Obituary - Jackie Levi Webb

Jackie "Jack" Levi Webb, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away at Cass Regional Medical Center in Harrisonville, MO, on December 9, 2024, at the age of 78. Born on September 3, 1946, in Mount Pleasant, Arkansas, the son of Orgel and Sarah (Hiland) Webb. Jack found joy in many aspects of life, but none compared to the love he shared with his family. He married his devoted wife, Joyce (Jones) Webb, on August 7, 1993, in Mt. Pleasant, AR, and together they built a beautiful life, full of laughter and love.

Jackie's journey took him from his hometown to the vibrant city of Kansas City, eventually settling in Peculiar, where he became an integral part of the community. A proud Army veteran, Jack served his country from 1966 to 1968, earning the Good Conduct Medal and the Expert Badge in Rifle—a testament to his commitment and discipline.

For over two decades, Jackie worked at JC Nichols in the land construction industry, where he honed his expertise as a surveyor. His passion for his work led him to establish his own property maintenance company, where he continued to make significant contributions to the field, earning the respect of his peers and clients alike. A cherished member of the Peculiar First Baptist Church, Jack found strength and community within its walls, strengthening his faith and forging deep friendships that would last a lifetime.

Jack was preceded in death by his parents; four brothers; and two sisters. He is survived by his wife of 31 years, Joyce Webb, of the home; his son, Jason Webb, of Urich, MO; his daughter, Melissa Witt, of Peculiar, MO; his step-sons, Richard Wiecken of Freeman, MO; and Eric Patterson of Harrisonville, MO; his step-daughter, Ginny Wiecken, Peculiar, MO; 13 grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; and many extended friends and family.

In a celebration of Jack’s life, family and friends are invited to gather for a visitation at the First Baptist Church in Peculiar on Saturday, December 14, 2024, from 11:00 am to 12:00 pm, followed by a Celebration of Life service at 12:00 PM to honor and remember him. Jack will be remembered fondly, and his spirit will live on in the stories shared and the love experienced on that day.

Obituary - Claude Allen Warner

Claude Allen Warner, 81, of Ft. Scott, KS passed away on Monday, December 9, 2024. Born September 23, 1943 in Horton, MO to Alba and Jack Warner, Sr.

Claude is survived by his son, Jay Warner and daughter-in-law, Jolene Warner; four grandchildren, Jayla, LJ, Jayce, and Jaxi Warner all of Ft. Scott, KS; one sister-in-law, Pennie Warner, of Lamar, MO; and his beloved dog, Buddy; and several nieces and nephews.

Claude was preceded in death by his parents; one brother, and three sisters.

Claude was raised in the Horton and Stotesbury area. He graduated from Richards High School in 1959 at the young age of 16. After high school, Claude went and attended college in Joplin, MO, and later he graduated with a business degree in 1969.

Claude then started his first job at Ennis Business Forms of Ft. Scott in 1970 where he stayed for 34 years never missing a day until his retirement in 2004. He has resided in Ft. Scott for the past 21 years.

Graveside services will be held at 2:30 p.m. on Saturday, December 14, 2024 at East Liberty Cemetery in Stotesbury, MO. The family will receive friends from 1-2:00 p.m. on Saturday prior to the service at Ferry Funeral Home in Nevada.

Memorials are suggested to the family c/o Ferry Funeral Home.

Obituary - Tristen Matthew Shepard

Tristen Matthew Shepard, age 27, Nevada, MO, born on December 5, 1997, passed away unexpectedly on December 11, 2024. 

He was the cherished son of Timothy and Melissa Shepard, and beloved brother to Daulton and Coletan Shepard. Tristen was also a loving uncle to Greyson Shepard.

Visitation will be held from 5-7:00 p.m. on Friday evening, December 13, 2024 at Ferry Funeral Home in Nevada. Memorials are suggested to the family c/o Ferry Funeral Home.

BCMH News: Rock Marquardt Joins Board of Directors

Bates County Memorial Hospital (BCMH) is pleased to announce that Rock Marquardt has joined the hospital’s Board of Directors. Appointed by the Bates County Commissioners, Rock will fill the seat previously held by the late Mike Taranto, who passed away in October 2024 after serving on the board since 2016. Rock’s appointment ensures that the Board remains composed of strong, experienced leaders committed to BCMH's mission and its critical role in serving the community.

“On behalf of the entire team, I am delighted to welcome Rock to the Hospital Board of Trustees,” said Greg Weaver, Chief Executive Officer for BCMH. “His passion for healthcare will be invaluable as we continue to advance our mission of providing exceptional care to our communities. We look forward to Rock’s insights, collaboration, and leadership as we work together to create a brighter future for our patients and staff.”

A lifelong resident of Bates County, Rock grew up in Papinville and Rich Hill, Missouri, and now resides in Rockville. After graduating from Bryant High School in 1975, he pursued a degree from the University of Missouri, where he set the foundation for a successful career in agriculture. Over the past 40 years, Rock has built a deep knowledge base in the grain trade business, with experience at Cargill, Inc. and JP Morgan. Most recently, he retired in March 2024 after seven years working with West Central AgriServices. He now runs Marquardt Brothers Farms, LLC alongside his brother Zack, continuing the family’s third-generation legacy in pecan and crop farming.

In his interview, Rock shared his deep gratitude for the care provided by BCMH and its staff.

He reflected, “In the past 18 months, my brother and I have lost both parents. The care and level of service provided by BCMH staff demonstrated top level service. Growing up in Bates County, you hope you never need the hospital, but we all will at some point in our lives. We are grateful for its presence when we need the care.”

