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Monday 8:30am - 3pm Tuesday 8:30am - 3pm Wednesday 8:30am - 3pm Thursday 8:30am - 3pm Friday 8:30am - 3pm

Fitch-Hillis Funeral Home, 366 College Street, Poplar Bluff, MO (2025)

11/10/2025

Paul Junior Miller, a lifelong resident of Butler County, died Friday, November 7, 2025 at Poplar Bluff Regional Medical Center at the age of 88 years. He was born on March 13, 1937 at C**n Island (Vastus), Missouri, to Hubert and Gertrude (Bryant) Miller. Paul married Nona (Chidester) Dollins on March 14, 1963 in Corning, Arkansas, and “obeyed” his wife for 56 years, until her passing in 2019.

An avid outdoorsman, Paul loved Missouri’s November deer season, a good rabbit or squirrel hunting trip with his trusty shotgun, close at hand, or fishing. When hunting seasons were over, he enjoyed a visit to Mingo viewing wildlife in the company of family and friends. You could always find him tending to the yard, on his lawnmower, or working in the garden.

Paul loved people. He was employed by Doctor’s Regional Medical Center and later Three Rivers Healthcare accomplishing more than 40 years of employment as a patient transporter. He never met a stranger and could strike up a conversation with anyone. He loved his friends and neighbors. If you were his friend, you knew that he had a huge heart and was a caring and giving man. His life was lived very simply and never overly complicated, just like he liked it. He was always “proud to see” everyone that stopped by.

He is survived by his stepchildren, Wayne (Brenda) Dollins, Wappapello, MO; Harry (Carol) Dollins, Dardenne Prairie, MO; Brenda (Bobby) Peterson, Delta Junction, Alaska; Gary (Carol) Dollins, Benton, KY; and daughter-in-law Cynthia Dollins, Poplar Bluff, MO; along with numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren.

Paul was preceded in death by his parents, Hubert and Gertrude Miller; wife, Nona Miller; bother, J. D. Miller, and stepson, Jimmy Dollins, Sr.

He will be laid to rest in the Ash Hill Cemetery near Fisk, MO. A memorial will be held at a later date.

11/08/2025

Florence Hurt Weber April 20, 1927-November 7, 2025
Florence was a woman crafted of hardship and bravery. She knew instinctively the difference between right and wrong and lived her life in that manner but with empathy. She loved her family dearly and defended their right to live their lives according to their own desires. She and Ray valued education, paying for college for their two daughters, a son-in-law and two grandsons with only their middle class income.
Florence was born to Lula and Elisha Hurt at her parent’s farm home in the mountains of Hazard, Kentucky. She was the oldest daughter of 11 children, helping her mother raise her siblings. She has four surviving siblings: Zora, Wilbert, Marie and Marshall. She met her husband, Ray; at the naval base in Waugegan after WWII. They married and moved to Poplar Bluff when the VA hospital opened. They were partners for 67 years with him being the life of the party and her holding our feet to the ground. She and Ray have two daughters, Deborah Finley/Steve Moore and Donna Pyles/Jerry, who survive. Also surviving are grandsons Jerad/April Pyles, Shade Finley, and Wesley/Kyleigh Pyles and one great-grandson, Jackson.
Florence will be remembered for her great smile, her love of family and nature, her “creek walks” and her fabulous cooking. Private graveside service is planned. Donations may be made to Elara Caring. The family thanks her caregivers with whose help they were able to keep Florence in her own home: Jennifer, Mary, Brittany and John.
Graveside service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Tuesday, November 18, 2025, in Poplar Bluff City Cemetery. Inurnment will follow funeral service at City Cemetery in Poplar Bluff. Fitch-Hillis Funeral Home is assisting with all arrangements.

