Lockwood 38
Archie 36
North Platte 40
Butler 32
El Dorado Springs 40
Cabool 0
Pleasant Hope 0
Clinton 69
Russellville 26
Cole Camp 27
Holden 28
Crest Ridge 2
Liberal 40
Drexel/Miami 42
Appleton City 88
Greenfield 14
Richmond 22
Harrisonville 49
McDonald County 39
Lamar 35
Nevada 63
Monett 34
Jasper 18
Osceola 43
New Heights Christian 42
Rich Hill 36
Midway 8
Salisbury 38
Services will be held at 11:00 am, Thursday, September 4, 2025, at Ferry Funeral Home in Nevada, MO. A private family interment will be held at a later date. The family will receive friends from 10:00-11:00 a.m. prior to the service at the funeral home.
Additional information will be announced by Ferry Funeral Home at a later date.
Lyndell Wynn Colburn, age 87 of Butler, Missouri died Friday, August 29, 2025 at Medicalodge of Butler. He was born May 31, 1938 to Zack and Pearl Leota Mae Collier Colburn in Luther, Oklahoma.
Lyndell is survived by his wife, Judy Ann Colburn of Butler, Missouri; a son, Weston Colburn and wife Robin of Butler, Missouri; a daughter, Lynette Clover and husband Rob of Butler, Missouri; and six grandchildren, Lillian Colburn, Wyatt Colburn, Alex Clover, Riley Clover, Adyson Clover and Paityn Clover. He was preceded in death by his parents, two brothers and one sister.
Jake Kroesen with Missouri Times called in on a late scheduled meeting. He wants to do a podcast on the history of Bates County. Trent stated he has a few people in mind. Jake mentioned he was looking to have 4 people. Jim and Trent will get ahold of the people. The event is scheduled for August 27th at 1pm. Later changed to 1:30.
10:18 am Trent made the motion to go into closed session per RSMO 610.021 (1 Legal actions). John seconded All voted yes. Motion carried.
10:48 am Trent made the motion to go back to open session. John seconded. All voted yes. Motion carried.
The Commission received a letter from The Bates County Museum asking for a letter of support for a grant application. The grant will be used to revive the Wilcox Schoolhouse into a handicap accessible lodging facility as well as a gathering space for the community. In turn providing financial support for the Museum.
Trent made the motion to submit a letter of support to the Revival of the Wilcox Schoolhouse. John seconded. All vote yes. No opposition.
The Commission worked on CART Payments.
John made the motion to pay out the CART payments to the Townships that had all the contract and rock information in. Trent seconded the motion. All voted yes. Motion passed. No Opposition.
There are 5 Townships that have not completed their paperwork at this time. West Boone, East Boone, Mt. Pleasant, Walnut and New Home.
Work in progress
1. Policy Regarding Indigent Cremations given 8/25/2023 nothing since April 25.
2. Rattlesnake Hill Roads 11/06/2023 evening meeting 6/11/25 still gaining signatures. As of 8/7/25, nine people need to sign. All need to sign to move the drives to roads.
3. Opioid Settlement Resolution 10/2/2024 (Judge Highley).
4. EEZ Board 3/26/2025 Proposal Fee with scope of work received $12,000.00 fixed fee 8/13/25.
August 25, 2025 The Bates County Commission met with Presiding Commissioner Jim Wheatley, Northern Commissioner John Gray and Southern Commissioner Trent Nelson present.
The Commissioners attended the U.S. State Representative Mark Alford Town Hall meeting in Rich Hill.
Rebecca Thornhill walked in with a question on her personal property tax bill. She has a dodge truck that was not on her assessment for this year. She added it and turned it in. She then found that she has not paid her taxes since getting it in 2019. Even though she has registered for it 2x with the state. She currently owes 6 years taxes. Leaving her with $1787.84 in penalty fees. This was her first vehicle in the County as she had just moved from Cass at that time. She never received an assessment letter but was able to register it twice with the state. After some checking and discussion, the Commission decided they could waive the penalties.
Trent made the motion to wave the $1787.84 penalty fees on the 2019 dodge truck taxes for Rebecca Thornhill. Jim seconded. Two voted yes. Motion carried. No opposition. John recused himself.
Jami Page County Clerk came in to finalize employee Health and Dental Insurance. With all agreeing there was no need for further discussion.
Trent made the motion to approve the United Health Insurance proposal for the $500.00 deductible and the county paying for each employee. John seconded all voted yes. Motion carried. No opposition.
