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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Obituary - Darrel Lynn Nation

Darrel Lynn Nation, age 83, Mound City, Kansas passed away Sunday, November 8, 2026.  

Funeral service will be 10 am Friday, November 13, 2026 at the Mound City Christian Church.  Burial will be in the Woodland Cemetery.  Visitation will be held from 5 to 7 pm Thursday, November 12, at the Schneider Funeral Home, Mound City Chapel.  Memorial contributions are suggested to the American Legion.  Online condolences can be left at www.schneiderfunerals.com.   

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Obituary - Stanley L. Robb

Funeral services for Stanley L. Robb of Rich Hill, Missouri will be 11 a.m. Saturday, November 14, 2026 at Schowengerdt Funeral Chapel (660-679-6555) in Butler, Missouri. Visitation prior to services 10 - 11 a.m. Saturday at the Schowengerdt Chapel. Burial in Salem Cemetery, Foster, Missouri. Contributions to Salem Cemetery. Online condolences www.schowengerdtchapel.com.

Stanley Leon Robb, age 79 of Rich Hill, Missouri died Friday, November 6, 2026 at Research Medical Center in Kansas City, Missouri. He was born December 31, 1946 to Harry Leon and Mary Jane Peacock Robb in Foster, Missouri. At the age of four, Stanley’s father passed away. His mother then married Billy Joe Vaughn taking Joe’s last name becoming Mary Jane Vaughn.

Stanley is survived by one daughter, Tricia Robb of Belton, Missouri; one son, Leon Robb and wife Kelley of Rich Hill, Missouri; three grandchildren, Cody Ensor, Joshua Robb and wife Kara and Blaine Robb; two sisters, Shanna G. Morris of Belton, Missouri and Vicki Jo Bussard and husband Joe of Raymore, Missouri; sister-in-law, Becky Robb of Rich Hill, Missouri; and numerous nephews, nieces and cousins. Stanley was preceded in death by his parents; stepfather, Joe Vaughn; wife, Sandra; and grandson, Corey Ensor.

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Obituary - Johannes Weidler Brann

On Sunday, November 8, 2025, Johannes Weidler Brann received the crown of eternal life as the Triune God welcomed him into the eternal peace and joy of heaven; he was 70. Born on April 18, 1956, in Madison, Wisconsin, Johannes was the eldest son of Eberhard Gunther Rudolph Brann and Helen Louise (Sweet) Brann.

His father, a German Jew, escaped to the United States in Dec. 1938, had two best friends named Johannes. During his internment in an American Prisoner-of-War camp, he became a baptized Christian.

His mother was born on a farm near Windsor, Nova Scotia; her father was a whaler on the North Atlantic. Johannes' parents met at Berea College, in Berea, KY but married after his father began his doctoral studies at the University of Wisconsin (UW), Madison. The Holy Spirit implanted saving faith within Johannes as he received the Sacrament of Holy Baptism at Calvary Chapel, the Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod (LC-MS) chapel on the campus of the U.W.

Johannes learned the joy and peace of the Gospel of Christ, classical music and the church year at his home parish of Immanuel Lutheran Church, Madison. Receiving his first three years of formal education at his home church's Madison Lutheran School, He spent much of the week of the 1962 Cuban Missile Crisis in Immanuel's civil defense shelter, well below ground. In 1964 he gazed across the inner and outer Berlin Walls while in 1989, his parents were in Berlin as all that came down and brought their son a piece of it.

Brann received his high school diploma from Madison East High School in 1974, his bachelor's degree in history (U.W., Madison) in 1978 and a Master of Divinity (Christ Seminary-Seminex, St. Louis) in 1982. His vicarage (student pastor) was at Pilgrim Lutheran Church, Indianapolis. His supervisor was taken by our Lord to Himself the day after Thanksgiving in 1980. Brann led that funeral with 1100 in attendance and with much help, led that 900-member congregation until a new pastor was installed.

Brann was ordained a Lutheran pastor in January 1983 in Port Huron, Michigan, at a parish whose pastor also battled cancer. Thankfully, he got better and Brann then served three years at Gloria Christi Lutheran Church in Dearborn Heights, MI. After that he served a 9-month in Salem, MO before serving a decade as pastor of Our Savior Lutheran in Buffalo, MO. During his time in Buffalo, he and the parish moved from a liberal branch of Lutheranism to the bible based and confessional LC-MS. In Sept. 1997, Pastor Brann began serving the Missouri Synod congregation in El Dorado Springs, MO, before adding Trinity Lutheran, Nevada in April 1999; he served both until he retired at the end of Sept. 2026.

