Bill Hofer

(From Brenner Mortuary)

Francis William “Bill” Hofer, 89, of St. Paul, Kansas, formerly of Pittsburg, passed away at 3:40 p.m. Sunday, January 28, 2018 at the Prairie Mission Retirement Village in St. Paul, Kansas. 

He was born February 19, 1928 at Walnut, Kansas, at the family farm, the son of Joseph Vincent Hofer, Sr. and Marguerite (Beachner) Hofer. He attended grade school in Neutral School and graduated in 1946 from St. Paul High School. He worked at home for one and a half years before joining the harvest for about one and a half years and met lifelong friends, Cletus Heffran and Mike Larkin. It was in Minot, North Dakota, that he received his army “greetings”. Mr. Hofer served in the United States Army during the Korean war, between September 1950 and September 1952.

After serving in the Army, he worked at the Kansas Army Ammunition Plant in Parsons. He was then invited back to harvest by Mike Larkin, where he had his brother, Joe’s, combine and truck for a year. He began driving a truck when he came home from harvest and had 3-4 trucks going. 

On April 16,1955, he was united in marriage to Carolyn Jeanne Lowrance Gross. They enjoyed 41 years of marriage. She preceded him in death on May 2, 1996. In 1958, he drove less and began building the truck line, Hofer Trucking Inc. Membership was held in Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church, Commodore Barry Council Knights of Columbus, Benjamin Fuller American Legion Post #64, and Pittsburg VFW. According to his cousin, Corky Beachner, Mr. Hofer facilitated the communication with the bank to make the loan for Prairie Mission possible after this had been turned down for two years. The family did not know this until recently. 

Survivors include two daughters, Judith Jeanne Spurgeon and her husband, Tom of Pittsburg and Elizabeth Ann “Becky” Hofer and her wife, Freda of Overland Park, KS; a brother, Jim Hofer and his wife, Loretta of Walnut, KS; a sister, Mary Clarkin of Kansas City, MO; four grandchildren, Rodney Watson and his wife, Tess, Mandy Merando and her husband, Jon, Wendy Macias and her husband, Mike, and Susan Spencer and her husband, Rob; thirteen great-grandchildren, 10 great-great-grandchildren and 21 beloved nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, wife Carolyn Jeanne, and a second wife, a son, Gary Gross and two brothers, Joseph V. Hofer, Jr. and Lawrence “Ray” Hofer. The family appreciates the sensitive and wonderful care given to their dad by the Labette Medical Center ICU and Dr. Smith and the very caring staff at Prairie Mission Retirement Village.

The family will receive friends from 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m. on Saturday at the Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church. A Mass of Christian burial will be held at 1:00 p.m. Saturday (Feb. 3) at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church with Fr. Robert McElwee and Fr. Clay Kimbro as concelebrants. Burial will be in the Highland Park Cemetery, where the Benjamin Fuller American Legion Post #64 will provide flag folding ceremonies. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you consider donating to Harry Hynes Hospice, Prairie Mission Retirement Village, Parkinson’s research or the Dominican House of Studies in Washington D.C., of which his nephew, Fr. Andrew Hofer belongs. These may be left at or mailed to the Brenner Mortuary, 114 E. 4th St., Pittsburg, KS 66762. Friends may leave condolences online at www.brennermortuary.com. 

Arrangements are under the direction of the Brenner Mortuary, Pittsburg, KS.

Francene Thompson

(From Bath-Naylor Funeral Home)

Francene Rene (Ping) Thompson, lifetime resident of Weir, KS, passed away Friday evening January 26, 2018 at her home after a lengthy illness. Family surrounded her at her bedside as she went home to be with her Savior and Lord. 

Francene was born July 16, 1937 to Genevieve E. Canny and Clifford A. Ping in Cardin, OK. On April 29, 1955 she married the love of her life, John R. Thompson, at the Calvary Baptist Church of Columbus, KS. Later in 1955 Francene graduated from Columbus High School. 

Francene and John were inseparable during their 61 years of marriage and shared that immense love with their four children. Francene committed her life to serving those around her and joyfully shared her love for the Lord with all who met her. She worked on the election board in Weir for a number of years and was committee woman since 1981. 

She worked as a para-professional at Weir Attendance Center and site manager for Senior Services of Scammon, KS. 

Francene was known for her love of music and talent of playing the piano. She was the music director, adult Sunday school teacher and director of vacation Bible school for over 20 years at the First Baptist Church of Weir of which her and John were members of for 27 years. Later they transferred their membership in 2003 to the First Church of the Nazarene in Pittsburg, KS.
Francene is survived by her son, John R. (Janie) Thompson, Jr. of Ozark, MO; daughter Francenea (Brian) Harding of Tulsa, OK; daughter Felecia (Jeff) Cowan of Ponca City, OK; son Ed (Carla) Thompson of Chicopee, KS; brother Doug Ping and sister Donna Brassart; grandchildren Chad Walker, Gabe (Jestine) Walker, Brooke (Jacob) Rogers, John R. (Jessica) Thompson III, Abby (Nathan) Bilyeu, Seth (Mykayla) Thompson, Jenny Cowan, Lauren (Shelby) Smoker, Kayla (Riley) Weaver and Madison Thompson, 11 great-grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews.
Francene was preceded in death by her husband John, by her parents, her brothers Clifford and Ed Ping, and her sisters Virginia Deboer, Gloria Cowan and Martha Fowler. 

The family would also like to express their gratitude to the care-givers, Becky Jenkins, Glenda Madl, Stephanie Edwards, Kim Boyer and Connie Wallace, who provided comfort and support in her final days. A special thanks to Harry Hynes Memorial Hospice. 

Services will be 1 pm Tuesday, January 30, 2018 at the First Church of the Nazarene with Rev. Jim Sukraw officiating. Burial will take place before the services at 10 am in Park Cemetery, Columbus, KS. The family will receive friends at the Bath-Naylor Funeral Home in Weir from 6-8 pm on Monday, January 29. Condolences may be left at www.bathnaylor.com. Memorials may be made to the First Church of the Nazarene and Harry Hynes Memorial Hospice; these may be left at or mailed to the funeral home. 

Services and arrangements are under the direction of the Bath-Naylor Funeral Home of Weir, KS.

Kathleen Cameron

(From Brenner Mortuary)

Dr. Kathleen Anne Cameron, 66, of Pittsburg, KS, passed away on Thursday, January 25, 2018, at her residence.

She was born October 5, 1951, at Seattle, WA, the daughter of Hugh and Doris (Gamman) Cameron. Dr. Cameron was a professor at Pittsburg State University. 

She is survived by two sons, James E. Bailey of Mesa, AZ and Sean L. Bailey of Apache Junction, AZ, two sisters, Carol Sebree of Everett, WA and Patricia Cameron of Seattle, WA, and two grandchildren, Emily Bailey and Liam Bailey. She is preceded in death by her parents and one brother, Jim Cameron. 

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. Friends may leave condolences online at www.brennermortuary.com. 

Arrangements are under the direction of the Brenner Mortuary, Pittsburg, KS.