Jami informed the Commission of the Dental Insurance added to the United Plan would have a 2% discount which would pay for the plan itself. It would be mostly the same coverage as the current one and would be paid by splitting the cost with the employee. John made the motion to add the Dental coverage to the United Health Plan. Trent seconded. All voted yes. Motion carried. No Opposition.
Jami then moved on to the Vision Plan. This plan is provided by Met Life for the Life insurance and Death benefit for each County employee. This plan is paid for by the county for each employee.
John made the motion to keep the vision plan with Met Life. Trent seconded the motion. All voted yes. Motion carried. No Opposition.
Jami also brought up some receipts that were turned in for reimbursement by a new contractor that is repairing the foundation footings on 7 county bridges. Matthew Tillery submitted several receipts for various items that were questionable as to materials or personal tools. The discussion voiced concerns using hired workers versus county employees. The taxed items purchased versus county nontaxed accounts. Trent stated that “them boys" were getting a job done that was needing done for a few years. John added they are younger and can do that hard work easier and faster. Jami stated " I think you need to scrutinize what they're purchasing and what you're reimbursing" such as leather gloves, aprons, rachet straps. Tools not materials. Jami said it would be like her taking her car to a mechanic to be fixed and then her having to buy the tools for the mechanic to fix her car. Bill Stephan also looked at the invoice and had concerns. Trent added that all items would be returned to the bridge barn after use, strap, shovel etc.
Cremation with no services scheduled.
A complete obituary will be posted once that information becomes available, courtesy Dickey Funeral Home.
No other details are available at this time.
Monitor for pests Start cool-season cover crops Take cuttings for overwintering Fertilize lawns and prep soil
A graveside service will be 2:00 pm, Tuesday, September 2, 2025, at Greenlawn Cemetery in Rich Hill, MO.
Clay spent much of his life traveling the highways and backroads of the United States behind the wheel of a tractor trailer. His career as a truck driver took him across the country and included time with companies such as Barlow Trucking, R.L. Hannah, and Precision Heavy Haul. He took pride in his work and found purpose in the long hauls and open roads that defined his profession.
Outside of work, Clay found joy in nature. He loved being outdoors—chopping and gathering firewood, setting lines along riverbanks, and spending quiet hours bank fishing. Though he wouldn’t eat mushrooms himself, he had a fondness for hunting them—a pastime that reflected both his appreciation for nature’s small treasures and his sense of humor.
A celebration of life was held on what would have been Clay’s 67th birthday—Saturday, August 30th, 2025— at Kurt's Mancave.
We love you, Clay. You are missed.
In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to Folds of Honor Kansas City and send in care to Dickey Funeral Home, P.O. Box 432, Harrisonville, Missouri 64701.
Ivan “Keith” Christopher, age 72 of Adrian, Missouri died Monday, August 25, 2025 at Medicalodge in Butler, Missouri. He was born April 3, 1953 to Moreland Francis and Bonnie Bee Sterns Christopher in Butler.
Keith, one of three children, grew up in Passaic, Missouri where he attended grade school. After grade school he attended and graduated from Butler High School. Following graduation he started Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) school in Nevada, Missouri. Keith moved to Adrian when he married his wife Lisa Pettry in September of 1996. He then dedicated many working years to Adrian Manor.
Keith is described as funny, compassionate, caring and giving. He enjoyed cheering on the Chiefs and the Royals, supporting them many times by the shirt he was wearing. Keith had a very special four-legged friend, Kimmie, his cat, whom he cherished. He also had a love for traveling, especially to Colorado with his loving wife Lisa.
Keith is survived by his wife, Lisa Christopher of Adrian, Missouri; and one sister, Misty Christopher of Butler, Missouri. Keith was preceded in death by his parents and two sisters, Darla and Kay Christopher.
Sherwood at Adrian
Lockwood at Archie
North Platte at Butler
Liberal at Drexel (with Miami)
Appleton City at Greenfield
Nevada at Monett
Richmond at Harrisonville
New Heights Christian Academy at Rich Hill
Midway at Salisbury
Pleasant Hope at Clinton
From the Rich Hill Mining Review Aug. 30th 1945 Issue, courtesy Bates County Historical Society and Museum
Mike Shaw, representing the West-Central Missouri Genealogical Society presented the Bates County Historical Society a donation of $15,000 on Wednesday during a luncheon held at Robertson Hall.