Called by God to serve congregations unable to afford a full-time pastor, Brann worked a variety of outside jobs including home-health, librarian, newspaper reporter and as a para-professional special education teacher.

In Sept. 1989, Johannes was united in holy matrimony to Carol Marie (Boe) Staber; he adopted her youngest child, Joy Joanna Helena (Brann) Jennings. As he liked to say, "My daughter lives up to her name; she's a true joy!"

Brann took delight in proclaiming salvation by faith in Christ Jesus as a parish pastor, researching and writing local history, poetry, reading from his extensive library while enjoying children of all ages. Because at his birth - his mother required three units of blood, his father eventually donated 27 gallons while Johannes donated 14 through the American Red Cross.

Johannes was preceded in death by his great aunts Mildred and Jane H. Cove, parents, ER. and Helen Brann, and wife, Carol. He is survived by his daughter Joy, brother, Paul (Mary) Brann and their four children in Madison.

A memorial service will be held at Trinity Lutheran Church 1630 N. Ash St., Nevada, MO, on Tuesday, November 17, 2026, at 10:30 a.m. led by the Rev. Daniel Huitshusen, Pastor of Grace Lutheran Church, Aurora, Missouri. The family will receive friends from 9:30-10:30 a.m. prior to the service.

Those who wish may contribute in Johannes's memory to Trinity Lutheran Church.

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Obituary - Michael Danny Goehrig

Michael Danny Goehrig, age 69, passed away on November 3, 2026. He was born on June 14, 1957, in Trenton, New Jersey, to Harry and Kathryn Goehrig. Mike was the youngest boy of six children.

Mike took great pride in his career as an over-the-road truck driver, a profession he began at just 18 years old. For decades, the open road was his workplace and his way of life. He traveled all 48 continental United States, seeing more of the country than most people ever will. Of all the places his travels took him, he always believed Libby, Montana, was the most beautiful city in America. There was still one place on his bucket list, though: Alaska. It was a trip he had always hoped to make.

A hard worker by nature, Mike was someone who would go out of his way to help a friend or even a complete stranger. He had a generous heart, although he wasn't always one to sugarcoat his words. He had a distinctly Northeastern, blunt sense of humor, loved to laugh, and wasn't afraid to tell it like it was.

Mike enjoyed collecting Hot Wheels, listening to Josh Turner and Creedence Clearwater Revival, and, above all, singing the old Catholic hymns he loved so dearly. Those who attended early morning or Saturday evening Mass may remember his unmistakable, deep voice filling the church. His faith was an important part of his life, and his church family held a special place in his heart.

The trucking life meant long stretches away from home and family. It was a sacrifice that came with the career he loved. But retirement brought Mike something precious: time. Time to be present, time to build friendships, and time to enjoy being the father and friend that years on the road had sometimes made difficult. Those years gave him an opportunity to reconnect, share a laugh, and simply enjoy the people around him.

Mike leaves behind a legacy of hard work, generosity, faith, laughter, and a lifetime of stories from the road. He will be remembered for his unmistakable voice, his straightforward nature, his willingness to lend a hand, and the laughter he brought to those fortunate enough to know him.

He is survived by his children: Ginger, Cathi, Cory, Crystal, and Olivia; his longtime friend and priest, Fr. Tom Hermes; along with his church family and many friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Harry and Kathryn Goehrig, and his son, Matthew Ryan Goehrig.

A memorial service celebrating Mike's life will be held at Dickey Funeral Home in Harrisonville, Missouri, on Saturday, November 28, 2026, at 11:00 a.m.

Michael will be inurned at Englewood Cemetery in Clinton, Missouri.

May he finally find rest, with no more miles to travel, no more roads to conquer, and a heavenly choir singing the hymns he loved.


