart. They later moved to the Bolivar area in 1981.

She was saved and baptized at an early age and was a member of the Zion Lutheran Church in Bolivar. She was a long-time member of the Polk County Genealogy Society where she dedicated many hours researching and providing information to assist those who were on the same quest to know their ancestry. She was a seamstress, quilter and crafter. Many of her products were sold at area merchants and as far away as Tennessee. Her quilts were requested for various fund-raising events.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Stewart and Emma; husband of 44 years, Bruce; and son Lee.

She is survived by her daughter and son-in-law, Stephanie and Mike Holm; a granddaughter, Holly Franchett of Springfield; a daughter in-law, Annette Close; a grandson, Brian Close and his wife, Erika, of the state of California; a sister, Virginia Ambrosi of the state of California; her brother and sister in-law, Karl and Shirley Close of Kansas City; two sisters in-law Juanita "Cricket" Curl of Bolivar and Kathryn Spurl of Kansas City; along with many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Services will be at 2 p.m. Saturday, May 12, in Pitts Chapel with burial to follow in Greenwood Cemetery. Visitation will be from 6 to 8 p.m. today (Friday) in the funeral chapel. Memorial donations may be made to the Citizens Memorial Healthcare Hospice. A00008B2007MY11

Rex Miller (1924-2006)
Rex and his wife Velma are also faithful supporters from far away. Julie, particularly, had had many engaging and interesting email conversations with Rex about Polk Countians.

Obituary: Rex Miller Sr., 81, of Dardenne Prairie, formerly of Bolivar, died Friday, July 7, 2006.

He is the son of the late Shirley Elton Miller Sr. and Mary Ellen Miller.

Miller was a member of the Everton Memorial Post No. 443, VFW Post, Ash Grove, DAV, Springfield, Masonic Lodge No. 5 AM&FM, Springfield, Violet Chapter No. 480, OES, Stockton, Abou Ben Adhem Shrine, Springfield, and the Order of the White Shrine of Jerusalem, Springfield. He was a licensed embalmer/funeral director. While in St. Louis, he was employed with Hoffmeister Colonial Funeral Home and Lupton Chapel. A former resident of Bolivar, he graduated from Bolivar High School in 1942 after which he was employed at the Erwin-Blue Funeral Home until he entered the U.S. Army, serving 33 months in the Medical Corp. in the Pacific Theater.

He was preceded in death by his grandson, Kenneth Miller, and brothers Shirley Elton Miller Jr., William "Bill" Miller and Don Miller.

He is survived by his wife, Velma I. Wimberly Miller; six children and their spouses, Joan and Eddie Smith of Houston, Rex Jr. and Annie Miller of Spring, Texas, Patricia Starrett of Lester, Iowa, Cynthia and David Jacob of Palm Harbor, Fla., Mary and Rick Mizera of St. Louis and Greg and Diane Miller of Dardenne Prairie; 11 grandchildren; two stepgrandchildren and four great-grandchildren.

Burial will be at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery, St. Louis. Memorial donations may be made to Everton Memorial Post No. 443 of the American Legion, Box 283, Everton MO 65646 or Shriner's Hospitals for Children, 2001 Lindberg Blvd., St. Louis MO 63131-3597. Arrangements are under the direction of Baue Funeral and Memorial Center, 3950 West Clay, St. Charles.

Carol Tucker (1939-2004)
Dr. Carol Beth Roddie Tucker, 65, of Bolivar died Thursday, Dec. 9, 2004, following a lengthy illness. She was born Dec. 9, 1939, in Tulsa, Okla., the daughter of Leonex Young Roddie and Helen Beth Bozarth Roddie.

At age 12 she moved with her family to Houston, Texas, where she graduated from Bellaire High School in 1957. She went on to earn a B.A. in English in 1961, an M.A. in English in 1962 and a Ph.D. in sociology in 1969 from the University of Texas at Austin. She was a professor of sociology at Southwest Missouri State University for 20 years.

She was preceded in death by her parents.

She is survived by her husband of many years, James Henry Whitman of the home; two daughters; Ellen Elizabeth Tucker Ryan and husband Pat of Rancho Palos Verdes, Calif., and Diane Elaine Tucker Greer of Springfield; two granddaughters, Sarah Beth Greer and Alisha Kathleen Greer, both of Nixa; and many other relatives and friends.

A memorial service will be at 2 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 12, at Mt. Gilead United Methodist Church with the Rev. Harold Hendrickson and Dr. Ron McIntire officiating. Inurnment will follow in Mt. Gilead Cemetery. Arrangements are under the direction of Butler Funeral Home of Bolivar. A00008B2004DC10

Vesta Coffman (1909-2001)
Vesta and her niece Beth Haring have been members and supporters of PCGS from far away since the very beginnings of the group.

Kathy Baldwin (1932-2009)
Kathy was a past officer of PCGS and a great help to us in the early days. At one time she had the job of Secretary/Treasurer/Membership all in one (which now takes two people to do, with room for a third or fourth if we can get the volunteers).

Obituary: Kathleen Baldwin, 77, of Bolivar died Friday, April 24, 2009, in her sleep surrounded by her loved ones.

She was born April 6, 1932, in Larned, Kan., the daughter of Kenneth “KC” and Clara Hampton Hall. She was married to Harland “HD” Baldwin Aug. 1, 1952, and to this union four children were born.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Harland; a brother, Dusty Hall; and a grandson, Christopher Baldwin; and a great-grandson, Brady Diehl.

She is survived by four children, Cindy Drake and husband Robert, Randy Baldwin and wife Billie, all of Bolivar, David Baldwin of Springfield and Debbie Keith and husband Mark of Bolivar; a sister, Betty Sawyer, state of Nebraska; two brothers, Jack Hall and wife Florence of Springfield and Mike Hall and wife Rose of Bolivar; 10 grandchildren, Greg Drake, Jenny Wasson and husband Jay, all of Springfield, Jody Warwick and husband Chris of Bolivar, Lori Diehl and husband Thomas of Springfield, Josh Drake and wife Pam of Battlefield, Grant Baldwin and wife Sheila, Taylor Baldwin and Kelsey Baldwin, all of Springfield, Tracey Baldwin and Brandon Baldwin, both of Bolivar; 12 great-grandchildren; as well as many nieces, nephews and friends.

Private family services will be held at a later date. Friends and family may sign a guest book or send private condolences at www.greenlawnfuneralhome.com or by e-mail at mombear@windstream.net.

Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society. Arrangements have been entrusted to Pitts Chapel of Greenlawn Funeral Homes, Bolivar. A00008B2009AR29

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