Museum curator Tiffany Blaser, along with historical society members gladly accepted the donation as it "will go a long way toward preserving the history of our region."
Blaser said the exact use of the money will be determined during the upcoming Historical Society board meeting in a few weeks.
More about the donor:
"West-Central Missouri Genealogical Society and Library, Inc. is a volunteer-based, ten county organization of persons interested in the research and study of their ancestry and family histories. We study methods of research, help develop and maintain ancestral charts and records, maintain a genealogical library, assist our members in their research and compilations, and sponsor or participate in other activities that benefit or encourage the study of family histories. The Missouri counties we represent are Bates, Benton, Cass, Henry, Jackson, Johnson, Lafayette, Pettis, Saline, and St. Clair Counties."
Service information not available at this time.
Courtesy Heuser Funeral Home
September 28, 1955 – August 21, 2025
Randy Lee Gilmore, of Nixa, passed away at the age of 69, leaving behind a legacy of faith, family, and compassion. He was born September 28, 1955, in Lockwood, Missouri, to Ralph and Georganna Gilmore, and grew up in South Greenfield, Missouri, where his roots and values were firmly planted.
In 1975, Randy married the love of his life, Evelyn, beginning a journey together filled with devotion, laughter, and faith. He first began his career in business, working with Taco Bell in the 1970s before the company franchised, serving as a training manager and supervisor in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Yet in 1978, Randy felt a greater call—one to ministry. Answering that call, he attended seminary, was ordained as an elder in the United Methodist Church, and began faithfully serving congregations across western Missouri. His first appointment was in Avilla, MO, and from there, his ministry touched countless lives.
In 2000, Randy took a leave from the pulpit to pursue other interests, but his heart for service led him to a new path. In 2002, he became a hospice chaplain with Southern Care Hospice, where he walked alongside families in their most tender moments, offering comfort, prayers, and peace. Loving and serving God was always at the very center of Randy’s life.
Those who knew Randy will remember his remarkable God-given gift—he could always remember someone’s name, no matter how long it had been. For him, it was not just a talent, but a way of showing people that they mattered.
Beyond his ministry, Randy was a proud father and grandfather, and nothing brought him greater joy than his family. He was a lifelong fan of the St. Louis Cardinals, loved to travel, and found endless joy in exploring new places. He was also an avid reader, a passion that began in third grade when his teacher, Mrs. Hughey, placed the book The Lost Lakes in his hands. From that day forward, reading became a lifelong companion.
Randy retired in 2007, but his love for people, his devotion to God, and his joy for life never retired. His memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.
Randy is survived by his devoted wife Evelyn, children Amanda (Justin) Goodwin and Benjamin Gilmore, grandchildren Caleb (Hannah) Morris, Ashton Carullo, Hannalece Gilmore, Seriana Gilmore, and Adelynd Gilmore, great grandson Tucker Morris, and his brother James (Cindy) Gilmore.
Randy is preceded in death by both his parents and his loving grandmother Pearl Steenrod.
Arrangements are under the direction of Adams Funeral Home, Nixa, Missouri and cremation rites will be accorded by Adams Crematory.
The Annual Labor Day Picnic at Immaculate Conception Parish (606 Kansas Ave., Montrose) will be held on Monday, September 1. The menu includes fried chicken, mashed potatoes & gravy, dressing, green beans, slaw, bread & butter pickles, and homemade pie. All this is only $15 for adults, and $10 for children age 5-10 and preschoolers eat free. The all-you-can-eat dinner is served from 11:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. in the basement of St. Mary’s School, which is handicap accessible. Outdoor tent seating and carry-out are also available. There is a huge country store open from 8:00 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. There will be corn hole, bounce house and bingo open at 11:00 a.m. A homemade pie auction will begin at 3:30 p.m. followed by the cash and quilt raffles.
The Montrose Lady Jays Softball Team is sponsoring “Meet the Lady Jays Night” 6:00 p.m. Wednesday, August 27 at the softball field at Montrose High School. They are offering softball and tacos. The menu includes taco salads, drink and dessert. A freewill donation will be accepted.