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Obituary - Mary Simpson

Mary Fyock Simpson, formerly of Pleasanton, Kansas, passed away Tuesday, October 20, 2026. She was born on October 18, 1947, in Pleasanton, Kansas, the daughter of Floyd and Virginia Coffman Fyock. She graduated from Pleasanton High School in the Class of 1965 and following graduation she attended cosmetology school at Fort Scott Community College. After working in that profession for a while, she then changed directions and started working in the accounting department at Key Industries in Ft. Scott. She later held positions at several other accounting offices including the local newspaper. Once Mary found her way into the newspaper industry, she worked her way through the various aspects of newspaper operations and management before becoming the editor of the local paper; a job she thoroughly loved. She later retired as editor of the Linn County News. Mary’s belief in God was always strong and while her faith was first, it was followed very closely by loving and caring for her family. She was active in the Pleasanton Presbyterian Church and was involved with the Ladies Auxiliary. Her favorite pastimes were genealogy and spending time with her family, especially hosting family dinners. She also enjoyed sewing, crocheting, painting, crafting, playing cards and writing.  She was preceded in death by her parents, Floyd and Virginia Fyock, a brother, Charles C. Fyock, and a sister, Eleanore Bowers. Mary is survived by her three beloved children, daughters Alexandria (Danny) Childers and Laurie Masters, and son Joshua (Renea) Marshall; four grandchildren, Zachary, Zoe, Stephen, and Christopher. Other survivors include her nieces and nephews, great nieces and nephews, great great nephews, and her best friend since childhood, Ruth Ann Weaver.  Mary will be remembered for her smile, creativity, independent spirit, infectious laugh and her beautiful blue eyes. Above all, she will be remembered for the love she shared so generously with those around her.

Visitation will be held 10 am Saturday, November 14, 2026, at the Pleasanton Presbyterian Church. A memorial service will follow at 11 am. Memorial contributions are suggested to the Pleasanton Presbyterian Church. Online condolences can be left at www.schneiderfuneals.com.

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Obituary - Estel Owens Keirsey

Estel Owens Keirsey, 98, of Adrian, MO, passed away peacefully on Monday, November 9, 2026, surrounded by love and family at Baptist Homes of Adrian. There will be a visitation on Thursday, November 12, 2026, at 10:00 AM, with the funeral service at 11:00 AM at Atkinson Funeral Home in Adrian, MO. Interment at Oak Hill Cemetery in Butler, MO, will follow the service.

Estel was born to Fred and Grace Keirsey on June 1, 1928, in Ballard, MO. He spent most of his life in the Ballard and Adrian areas. He enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1953, serving during the Korean War. After finishing his tour, Estel completed a business degree at the University of Missouri, where he met his lifelong love, Donna Jo York. The two married on November 27, 1957, and shared 68 wonderful years. During their happy union, a son, Fred Bruce, and a daughter, Jamie Denise, were born.

In his leisure time, Estel especially enjoyed hunting and spending time in the wilderness alongside his family and friends. This passion fueled a yearly pilgrimage to Wyoming with Donna and other loved ones, where he tagged many deer and antelope. He enjoyed his last hunt at 97 years old last November.

Estel and Donna traveled extensively throughout the fifty states and visited six foreign countries in their time together. For many years they spent the winter months in Texas. They were proud to share their curious and explorative nature with their granddaughters, whom they brought along on near and distant adventures most summers of their upbringing. His compass persistently pointed West, but his appreciation for all manner of landscape and wildlife was boundless.

At home on Keirsey Farms, Estel and Donna successfully bred, raised, and showed registered Arabian horses. One of their biggest successes was Crimson Ginger, Jamie's prized National Champion Mare. Others included an Arabian mare, Odra, who was named Top Five Western Pleasure, and Shah El Shams, a Champion Stallion who won third overall in National Futurity at the National show in Louisville. In addition to being a beloved pastime, Keirsey Farms found some outstanding success in their small breeding operation.

Estel is preceded in death by his son, Fred Bruce, and his parents, Fred and Grace. He is survived by his beloved wife, Donna Jo; daughter Jamie and her husband, Martin Lockard; granddaughters Haley and Paige; and dear friends Kenny Hooper and family...

He is loved beyond measure. May he rest in peace.

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Obituary - Esther Dahn

Esther Elizabeth Smolenski Dahn, 94, passed away peacefully on Wednesday November 4, 2026, in her home in Harrisonville, surrounded by her loving family. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Friday, November 13, 2026, at 11:00 AM at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church in Harrisonville, MO, with visitation beginning at 10:00 AM. Interment will follow at Orient Cemetery in Harrisonville, MO.

