http://www.ozarkfuneralhome.com/

Ozark Funeral Homes, 100 Spring Street, Anderson, MO (2026)

04/09/2026

Charles William Merriman, Sr.
Charles William “Chuck” Merriman, Sr., age 67, of Powell, Missouri, departed this life suddenly on Wednesday morning, April 8, 2026, at Freeman Hospital in Neosho, Missouri, after suffering a massive heart attack. He entered this life on May 1, 1958, in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, born to the union of the late William Jack “Bill” Merriman and Carol (Styke) Merriman.

Chuck spent his formative years in Bentonville, Arkansas, before moving to Wichita, Kansas. He graduated from South High School in Wichita in 1976, and on April 9, 1976, he was united in marriage to Beverly Fullerton. In 1987, he moved to Powell, Missouri, where he remained a resident for the rest of his life.

For the majority of his working years, Chuck was employed as a mechanic and truck driver. He was known for being dependable, capable, and willing to do whatever was needed to get the job done. In 2020, he retired from the McDonald County Road District after many years of service.

Chuck found joy in the simple and meaningful things in life. He enjoyed mowing his yard, hunting, camping, and spending time around horses and cattle. Above all, he cherished his grandchildren and took great pride in the time he shared with them.

Chuck is survived by his wife of fifty years, Beverly Merriman of the home; a daughter, Crystal Johnson (Greg) of Powell, Missouri; four grandchildren, Mindy Johnson (Zach), Brianna Carter (Kelby), Matthew Wilson (Hannah), and Kylie Wilson (Larry); eight great-grandchildren; a daughter-in-law, Jennifer Merriman of Longview, Missouri; a brother, Grant Merriman and wife, Dawn, of Powell; three sisters, Denise Faidley of Powell, Leslie Welborn and husband, Ronnie, of Hiwasse, Arkansas, Becky Merriman of Powell, and Lynne Witmer of Avoca, Arkansas; several nieces and nephews; as well as a host of other family and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents; his son, Charles Willam Merriman, II; two granddaughters, Haley and Hollie Merriman; a brother, Doug Merriman; a brother-in-law, Bryan Faidley; and a sister-in-law, Liz Merriman.

Funeral services are 2:00 p.m. Friday, April 17, 2026 at Ozark Funeral Home in Anderson, Missouri with Lance Meador officiating. The family will receive friends beginning at 12:30 p.m. on Friday in the funeral home chapel. Arrangements are under the care of Ozark Funeral Home in Anderson, Missouri.

04/09/2026

Ellsworth Cullen Thrasher
( October 18, 1931 - April 8, 2026 )

Ellsworth Cullen “Elzie” Thrasher, age 94, of Anderson, Missouri, departed this life peacefully on Wednesday, April 8, 2026, at McDonald County Living Center in Anderson, Missouri.

Elzie was born on October 18, 1931, in Ava, Missouri, and was a lifelong area resident. He was the only child born to the late Wylie Cobern Thrasher and Mary Kathryn (Stoffer) Thrasher. He graduated from Anderson High School in 1950 and carried the values of hard work, faith, and family with him throughout his life. He also served his country in the Army National Guard, a duty he honored with quiet pride.

Much of Elzie’s life was spent on the road as a truck driver, a profession that reflected his steady nature and strong work ethic. He retired from Little Debbie in 2007. He was a man who believed in doing things the right way and in taking care of the responsibilities placed before him.

Elzie was a longtime member of Pleasant Grove Free Will Baptist Church, where his faith remained an important part of his life. He had a beautiful voice, singing in several country and gospel groups over the years. Music was one of the great joys of his life, and he especially enjoyed playing the guitar and mandolin. Whether singing with others or playing an instrument himself, he found happiness in the fellowship and comfort that music brought. He also enjoyed working on old tractors and lawn mowers. He took pride in restoring and repairing things that others might have set aside, and he found satisfaction in giving new life to old machines.

Elzie is survived by his four daughters, Mary Ellynn Williams and husband, Jeff, of Oxford, Alabama; Carol Marie Blankenship and husband, Frank Molino, of Independence, Missouri; Cathy Rossman of Bella Vista, Arkansas; Sherri Bradford and husband, Joel, of Grand Junction, Colorado; and Tina Robeson Kernell and husband, Russ, of Bradyville, Tennessee. He also leaves behind thirteen grandchildren, twenty-three great-grandchildren, seven great-great-grandchildren, his companion Midge Hatfield of Anderson, Missouri, and a host of other family and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Ann Jeanell Thrasher on January 1, 2007; and a grandson, Colton Standlee.

