Obituary - Martin Barnett

Martin Dean Barnett passed to his final reward Saturday, Nov 7, 2026, at the age of 85, of complications from an earlier fall. He is survived by his sister, Ruby of Woodbridge, Virginia and brother Clarence of Appleton City, Missouri, several nieces and nephews, and a host of friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents Leonard and Margaret (Dennis) Barnett, sisters Emmagene, Elizabeth and Margaret (Margie) and twin sisters Leota and Leola who passed in infancy.

Martin lived a full life. He grew up on a farm in St. Clair County, Missouri, attending a one-room school eight years. He attended the Appleton City R-2 High School, graduating in 1958, and joined the United States Air Force almost immediately, serving five years.

Upon separation from service, using the GI Bill, Martin attended Central Missouri State College, now University of Central Missouri, earning a Bachelor of Science Degree in Physics and Math. He became proficient in “computer skills”, working for a few years in Government projects. His final “career”, the one he enjoyed the most, was as a truck-driver.

After retirement, Martin purchased a small tract of farmland, where he began compiling his Library, accumulating a vast number of History, “Old”, 1900’s to 1960’s era School books, Pulp Novels, and a vast array of Newspapers and classic

Martin will be missed by his family and friends.

The family requests any memorials be given to Family Love Fund, and may be left at Hill & Son Funeral Home.

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Obituary - Wanda Leonard

Wanda Lee Leonard (Johnson), 86, passed away on 11.10.26 peacefully at home, leaving behind a legacy of love, warmth, and cherished memories. Born on June 26, 1940, in Keyesville, Missouri, she was the beloved daughter of the late Lonnie Lee Johnson and Alberta May (McDonald) Johnson.

On June 29, 1957, Wanda was united in marriage with Eldon Ray Leonard. Together, they built a home and a life centered around family and farming. In 1998, they moved into the home where Wanda would happily reside for the next 28 years.

Wanda had a vibrant spirit and found joy in life's simple pleasures. An avid Kansas City Chiefs fan, she loved cheering on her team, searching for hidden treasures while thrifting, and adding to her favorite shoe collection. She also enjoyed watching westerns, going to country music shows in Pleasant Hill and spending time at the races. These were just a few of the things that brought a smile to Wanda's face and made her who she was.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Eldon Ray Leonard; her sons, Charles Ray Leonard and Eldon Wayne Leonard; her sisters, Roberta Cook and Elizabeth Silkwood; and her brother, J.D. Johnson.

She is survived by Stacey Fair, who shared a special bond with Wanda, loving one another like mother and daughter. Her loving grandchildren: Anthony Wayne Leonard and his wife Whitney, Sean Yoder, Steven Cooper, Louis Reynolds, Randall Miller, Amy Fair and 7 great grandchildren

All of whom will forever carry her memory in their hearts.

Graveside Service will be held 2:00 p.m. Monday, November 16, 2026 at Staley Mound Cemetery, Pleasant Hill, Missouri.

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Obituary - John Bledsoe

John Lowell Bledsoe, 93, of Harrisonville, Missouri, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, November 11, 2026. Funeral services will be held at 2:00 PM on Sunday, November 15, 2026, at the Atkinson Funeral Home in Harrisonville, with a visitation starting at 1:00 PM. Interment will follow in Freeman Cemetery, Freeman, MO. Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society.

A complete obituary will be posted when it becomes available.

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Obituary - Michael Brown

Michael Brown’s wishes were to be cremated and remembered with fond memories. There are no public services planned at this time. Arrangements are under the direction of the Schowengerdt Funeral Chapel and Crematory (660-679-6555) in Butler, Missouri. Online condolences www.schowengerdtchapel.com.

Michael Dennis Brown, age 84 of Butler, Missouri died Saturday, November 7, 2026 at his home. He was born September 16, 1942 to Floyd Wilson and Evelyn Josephine Stone Brown in Columbia, Tennessee.