Esther was born on November 19, 1931, to Stanley and Albina Butrym Smolenski in McConnellsville, New York. She was a 1948 graduate of Camden Central High School and married William Edward Dahn (Bill) on June 5, 1954, in Camden, New York. Esther and Bill lovingly welcomed and raised five children who blessed them with many grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Although Esther worked various jobs throughout her lifetime, including beloved babysitter, school secretary at Harrisonville High School, and contract specialist at General Services Administration, her passion, her priority, and her focus was always her faith and her family. She was the ultimate nurturing caregiver and a devout parishioner of Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church.

Esther was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Bill; her granddaughter, Tanya; her great-grandson, Joshua; her three sisters: Jennie Kimball, Albina Fox, and Thresa Bowman; and three brothers: Stanley, Zygmont and Walter Smolenski. She is survived by three sons: Peter Dahn (Lynelle), David Dahn (Dee), and Timothy Dahn (Maria); two daughters, Mary Michele Hawkins (Randy) and Julie Drew (Patrick); 12 grandchildren; 19 great-grandchildren; three great-great-grandchildren; and countless nieces, nephews, and friends.

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Obituary - Betty Ann (Hickman) Reece

Betty Ann (Hickman) Reece, 82, of Harrisonville, Missouri, a beloved mother, grandmother, wife, and friend, passed away on Friday, October 30, 2026, after a courageous battle with Parkinson's disease at Menorah Medical Center in Overland Park, Kansas. Funeral services were held on Wednesday, November 4, 2026, at First Baptist Church in Harrisonville, MO. Interment in Orient Cemetery in Harrisonville. Contributions may be made to The Parkinson's Foundation, The Parkinson's Foundation/ or sent to the Atkinson Funeral Home, 600 West Wall, Harrisonville, MO 64701.

Born on October 26, 1944, in Kansas City, KS, Betty was the beloved daughter of Charles (Bud) and Katie (Wyman) Hickman. Betty spent her formative years in Kansas City before moving to Harrisonville, MO, where she made lasting memories and lifelong friendships. In 1962, Betty graduated from high school and soon began a beautiful love story with her high school sweetheart, Richard "Dick" Reece. Engaged that summer at the Mugs-Up Root Beer at Truman Corners, they were united in marriage on December 15 of the same year at Harrisonville First Baptist Church, officiated by Brother Charles Sutton. Together, they welcomed their daughter, Cynthia, and sons, David and Stuart, expanding their family and deepening their love.

Betty embraced her role as a homemaker with enthusiasm, dedicating herself to her children's educational journeys as a volunteer. She later became a health room aide at the local elementary school before finding her calling as the administrative assistant for the high school guidance counselors, a role that brought her immense joy until her retirement from Devry, where she served as the executive administrative assistant to the dean.

In retirement, Betty's spirit of service only intensified. She volunteered with the Cass Regional Hospital auxiliary as a patient advocate and earned the position of president, further extending her caring presence. As she transitioned to Golden Years, she continued her advocacy as the resident council president, enriching the lives of those around her.

Her faith was a cornerstone of her life, as she was deeply involved in the Harrisonville First Baptist Church, fostering connections through nursery care, Vacation Bible School, and singing in the church choir. Betty's harmonious spirit resonated through special music alongside friends, Katrine Cummins and Kathy Purkey, particularly during the cherished Christmas Cantata. Her unwavering faith nurtured her resilience as she navigated life's challenges.

Betty's love extended to her grandchildren, who fondly remember her spoiling them and sharing heartfelt conversations. Her passion for reading transcended generations-no one could read "Fox in Socks" quite like Grandma. In her nurturing hands, she lovingly crafted scrapbooks chronicling her grandchildren's milestones, preserving memories that will be treasured for years to come.

A lover of celebrations, Betty transformed birthdays into unforgettable festivals, complete with homemade cakes and joy-filled gatherings. The magic of Christmas was particularly close to her heart-decorating, giving, and receiving gifts brought her immense joy. She often found pleasure in the little things, like hosting cookie decorating parties that filled her home with laughter and love.

Betty was a warrior in every sense. She approached life with grace and determination, surviving challenges with a positive spirit that left a lasting impact on all who knew her. Colleagues, friends, and caregivers alike described her as a "sweet, precious woman," highlighting her genuine interest in their lives.