Bob Dunn

(From Derfelt Funeral Home)

James A. “Bob” Dunn, age 90 of Galena, passed away at Pittsburg Care and Rehab Center at 2:15 PM on Saturday, January 27, 2018.

Bob was born on March 26, 1927 in Alba, MO to the union of Samuel A. Dunn and Pearl M. Laster. He had lived in the Four States area all of his life, and had living been in Galena since 1952. He worked at Farmers Chemical Company for 22 years, retiring in 1986. He loved old cars and motorcycles, racing stock cars, and was a member of the Cherokee Cruisers Car Club.

He married Alice V. (Feder) Dunn on August 30, 1946. She preceded him in death.

He was also preceded in death by his parents, Samuel and Pearl Dunn; one daughter, Melodie Dover; and several brothers and sisters.

Survivors include three sons, Stephen D. Dunn (wife, Beverly) of Baxter Springs, KS, Ron L. Dunn (wife, Jean) of Galena, and Mike W. Dunn (wife, Laura) of Galena; one daughter, Alice A. Jones (husband, Finis) of Galena; nine grandchildren; several great-grandchildren; and four great-great-grandchildren.

A graveside service will be held at 1:00 PM on Wednesday, January 31, 2018 at Alba Friends Cemetery of Purcell, MO.

Memorial contributions in his name may be mailed to the American Heart Association, 7272 Greenville Avenue, Dallas, TX 75231. Online condolences may be expressed at www.derfeltfuneralhomes.com.

Ronald Albright

(From Bath-Naylor Funeral Home)

Dr. Ronald Clarence Albright 82, of Weir, KS died 4:04am Wednesday January 24, 2018 at the Via Christi Village in Pittsburg, KS following an illness.

Ronald was born February 15, 1935 in Topeka, KS the son of Clarence Beale and Mary (Gutsch) Albright. Ronald was born and raised in Topeka, KS and was a graduate of Topeka High School in 1953. Later he earned a B.S. Degree from Washburn University in 1957. Ronald was in the Airforce Reserves while going to Dental School at UMKC when he was called to active duty during the Cuban Missile Crisis. He later graduated from Dental School in 1966 from UMKC. He moved to Pittsburg area in 1971 after graduation specializing in Orthodontics where he has been a resident ever since.
In May of 1959 Ronald married Shirley Jean (Christy) in Leavenworth, KS; she preceded him in death in April of 1981. In 1982 Ronald married Bonnie E. Myers in Topeka, KS; she survives at the home. Ronald worked as an orthodontist for nearly 30 years before he retired in 1999. He was a member of the Nazarene Church in Pittsburg, KS; active with the Gideon’s; volunteered with jail ministries; Habitat for Humanity; was known as an outdoorsman; loved to fish; lover of animals; gardening; loved his family and was known to be generous without the recognition. 

Survivors include his wife; children Drew Albright and wife Sally of Bentonville, AR, Lois Salmon of Phoenix, AZ, Larry Myers and wife Diane of Plains, KS, Greg Myers and wife Letha of McPherson, KS, Gayle McCoy of Topeka, KS, Bryce Myers and wife Cecilia of Catoosa, OK, Kay Myers of Topeka, KS; great-aunt Virginia Wilbert of Pittsburg, KS; 15 grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; 1 on the way and 1 great-great-grandchild. 

Ronald was preceded in death by his parents, first wife, grandson Kevin McCoy and a brother Robert G. Albright. 

Funeral Services will be 2:00pm Monday January 29, 2018 at the Pittsburg Nazarene Church in Pittsburg, KS with Pastor Jim Sukraw officiating. Burial will follow at the Garden of Memories Cemetery in Pittsburg, KS. Family will receive friends from 4-7:00pm Sunday January 28, 2018 at the Bath-Naylor Funeral Home in Pittsburg, KS; friends may call after 12:00pm Sunday. In lieu of flowers the family asks expressions of sympathy to be in the form of memorials to the Senior Adult Ministries Primetime Pitt Naz and/or SEK Humane Society. Friends may drop off or mail memorials to the Bath-Naylor Funeral Home 522 S. Broadway Pittsburg, KS 66762. E-mail condolences may be left at www.bathnaylor.com. 

Arrangements and services are under the direction of Bath-Naylor Funeral Home Pittsburg, KS.

Josephine Renn

(From Bath-Naylor Funeral Home)

Josephine Renn, age 101 passed away Friday, January 26, 2018 at 7:23 a.m. at Medicalodges Frontenac.

She had been a resident of Medicalodges Frontenac (Sunset Manor) since April 2006. She was born October 8, 1916 to John and Mary Terlep Zagar in Girard, Kansas. She attended Crawford County schools. Josephine and her three brothers and two sisters had many chores to do on the farm and she could do the work that any man could do.

Josephine married John L. Renn on April 14, 1943. They were married for 56 years before John passed away in June 1999. Together they farmed, raised chickens, pigs, cattle, rabbits and sheep and at one time helped their son take care of his ostriches. It was not a rare sight to see Josephine out in the fields plowing and discing the ground before John got home from work at Hull and Dillon Packing Co. They would spend their evenings planting crops until dark then take care of their animals.

She always had a large garden and did a lot of canning and freezing vegetables. She was an excellent cook and always had a homemade meal ready when the chores were done. Her specialties were fried chicken and apple strudel. She was a good carpenter as well, helping her husband, son and daughter in law build houses. Whether she was swinging a hammer, plowing a field or baking, she excelled.
She was a member of Lodge 225 of the Slovene National Benefit Society, where she outlived her insurance policy in 2012.

In all the years while she was at the nursing home, her pride and joy, Granddaughter Paula, would visit her grandma almost every day, which they both enjoyed very much.

Josephine is survived by her son John C. (Theresa) Renn, Granddaughter Paula Renn-Smith (Doug Eller), Grandsons Brian (Tammy) Renn and Jason Renn, Brother Frank Zagar, great-grandchildren, Shelby Smith, Grant Smith and Kinley Renn and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceeded in death by her parents, husband, John L. Renn, two sisters, Mary Zagar and Ann Howell, two brothers, John Zagar, Joe Zagar and a great-grandson, Cody Renn.

A visitation will be held Sunday, January 28, 2018 from 2:00-3:30 pm at Bath- Naylor Funeral Home in Pittsburg. A private family burial will be held at Garden of Memories Cemetery.

A memorial has been established to The Renn College Education Fund for her Great-Grandchildren. Condolences may be left at our website www.bathnaylor.com. Arrangements are under the direction of Bath-Naylor Funeral Home of Pittsburg, KS.

Jim Boyes

(From Derfelt Funeral Home)

James N “Jim” Boyes., age 82 passed away at 11:10 am Thursday, January 25, 2018 at Quaker Hill Manor following an illness.

He was born December 13, 1935 in Galena, KS. His parents were Charley and Lucille (Long) Boyes. He was a lifetime resident of Galena.

He was a cabinet maker, and long-time farmer. He also worked several years as a rural mail carrier out of the Galena Post Office. He enjoyed hunting and fishing. His favorite entertainment was watching old western movies and reading.

Jim was married to Erma May Angel on June 8, 1956 in Galena, KS. She survives.

Additional survivors include one daughter, Cindy Boyes, Galena, KS, one son, Scott Boyes (wife, Kellie), Galena, KS; three grandsons, Andrew Boyes (wife, Desiree), Austin Boyes (wife, Kayleigh), and Ethan Boyes (wife, Lacey); and seven great-grandchildren, Eric, Gavin, Rachel, Paige, Colton, Mason, and Allison.

He was entrusted to Derfelt Funeral Home, Galena for cremation.

The family will hold a Memorial Service 11:00 am, Saturday, February 3, 2018 at First Baptist Church, Galena KS. Pastor Jeff Swart and Pastor Paul Mooney will officiate.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to First Baptist Church, Galena, KS.

Brenda Marshall

(From Derfelt Funeral Home)

Brenda Joyce Marshall, age 56 of rural Galena, passed away at Mercy Hospital in Joplin, MO at 5:03 PM on Wednesday, January 24, 2018.

Brenda was born in Joplin, MO to Billy J. Wilson and Joyce Faye Underwood on February 19, 1961. She had lived in the State of Tennessee as well as the Kansas City area before coming back home in the late 1990’s. Brenda worked as a home health nurse with the Skill Resoure Center before retiring in 2000 due to health concerns. She attended Church on the Hill, a new church plant north of Galena. She had devoted her life her Savior and His work through the local church, and a large part of her ministry was her time spent visiting with residents at local nursing homes.

She is survived by her mother, Joyce Eacock of Galena; one son, Chris Marshall of Galena; two daughters, Delilah Helton (husband, Justice) of Galena, and Brandi Wilson of Columbus, KS; four brothers, Randy Duncan (wife, Debbie) of Virginia Beach, VA, Jimmy Wilson (wife, Loretta) of Galena, Jeffrey Wilson (wife, Christina) of Kansas City, and William Wilson of South Carolina; two sisters, Linda Williams of Iowa, and Lorna Pence (husband, Danny) of Riverton, KS; as well as five grandchildren, Zoey Youngblood, Kylee Sims, Anthony Stevens, Addison Stevens, and Christopher Andrew Lee-Marshall.

She was preceded in death by her father, Billy J. Wilson; and one brother, Billy Wilson, JR.

Ms. Marshall was entrusted to Derfelt Funeral Home of Galena for cremation. The family will hold a memorial service at a later date. Online condolences may be expressed at www.derfeltfuneralhomes.com.

Audrey Westervelt

(From Bath-Naylor Funeral Home)

Precious mother Audrey L. “Gabby” Westervelt, 91 of Columbus passed away at 2:38 pm Thursday, January 18, 2018 at the Medicalodge of Columbus.

She was born August 21, 1926 in Neutral, KS the daughter of James O. “J.O.” and Lucille (Auman) Roam.

On October 10, 1948 she was united in marriage to James E. Westervelt in Columbus; he preceded her in death on August 29, 2013.

She worked in the Register of Deeds office for Cherokee County for 25 years and served as Register of Deeds for several of those years.

Audrey was a longtime member of the RLDS Community of Christ Church in Scammon and a member of the Child Study Club. She was also an avid square dancer and bowler.

Survivors include a daughter Jan and son-in-law Paul Allen of Columbus, a sister Edith “Edo” Baumback; along with two grandchildren: Matt Allen (wife Jill) of Overland Park, KS, Mindy (Allen) Vance (husband Jason) of Houston, Texas, and five great grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, six sisters: an infant, Donna Marie Roam, Joan Gardner, Barbara Messer, Bonnie Teel, Vivian (Diz) Roam, Lois Jones and a brother: Dean Roam.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 pm, Monday, January 22, 2018 at Bath Naylor Funeral Home in Columbus with Elder Larry Reynolds officiating. Burial will follow in the Park Cemetery. Visitation will be from 3:00 pm to 5:00 pm on Sunday, January 21 at the funeral home in Columbus. Condolences may be left at www.bathnaylor.com. Memorial contributions can be made to the Medicalodge Activity Fund; these may be left at or mailed to the funeral home. Arrangements are under the care and direction of Bath Naylor Funeral Home, Columbus, Kansas.

Gracie Hobbs

(From Derfelt Funeral Home)

Gracie A Hobbs, age 77, passed away at 12:15 am, Monday, January 22, 2018 at Communities of the Wildwood Ranch, Joplin, MO following an illness.

Gracie was born October 26, 1940 in Brownington, MO. Her parents were Kenneth Guy and Edith Alma (Graebell) Wilson. She had lived in Riverton since 1999 moving from Pittsburg, KS.

She was a member of Tennessee Prairie Friends Church, Galena, KS. She enjoyed bowling, loved to read and tend to her flower garden.

She was married to George Edward Hartshorn on Dec 1, 1956. He preceded her in death Jan 20, 1993. She was also preceded in death by her parents and one brother, Eugene Wilson.

On June 10, 1995 she married Merle Hobbs in Galena, KS. He survives.

Additional survivors include two sons, Raymond Hartshorn, Riverton, and Donald Kenneth Hartshorn (wife, Barbara Joann) Quapaw, OK; two daughters, Lynda Beyer (husband, Harry), Baxter Springs, KS, and Debra Lyn Eichelberger (husband, Ronnie) Riverton: two step-daughters, Brenda Dee Caruthers, Baxter Springs, and Sandra Dee Nadeau, Miami, OK; 14 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren.

She was entrusted to Derfelt Funeral Home, Galena, KS for cremation.

A Memorial service will be held at 2:00 pm, Friday, January 26, 2018 at Tennessee Prairie Friends Church, Galena, KS. Pastors Dave and Mary Robinson will officiate.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Wounded Warriors in care of the funeral home.

Charles Clugston

(From Brenner Mortuary)

Charles Wesley Clugston, 99, of Tulsa, OK, formerly of Pittsburg, KS, passed away at Prairie Rose Retirement Community, Tulsa, OK, on December 31, 2017, nine weeks from his 100th birthday. 

Born in Cherokee, KS, he was the son of Winfield and Cecile (Dauron) Clugston. In 1979 Charles retired following thirty-eight years as a railroad engineer with the Kansas City Southern Railroad. Prior to relocating to Tulsa, he was a long-time member of the First United Methodist Church of Pittsburg, and was a Mason. Charles was an avid golfer, and after retirement enjoyed fishing. 

He is survived by his brother, Allan Clugston, his sons Charles M Clugston and his wife, Meg of Tulsa; Casey Clugston and his wife, Margie of Lancaster, PS; a daughter, Jill Harsh and her husband, Mark of Olathe, KS; six grandchildren and 9 great-grandchildren. Preceding Charles in death were his parents, a brother, Gerald Clugston, and a sister, Ann Lucchi.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, January 27, at 11:00 am at Brenner Mortuary. The family suggests memorials to the Wounded Warriors Fund. These may be left at or mailed to the Brenner Mortuary, 114 E. 4th St., Pittsburg, KS 66762. Friends may also leave condolences online at www.brennermortuary.com. 

Arrangements are under the direction of the Brenner Mortuary.

Forrest Jones

(From Brenner Mortuary)

Dr. Forrest Henry Jones, 92, of Columbus, Kansas, passed away at Thursday, January 18, 2018 at his home in Columbus, KS. 

He was born February 24, 1925 at Columbus, Kansas, the son of Wilbert and Ethel (Blincoe) Jones. He attended Columbus City schools, then graduated with a Bachelor of Arts from Pittsburg State University in 1948. He then graduated with his Masters of Arts degree from the University of Kansas in 1950 and then in 1954 he received his MD from the University of Kansas. Dr. Jones served in the United States Army from August 1943 until he was honorably discharged as a Tech Sergeant in June of 1946. 

In 1948, he married Lois Roam at Columbus. She preceded him in death in 1989. In 1990, he married Karen Brown at Afton, Oklahoma. She preceded him in death Dr. Jones was a physician in his private practice in Columbus for thirty-six years. He then worked for the Public Health Service for 9 years, before retiring in 2000. Membership was held in the First United Methodist Church of Columbus; Prudence Lodge #100 and Order of Eastern Star in Columbus; Scottish Rite Consistory of Fort Scott, KS; Mirza Shrine of Pittsburg; ROJ, Ct#47 of Tulsa, OK; Oklahoma Academy Family Practice; and the Southwest Clinical Society, Kansas City, Kansas; Dr. Jones also served two terms on the USD #493 School Board in Columbus. 

Survivors include, a son, Dr. David Jones and his wife, Kathy of Chanute, KS; a daughter, Margaret Pillar and her husband, Harold of Columbus, Kansas; three grandchildren, Andrew Jones, Rachel Cleaver, and Justin Pillar; and 5 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, two wives, and two brothers, Wilbert C. Jones and Nelson Jones, and a sister Margaret Lokken. 

A graveside service will be held at 10:30 A.M. Monday (Jan. 22) at the Park Cemetery in Columbus, with Ron Johnson officiating. Friends are requested to meet at the cemetery. Burial will follow the services. The family suggests memorials to the Shriner’s Children Transportation Fund and or Hospice Compassus of Pittsburg. These may be left at or mailed to the Brenner Mortuary, 114 E. 4th St., Pittsburg, KS 66762. Friends may also leave condolences online at www.brennermortuary.com. 

Arrangements are under the direction of the Brenner Mortuary.

Barbara Bushner

(From Parker Mortuary)

Barbara Jane Bushner, age 62, Joplin, passed away at 8:45 a.m. Saturday, January 13, 2018 at her home after a sudden illness.

Barbara was born August 15, 1955 in Joplin to the late Jim Bushner and Rosa Lea Locke Bushner and had lived in Joplin all of her life.

Barbara worked at the Joplin Sheltered Workshop for several years and enjoyed walking her dog, Tippy.

Survivors include her sisters, Carol Wicks and husband, Jim, Joplin, Wanda Bushner, Colorado; nieces, Renee Webb and husband, Brian, Joplin, Toni Wicks, Kansas City, Missouri; great nieces and nephews, Whitney Mills, Tosha Cunningham, Ashton Wicks, Jeffrey Webb; three great great nephews and two great great nieces.

A graveside committal is planned for Friday at 3:00 p.m. at Ozark Memorial Park Cemetery.

Arrangements are under the direction of Parker Mortuary.

Lana Woodward

(From Brenner Mortuary)

Lana Kay Woodward, 70, of Pittsburg, passed away on Monday, January 15, 2018 at her home.

She was born July 7, 1947 at Lupus, Missouri, to A.V. and Margaret Irene (Potter) Ash. She graduated from Jamestown High School. On June 25, 1966, she was united in marriage to Harold L. Woodward in the Jamestown Baptist Church in Jamestown, Missouri. Following their marriage, they moved to Pittsburg.

Mrs. Woodward worked for Western Insurance in Fort Scott for ten years, the Steve Elliott Insurance for 5 years, before becoming the Clerical Supervisor at Kansas Gas Service. She retired in 2008.

Membership was held in the Jamestown Baptist Church, Rob Morris Chapter No. 74 Order of Easter Star, where she was a Past Worthy Matron. She was also the Mother Advisor of Pogson Assembly; District Deputy and Past State Mother Advisor for Kansas Grand Assembly of the International Order of the Rainbow for Girls.

Survivors include her husband, Harold Woodward of the home; two daughters, Tonya Woodward of the home and Tara Smith and her husband, Ted of Jefferson City, MO; two brothers, Tommy Ash and Gary Ash, both of Jamestown, MO; three sisters, Patricia Harbit and her husband, Larry of Urbana, MO, Ava Dick of Rolla, MO, and Marlyn Ash-Potter and her husband, Roger of Valley Center, KS; and one granddaughter, Katelyn Smith; and numerous nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, a brother, Larry Ash, and a nephew, Phillip Pratt.

The Rob Morris Chapter No. 74 OES will provide Eastern Star services at 1:00 p.m. Saturday (Jan. 20) at the Brenner Mortuary. The family will receive friends following the services until 3:00 p.m. Private family burial will take place at a later date. The family suggests memorials be given to National Ataxia Foundation. These may be left at or mailed to the Brenner Mortuary, 114 E. 4th St., Pittsburg, KS 66762. Online condolences may be left at www.brennermortuary.com. Arrangements are under the direction of Brenner Mortuary, Pittsburg.

Alberta DeBoutez

(From Brenner Mortuary)

Alberta DeBoutez, 54, of Pittsburg, died at 11:30 a.m. Monday, January 15, 2018, at Via Christi Hospital. 

She was born July 22, 1963, at Chanute, KS, to Albert and Shirley (Merchant) Powell. She graduated from Pittsburg High School in 1981. Alberta then attended Pittsburg State University and graduated with a degree in Social Work. She received her master’s degree in Social Work for the University of Kansas. Alberta worked for Elm Acres and several contractors providing child welfare service. She also worked for Southeast Kansas Juvenile Detention Center, Catholic Charities, and Via Christi Hospital. 

Survivors include a daughter, Kelly Rojo of Pittsburg, KS; a brother Raymond Powell and his wife Jerri of Decatur, TX; and four grandchildren Antonio Rojo, Javier Rojo, Graciela Rojo, and Natalia Rojo. She was preceded in death by her parents, a brother Tom Powell, a sister, Rebecca Powell and a stillborn sister Cindy Powell. 

Services will be at 2:30 p.m., Thursday, January 18, 2018, at the Brenner Mortuary with Chaplain Adah Hutchcraft officiating. A private burial will take place at a later date. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service on Thursday at the funeral home. The family suggests memorials to the Wesley House. These may be left at or mailed to the Brenner Mortuary, 114 East 4th St., Pittsburg, KS 66762. Friends may also leave condolences online at www.brennermortuary.com. 

Arrangements are under the direction of Brenner Mortuary.

Billie Smith

(From Brenner Mortuary)

Willis "Billie" V. Smith, 92, of Pittsburg, passed away at 12:48 a.m., Sunday, January 14, 2018, at Via Christi Village, Pittsburg. 

She was born March 31, 1925, at Trenton, MO, the daughter of Thomas D. and Eula (Tharp) Ricketts. 