Funeral services are 2:00 p.m. Monday, April 13, 2026 at Ozark Funeral Home in Anderson, Missouri with Pastors James Grimes, Randy Bishop and Shane Edens officiating. Burial will follow at New Bethel Cemetery in Anderson. Those honoring his life by serving as pallbearers are Frank Molino, Jacob Semler, Levi Wooten, Robert Hatfield, Rick Francisco and Jerry Blevins. The family will receive friends on Monday beginning at 1:00 p.m. in the funeral home chapel. In lieu of flowers memorials are being directed to Pleasant Grove Free Will Baptist Church c/o the funeral home. Arrangements are under the care of Ozark Funeral Home in Anderson, Missouri.

04/09/2026

Patricia C. Hill, 82, formerly of Goodman, Missouri, passed away on Friday, April 3, 2026 in Durant, Oklahoma. Graveside services are 1:00 p.m. Thursday, April 9, 2026, at Southwest City Cemetery. Arrangements are under the care of Ozark Funeral Home in Anderson, Missouri.

04/02/2026

Celebration of Life
Lou Keeling
314 Spider K.
Anderson. 2-5

03/30/2026

Michael W. Letts of Goodman, Missouri, age 64, passed away with loved ones by his side on March 24, 2026. He was born in Joplin, Missouri on March 23, 1962, to Amos and Beulah Letts.

Mike enjoyed working on his CB radios and could almost fix anything. Outlaw Mike was an honorary member of the Hog Chapter at Harley Davidson in Joplin, Missouri. He enjoyed riding in the side car with his friends. Mike also loved bowling, camping, Pepsi, reporting the weather to KOAM News and hanging out at the ballpark.

Mike was preceded in death by his father, Amos Letts, brothers, Donnie and Jason W. Letts; Nephew, Justin Letts; numerous other family members; and his dogs, Maggie, Smokey, and Chopper.

Mike is survived by his mother, Beulah Letts of the home; his siblings, Janet Powell and Eric Letts; his sister in laws, Nancy and Carletta Letts; his dog, Amos; along with a host of nieces, nephews and other family and friends who will dearly miss “Outlaw Mike”.

Funeral services are Monday, March 30, 2026, 2:00 p.m. at the Ozark Funeral home in Anderson, Missouri. Pastor Bill Hackworth will officiate. Burial will follow the service in the Banner Cemetery on Anderson, Missouri. Those honoring his life by serving as pallbearers are Jason Letts, Dawson Letts, Parker Letts, Hunter Letts, Rex Inmon, and Brett Wilkins. The family will receive friends beginning at 1:00 p.m. on Monday, March 30, 2026. Arrangements are under the care of Ozark Funeral Home in Anderson, Missouri.

03/30/2026

Kelly Rae Smith, age 56, of Seneca, Missouri, passed away suddenly on Saturday, March 21, 2026. She entered this life on January 11, 1970, in San Jose, California, born to the union of Raymond James Lillo and Jacquelyn Sue “Suzie” Wimmer. Kelly's infectious smile and generous spirit were a gift to all who knew her.
Kelly's journey led her from San Jose to Seneca, Missouri, where she planted her roots in 2005. It was there, that she found her husband, Alan Smith. The two were united in marriage on June 22, 2014. Throughout her life, Kelly served others with a smile as a waitress at various restaurants.
A devoted wife, mother, grandmother, daughter, and sister, Kelly's family was the center of her universe. She is lovingly remembered by her husband, Alan Smith, of their Seneca home; her daughters, Brittany Spurgeon of Modesto, California, and Alyssa Sprenger, along with her husband, Alex, of Neosho, Missouri. Her joy was multiplied with the birth of her granddaughter, Avery Sprenger, who became the apple of her eye. Kelly was the cherished daughter of Raymond Lillo of Novato, California, and Susie Seits of Richland, Washington. Her sisters, Veronica Busha and husband, Richard, of Richland, Washington, and Stacie Watkins and husband, Sean, of Bella Vista, Arkansas, will hold dear the memories of their sister's laughter and love. A host of other family members and friends also survive her.
She was an excellent cook, known for her culinary creations that brought family and friends together around the table. Her love for gardening was evident in the vibrant blooms that adorned her home, a testament to her nurturing touch. Above all, Kelly was a wonderful grandmother, dedicating her heart and time to creating moments of happiness and teaching life's simple pleasures.
Graveside services are 11:00 a.m. Monday, March 30, 2026 at Oakwood Cemetery in Neosho, Missouri with Pastor Steve Epley officiating. No formal visitation will be held. Arrangements are under the care of Ozark Funeral Home in Anderson, Missouri.