Having lived in larger cities, Rock also has firsthand experience of the challenges faced in big urban emergency rooms and appreciates the high level of care BCMH provides in Bates County.

Rock’s dedication to the community is a central part of his life. His grandfather, Fred Marquardt, was a founding board member of the hospital, appointed by the Bates County Court in 1957. He served on the BCMH Board for 27 years, and Rock is eager to continue that legacy by maintaining open communication with the citizens of Bates County. He believes that a strong hospital is vital to the future of the county and that the community must prioritize making BCMH a relevant, sustainable institution for generations to come. Reflecting on his own experiences, Rock has learned that staying relevant is key to ensuring long-term success, both in business and in healthcare.

As a new board member, Rock brings a wealth of expertise in risk management and business strategy. He understands that rural hospitals like BCMH face unique challenges, including the constant risk of consolidation. He is committed to ensuring that BCMH remains a relevant and indispensable part of the community, helping secure its future in an ever-changing healthcare landscape.

Rock’s dedication to the values of hard work and integrity are grounded in the lessons passed down from his grandfather. He firmly believes that success begins with doing the best job possible in every task, no matter how small, and he aims to apply this same work ethic to his service on the board. His perspective and commitment to his community will no doubt make a positive impact as he steps into this important role.

We look forward to the contributions Rock will make during his time on the Board of Directors, and we are confident that his leadership will further strengthen our hospital’s mission to provide high-quality healthcare to Bates County and the surrounding areas.

BCMH invites the community to join us in welcoming Rock to our Board of Directors.

Collins, Missouri, Man Arrested For Sex Trafficking Of A Child And Possession Of Child Pornography

The Missouri State Highway Patrol’s Division of Drug and Crime Control announces the arrest of Matthew J. Maggard, 29, of Collins, Missouri. Maggard was arrested on December 5, 2024, for one count of sexual trafficking of a child - 1st degree, three counts of possession of child pornography, and one count of promoting child pornography - 2nd degree, following an investigation by the Special Victims Unit of the Missouri State Highway Patrol’s Division of Drug and Crime Control.

In October of 2024, while conducting a multi-jurisdictional on-line child pornography investigation, investigators with the Special Victims Unit identified a device associated with the internet account of Matthew J. Maggard.

On Wednesday, December 5, 2024, investigators executed a St. Clair County search warrant at the home of Maggard, located in Collins, MO. The search revealed digital files on an electronic device containing child pornography. Investigators arrested and transported Maggard to the St. Clair County Jail.

On Thursday, December 6, 2024, the St. Clair County Prosecuting Attorney formally charged Maggard with one count of sexual trafficking of a child - 1st degree, three counts of possession of child pornography, and one count of promoting child pornography - 2nd degree. Maggard is currently being held in the St. Clair County Jail on a $100,000.00 cash/surety bond.

The above charges are mere accusations and are not evidence of guilt. Evidence in support of these charges must be presented before a court of competent jurisdiction whose duty is to determine guilt or innocence.

The Division of Drug and Crime Control encourages internet users to promptly report to the Patrol or local law enforcement anyone who attempts to engage in unwanted, inappropriate, or sexualized communications with children.

Obituary - Miles Eaglehawk Humbird

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the unexpected passing of Miles Eaglehawk Humbird, a beloved son, brother, and friend, who left us too soon at the age of 18 on December 7, 2024.

In honor of Miles' vibrant life, a Celebration of Life ceremony will be held at Archie High School on December 14, 2024, at 2:00 PM. This gathering will be a time for all who knew and loved Miles to come together to celebrate his remarkable spirit, share stories, and find solace in one another's company.

A complete obituary will be posted when it is available.

Obituary - David Gene Boulware

David Gene Boulware, age 48, of Blue Springs, Missouri, passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, December 4, 2024.

Services will be held on Friday, December 13, 2024 at Cullen Funeral Home, 612 W. Foxwood Dr. Raymore, Missouri 64083. Visitation will begin at 4:00 p.m. followed by a memorial service at 5:30 p.m.

David was born in Hays, Kansas on March 11, 1976 to Kenneth and Dorothy Boulware. David graduated high school and continued his education, eventually receiving his masters degree from the University of Kansas. He spent most of his life working as a financial advisor. In life, David was blessed with two children, Colten and Corinne who were the love of his life. Daivd also was an avid fan of KU basketball, loved riding his Harley with his brothers, was always the life of the party, and never knew a stranger.

David was preceded in death by both his paternal and maternal grandparents; as well as his mother, Dorothy Boulware.

He is survived by his two children, Colten and Corinne “Riney” Boulware; father, Kenneth Boulware; two brothers, Tom Boulware (Joanna) and Jerrod Boulware (Beth Driscoll); and four nieces and nephews, Rylee, Tyler, Eli, and Mei Boulware.

Arrangements: Cullen Funeral Home, Raymore, Missouri 816.322.5278

Butler JH Basketball shows out tonight in Midway

Butler JH Basketball shows out tonight in Midway...

Both the Butler Junior High Basketball Teams traveled to Midway to take on the Vikings. Butler Junior High A-Team Girls were able to come away with a 31-19 victory over the Lady Vikings. 

The Butler Lady Bears A- Team was led in scoring by Kiersten Dubray and Kinley Cook who both had 9 points. 

The Butler A Team Boys cruised to a 31-17 victory over Midway tonight. The leading scorers for this contest was Frazion Wisdom with 12 points and Porter Cook added 9 points to help secure the victory for the Bears. 

The Butler Boys B team also picked up a victory tonight 27-15. Enjoy some photos of the games tonight below: