Ralph O. Jones Funeral Home

02/20/2026

Finding the right funeral home is an important step when planning ahead for funeral wishes. This article shares 10 characteristics you should look for when deciding which funeral home to partner with for your funeral planning needs.

Interested in end-of-life planning? Take a look at these 10 characteristics to look for when choosing a funeral home to meet your needs.

02/16/2026

Paul Ivan Wilson, 88, of Odessa, Missouri, passed away peacefully on Sunday, February 15, 2026, at home surrounded by the love of his family.
Visitation will be held Thursday, February 19, 2026, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Ralph O. Jones Funeral Home, 306 S. 2nd St., Odessa, MO 64076 (816-633-5524). A funeral service will be held at 1:00 p.m. Friday, February 20, 2026, at the funeral home. Interment will follow at Greenton Cemetery. Memorials are suggested to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital or Shriners Children’s. Memories of Paul and condolences for his family may be left at www.LedfordFamilyFH.com or on our page.
Paul was born April 2, 1937, in Oak Grove, Missouri, to Samuel and Pearl (Mansell) Wilson. On June 7, 1953, he married the love of his life, Rosalie (Hanks) Wilson, in Odessa, Missouri. They shared many years together before her passing in 2006. On June 16, 2015, Paul was blessed to find love again when he married Marlene (Goff) Murry-Wilson in Odessa.
Paul was a hardworking man who took pride in providing for his family. He began his career with General Motors, later served as head of maintenance at the Odessa nursing home, and spent many dedicated years as a lineman for the City of Odessa. He eventually retired after more than a decade with the Lafayette County Special Road District. Even outside of his regular jobs, Paul liked to keep busy — trimming trees and operating his pole barn business, Down Home Barns, where his strong hands and steady work were well known.
He was a faithful member of Odessa Restoration Branch. In his younger years, Paul and his brothers shared a love of music and played together in a band, with Paul on harmonica and guitar. Music remained one of the many simple joys he carried throughout life.
Above all else, Paul loved his family. He treasured time spent visiting, laughing, and sharing stories. He found happiness in the little things — woodworking in his shop, searching for four-leaf clovers, baking and proudly sharing his famous lemon cake, cookies, and pies, and collecting aluminum cans to donate the proceeds to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. His quiet generosity and servant’s heart left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him.
Paul is survived by his loving wife, Marlene Murry-Wilson of Odessa, Missouri; four children, Cindy Gum, Jay Dei Wilson, Brian “Buck” Wilson, and Patty (Kent) Corbett, all of Odessa; six grandchildren, David Gum II, Anthony Smith, Heather Wilson, Haley Beaird, Nicky Knowles, and Luke Knowles; 15 great-grandchildren; four great-great-grandchildren; one brother, Ray Allen (Carol) Peet of Richmond, Missouri; and many nieces, nephews, relatives, and dear friends.
He was preceded in death by his father, Samuel Wilson; his mother, Pearl Peet; his first wife, Rosalie Wilson; his infant son, Larry Joe Wilson; a grandson, Bo Knowles; a son-in-law, Gary Penney; three sisters, Elenore Raines, Shirley Roberts, and Sharon Bray; and two brothers, Lawrence “Buck” Wilson and Gene Wilson.

02/16/2026

Happy Presidents’ Day! Did you know that when Presidents’ Day was first observed in 1879, it only applied to the District of Columbia? It wasn’t until 1885 that it became a national holiday.

02/14/2026

As we celebrate Valentine’s Day, let’s remember that love isn’t limited. Share the spirit of Valentine’s Day with your children, your spouse, your friends, and your family.

02/13/2026

Are you grieving the loss of a spouse this Valentine's Day? If you are, please find comfort in this article that validates the strong emotions you're feeling and offers support on the grief journey ahead.

Losing your soulmate is heartbreaking and lifechanging. As a grieving spouse, read these 10 mourning rights and grieve the way you need to.

02/12/2026

Dale Louis Fisher, 92, of Odessa, Missouri passed away Wednesday, February 11, 2026, at Centerpoint Medical Center in Independence, Missouri.

Memorials are suggested to the family in care of Lucy Fisher for a charity to be chosen at a later date. Memories of Dale and condolences for his family may be left at www.LedfordFamilyFH.com or on our page. Arrangements have been entrusted to the Ralph O. Jones Funeral Home, 306 S. 2nd St., Odessa, MO, 64076, 816-633-5524.