03/29/2026

John Earl “J.E.” Messley departed this life peacefully on Friday, March 27, 2026, in the comfort of his home in Anderson, Missouri, at the age of 73.
He was born on August 13, 1952, in Springfield, Missouri, the eldest of two sons born to the union of the late John Henry and Zelma Lou (Cantrell) Messley. J.E. was a 1970 graduate of Central High School in Springfield, where he served as class president.
Following his graduation, J.E. worked in construction before beginning a longstanding career in the insurance business. He spent several years as an agent for American National and later became an independent broker. J.E. enjoyed traveling all over the US during his time as an agent for JM Marketing. He and his cousin Carl had numerous adventures on the road together, and J.E. loved sharing stories about those times. Throughout his career, he earned the respect of many through his honesty, dedication, and steady commitment to serving others.
He was a resident of the Springfield, Missouri area for most of his life, later moving to be closer to both his boys and their families. First, to California to live with his son John, and later to Anderson, Missouri, to be closer to his son Jason. J.E. was a member of Rocketdyne Road Church of Christ in Neosho, Missouri, where he rarely missed a Sunday service.
J.E. loved baseball in all its forms. He was a lifelong fan of the St. Louis Cardinals and watched or listened to all their games. He could also be found attending local high school games. But the games he loved most were those played by his sons and grandsons, and the boys were his favorite baseball players. He rarely missed a game, and he enjoyed coaching them both on the field and off.
J.E. also took great pleasure in fishing. Whether in a canoe on the river or standing along a bank, he spent many quality hours, rod and reel in hand, building relationships with his boys.
J.E. believed in relationships. He had many lifelong friendships and was a beloved Dad, Perpawl, and Grandpa J to his family. He might not express his feelings in words, but his love was evident in his actions. If there was an activity that a member of the family was engaged in, he was there. From breakfasts to baseball, fishing to farming, (even show choir) he would be there to show his support.

He is survived by his two sons, Jason Messley and his wife, Sarah, of Noel, Missouri, and John Messley and his wife, Leticia, of Bois D’Arc, Missouri. He also leaves behind four grandchildren, Zeke Bates, Ruthie Baisch, Zane Messley, and Tylan Messley, as well as four great-grandchildren, Weston, Araya, Jameson, and Azriel. He is further survived by his brother, Frank Messley and his wife, Stephanie, of Springfield, Missouri, along with a host of other family members and friends who will cherish his memory.
The family will receive friends on Wednesday evening, April 1, 2026, at Ozark Funeral Home in Anderson, Missouri from 5-7:00 p.m. A second visitation will be held on Thursday morning, April 2, 2026, at Greenlawn Funeral Home North in Springfield, Missouri beginning at 10:00 a.m., with a graveside service following at 11:00 a.m. at Greenlawn Cemetery. Those honoring his life by serving as pallbearers are Jason Messley, John Messley, Zeke Bates, Zane Messley, Tylan Messley and Emanuel Baisch. Arrangements are under the care of Ozark Funeral Home in Anderson, Missouri.

Visitation
Wednesday, April 1, 2026
5:00 PM - 7:00 PM
Ozark Funeral Homes - Anderson

Visitation
Thursday, April 2, 2026
10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Greenlawn Funeral Home North ~ Springfield, Missouri

Graveside Service
Thursday, April 2, 2026
11:00 AM
Greenlawn Cemetery ~ Springfield, Missouri

03/26/2026

Jimmie Allen Brown, age 89, was born to George and Calla Brown on September 11, 1936, in Sulphur Springs, Arkansas. He entered his heavenly home on March 21, 2026, in Bartlesville, Oklahoma.