Betty is preceded in death by her parents; her son, David Reece; her sister, Mary Lou Minich Davis; and her brothers, John Hickman and James Hickman. She is survived by her beloved husband, Richard "Dick" Reece, of the home; her daughter, Cynthia Reece, of Kansas City, MO; her son, Stuart (Rebekah) Reece, of Lee's Summit, MO; her 4 grandchildren: Michael Reece (fiancee, Moustapha), Julia Reece Leslie (Logan), Elizabeth Reece, and Katie Reece; her sister, Phyllis Davis, of Stamford, Texas; and many extended friends and family. Her legacy of sweetness, compassion, and generosity will live on in the hearts of many.

Betty Reece-sweet, caring, generous, nurturing-will be profoundly missed but fondly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

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Obituary - Yuriy N. Lyashevskiy

Yuriy N. Lyashevskiy, 60, of Harrisonville, Missouri, passed away peacefully on Thursday, October 29, 2026, at the KC Hospice House in Kansas City, MO. Funeral services will be held at 12:00 PM on Saturday, November 7, 2026, with a visitation starting at 11:00 AM, at the Atkinson Funeral Home in Harrisonville. Interment to follow at Wills Cemetery in Peculiar, MO.

A complete obituary will be added when it becomes available.

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obituary - Judy Rae Vigil

Judy Rae Vigil, 77, passed away on Tuesday, October 13, 2026 in Erie, Kansas. She was born on January 19, 1949, to Richard and Dola (Mullendore) Mullen.

She spent her early years in Sedan, Kansas, and later moved with her father to California, where he worked at Ford Motor Company in Long Beach. She moved to Nevada, Missouri, with her father and siblings in 1964. Judy went to Nevada High School starting that year as a sophomore and graduated in 1967. In 1968, her father married Peggy, who became a loving mother to her.

After graduating, Judy lived in both California and Kansas over the years, raising her family and making her home in Sedan and, later, Caney, Kansas.

She loved to garden and plant flowers, go antiquing, collect rocks, spend time with friends and family, and watch movies, especially Westerns. She also enjoyed decorating for every season and holiday.

She is survived by her children, Amy Kline, Jamie Vigil Robinson and husband Brett, Spencer Vigil and wife Sarah, and Tyler Vigil; 15 grandchildren; and her siblings, Michael Jones, Richard “Rick” Mullen and wife Kathy, Robin (Mullen) Mischnick, and Tana Trost.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Richard and Dola Mullen; Peggy Pilcher; her sisters, Janice Jo and Jackie Fae, who died when Judy was very young; her husbands, Jack McIntosh and Steven Vigil; her son, Matthew McIntosh; and her grandson, Samuel McIntosh.

A celebration of life service will be held on Tuesday, November 10, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. at Ferry Funeral Home in Nevada, MO. Family and friends are welcome to join us and share a favorite story or memory.

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Obituary - Charlie Franklin (Frank) Foster Jr.

Charlie Franklin (Frank) Foster Jr. of Harrisonville, Missouri departed this life Wednesday, November 4, 2026 at Sunrise Nursing and Memory Care, Raymore, Missouri surrounded by love and family. 

Funeral Services will be held 11:00 a.m. Tuesday, November 10, 2026 at Dickey Funeral Home, Harrisonville, Missouri with interment at Pleasant Ridge Cemetery, Harrisonville, Missouri. 

Visitation will be held 10:00 a.m. - 11: a.m Tuesday, November 10, 2026 at Dickey Funeral Home, Harrisonville, Missouri. 

A complete obituary will be posted once that information becomes available. 

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Obituary - Helen Irene Burton

Helen Irene Burton, 93, of Harrisonville, Missouri, a treasured mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, aunt, and friend passed away on Saturday, October 31, 2026, at her home surrounded by her loved ones. Visitation will be held on Friday, November 6, 2026 from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM at Atkinson Funeral Home in Harrisonville, MO. Graveside services will immediately follow at approximately 11:15 AM at Orient Cemetery in Harrisonville, MO. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Croix Hospice. Helen was born on September 11, 1933, in Randolph, Nebraska, a daughter of Allen and Arvilla Parrish. She attended grade school in California before moving to Butler, MO, where she completed her education.