11/04/2025

Leta Martin Banther, born on January 5, 1943, at Eglin Air Force Base, Florida, went home to be with her Lord and Savior, on November 2, 2025, after a life lived with grace, love, and unwavering faith. She was the cherished daughter of the late Clay Martin and Genevieve (Luke) Goodrich.
On January 2, 1982, she married the love of her life, Jim Banther, beginning a beautiful journey that spanned over four decades. Together, they built a family grounded in love, faith, and service to others.
She was a devoted mother to her beloved children: the late Mark Gibson, Lisa Pitts, Flint Banther (wife Melissa), Mandy Oberton (husband Jason), Christina Brown, and Casey Banther. Her joy multiplied with the arrival of 13 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren, each of whom she cherished deeply.
She is survived by her sisters, Mozelle Beaver and JeanE Martin; stepbrothers Nick and Mike Goodrich; stepsister Jenny Luebbers; and many nieces and nephews who adored her. Her family was her heart, and she loved them with a gentle strength that left an indelible mark on each of their lives.
She was a woman of remarkable talents and creativity. She found joy in sewing and painting, pouring her heart into each piece she crafted. Her talents were matched only by her commitment to serving others. A caring and detail-oriented professional, she worked as a Social Security claims representative and later dedicated several years as a tax preparer in multiple states.
Faith was the foundation of her life. She was a passionate follower of Christ, leading Christian home fellowship groups for 12 years across three different churches. She touched countless lives with her wisdom, love, and steadfast faith—always teaching others what it meant to walk in the light of Jesus.
Her service extended beyond the church, as she played a key role in the local chapter of “Sleep in Heavenly Peace,” a volunteer group dedicated to safe and warm beds for children in need. It is safe to say that hundreds of children will go to sleep tonight under one of Leta’s handmade blankets. Her compassion was tangible, and her legacy will continue through the many lives she uplifted.
Those who knew her will remember her gentle spirit, her subtle sense of humor, and the way she never met a stranger. Her faith was evident in every conversation, every act of kindness, and every moment she lived. She leaves behind a legacy of love, faith, and grace that will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.
A celebration of Leta’s life will be held by her Agee Fellowship Church family on Saturday, November 22 at 3:00 p.m. She will be deeply missed, but we rejoice knowing she is now at peace in the arms of her Creator. “Well done, good and faithful servant.” – Matthew 25:

10/31/2025

Berry Kevin Sullivan, 66, of Poplar Bluff, Missouri, passed away Monday, October 27, 2025.
He was born October 25, 1959, to Bobbie Joe Sullivan and Wanda (McNew) Sullivan.
Berry was a life-long resident of Poplar Bluff. He loved watching old westerns especially John Wayne. He loved being outside and working as a foreman for over 36 years for Townsend Tree Service. Berry loved to spend time with his family and friends.
Berry is survived by his son Daniel (Kelly) Sullivan; daughter Karen (Marty) Reese; three brothers, David Sullivan, Timothy Sullivan, and Tony Sullivan; four grandchildren, Alexander Sullivan, Ezekiel Sullivan, Kaia Sloan, and Ashtyn Reese. Berry is preceded in death by his parents, Bobbie Joe and Wanda Sullivan, two brothers, Bobbie Sullivan, and Joe Allen Sullivan; and one sister, Carol Zurhorst. A host of family and friends survive.
Graveside service will be held on Saturday, November 1, 2025, at 1:00 p.m. at Poplar Bluff City Cemetery. Fitch-Hillis Funeral Home is assisting with all arrangements.
Condolences may be made online at www.fitchhillisfh.com or on the Fitch-Hillis page.

10/31/2025

Ola Mae Deffendall, 82, of Poplar Bluff, Missouri, passed away on Thursday, October 30, 2025.
She was born on August 08, 1943, in Stoddard County, Missouri to Jessie Deffendall and Ola (Smith) Deffendall.
Ola Mae was a long-time resident of Poplar Bluff. She enjoyed coloring and spending time with her family.
Ola Mae is survived by two brothers, Edward Deffendall of Reeves, Missouri, and Gene Deffendall of Van Buren, Missouri; and two sisters Dorothy O’Kelley of Poplar Bluff, and Doris Kalkbrenner of Poplar Bluff. She is preceded in death by her parents, Jessie and Ola Deffendall; and three brothers, Eddie Deffendall, James Deffendall, and Ricky Deffendall. A host of family and friends survive.
Visitation will be held at 10:30 at Fitch-Hillis Funeral Chapel. Funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, November 3, 2025, at Fitch-Hillis Funeral Chapel with Brother Kenny Durham officiating. Interment will follow funeral service at Poplar Bluff City Cemetery. Fitch- Hillis Funeral Home is assisting with all funeral arrangements.
Condolences may be made online at www.fitchhillisfh.com or on the Fitch-Hillis page.