He graduated from high school in Sulphur Springs. In 1957, he wed Anna Louise Swink, to whom he devoted his life.

Jimmie purchased his first cow at age 14. This began his lifelong love of caring for cattle. He sold his last cow and calf in November of 2025.

Jimmie was preceded in death by his mother and father, George and Calla Brown; his brother, Tom Brown; and his sisters, Faye Meredith, Violet Morgan, Jewel Lukens, and Dorothy Boyd.

Jimmie is loved by his wife of 68 years, Anna; Daughters, Jan, Kim (Marty) Schoenthaler; Grandchildren, Jamie (Abby) Schoenthaler, Camie (Spencer) King, and Kirby Schoenthaler; Great-grandchildren, Lucy, Jonah, Audrey, Anna Grace, and Price; Special friends, Johnny Horton, Barb Burt; and Niece, Sharon Murray. Many lives were enriched by Jimmie’s friendship.

The visitation will be Saturday, March 28, 2026, 10:00 a.m., at the Beacon Baptist Church in Gravette, Arkansas, followed by his service at 11:00 a.m. Pastor Ricky Williams will officiate. Those having the honor of serving as pallbearers are Marty Schoenthaler, Kirby Schoenthaler, Jamie Schoenthaler, Spencer King, Jimmy Burleson, and Sam Murray; with Johnny Horton, Gery Swink, and Darrell Spillers serving as Honorary pallbearers. Burial will follow at Butler Creek Cemetery in Sulphur Springs, Arkansas. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Butler Creek Cemetery in care of the funeral home.

03/24/2026

Carl Warren
November 20, 1958 - March 21, 2026
A Celebration of life for Carl Warren will be held at 4:00 pm on Thursday, April 23, 2026 at the First Baptist Church, 200 S. Duff Street in Sulphur Springs, Arkansas.

03/24/2026

Dennis Gillming

August 15, 1951 - March 20, 2026

Dennis Gene Gillming, Sr. a cherished and admired soul, passed away peacefully on March 20, 2026, in Bentonville, AR. Born on August 15, 1951, in Kearney, Nebraska, Dennis's life was a testament to the virtues of love, adventure, and kindness. His departure has left an irreplaceable void in the hearts of those who knew him.
Dennis was a man who devoted his life to his work and the people he loved. For over 35 years, he was a dedicated mechanic at the Glad Manufacturing Company in Rogers, AR. His commitment to his profession was matched only by the care he showed to his colleagues, many of whom became lifelong friends.
A true embodiment of a loving father, Dennis is survived by his children, Dennis Gillming, Jr. of Seattle, WA, and Megan Carry of Bentonville, AR. His legacy of love and strength lives on through them and his beloved grandchild, Makenna Carry. Dennis's memory is also treasured by his siblings, Louise Garretson (Dennis) of Platte Center, NE, Dorothy Johnson of Tucker, GA, Gerald Gillming (Lorraine) of Galena, KS, and Gary Gillming (Ginny) of Seneca, MO. Each family member reflects a facet of Dennis's spirit and character.
Before his passing, Dennis was preceded in death by his parents, Howard Earl and Lucy May (Davis) Gillming; his brothers, Everett and Marvin, Sr. Gillming; his nephew, Marvin Gillming, Jr.; and his niece, Tammy White; niece and her children, Lamanda Stephens, Tylan, and Raven, as well as his nephew, Aaron Gillming, will forever hold their uncle's memory in high regard.
Dennis's interests were as broad as his heart was large. He was an avid fisherman who found solace and joy in the tranquil waters of the Elk River. His cabin, "Wada View," on the riverbanks, was a haven for him, his family, and his friends, a place where many cherished memories were created. Apart from his love for nature, Dennis was also a skilled artisan in flint work and knapping, an ancient craft that he pursued with passion and precision.
Dennis's life was a journey filled with laughter, discovery, and the warmth of human connection. As we bid farewell to this remarkable man, we take comfort in knowing that his influence will continue to be felt through the countless lives he touched. Though he may no longer be with us in body, his spirit remains an indelible part of our world.
Dennis Gene Gillming's story does not end here, for he has left an indelible mark on the tapestry of life. His family and friends, a host of individuals whose lives were enriched by his presence, will continue to celebrate and honor a life well-lived. Dennis's memory will forever be a guiding star for those who were fortunate enough to know him.
Memorial visitation will held from 5:00 to 7:00 pm on Monday, March 30, 2026 at the Anderson Chapel of the Ozark Funeral Home; the family will receive friends at this time.