In April of 1950, Helen met the love of her life, Clyde Burton, on a blind date at a skating rink. Just seven months after their first date, Clyde and Helen said “I do” on October 17, 1950, in Bentonville, Arkansas. The couple fulfilled their wedding vows until their last breaths. The happy couple had two children; daughter, Cheryl (Burton) Roughton, and son, Kevin Burton. Their family enjoyed annual vacations together where love and laughter were shared and memories were made.

Helen spoke fondly of her close friends and often recalled stories from the memorable moments they had shared together working at Graham’s South Side Drug and locally at the Harrisonville School District.

Helen and her sister, Carol Davis, shared a bond like no other. In Helen’s final years, she and Carol were gifted the opportunity to live together again, just like they had as young girls. During this time, their jar of memories overflowed, always sharing laughs, ornery ideas, and genuine love for one another. Their sisterly bond remained steadfast throughout the many trials and tribulations a life well-lived brings.

Throughout her life, Helen was no stranger to being a caretaker and nurturer to those she loved. Helen‘s favorite nickname was “Grandma,” you could always find her with a great-grandchild sitting in her lap. Her silly, sarcastic demeanor radiated the love and compassion that she had for everyone that she crossed paths with. Her grandchildren fondly remember memories of Helen waving them goodbye on the back porch when they’d leave a visit with her.

Helen was an avid Kansas City Chiefs football fan and loved attending games. The most memorable game that she attended was when she was gifted tickets to a game versus the Raiders for her 80th birthday. Helen was always wearing her Chiefs gear and her wish of being laid to rest in Chiefs apparel will be fulfilled. We would love to see those attending her services wearing Chiefs-themed attire in honor of her love for the team.

Helen is survived by her daughter, Cheryl (Bart) Roughton; sister, Carol Davis; daughter-in-law, Donna Burton; 8 grandchildren: Shatauna (John) Rhoades, Jenna (Michael) Taylor, Bryan Roughton, Erin (Dylan) Smith, Ashley (Chace) Larson, Sarah (Austin Limback) Burton, Rachel (Wyatt) Essary, and Nathan Roughton; along with 19 great-grandchildren; as well as, many other relatives and close friends.

Helen is preceded in death by her beloved husband, Clyde; her son, Kevin Burton; her parents, Allen & Arvilla Parrish; and 5 of her siblings.

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Obituary - Lavonne Thomason

Lavonne Thomason, 89, of Garden City, Missouri, passed away on Friday, October 23, 2026, at Monroe City Manor in Monroe City, MO. Funeral services were held on Tuesday, October 27, 2026, at Atkinson Funeral Home in Harrisonville, MO. Interment in the Garden City Cemetery, Garden City, MO.

Lavonne entered this world October 10, 1937, on a dairy farm near Topaz, MO, the daughter of Price and Oleta (Nevill) Rogers. She attended Johnson School, a one-room country school, and was a 1956 graduate of Cabool, Missouri, High School. In 1959, she graduated Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Science in Business Education from Southwest Missouri State in Springfield, MO. Lavonne was united marriage to Cliff Thomason on June 25, 1960, and they had lived in Kansas City, Peculiar, and Garden City, MO.

Lavonne enjoyed teaching high school business classes at three different schools in her career, namely Platte City, Sherwood Cass R-8, and Raymore-Peculiar. Lavonne was a member of the church of Christ in Harrisonville, MO.

Lavonne was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; her son, Wayne; and two brothers: Allen Rogers and Albert Rogers. Lavonne is survived by a daughter, Rhonda (Dean); four grandchildren: Cole (Meagan), Connor (Destinee), Hunter, and Shelby (Devin); and seven great-grandchildren: Brenden, Karsen Renee, Sophie, Carson Lee, Jace, Rylee, and Adalee.

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Obituary - Cheryl Ann Sliffe

Cheryl Ann Sliffe, 77, of Bolivar, Missouri, departed this life on Tuesday, November 3, 2026, at Parkview Healthcare Facility in Bolivar, Missouri.

Cheryl was born on August 26, 1949, to Stanley and Elaine Payne. She was born and raised in Hermitage, Missouri, where her mother owned and operated a restaurant for 50 years. Growing up around the restaurant helped develop Cheryl's lifelong passion for cooking and baking.

Cheryl graduated from Hermitage High School in 1967 and went straight into the workforce. She dedicated many years to her career at HSBC before retiring.

She married Donald Sliffe on November, 26, 1988 in Bolivar, Missouri.

