Smith Funeral Home & Chapel

04/24/2026

Planning an eco-friendly funeral is a deeply meaningful way to honor your loved one and the planet. 🌱

Our comprehensive step-by-step guide helps you navigate all the options, from choosing biodegradable caskets and shrouds to exploring natural burial grounds.

Plan a conscious and environmentally responsible farewell.

Planning an eco-friendly funeral is a way to leave a positive legacy and create an environmentally responsible farewell.

04/22/2026

A gentle return to the earth 🌎🌱.

Green burial is a conscious, sustainable shift in how we approach our final farewells, minimizing environmental impact and honoring the natural cycle of life.

Learn the core principles—no embalming, biodegradable caskets, and natural burial grounds—and why so many are choosing this meaningful path.

Green burial is chosen for environmental responsibility, natural return to the earth, conservation, simplicity, affordability, and personal connection.

04/21/2026

The silence after the funeral can be deafening.

That's the "Second Month" of grief, a natural biological transition where the initial adrenaline runs out. 🧠

We break down the science of "Grief Brain" and the profound exhaustion of the "Grief Crash."

Learn actionable strategies for solitary living and self-care in our free guide, "After the Flowers Fade."

Find kindness for yourself.

➡️ Download the free guide.

The “Second Month” of grief—the period after the initial support from the funeral and visitors has dropped off. Profound exhaustion (the “Grief Crash”) and difficulty concentrating (“Grief Brain”) are natural, biological transitions as the body’s stress hormones diminish and the brai...

04/20/2026

Robert O. Parker

Robert O. (R.O.) Parker, 90 of Hannibal, Missouri went to his forever home Friday, April 17, 2026, at University Hospital in Columbia.

Bob was born on August 27, 1935, at home in Brunot, MO to the late Rev. Orla and Mrs. Lissie Parker. He grew up in this small rural community where he attended a one room schoolhouse, and went on to graduate with his associate degree from Flat River Junior College. He was teaching elementary school in Piedmont, Mo. when he joined the Equitable in 1957.

Bob married the love of his life, Burlene Krider on July 3, 1955, at Beulah Baptist Church in Brunot, MO. In 1963, Bob and Burlene transferred to Hannibal, MO where he became a district manager.

Bob demonstrated a strong and significant commitment to serve his community. He served on the Hannibal hospital boards from 1977-1996. He played a key role in the consolidation of two Hannibal hospitals in 1988, and the construction of the current hospital known as Hannibal Regional Healthcare Systems in 1993.

Bob also served as a trustee of Hannibal LaGrange College, served on the board of HNB Bank, and representative on the Hannibal Industrial Council. He served as president of Hannibal Chamber of Commerce and received the Pacesetter award in 1983. Bob served as the former campaign chairman of the United Way, and past president and board member of the Hannibal YMCA, leading the transition from downtown to the current location. He was just shy of being a 50-year charter member of the Early Bird Kiwanis Club.

At age 82, Bob retired from Equitable in 2018, completing 60 years of dedicated service to his clients. During his distinguished career, he received several awards including the Legion of Honor Award, the Order of Excalibur, and was inducted into the Equitable Hall of Fame. He obtained the Chartered Life Underwriter (CLU) and Charter Financial Consultant (ChFC) designations. His production earned him a lifetime membership in the industry recognized Million Dollar Round Table (MDRT).

In 1963, Bob and Burlene joined Immanuel Baptist Church, where they raised their family and faithfully served throughout their lifetime. Bob served as deacon, Sunday School teacher, choir member, and was active in the church building programs and financial affairs. Growing up in a Christian home, Bob accepted Christ as his personal Savior at the age of 12, crediting his mother for her persistent prayers and influence. Bob had a passion to share his faith and did so in such a way he was genuine, direct and fruitful without being demeaning. Often, his actions spoke louder than words. He counseled many through their times of need. Bob always had a smile and was ready to share the gospel.

Bob was preceded in death by his wife, Burlene and his brother, Bill. He is survived by his four children, Lea Ann Arnold (Craig), Linda Youse (Jim), Bobby (Denise) Parker, and Bill (Lisa) Parker. He also had 8 grandchildren: Andrew (Megan) Arnold, Alex (Samantha) Arnold, Lauren Youse, Lissie (Jordan) Wade, Justin (Erica) Parker, Brandt Parker, Tony (Lyndsay) Parker, and Michael Parker. Bob was blessed with 18 great- grandchildren and with many in-laws, cousins, nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be held on Friday, April 24th from 5-8pm, with the funeral service on Saturday, April 25th at 10 am. All activities will be held at Immanuel Baptist Church. The family is being served by Smith Funeral Home & Chapel.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Immanuel Baptist Church in Hannibal, MO, in care of the Smith Funeral Home & Chapel.