Dale was born on February 27, 1933, in Zearing, Iowa on the dining room table to Arlo Fisher and Verda (Hoberland) Oakes. In 1950, he graduated from Zearing High School. For 25 years, Dale worked for Carol Wright Sales in Lincoln, Nebraska in direct mail advertising. On October 20, 1951, Dale was united in marriage to Lucy Marilyn (Howard) Fisher in St. Anthony, Iowa. Dale proudly served as a volunteer fireman, embodying the spirit of bravery and service. He was an active Moose member in Lincoln, Nebraska, and a beloved Boy Scout leader, where he imparted the values of friendship, hard work, and respect to countless young minds. His passion for the great outdoors was evident in his love for fishing. He had a passion for antique auctions, woodworking, hobbies that allowed him to connect deeply with nature and create lasting memories with family and friends.

Dale is survived by his loving wife, Lucy Marilyn Fisher of the home; three children, Joseph (Ellen) Fisher of New Richmond, WI, Vincent Fisher of Odessa, MO, and Laura (Tim) Streit of Newark, OH; a daughter-in-law, Sherry Fisher; many grandchildren and great grandchildren, and three half-brothers; and many nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends.

Along with both his parents, Dale was preceded in death by a son, Michael “Mike” Charles Fisher; and a sister, Arloene Brinkmeyer; and three half-sisters.

02/11/2026

Monica M. Meyer, 59, of Odessa, MO, died peacefully Sunday, February 1, 2026, surrounded by her family and loved ones. She was a type 1 diabetic most of her life and recently battled breast cancer and dementia.

Her family was her life, and she never missed an opportunity to say “I love you” to them. Monica was an animal lover and surrounded herself with dogs, cats, horses, and donkeys on her farm. She was into fast cars, Soundgarden, anything Chris Cornell, reading, chocolate, auctions, road trips, ladybugs, hummingbirds, and so much more.

Monica was preceded in death by her mother, Penelope (Penny) Cox, and father, Russel Meyer. She leaves behind her partner, Kevin Schorgl, brother Joe Meyer, his wife Kellee, and their twins Luke and Blake. Joe's son Jason, his wife Andi, and their sons Tommy, Tyler, and Tristan. Joe’s daughters, Faith, Jessica, and numerous cousins, aunts, and uncles.

The family would like to thank Lisa and Molly from Enhabit Home Health and the nurses at Three Rivers Hospice for their compassionate care. A special thank you to neighbor Rene Jones and her family for everything they did for Monica over the years, day or night.

Monica’s cremains will be buried next to her mother at the Evergreen Cemetery in Dewitt, MO. There will be a celebration of Monica’s life on her favorite day of the year, Saturday, July 4, 2026, for close friends and family at her farm. Memories of Monica and condolences for her family may be left at www.LedfordFamilyFH.com or on our page. Arrangements have been entrusted to the Ralph O. Jones Funeral Home, 306 S. 2nd St., Odessa, MO, 64076, 816-633-5524.

02/09/2026

02/06/2026

Happy Early Birthday Harpo! Hope you have a fantastic day tomorrow!

02/06/2026

After losing a loved one, acts of remembrance are essential to the healing process. One way you can honor and remember a lost loved one is by celebrating their birthday every year. But what does that look like? Read this article to learn more!

Acts of remembrance are essential to the healing process. Read this article for 10 ways to celebrate a lost loved one on their birthday.