Cheryl was a talented cook and baker who especially enjoyed making her award-winning specialty pies. For 25 years, she was known for preparing meals at her church, sharing her love of cooking with others. She also enjoyed tending to her flowers, entertaining during the summer months, and spending time with family and friends.

Traveling was another one of Cheryl's greatest joys. She loved exploring new places and wanted to see all that life had to offer. She especially treasured the time she spent with her nieces and nephews, who held a special place in her heart.

Cheryl was known for her bubbly personality and her ability to always let others know where they stood with her. Her outgoing spirit, love for entertaining, and dedication to those she cared about will be fondly remembered by all who knew her.

Cheryl was preceded in death by her parents, Stanley and Elaine Payne; her sister, Nancy Chandler; and her nephew, Jeff Davis.

She is survived by her husband Donald Sliffe; her brother, Gary Payne, and his daughter, Tammy Brown; her nephew, Curtis Chandler; along with other family members and friends.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held 2:00 p.m. Monday November 9, 2026 at First Christian Church, Bolivar, Missouri with inurnment at Crescent Hill Cemetery, Adrian, Missouri at a later date.

Visitation will be held 5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.  Tuesday, November 10, 2026  at Dickey Funeral Home, Harrisonville, Missouri.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Show Me Christian Youth Home, Lamonte, Missouri and send in care to Dickey Funeral Home, P.O. Box 432, Harrisonville, Missouri 64701

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Obituary - Dennis McCoy

Dennis LeRoy McCoy, 82 of Nevada, passed away on Tuesday, November 3, 2026, at Medicalodges of Nevada.  Dennis was born on December 14, 1943, in Nevada to Logan Ray and Betty (Plummer) McCoy.   He married the love of his life, Connie Grace, on July 4, 1964, and she survives of the home in Nevada. 

Dennis attended Nevada High School and then graduated from Metz High School in 1961. Dennis served in the United States Army during the Vietnam War from 1966-1968 attaining the rank of Sergeant.  Following his time in the service he returned home to Nevada and owned and operated McCoy Service Station from 1974 until his retirement in 2008 when he suffered a stroke.  Dennis was an outdoorsman and an avid mushroom hunter.

He also coached his daughter’s teams in softball and supported his children in all of their activities.

In addition to his wife Connie, Dennis is survived by his two children, Denise McCoy of Tucson, AZ and Logan McCoy and his wife Kimberly of Chicago, IL and several nieces and nephews.  He was preceded in death by his parents, his brother, Larry McCoy and his beloved dog and best friend, Maggie his Yellow Lab.

A graveside Committal Service with Military Funeral Honors will be held at 12:30 p.m. on Thursday November 19, 2026, in the National Cemetery, Ft. Scott, Kansas, officiated by Ray Dean Scism.

Those who wish may contribute to Wounded Warriors in care of Ferry Funeral Home, Nevada, MO.     

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Obituary - Marie Elizabeth Cramer

Marie Elizabeth Cramer, 87, departed this life on Tuesday, November 3, 2026, at Crown Care Rehabilitation Center in Harrisonville, Missouri.

Marie was born on February 18, 1939, to John and Catherine Mohan in Malden, Massachusetts.

Marie was a strong, independent woman who lived life to the fullest. Throughout her life, she held a variety of jobs, showcasing her many talents and strong work ethic. Her career took her to Dallas, Texas, before she eventually made her way to Missouri.

Marie was known for her outgoing personality and was truly a social butterfly. She loved meeting new people, making friends, and enjoying good conversation. She had a passion for traveling and never hesitated to take a trip on her own. Some of her favorite destinations included the beach, warm-weather getaways, and Branson, Missouri. She also enjoyed shopping, cheering on the Kansas City Chiefs and Royals, and watching her favorite television show, The Golden Girls.

Marie loved spending time in the kitchen, especially preparing Italian dishes and baking. She had a lifelong love for dogs, who always held a special place in her heart. Her beloved dog, Daisy, was her most recent companion.

Marie was a devoted Catholic whose faith played an important role in her life. She served as a Eucharistic Minister and remained strong in her faith throughout the years. Her independent spirit, friendly personality, and love for others will be fondly remembered by all who knew her.

Marie was preceded in death by her son, William Joseph McIntyre.

She is survived by her daughter, Pamela Dicey, and her husband, Danny Dicey, of New Hampshire.

Cremation has been planned, with no services scheduled at this time.

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