Michael is survived by one son, Obie Brown and partner Kelly Walker of Butler, Missouri; one daughter, Amy Dodson and husband James of Webb City, Missouri; seven grandchildren, Aubry Cook (Masen), Fletcher Dodson (Alyssa), Sadie Dodson, Paige Delgado (Ivan), McKenzie Brown (Jon), Emerson Lillard (Daniel) and Logan Brown (Lake); and four great-grandchildren, Evelyn and Elaina Cook, Baker Lawless, Caroline Delgado and two on the way. Michael was preceded in death by his grandmother; parents; wife, Darlyne; granddaughter, Taylor Brown; one twin brother, Tony Brown; and his beloved companion, Chewbacca.

The following was graciously provided by the family:

“We want to thank everyone who has reached out to share memories, condolences, and love for our father. Your support means the world to Amy and me.

If you are thinking of sending flowers, plants, or a gift, we ask instead that you consider making a donation in Michael’s memory to the Butler Senior Center. They have fed and selflessly delivered lunch every weekday to Dad since moving to Butler. Dad always looked forward to those moments, smiling and chatting with her while the dogs wagged their tails excitedly around him, making each delivery a small, joyful highlight of his day.

Memorial contributions can be directed to:

Butler Senior Center

In Memory of Michael D. Brown

611 W. Mill Street

Butler, MO 64730

(660) 479-5830

With love and gratitude,

Obie & Amy

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Veterans Day observed in Butler on Wednesday

Above- Pastor Jacob Wren of the Butler First Baptist Church, also a veteran, spoke with passion about those who so dutifully have served our country. Below, the Butler high school band provided patriotic favorites as well as a beautiful rendition of Taps; Bottom- honorary placing of the wreath.

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More Quilts of Valor presented on Veterans Day in Butler

Rock Chair Quilts presented more Quilts of Valor following Veterans Day ceremonies in Butler on Wednesday. Recipients were Mark Frost, Brody Kauffman, Jim Kershner, Michael Lee, David Millen, Christopher Poepl, Ronald Reynolds, Joanna "Susi" Serna. Not present Robert Cleary and Gary Hill.

To date, the Quilts of Valor program has presented 463,129 quilts; donations are needed to keep the effort going locally, please contact Marsha at Rocking Chair Quilts in Butler to see how you can help.


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BCMH congratulates Stephen Stark on earing paramedic license

Bates County Memorial Hospital congratulates Stephen Stark on earning his Missouri paramedic license in September after completing paramedic training through the Johnson County Ambulance District (JCAD) Paramedic Program, Cohort 10. Stephen has earned certification from the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT) and is officially licensed as a paramedic by the State of Missouri.

For Stephen, advancing to the paramedic level followed years of experience in emergency medical services, hands-on instruction and mentoring fellow EMTs.

Originally from Bourbon County, Kansas, Stephen served four years as a U.S. Marine Corps infantryman before beginning his career as an emergency medical technician (EMT). During the first five years of his EMT career, he co-taught EMT classes, helping students develop their skills through hands-on training. After joining the Bates County Memorial Hospital Ambulance Department in 2022, he continued sharing his experience as a field training officer for new EMTs.

When asked what he enjoys about helping others develop their skills, Stephen said, "I like watching people grow."

Stephen completed his paramedic training while continuing to work with the BCMH Ambulance Department through the hospital's Paramedic Scholarship Program. The program supports EMTs pursuing advanced training while helping build the skills and experience needed to serve patients throughout Bates County.

“We are proud of Stephen Stark for achieving his Paramedic license," said Greg Weaver, CEO. "This accomplishment reflects his dedication to professional growth and his commitment to providing high-quality care to the patients and communities we serve. Paramedics play a vital role in emergency medical services, and Steven’s achievement strengthens our ability to deliver skilled, compassionate care when it matters most. Congratulations to Steven on this important milestone, and thank you for your continued dedication to Bates County Memorial Hospital and the patients who depend on us.”

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Blood drive coming to Butler November 23rd

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