Memorial Visitation for Dennis will be held on
March 30, 2026
5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

03/24/2026

Lou Keeling

September 13, 1939 ~ March 24, 2026
Louis Charles "Lou" Keeling, a beloved figure in his community, passed away peacefully on March 24, 2026, in Anderson, MO, at the age of 86. Born on September 13, 1939, in Southwest City, MO, Lou lived a life characterized by kindness, adventure, and an unyielding spirit that touched the hearts of all who knew him.

Lou was preceded in death by his devoted parents, Louis and Dixie Keeling, his cherished wife, Pat, his beloved daughter, Christie Ward, his brother, Larry Keeling, and his uncle, Leon Keeling. Although their loss was profound, Lou found solace and strength in the memories they shared and in the love of his surviving family.

He is survived by his son, Richard Keeling of Anderson, MO. Lou's legacy also lives on through his grandchildren, Shadow Keeling of Anderson, MO, and Kaden Keeling of Clarksville, MO, who will remember their grandfather's wisdom and love. His nephew, Brian Sweeten of Florida, and stepson, Johnny Ward of Joplin, MO, along with sister-in-law, Brenda Sweeten of Dallas, TX, and sister, Shirley Mahoney of Oklahoma City, OK, were all vital parts of Lou's extended family, providing love and laughter throughout his life.

Lou's professional life was as vibrant and varied as his personality. He began his career serving the community as a Horseback Sheriff in Santa Clara, CA, where his dedication and passion for justice were evident. His law enforcement journey continued as a Deputy in Newton County, where his commitment to the safety and well-being of others was unwavering. Lou's career culminated in his role as the McDonald County Sheriff, a position he held with distinction for 12 years. His leadership, fairness, and integrity were hallmarks of his tenure, earning him the respect and admiration of colleagues and residents alike.

Beyond his professional achievements, Lou had a profound love for the outdoors, particularly for ranching, his horses, and the art of roping. These passions were not just hobbies for Lou; they were a way of life that reflected his adventurous spirit and deep connection to the land and animals he cherished.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Lou's House.314 Spider K Anderson, MO 2:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. Friday April 3rd

03/15/2026

Kiara Dawn Manion, 23, of Pineville, Missouri, passed away suddenly on March 5, 2026.

Kiara is survived by her parents Katrina and Jamie Vlaun; biological father, Joe Manion; her brothers, Kristian Manion and wife, Tailja Johnson, Justin Manion, and wife, Ana Slaughter, Jordan Manion, Malichi Neale, and Zayden Manion; two nephews, Alex and Carter Manion; one niece, Iris Manion; her grandmother Diana Harrison; her grandparents, Joe and June Vlaun; her Aunt and Uncle, Tonya and Charlie Mahurin-Rhodes; Cousins, D.J. Hamill, Kory Vlaun, Walker Vlaun, and many other cousins, aunts, and uncles; her three cats (who were her children) Calypso, Eddie, and Muntzin; her best friend, Kate, whom she loved very much and so many more who loved Kiara; Family and friends who will miss her fiercely.

She loved books and her cats, Halloween, and spook houses. She worked for White Rock Elementary and McDonald County Library and graduated from McDonald County High School. When you saw her smile, it could brighten your day. She will be dearly missed and forever loved.

There will be a memorial service at Ozark Funeral Home in Anderson, Missouri, on March 16, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. The family will receive friends from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. in the funeral home chapel before the service. There will be a dinner after at the First Baptist Church in Anderson, Missouri.

Kiara would love if everyone would dress in fun bright clothes because that was Kiara. Bright. Beautiful, and so full of life. Gone too soon but never forgotten.

Ozark Funeral Homes

04/09/2026

04/09/2026

04/09/2026

04/02/2026

03/30/2026

03/30/2026

03/29/2026

03/26/2026

03/24/2026

03/24/2026

03/24/2026

03/15/2026

Address

Telephone

Website

Alerts

Shortcuts

Share

Category