02/05/2026

Judi Carolyn (Gillian) Block, 79, of Independence, Missouri passed away peacefully on Thursday, February 5, 2026, at Parkway Senior Living in Blue Springs, Missouri.
A graveside service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Wednesday, February 11, 2026, at St. Luke’s Evangelical Free Cemetery, 700 MO-224, Wellington, MO 64097. Memorials are suggested to St. Luke’s Evangelical Free Church. Memories of Judi and condolences for her family may be left at www.LedfordFamilyFH.com or on our page. Arrangements have been entrusted to the Ralph O. Jones Funeral Home, 306 S. 2nd St., Odessa, MO, 64076, 816-633-5524.
Judi was born on May 26, 1946, in Sikeston, Missouri to James Lloyd and Lorern (Adams) Gillian. After graduating from Sikeston High School, she moved to Independence. Judi worked for many years as an administration support at ERC Employers Reassurance Corporation. Judi was united in marriage to Ronald Fredrick Block on June 14, 1975. They spent many weekends with Ron’s children. She and Ron enjoyed their winter retirement days for eighteen years in Fort Myers, Florida, where she loved to shop for Christmas gifts. Judi never knew a stranger, as she made friends easily and cherished those friendships. She had such a big heart and laughed often. Judi was loved by many and will be missed greatly. Along with spending time with family and friends, Judi had a passion for exploring antiques shops and flea markets.
Judi is survived by her loving husband Ronald “Ron” Fredrick Block of the home, three children, Dennis (Sandy) Block of Loch Lloyd, MO, Patty (John) Breckenridge of Blue Springs, MO, and Susan (Rick) Rhyner of Leawood, KS; nine grandchildren, Ashley, Kara, Ben, Megan, Trisha, Lydia, Madison, Margot, and Mitch; twelve great-grandchildren, Kinley, Austin, Emma, Kate, Makayla, Dillion, Ethan, Jullian, Lillian, Quinn, Graham, and Crew; and many nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.
Along with both her parents, Judi was preceded in death by a sister, Sue.

02/04/2026

JoAnn (Collins) Pemberton, 67, of Holden, Missouri, a beacon of kindness and creativity, left us peacefully on Monday, February 2, 2026, at her beloved home.

The family will host a private celebration of life at a later date. Memorials are suggested to Friends of the Friendless. Memories of JoAnn and condolences for the family may be left at www.LedfordFamilyFH.com or on our page. Arrangements have been entrusted to the Ralph O. Jones Funeral Home, 306 S. 2nd Street., Odessa, MO 64076, 816-633-5524.

Born on July 21, 1958, in Kansas City, MO, to John W. Collins and Francine (Mashburn) Sterbenz. JoAnn was a remarkable woman who touched the hearts of many throughout her life. She graduated from Oak Park High School, a testament to her strong foundation that would eventually support her dreams and aspirations. Joann was united in marriage on September 20, 1994, to William “Bart” Barton Pemberton in Holden, Missouri. He preceded her in death on January 24, 2019. JoAnn’s vibrant spirit shone brightly during her career, where she dedicated 17 years to TWA as a baggage handler and later contributed her organizational skills to Trail Boss, serving as a trailer organizer and preparer from 2012 to 2021. JoAnn's work ethic was matched only by her creativity; she had a special talent for crafting exquisite fountains and lanterns, often bringing her artistic visions to life in ways that delighted those around her. Whether etching delicate designs or engaging in other creative pursuits, JoAnn's artistic flair was truly exceptional.

Her love for her family was unmatched, and she took immense pride in the connections she nurtured. JoAnn cherished moments spent with her family and friends. JoAnn's personality embodied warmth and welcoming kindness; friends and family alike were drawn to her gentle spirit. She found great joy not only in her artistic endeavors but also in the companionship of her beloved dogs, Boomer and Buster, who provided her with comfort and companionship.

Among her cherished memories, the laughter shared with her cousin Brian Sadler stands out, encapsulating the deep connections JoAnn fostered throughout her lifetime. Her proudest accomplishments were those found in moments of love and camaraderie shared with her family and friends.

JoAnn is survived by her three stepchildren, Shelly Sante (Joe) of Connellsville, PA, Stephanie Corwin (Kale Locke) of Garden City, MO, and Steven Pemberton of Kansas City, MO; four grandchildren, Justin Hustosky (Stacey), Sarah Corwin, Cody Locke, and Stephen Corwin; three great grandchildren; one sister, Gloria Fines of Kansas City, MO; one sister-in-law, Rebecca Pemberton (Ralph Wheat); two nieces, Carrie Lieurance, and Callie Fines; one nephew, Dustin Fines; five great nieces, Olivia Fines, Alexander Haynes, Layla Lieurance, Jordan Legrair, and Jaden Legrair; cousins, Brian Sadler, and the Collins Cousins, Wanda, Connie, Rick, Curtis, Karen, Terry Moback, and many other family and friends.

JoAnn was preceded in death by her devoted spouse, William Barton Pemberton, and her loving parents, John W. Collins and Francine Sterbenz.