She was united in marriage to Eugene W. Smith in October of 1950. He preceded her in death in February of 1986. Mrs. Smith worked for Spencer Chemical, was a bookkeeper for Crestwood Country Club and was a personal assistant for several individuals throughout the years. Membership was held in the First Christian Church early in life and more recently the Countryside Christian Church, Pittsburg. She was actively involved in the local Mother to Mother Ministry for several years. Mrs. Smith enjoyed playing Pinochle, reading the Wall Street Journal, watching financial programs on CNBC and most importantly spending time with her kids, grandkids and great-grandkids.

 She is survived by two daughters, Mareta Smith of Kansas City, MO, and Marcia Sorrick and her husband, Dave of rural Pittsburg, KS, two granddaughters, Rachel Woolbright and her husband, Ben, and Sarah Scales and her husband, Kyle, three great granddaughters, Olivia Woolbright, Emma Scales and Mackenzie Scales, one sister, Nola Clark, one sister-in-law, Marvella Ricketts and several nieces and nephews. In addition to her husband, she is preceded in death by her parents, one brother, Larry Ricketts and one sister, Kathleen Corrigan. 

A memorial service is set for 2:00 p.m., Wednesday, January 17, 2018, at the Countryside Christian Church, Pittsburg, with Pastor Bryce Hotchkiss conducting the service. Friends may call at the funeral home after 11:00 a.m., Tuesday to sign the register book. The family suggests memorials to the Countryside Christian Church and/or Countryside Christian School. These may be left at or mailed to the Brenner Mortuary, 114 E. 4th St., Pittsburg, KS 66762. Friends may leave condolences online at www.brennermortuary.com. 

Arrangements are under the direction of the Brenner Mortuary, Pittsburg, KS.

Audrey Tewell

(From Brenner Mortuary)

Audrey L. Tewell, 92, of Pittsburg, passed away on Wednesday, January 10, 2018 at Via Christi Hospital. 

She was born August 30, 1925, in Rural Parsons, KS, to Verlyn Enoch and Flossie Marie (Morgan) Richardson. 

In 1946 she met Dan Jean Tewell, the speech teacher and debate coach at PHS. They married on July 15, 1947. Audrey completed her nurse's training at Mercy Hospital in Parsons, Kansas in 1946. She was a cadet nurse during World War II. She worked as a registered nurse at Pittsburg State University Health Center for over 30 years retiring in 1990. She was a member of The Presbyterian Church, and was involved in a number of service organizations when she was younger, including, Chapter C.J. PEO, Friday Study Club, Little Balkans Quilt Guild, and Presbyterian Sewing Circle.

Survivors include two daughters, Pam Henderson of Southlake, TX, and Cindy Shay and her husband Norm of Overland Park, KS; two sisters, Vera Aronhalt and Katherine Moses of Parsons, KS; and 3 grandchildren, Dan McNally and his wife Courtney and their two children, Sloan and Canon of Pittsburg, KS, Pat McNally and his wife Amber and their two children Finn and Dawson of St. Louis, MO, and Webb Henderson and his fiancée, Alison, of Denver, CO. She was a special aunt to many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, a sister, Helen Peckham and two brothers, Bob Richardson and David Richardson.

Services will be at 12:00 p.m., Saturday, January 13, 2018, at The Presbyterian Church with Pastor K.O. Noonoo officiating. A private burial will be in the Highland Park Cemetery. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service on Saturday at the Church. The family suggests memorials to the The Presbyterian Church. These may be left at or mailed to the Brenner Mortuary, 114 East 4th St., Pittsburg, KS 66762. Friends may also leave condolences online at www.brennermortuary.com. Arrangements are under the direction of Brenner Mortuary.

Minnie Feagan

(From Derfelt Funeral Home)

Minnie F. Feagan of Galena, KS died January 9, 2018 at Tidwell Living Center in Wilburton, OK at the age of 97. 

 Services will be at Derfelt Funeral Home, Galena, KS at 2:00 pm Saturday, January 13th. Burial will follow at Gandy Cemetary, Galena, KS. 

 The family will receive friends from 6:00 pm to 7:00 pm Friday, January 12th at the funeral home. 

Arrangements are under the direction of Jones-Harkins Funeral Home of Wilburton, OK and Derfelt Funeral Home of Galena, KS.

Joseph Smoot

(From Brenner Mortuary)

Joseph Grady Smoot, 85 of 1502 East Centennial Drive died at 11:05 AM, Friday January 5, 2018 at Via Christi Village. He had been a resident since January 2015. 

He was born May 7, 1932 in Winter Haven, Florida to Robert Malcolm Smoot and Vera Eaton Smoot McNutt. Mr. Smoot received a Bachelor of Arts degree from Southern Missionary College in Collegedale, Tennessee in 1955, a Masters of Arts in History and a Ph.D. Degree in History from the University of Kentucky in 1961. He married Florence Rozell on 30 May 1955. He married Irma Jean Smoot on June 4, 1959.

He has served as academic dean at Columbia Union College and dean of graduate studies at Andrews University where he also became Vice President for Academic Affairs and later President. He held the academic rank of professor of history at Andrews from 1968 to 1983. He led Andrews to professional accreditation in several fields of knowledge, created the first strategic master plan, launched the first comprehensive capital campaign, and built numerous buildings. He instituted doctoral programs of study, developed a world system of affiliated higher education, and led the University to full accreditation of the Doctor of Philosophy degree. He organized two new schools in the University in Business and Education, and established the Department of Architecture. He developed the Andrews University Press as a scholarly publisher and created the Institute for Alcoholism and Drug Dependency. He is the leading founder of the University of Eastern Africa in Kenya. While at Pittsburg State University, he was the Vice President of Development and Public Affairs. During that time, he organized the PSU Foundation, established the public radio station KRPS, founded the University Magazine, and created a substantial endowment fund for University operations. He brought one of America’s finest concert organs to the campus and provided funding for numerous building and renovation projects. The Vietnam Veterans Memorial on the University campus was a special project to him. After retirement, he returned as Assistant to the President of Pittsburg State University and vice president emeritus.

In 1994, he became a Director of Gold Bank Pittsburg and served for nine years in that capacity. In 1999, the Pittsburg City Commission appointed him to a four-year term to the Pittsburg Public Library Board of Trustees where he became a founder of the PPL Foundation in 2000 and its president in 2004. The Pittsburg City Commission appointed him to a second four-year term to the Board of Trustees in 2003. In 2001, he became a founder of the Pittsburg Area Community Foundation and served on its Board of Trustees. He is a member of Phi Alpha Theta, the national honorary society for history. Widely published as a historian, he has nearly seven hundred publications. As an educator, he became a national authority on the accreditation of higher education. He is a Paul Harris Fellow of Rotary International. Widely traveled, he has visited over hundred countries on seven continents.

Additional survivors include: One Son – Andrew Christopher Smoot of Oshkosh, Wisconsin One Brother – Wayne McNutt of Winter Park, Florida, Four Grandchildren – Hannah Smoot, Haley Smoot, Eric Smoot and Heidi Smoot of Berrien Springs, Michigan. Mr. Smoot was preceded in death by his first wife – Florence, and second wife - Irma Jean and by a grandson Christopher Nash Smoot, one brother, two sisters and one half-brother.