The Culpepper & Merriweather Circus will be in Appleton City at the Appleton City Pool parking lot on Monday September 8, 2025. This is an authentic one ring, big top circus. The day will start with a tent raising and tour at 9:30 a.m. The midway opens at 4:00 p.m. and the performances will be at 5:00 and 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $16 per adult and $9 for children (2-12 yrs.) or seniors (65+). Advance tickets are $13 for adults and $8 for children and seniors. Advance tickets must be purchased before September 8 and will be available at Powell’s True Value, Food Fair, City Hall, Red Door Salon, Greater Clinton Area Chamber or Carney’s Five Star Supermarket in Osceola. For more information see the AC Fair Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61558295662048 or the Circus webpage at cmcircus.com.
The next Second Wednesday, Meet Me On Main Shop and Stroll will be September 10, 2025, from 4:00 - 7:00 p.m. The following businesses and vendors will be participating: Jina's Junque, 3 Wishes, Rural Roots, 4th Street Fika, Cork & Keg, A.C. Library, Growing in Grace, Sandi's Kitchen, and A.C. T.N.R.
The 2025 EMH Community Block Party will be 9:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. Saturday, September 27, 2025 at Ellett Memorial Hospital in AC. The Block Party will have little something for everyone. Reduced-price lab draws will be available from 8:00-11:00 a.m. Booths will be set up with health information on available services and resources. Come shop the vendors! It’s never too early to start your Christmas Shopping and they have small business vendors on-site selling a wide range of products. There will also be several activities for the kids to enjoy: bounce house, petting zoo, face painting, kid’s games, fire truck and ambulance. EMH will also be providing free snow cones, popcorn, and cotton candy. The St. Clair Co Sheriff’s Department will have K-9 demos. Bring the whole family for a fun day at the EMH Community Block Party! Check the EMH Community Block Party Facebook Page at https://www.facebook.com/search/top?q=emh%20community%20block%20party for more information.
Henry county Project Connect will host a free, one day event September 12 from 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. at the Benson Center in Clinton, MO. This event is designed to connect the community with vital health services, support programs and essential resources. A free lunch will be served 11:00 -1:00. Services that will be available include: dental screenings and extractions, haircuts, health and mental health screenings, food stamps, free legal aid, Medicare enrollment and renewals, substance use disorder information, veterans services, vouchers for drivers licenses, birth and death certificates, workforce development resources, unemployment services and more. Free transportation to the event is available but call 48 hours in advance. Inside Clinton city limits, call 660-890-8697 and Benton and St. Clair Counties can call 417-283-7991.
The AC Fall City Wide Garage Sale dates have been set for October 3 and 4. Information regarding permits will be posted at a later date.
The last weekend for the 2025 season of the Appleton City Carousel will be 4:00-7:00 p.m. Friday, August 29 – Sunday, August 31. 36 States and 6 countries have visited the Carousel since opening in 2023.
The month of September is exciting at Growing In Grace for the community. Please come and be a part of it - donations only! September 6 is their Community Dinner with spaghetti and meatballs, baked ziti, garlic rolls, vegetables, salad bar, and dessert, Music Quests is Kelsi and Tate from Nixa, MO, along with their two children from 4:00-6:00 p.m. September 10, Meet Me On Main St, they will be serving soft-serve ice cream and cotton candy. September 20, kids fun day, they are having a painting party with Shelli Bales but you must pre-register on Growing In Grace Community Center facebook page. It's free, so please sign up. They accept donations so they can have events for the community and everything is put back into the community center for events and entertainment.
Ellett Memorial Hospital Appleton City offers outpatient specialist services for August and September, 2025. Call 660-476-2111 for appointments. Aug 27 - Ortho-Dr. Gray, Aug 27 Ophthalmology - Dr. Soni, Aug 28 Neurology- Dr. Shoaib, Sept 3 Upper GI, Colonoscopy – Dr. Namin, Sept 4 OB/GYN- Dr. Kallberg, Sept 5 Dermatology-Timmerman, PA, Sept 16 Rheumatology - Dr. John, Sept 17 Upper GI, Colonoscopy - Dr. Namin, Sept 18 Podiatry - Dr. Pace, Sept 19 Ortho - Noble, FNP , Sept 24 Ophthalmology - Dr. Soni, Sept 24 Ortho - Dr. Gray, Sept 25 Neurology - Dr. Shoaib, Sept 30 Rheumatology - Dr. John.
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
Aug 27 Montrose Softball “Meet the Lady Jays Night” 6:00 p.m. for tacos and softball
Sept 1 Labor Day Holiday
Sept 1 Annual Labor Day Picnic at Immaculate Conception Parish in Montrose
Sept 8 Culpepper & Merriweather Circus at the Appleton City Pool parking lot