Online condolence may be made to the family and video tribute viewed on Robert's memorial page at www.smithfuneralhomeandchapel.com

View Robert O. Parker's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

04/19/2026

Including children in funeral services can be a healthy step in their grieving journey.

Offering age-appropriate participation helps them understand loss and strengthens family bonds during a difficult time.

Learn how to involve them meaningfully. 💖👨‍👩‍👧‍👦

Including children in funeral services, with age-appropriate involvement, is beneficial for their emotional well-being, helping them process grief, understand death and loss, and strengthen family bonds.

04/17/2026

Did you know April is dedicated to Bereaved Spouses Awareness? 🧠

Sometimes the best way to support a friend who has lost a partner isn’t saying the "right" thing—it’s just showing up.

Check in on someone today.

Send a text, drop off a meal, or simply share a favorite memory of their spouse.

Let’s make sure no one walks this road without a hand to hold. 👣🌿

04/16/2026

Honoring our Veterans one farewell at a time.

Did you know the VFW provides invaluable support for a veteran's final honors, including Military Funeral Honors and community bereavement assistance?

It's important to know the difference between VFW support and VA financial benefits.

Always coordinate with your local post early to ensure a dignified tribute for your loved one.

This blog post and podcast explains the funeral benefits provided by the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW).

04/14/2026

The greatest gift you can give your family isn't an asset—it's clarity. 💖

Don't leave your loved ones guessing during their most difficult time.

Our new, free guide, "The Peace of Mind Portfolio," breaks down the 10 essential documents every adult needs to ensure their wishes are honored and their family is protected.

Turn the "what-ifs" into a clear, loving plan today. Download your copy! 👇

The Peace of Mind Portfolio: Answering the Top 10 End-of-Life Paperwork Questions, discusses that the most valuable legacy is clarity for survivors. It highlights the emotional and administrative burden of making over 70 decisions in the first 48 hours after a loved one passes. The guide goes beyond...

04/13/2026

Benny J. "Cocky" Powell

Benny J. "Cocky" Powell, age 85, of New London, MO passed away Friday, April 10, 2026, at his home.

The family will be hosting a celebration of life this summer.

Cremation arrangements are being handled by the Smith Funeral Home & Chapel of Hannibal.

Benny was born on August 10, 1940, in Hannibal, MO, the son of Dora Clifton Lee Powell and Cordelia (Wyatt) Powell.

He was united in marriage to Judith Bergheger on March 27, 1977, in Hannibal, MO. She survives them in death.

Survivors include his wife Judy of the home; sons, Clifton Joe Powell of Jefferson City, MO, Benny Powell, II (Tina) of Mendon, IL, and J.C. Powell of New London, MO; his daughters, Zann Horner (Ray) of Conway AR, Vicky Bramblett of Center, MO, Dana Joe Powell of New London, MO, Becky Tallman of New London, MO, and Angel Krigbaum (Justin) of New London, MO; his sisters, Mildred Cary of Arkansas, Lula Wellman (Mark) of Liberty, IL, and Janis Johnston (Roy) of Lewistown, MO; twenty-seven grandchildren; numerous great-grandchildren and several great-great grandchildren.

In addition to his parents, Mr. Powell was preceded in death by a son, Billy Powell; brothers, Bill Powell, Bernard Powell, Harry Powell and Charles Fitzgerald; sisters, Nora Moore, Francis Collins, and Martha Waldhaus; grandsons, Lloyd Powell, Jessi Brooks, and Danny Horner; great grandson, Jesse Brooks; and great-granddaughter, Makayla Flascher. He was also proceeded in death by his son in law, Mike Bramlett.

Benny worked as a local roofing contractor. Cocky as many knew him as, enjoyed hunting for anything from deer, mushroom, squirrel and rabbit. Setting on the bank with a pole in his hand was another favorite hobby of Cocky's. Benny enjoyed the simple life around his home. He cherished spending time with his family and friends. His biggest love was playing with his grandchildren, great-grandchildren pulling them around the yard in a homemade wagon he attached to the back of his riding mower.