Memorial services will be at 11:00 A.M. Wednesday, January 17, 2018 at the Timmons Chapel with Carlos Ancheta of the Fox Valley Seventh-day Adventist Church of Neenah, Wisconsin officiating. Burial will be in the Underhill Cemetery, Underhill, Wisconsin. The family suggests memorials to the Smoot Family Endowment. These may be left at or mailed to the Brenner Mortuary, 114 E. 4th St., Pittsburg, KS 66762. Friends may also leave condolences online at www.brennermortuary.com. Arrangements are under the direction of the Brenner Mortuary.

Adele Quier

(From Brenner Mortuary)

Adele Vodicka Quier, 93, of Frontenac, KS, passed from this life on Sunday, January 7, 2018. 

She was born November 2, 1924 at Karlin, MO, a Czech rural community located north of Bolivar, MO, to Joseph and Genoefa “Effie” (Dvorak) Vodicka. Adele received her education at a rural elementary school; high school at St de Chantel Academy (Elfindale); and her degree in Primary Education at Southwest Missouri Teachers College (SMU). In her junior and senior years, she assisted in helping the first grade supervisor of Greenwood Laboratory Training School for Teachers. She taught in Missouri schools for eight years. 

When teaching in Joplin at Irving School her friends introduced her to Jack W. Quier from Pittsburg, KS. On July 9, 1953 she and Jack were united in marriage. After becoming a Kansas resident, she enrolled at Pittsburg State Teacher’s College for graduate study to receive her Kansas Teacher Certification. In October, she was asked to fulfill the year teaching the first four grades at Lone Star. The following year she started teaching first grade at Lincoln Elementary School in Pittsburg. She taught first grade for Pittsburg USD250 for 21.5 years “on and off” to be a stay at home mom until her two children were of school age. Besides Lincoln School, she taught at Washington and Lakeside. She retired in 1986. She was a member of NEA, KNEA, PEA, and Delta Kappa Honorary Education Society for Women. Retirement gave her more time to spend with her husband, children, grandchildren and helping at Jack's Steak House and Tower Ballroom and helping her son at Zack's Restaurant. She was a member of Our Lady of Lourdes Church and enjoyed the volunteer work when living in Pittsburg. After her husband's death she moved to Frontenac to be near family. She became a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church and Alter Society. 

Survivors include; son Zack T. Quier and wife Denise, Pittsburg, KS; daughter Susan E. Murray and husband Brent, Frontenac, KS, four grandchildren , Ashley Quier, Fuquay Varina, NC, Dr. Joshua Quier of Medicine Lodge, KS, John Murray, Springfield, MO and Maggie Murray, Frontenac; and 1 great grandchild, Caleb Pope. 

Mass of Christian Burial will be 10:30 a.m. Friday (January 12) at Sacred Heart Catholic Church with Fr. Thomas Stroot as celebrant. Burial will be in the Hosey Hill Cemetery, Weir, KS. A parish rosary will be prayed at 6:30 p.m. Thursday at the Brenner Mortuary. The family will receive friends following the rosary until 8:00 p.m. The family suggests memorials be made to a local school district of your choice. These may be left at or mailed to the Brenner Mortuary, 114 E. 4th St, Pittsburg, KS 66762. Friends may leave condolences online at www.brennermortuary.com. 

Arrangements are under the direction of Brenner Mortuary.

Bill Hood

(From Brenner Mortuary)

Colonel (RET) William “Bill” A. Hood, Jr., 95, passed away at 7:20 a.m. Saturday, January 6, 2018 at his home. 

He was born February 5, 1922 at Pittsburg, the son of William A. Sr. and Hazel (Laughlin) Hood. He attended Pittsburg schools and graduated from Pittsburg High School in 1941. After graduation, he was employed by the Kansas City Southern Railroad until drafted into the Army in October 1942. He was assigned to the 96th Infantry Division, and later participated as an infantryman in the invasion of Leyte Island in the Philippines in 1944, and the landing at Okinawa, in 1945. For his leadership in combat on Leyte, he received a Battlefield Commission, and he was cited for several valorous awards and a purple heart for his wounds on Okinawa. He was released from active duty and returned to Pittsburg in February 1946 where he was instrumental in establishing Reserve units in Southeast Kansas. While commanding one of those units, the Engineer Company was called to active duty in October 1950 during the Korean War. After being recalled to active duty, Bill remained in the Army, serving in a variety of assignments from Europe to Korea and in the States. He retired from active duty in Vicksburg, Mississippi, July 1970, in the Grade of Colonel. 

On May 2, 1952, he was united in marriage to Kathleen Morgan at the Methodist Church in Weatherford, Texas. Together they managed to travel the world, serve our country and raise a family. She survives at the family home. In 1972, he moved back to Pittsburg and he became the General Manager of Meadowbrook Mall until he retired in 1987. He continued his support for the military as Area Chairman of the Kansas Committee for Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve until 1985. Membership was held in the Pittsburg Kiwanis, National and State Committee for Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve, life member of Military Officers Association of America, life member of the VFW, the Military Order of World Wars, the American Legion, and the U.S. Army Reserve Officers Association. In his youth, he attended the First United Methodist Church and later in life, attended the First Church of the Nazarene. 

In addition to his wife, Kathleen, he is survived by a son, Major General (Ret) Jay W. Hood and his wife, Lynne of Tampa, Florida; a daughter, Kit Parks and her husband, Brad of Pittsburg; four grandchildren, Jason Hood and his wife, Kristin, Katie West and her husband, Zack, Kelsey Elliott and her husband, Jordan, and Hayden Parks; and one great-granddaughter, Ella West. His parents, and a sister, Betty Lou Bennett, preceded him in death. 

Services will be held 1:30 p.m. Wednesday (Jan 10) at the Brenner Mortuary with Pastor Jim Sukraw officiating. Burial will be in the Mt. Olive Cemetery, where full military rites will be presented by the Ft. Riley Honor Guard. Friends may call from 10:00 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday at the funeral home. The family suggests memorials be given to the Special Operations Warrior Foundation, the CFSEK Food Security Fund, or the Southeast Kansas Humane Society. These may be left at or mailed to the Brenner Mortuary, 114 E. 4th St., Pittsburg, KS 66762. Online condolences may be left at www.brennermortuary.com. 

Arrangements are under the direction of Brenner Mortuary, Pittsburg.

Lavona McColm

(From Brenner Mortuary)

Kathleen LaVona McColm, 96, of Pittsburg, passed away peacefully surrounded by her family at 2:30 p.m. Thursday, January 4, 2018 at the Via Christi Hospital.

She was born January 8, 1921 at Pittsburg, KS, the daughter of Roy S. and Ellen Teressa (Hansen) Smith. She graduated from Crawford County High School in Cherokee, Kansas.

On November 13, 1940, she was united in marriage to Charles Marvin McColm, Sr. in Cherokee, KS. He preceded her in death on July 28, 1971.

LaVona was a lifelong Pittsburg resident. She worked at the Jones Store for several years. She then went to work for USD #250 as a secretary for 16 years, retiring in 1990.