10/22/2025

Phillip Howard Whitley, 70, of Poplar Bluff, Missouri, passed away Tuesday, October 21, 2025, in his home with his loving wife, Jenni and niece, Paige, by his side.
He was born October 23, 1954, to Joseph Whitley, Sr. and Betty (Butler) Whitley.
On December 29, 2000, Phillip married Jenni Oesterheld.
Phillip studied music at Jacksonville State University. After he graduated, he taught band in public school and eventually became a school administrator. Changing his career path completely when he was 44, Phillip pursued a career in IT. He spent 17 years with T-Systems and before retiring, was the Service Desk manager for North America.
Phillip enjoyed hiking and long-distance cycling with Jenni. Together they traveled to 39 national parks. They enjoyed countless jazz concerts and cruises, watched each and every Alabama football game, and spent significant time with their family and friends.
After retiring, Phillip and Jenni moved to Mexico for 18 months. Upon their return to the U.S., they purchased a motorhome and spent the next 4 years in “nomad mode”, traveling the country.
Phillip is survived by his wife Jenni Whitley; three brothers, Joe (Sue) Whitley, David (Alison) Whitley, Bryan (Ginger) Whitley; and many nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by parents Joseph and Betty Whitley; and one brother Michael Whitley.
A private family ceremony is planned.
Fitch-Hillis Funeral Home is assisting with all arrangements.
Condolences may be made online at www.fitchhillisfh.com or on the Fitch-Hillis page.

10/22/2025

Maggie June Smith, 66, of Poplar Bluff, Missouri, passed away on Friday, October 17, 2025, at Poplar Bluff Regional Medical Center.

She was born on March 03, 1959, to Jeff Casteel and Josephine (Boyer) Casteel. On October 11, 2003, Maggie married William Edgar Smith.

She enjoyed going fishing, crocheting, playing cards on family game night. Maggie especially enjoyed spending time with her family.

Maggie is survived by one son, Mickey Overton; one daughter, Melissa Overton; one brother Jim (Jr.); one sister, Mary; ten grandchildren; and six great grandchildren. Maggie is preceded in death by her parents, Jeff Castell and Josephine Mayo; one son, Melvin Overton; one brother, Frank Casteel; and three sisters, Bertha Herfer, Linda Little, and Sheila Casteel. A host of family and friends survive.

Celebration of Life will be from 10 – 12 on Monday, October 27, 2025, at Fitch-Hillis Funeral Chapel. Interment will follow at 1 p.m. at Missouri State Veterans Cemetery in Bloomfield, Missouri. Fitch- Hillis Funeral Home is assisting with all funeral arrangements.

Condolences may be made online at www.fitchhillisfh.com or on the Fitch-Hillis page.

To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Maggie June Smith, please visit our flower store.

10/07/2025

Joann Balakoski, 75, of Doniphan, Missouri, passed away on September 30, 2025, at Poplar Bluff Regional Medical Center, with her loving family by her side.
She was born on August 10, 1950, in Long Island, New York, to Joseph G. Balakoski and Lillian (Smith) Balakoski.
Joann enjoyed making Ukrainian eggs; she loved animals. She loved spending time with her family, especially taking her great niece and nephew for walks.
Joann is survived by her sister Jodi Greggs; three nieces, Sarah (William Studdard) Greggs, Jolene Balakoski Evans, and Sally Jo Conner; one nephew Joseph Balakoski, III; four great nieces and nephews, Lilla Ann Davidson, Hunter Daidson, Amelia Studdard, and Lainey Conner. Joann is preceded in death by her parents, Joseph and Lillian Balakoski. A host of family and friends survive.
Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. Fitch- Hillis Funeral Home is assisting with all funeral arrangements.
Condolences may be made online at www.fitchhillisfh.com or on the Fitch-Hillis page.