Online condolences may be made to the family on Benny's memorial page at www.smithfuneralhomeandchapel.com

View Benny J. "Cocky" Powell's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

04/13/2026

Navigating a death announcement?

Reach out to the closest family and friends personally before sharing any news online.

A phone call or heartfelt message honors their relationship with the deceased.

When you do post, choose your words thoughtfully and always respect privacy. 🕊️❤️

Announcing a Death with Sensitivity and Respect,” provides guidance on how to sensitively and respectfully inform others about the passing of a loved one. Lean on your support network for strength during this difficult time.

04/10/2026

Dereen Kaye Behymer

Dereen Kaye Behymer, age 69, passed away on Saturday, April 4, 2026, at her home in Maywood, Missouri. In her final moments, she was surrounded by close family, her dogs at her side, and a beautiful sunset with a strong western wind providing a peaceful transition.

Dereen was born on August 14, 1956, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, daughter of Donald and Neila (Gannon) Forrester. She was united in marriage to Mark Behymer on August 4, 2018, in Emden, Missouri. She was previously a member of Prairie View Baptist Church and later attended Ewing Baptist Church.

Dereen’s greatest joy in life was her family. She is survived by her husband Mark and dogs Poppy and Tallulah (Lula); daughters Dena Reiss and Jenna (Brian) Dugan; step-daughters Aaron (David) Boone, Leah (Craig) Heming, Krysta (Jason) Behymer; step-son Evan (Tiffany) Behymer; sisters Cheryl (Scott) Kosatka and Donna (Chris) Smith; sister-in-law Lynda Behring; grandchildren Ajay, Eli, Micah, Nikolas, Katlyn, Grace, Lily, Emmalynn, Liara and Evalynn; grand-dogs R***r, Remy, and C**t.

She is also survived by a large loving family of nieces, nephews, great nieces, great nephews, cousins, extended family who remain close and many friends she loved like family.

In addition to her parents, Dereen was preceded in death by her very dear Aunt Dorothy Forrester, brother-in-law John Behring, and more beloved extended family members. She will also be reunited with the 4-legged friends that she loved to the end; Tali, Emma, Tucker, Asia, Murphy, Mason, Zhu-Zhu, and Nadine.

Riding horses or, in later years, mules, she felt most at peace in the presence of animals. With compassion, she never turned away an animal in need, always finding a way to care for it or place it in a loving home. Dereen had a deep, lifelong love for horses and was a proud member of the Menomonee Falls Saddle Club in Wisconsin and the Quincy Saddle Club in Illinois. She also cherished time spent camping in Wisconsin, Illinois, and Missouri, whether surrounded by family or alongside her beloved horses and horse friends.

Dereen passionately loved the Christmas season. With a twinkling tree in every room and countless totes of decorations, she created a home filled with magic, warmth, and wonder. Christmas wasn’t just a day—it was a feeling she carried year-round. She welcomed everyone with open arms, a beautiful smile and always had a dish to share. Texas sheet cake and calico beans became staples for gatherings with family and friends. And Christmas would not be the same without rosettes and chocolate covered pretzels – foods that became traditions and memories for generations to come.

The Fourth of July is a Behymer family tradition that Mark introduced to Dereen. Despite setbacks and struggles, together they carried on the tradition, celebrating family, friends, food, and lots of fun at their home.

She was deeply connected to the spiritual world and found purpose in her work as a medium, offering comfort, guidance, and reassurance to those seeking peace and understanding. Her presence brought a sense of calm and connection that many will never forget.

Dereen will be remembered for her generous heart, her fierce love of family, her kindness to furry friends, and the way she made everyone feel welcome and deeply cared for. The world feels a little less warm without her, but her love will continue to live on in every family gathering and every memory made in her honor.

To know Dereen was to be loved by her, fully and unconditionally.

A memorial celebration will be held in Mountain Home, Arkansas for all friends and family at a later date.

View Dereen Kaye Behymer's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

04/10/2026

Retirement Security: The Full Spectrum, Including Funeral Preplanning

Retirement isn't just about money—it's about total peace of mind. 🧘‍♀️

Our guide explores the full spectrum of security, from steady income to the thoughtful act of funeral preplanning.

Prepare for every chapter of your golden years with confidence! 🌅💰

Explore a proactive approach to retirement security, encompassing not just financial strategies but also the often-overlooked aspect of funeral preplanning.