Membership was held at the First Christian Church and Rob Morris #74 Order of Eastern Star. LaVona’s home was known for family, friends and Sunday dinners, which she cooked for until she was 92 years young. LaVona was known for her love of children and animals, and was called the “Baby Whisperer” by her nieces. She lived her life by putting one foot in front of the other and to keep on going.

She is survived; a daughter, Deborah Lynn Leahan and her husband, Steve of Pittsburg, KS; a son, Charles Marvin McColm, Jr. and his wife, Charlotte of Winfield, KS; a sister, Mary E. Gleason of April Sound, TX; a brother-in-law, Mike Naccarato of Montgomery, TX; five grandchildren, Scott (Nancy) Baker, Robert (Tina) Baker, Melissa (Casey) Mooney, Katie Smith and fiancée, Dillon Young, Steven Smith; two step-grandchildren, Ryan (Michele) Leahan, and Kelly Leahan; 7 great-grandchildren, Emily (Joel) Godfrey, Sarah (Zac) Sarley, Chad Baker, Mitch Baker, Jaxon Mooney, Dawsyn Mooney, and Hannah Leahan; and one great-great-granddaughter, Maycee Sarley.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, a daughter, Ellen Marie and her husband Ralph Baker, a brother, Roy H. Smith, two sisters, Betty Irene Naccarato and Merline “Peggy” VanGorden, and a great-great-granddaughter, Harper Sarley.

Services will be 2:30 p.m. Tuesday (Jan 9) at the Brenner Mortuary with Chaplain Adah Hutchcraft officiating. Burial will follow in the Garden of Memories Cemetery, Pittsburg. Following the services, the family will receive friends at the home of her daughter, Debbie, at 708 S. Catalpa, Pittsburg. The family suggests memorials to NICU at Children’s Mercy – In Memory of Harper Sarley. These may be left at or mailed to the Brenner Mortuary, 114 E. 4th St., Pittsburg, KS 66762. Friends may leave condolences online at www.brennermortuary.com. Arrangements are under the direction of the Brenner Mortuary, Pittsburg, KS.

Franklin Benskin

(From Bath-Naylor Funeral Home)

Franklin E. Benskin Jr. 72, of Pittsburg, KS died 9:50am Saturday December 30, 2017 at the Wilson Creek Nursing Home in Springfield, MO following an illness. 

Franklin was born November 18, 1945 in Ft. Scott, KS the son of Franklin E. Sr. and Dorothy May (White) Benskin. Franklin was a lifelong resident of the area and was a graduate of Pittsburg High School in 1963. On June 5, 1965 Franklin married Betty Jean Beasley in Pittsburg, KS; she preceded him in death on August 13, 2014. Franklin worked for Harvest Brand for 20 years and Dickey Clay for 15 years. Franklin was of the Christian Faith; was a minister in his early years; was an advocate for children and served as a foster parent; he enjoyed gardening, raising livestock and taking care of children. 

Survivors include his children Brian Benskin of Springfield, MO, Tosha Gilliam and husband Vincent of Baltimore, MD, Angel Mabwai of Overland Park, KS, Michelle Bernal of Wichita, KS, April Benskin of Pittsburg, KS, Deanna Benskin of Pittsburg, KS, Rebecca Benskin of Pittsburg, KS and Heather Vaughn of Chandler, OK; his mother Dorothy Benskin of Pittsburg, KS; sisters Carol Beckman of Chandler, OK and Linda Hughes of Pittsburg, KS and 10 grandchildren. 

Franklin was preceded in death by his father, wife and brothers Steve Benskin and Mark Benskin.
Funeral Services will be 10:00am Tuesday January 9, 2018 at the Bath-Naylor Funeral Home in Pittsburg, KS with Pastor Daryl Gaddy officiating. Burial will follow at the Crocker Cemetery in Pittsburg, KS. Family will receive friends from 6-7:00pm Monday January 8, 2018 at the Bath-Naylor Funeral Home in Pittsburg, KS; friends may call after 2:00pm Monday. In lieu of flowers the family asks expressions of sympathy to be in the form of memorials to the Wesley House Pittsburg, KS. Friends may drop off or mail memorials to the Bath-Naylor Funeral Home 522 S. Broadway Pittsburg, KS 66762. Condolences may be left at www.bathnaylor.com. 

Arrangements and services are under the direction of Bath-Naylor Funeral Home of Pittsburg, KS.

Robert Brumback

(From Bath-Naylor Funeral Home)

Robert L. "Bob" Brumback, 82, of Columbus, Ks died January 1, 2018, at his home.

Bob was born September 21, 1935 to William and Mary Brumback.

Robert L. "Bob" married Janene Robinson on December 24, 1957 in the Calvary Baptist Church in Columbus, Ks.

Bob was employed by the Co-op in Columbus and then made his career at the Kansas Ammunition Plant in Parsons, Ks.

Bob was a member of the Calvary Baptist Church, where he was saved on October 17, 1999.

Bob enjoyed gardening, hunting and fishing. He loved to dance, no one could jitterbug like mom and dad. His wife of 50 years and dance partner, Janene, preceded him in death on July 15, 2008.

Bob is survived by two daughters; Lorri Guison and husband Steve of Scammon, Ks and Lesa Schroeder and husband Gaylan of Severy, Ks; a son Robert David Brumback of Riverton, Ks; seven grandchildren: Tim Hill, Christopher Buckner, Kacy Schroeder, Gina Harvey, David Brumback, Jewel Schroeder and Jaret Brumback; and four great grandchildren. He also left behind his four-legged companion, Fritzie, who along with us will always miss him.

Condolences may be sent to www.bathnaylor.com. Arrangements are by Bath-Naylor Funeral Home of Columbus, KS.

Doyle Howell

(From Paul Thomas Funeral Home)

Doyle Gene Howell of Miami, OK passed away Tuesday January 2, 2018 at Mercy Hospital in Joplin, MO. He was 84.

Doyle was born May 8, 1933 in Wagoner, OK to Harrison Lee and Mary Rebecca (Dyer) Howell. He had lived in the Cardin and Miami area most of his life. He served in the U.S. Army during the Korean War. He worked in maintenance for Majestic Plastics in Miami, OK for many years.

Doyle was preceded in death by a daughter Janice Howell, his parents and brothers Fred Howell,Clarence “Bud” Howell and Floyd Howell and a sister Luda Busby.

Survivors include 2 daughters, Beverly Stumler of Charlotte, NC and Terry Tallent of Iola, KS, his sister – in – law, Helen Howell of Kellogg, ID, a niece Lorene Simmons of Miami, OK, 8 grandchildren and 4 great grandchildren.

Graveside services will be Friday, January 5, 2018 at 2:00 p.m. at the G.A.R. Cemetery in Miami, OK. Rev. Ray Clonts will officiate. Military Rites will be conducted by the American Legion Post # 147 Funeral Detail. The family will receive friends Thursday evening from 7 to 8 p.m. at the Paul Thomas Funeral Home Chapel in Miami. Online condolences may be made at www.paulthomasfuneralhomes.com

Anne Hyatt

(From Bath-Naylor Funeral Home)

Anne E. Hyatt, 64, of Pittsburg, KS died Thursday December 28, 2017 at the Arma Care Center in Arma, KS following a prolonged illness.