10/07/2025

Marvin Clinton Kingery, 80, of Poplar Bluff, Missouri, passed away peacefully at his home on Friday, October 3, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.
He was born October 31, 1944, in C**n Island, Missouri, to Clinton Kingery and Georgia Eaton. Marvin was of the Baptist faith and had been a faithful member of Westwood Baptist Church since the late 1980s.
He enjoyed the simple pleasures of life – fishing, hunting, and moving lawns – and especially loved spending time with his family and friends.
Marvin is survived by three daughters, Karen Kingery (Brian), Kimberly Leonard (Rod), and Brandy (Dan) Kesler-Olmstead; one son, Gregory (Laura) Kingery; one sister, Mary (Roy) Borders; eleven grandchildren; one great-grandchild; and many close friends, including Martha and Lonny Eldridge, and Kurt and Sonya DiCiro.
He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Devora (Peace) Kingery; and his parents, Clinton and Georgia Kingery.
Visitation will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, October 11, 2025, at Westwood Baptist Church of Poplar Bluff. Funeral services will follow at 12:00 p.m., with Pastor Dave Young officiating. Interment will follow at Poplar Bluff City Cemetery. Fitch-Hillis Funeral Home is assisting with arrangements.
Condolences may be shared online at www.fitchhillisfh.com or on the Fitch-Hillis Funeral Home page.

10/03/2025

Paul Richard Davis, 72, of Poplar Bluff, Missouri, passed away Sunday, September 28, 2025.
He was born October 08, 1952, in Poplar Bluff, Missouri, to George Davis and Barbara Jean Brockman.
He was a long-time resident of Poplar Bluff. Paul enjoyed horseback riding, BBQing, hunting, and fishing. He loved to spend time with his family and friends.
Paul is survived two sons, Richard Davis and family, and Stephen Davis and family; one brother George Randall Davis; one sister Patricia Lynn McKee; and five grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his parents, George and Barbara Jean Davis. A host of family and friends survive.
Visitation will be held at 10:00 a.m., on Monday, October 6, 2025, at Fitch-Hillis Funeral Home. Funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m., on Monday, October 6, 2025, at Fitch-Hillis Funeral Chapel. Interment will follow at Memorial Gardens Cemetery of Polar Bluff. Fitch-Hillis Funeral Home is assisting with all arrangements.
Condolences may be made online at www.fitchhillisfh.com or on the Fitch-Hillis page.

09/26/2025

Warren Chester Sherrick, 64, of Lowndes, passed away Thursday, August 28, 2025 at Poplar Bluff Regional Medical Center.
He was born June 12, 1961 in St. Louis, Missouri, to Lloyd Sherrick and Deloris (Pallent) Sherrick. On June 7, 2022 he married Tina Black in Desoto, Missouri.
Warren enjoyed deer hunting, fishing, riding 4wheelers with his son, and spending time with his family.
Warren is survived by his loving wife Tina Sherrick; one son, Hunter Sherrick; and several nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his parents, Lloyd and Deloris Sherrick; and one son Jonathon Hasten. A host of family and friends survive.
Celebration of Life will be planned for a later date. Fitch-Hillis Funeral Home is assisting with all arrangements.
Condolences may be made online at www.fitchhillisfh.com or on the Fitch-Hillis page.

09/22/2025

Ryan Scott Barksdale, 31, born on September 11, 1994, in New Bern, North Carolina was sent to his eternal home on September 19, 2025 at 10:45 p.m. in Poplar Bluff, Missouri, due to an accident.
Ryan was always cheerful and happy. He was a shining light in the lives of all who had the privilege of knowing him. He had a rare gift for making others smile and laugh. He was busy working three jobs. He had a love for food, especially pizza. He had a place in his heart for animals, especially turtles. He was passionate about basketball, music, and games. He loved his dog, Zoe. He cherished his relationships with family, friends, and making memories with his life partner Brittany. He was humble and kind to all. Let his smile shine through your sadness.
He is survived by his two sons Jace and Hunter Barksdale of Windsor, New York. His loving mother Christina Barksdale of Beaver Dam, Kentucky. His brother Cory and nephew Landon Putnam of Beaver Dam, Kentucky. His loving grandmother Janet Hodge of Beaver Dam, Kentucky. His significant other Brittany Freed of Poplar Bluff, Missouri.
He was preceded in death by his father Bryan Barksdale of Delta, Alabama. His grandfather's Ricky Hodge of Delta, Alabama and William Barksdale of Buxton, N.C.
The Celebration of Life service to honor the life of Ryan Scott Barksdale will be held on October 26th, 2025, at 4:00p.m. at Fuji Japanese Cuisine at 1385 N. Westwood Blvd Poplar Bluff, Missouri 63901.

Fitch-Hillis Funeral Home

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Monday	8:30am - 3pm
Tuesday	8:30am - 3pm
Wednesday	8:30am - 3pm
Thursday	8:30am - 3pm
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