Anne was born October 2, 1953 in Dublin, Ireland, the daughter of Edward T. and Edythe C. (Williams) McNally. She was a lifelong resident of the area and was a graduate of Judson High School in Scottsdale, Arizona. She later received her B. S. Degree in Nursing at Pittsburg State University. On July 21, 1975 Anne married William H. Hyatt in Pittsburg, KS; he preceded her in death on December 29, 2010. Anne worked for Mt. Carmel Hospital in Pittsburg, KS as a nurse for most of her career.

Anne was known to be very proud of her children and grandchildren, taught swimming for many years, loved dogs and horses, and took pride in teaching clinicals for Fort Scott Community College nursing students.

Survivors include her children Dr. Clare Hyatt of Albuquerque, NM, Thomas Hyatt and wife Ashley of Pittsburg, KS; siblings Eileen Swearingen and husband Jim and Timothy McNally and wife Chris; grandchildren Dominic Hyatt, Shayne Leastman and Kassidy Leastman. She is also survived by Amy Crocker, Don and Judy McCabe and Steve and Regina Perry as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

Anne was preceded in death by her husband, parents, siblings Peggy Harth, Tom McNally and Michael McNally.

Per Anne’s wishes private ceremonies will take place at a later date. Condolences may be sent to www.bathnaylor.com. Arrangements are by Bath-Naylor Funeral Home of Pittsburg, KS.

Gary Barnett

(From Derfelt Funeral Home)

Gary Wayne Barnett was born on May 15, 1952 in Johnson City, New York. He is a Vietnam combat Vet – Special Forces and served in the US Navy Ceremonial Guard in Washington, D.C.

He completed his missions here on earth and passed to greater glory on December 31, 2017, surrounded by family in his Galena, KS home.

Gary will be greatly missed by his family: wife and best friend of 25 years, Sherry Adams Barnett, granddaughter Andrea Rose Dillinger, and daddy’s little girl – Lally, all of the home; children, Andrew, Douglas, and Brent Dillinger, Chanda and Ken Arnold; grandchildren, Bryce, Dylan, Ciara Arnold; Jonathan, Patrick, Timothy, Wesley and Sarah Dillinger.

Relatives and close friends; Denny and Teresa Barnett, Michael and Staci Adams, Lester Adams, “Mom” Doris Adams Scott, Andrea and Joe Booth, Uncle Butch and Aunt Sadie, Jesse Adams, Tiffany Barnett, Tommy, Greg, Eric and numerous nephews and nieces.

We love you Gary – You are our Superhero!

Funeral services will be at 4:00 pm, Saturday, January 6, 2018 at Derfelt Funeral Home, Galena, KS. Chaplain Mike Graham will officiate. He will be laid to rest at Lowell Cemetery, Lowell KS at a later date.

Josephine Barchers

(From Brenner Mortuary)

Josephine (Blazic) Willingham Barchers, 88, of Pittsburg passed away Sunday, December 31, 2017 at the Gran Villas. 

She was born February 7, 1929 at Arma, Kansas, to Rudolph and Genevieve (Smardo) Blazic. She graduated from Arma High School, where she was involved in band and drum corps. 

On December 1942, she was united in marriage to Donald A. Willingham. He preceded her in death in May 1962. She later married Calvin C. Barchers. He preceded her in death. She was a long-time employee of Dazey Songram Corp. in Gardner, Kansas, retiring in May 1991. She enjoyed bowling on the local bowling team, and was an avid country western fan. She moved to Pittsburg, Kansas in 2009 and became member of the First Baptist Church. 

Survivors include two daughters, Linda (Willingham) Shultz and her husband, Dane and Susan (Willingham) Magierowski and her husband, Ben; four step-grandchildren, two grandchildren, Libby Shultz and her husband, Justin Eddings, and Jacque Shultz and his wife, Jennifer; five great-grandchildren, a niece, Marilyn Curley of Arkansas and a nephew, Larry Joe Spann and his wife, Kathy also of Arkansas. She was preceded in death by her parents, husbands, four sisters, and two brothers. 

Services will be 2:00 p.m. Friday (Jan. 5) at the First Baptist Church of Pittsburg with Pastor Rick Bartlett officiating. Burial will follow in the Garden of Memories Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 7:00 to 8:00 p.m. Thursday at the Brenner Mortuary, where friends may call after 10:00 a.m. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the First Baptist Church. These may be left at or mailed to the Brenner Mortuary, 114 E. 4th St., Pittsburg, KS 66762. Online condolences may also be left at www.brennermortuary.com. 

Local arrangements are under the direction of the Brenner Mortuary.

Ruth Barr

(From Brenner Mortuary)

Ruth Ann (Stuckey) Barr passed away peacefully at her home on December 26, 2017 in the presence of family. She had been in failing health. 

She was born February 18, 1928, in Pittsburg, Kansas, the daughter of Ernie and Grace (Woodard) Williamson. She received her education in the Pittsburg public schools, and graduated from Kansas State Teachers College, Pittsburg, with a Bachelor of Music degree. 

She and Milford (Pete) Stuckey were united in marriage on June 5, 1949, and he preceded her in death on December 4, 1999. On August 1, 2011, she and Ron Barr were married in Miami, OK, and he survives at their home in Pittsburg. Pete and Ruth Ann were managers in the family business, Ernie Williamson Music House, at 408 N. Broadway in Pittsburg, retiring in 1992. Music was always an important part of her life. At one time she played organ for the early service, and directed the Junior Choir at the First United Methodist Church. For six years she was organist at the United Presbyterian Church. She was also an accomplished seamstress and always had a knitting project in progress. 

Her children remember a mom who never missed an event or concert if they were involved. Ron and Ruth Ann loved RVing, and have fond memories of enjoying the beauty and sights of the nineteen states they were able to visit before she fell in August of 2010. Subsequently she spent the rest of her time in a wheelchair, although they were out and about closer to home. Ron became her full time caregiver in 2010, and has devoted the past seven years to making her comfortable and happy. They enjoyed a great life together, and she will be deeply missed. Ruth Ann held memberships in the First United Methodist Church, Chapter AQ, P.E.O., where she was a Golden Girl, and was a fifty year member of the Treble Clef Music Club. 

Survivors include her grief stricken husband, Ron Barr, of the home. Sons, Stan Stuckey (MiSuk) of Olathe, Steve Stuckey (Jennifer) of Fort Scott, and daughter, Judy Jones (Dave) of Cherryvale, as well as thirteen grandchildren and five great grandchildren. A memorial service will be 11:00 a.m. Tuesday (Jan. 9) at the Brenner Mortuary with Reverend Mark Chambers officiating. Private burial will be in the Highland Park Cemetery. The family suggests memorials be made to Ernie Williamson Music Scholarship at PSU, or the First United Methodist Church Choir in lieu of flowers. These may be left at or mailed to the Brenner Mortuary, 114 E. 4th St, Pittsburg, KS 66762. Friends may leave condolences online at www.brennermortuary.com. 

Arrangements are under the direction of Brenner Mortuary.