Wilson Mortuary - Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 1000 W Scenic Rivers Boulevard, Salem, MO (2025)

11/15/2025

Sara Ann Hutson was born on September 17, 1980, in Rolla, Missouri. She was the daughter of Ronnie Lee and Kathy Jean (Moritz) Hutson. Sara entered eternal rest November 10, 2025, at home with her family by her side, at the age of forty-five years.

Sara started Pre-School at the Cerebral Palsy School in Rolla and attended Kindergarten through Second Grade at Mark Twain Elementary School. In the Third Grade she transferred to Green Forest R-2 where her mother taught and continued there until starting at Salem High School. Sara graduated with the Class of 2000. She attended Choices for People in Rolla for seven years and later in Salem.

Sara was a true animal lover and cared for her pets including her dogs, guinea pigs, cats, and cows. She was a member of the Evening Star 4-H Club in St. James for twenty years. There she showed her bottle calves. Sara also had a special harness made and enjoyed riding horses. She always had a great time participating in Special Olympics and Camp Barnabas. One of her favorite things to do was go for a car ride, the longer the better!

At the age of one, Ron and Kathy dedicated their precious daughter to the Lord. Later in her life, Sara accepted Christ and her personal Lord and Savior. Despite the physical challenges she faced, she loved the Lord with all her heart and enjoyed attending Sligo Methodist Church with her parents. After church they often visited the park in Steelville where they watched and fed the ducks.

Those left behind to cherish her memory are her loving parents: Ron and Kathy Hutson of Salem, MO; aunt: Sue Fry and husband Chris of Mountain Home, AR; uncles: Joe Thompson of Decorah, IA and Jim Moritz and wife Shirley of Dora, MO; as well as several cousins, extended family, and dear friends.

Sara lived a life marked by unconditional love, strength, and resilience. She touched the lives of many through her gently spirit and ability to persevere. Her spirit will continue to shine through the many lives that loved her most.

11/14/2025

Mary, affectionately known by her middle name, Linda, was the daughter of James and Velma (Sanders) Posey. She was born on December 22, 1949, in Portageville, Missouri, where she grew up. Linda graduated in 1967 from Portageville High School.

On May 17, 1970, Linda was united in marriage to the love of her life, Wilmer Hobson. They were blessed with three children: Crystal, Eddie, and Jimmy. She was endlessly proud of their fifty-five years together and the family they created.

Linda lived a life defined by love, kindness, and quiet strength. She was the heart of her family and found joy in life’s simple moments. Her greatest joys and proudest achievements were her children and grandchildren. She enjoyed capturing memories and creating scrapbooks.

Although Linda primarily focused on her home as a homemaker, devoted wife, and dedicated mother, her role as a Certified Nurse Assistant didn’t go unnoticed. Her kindness, patience, and gentle spirit made her a comfort to those she cared for. She truly loved caring for others.

Linda attended Rock Springs Baptist Church when she was able. Her faith in the Lord was a source of great strength throughout her life. Her love, laughter, and warmth will continue to live on through her family and the many lives she has touched along the way.

Linda entered eternal rest November 7, 2025, in Salem, Missouri, at the age of seventy-five years. She is survived by her loving husband: Wilmer Hobson of Salem, MO; daughter: Crystal Parsons and Bill of Salem, MO; sons: Eddie Hobson and wife Trish of Salem, MO and Jimmy Hobson of Salem, MO; many grandchildren and great-grandchildren; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives, and dear friends.

Preceding her in death were her parents: James and Velma (Sanders) Posey; and siblings: Janie Fout, Bill Posey, and Deanie Duncan.

Linda committed herself wholeheartedly to her family and friends, always going above and beyond for those she loved. She will be forever missed but never forgotten.

11/13/2025

Frank Ted Rauhe, a retired Alton, Illinois, Police Officer and local Alton Burglary Alarm Systems owner and operator, passed away Wednesday, November 12, 2025, at his home in Salem, Missouri, at the age of seventy-eight years.

Frank is survived by his loving family and dear friends.

Leave the family a condolence or share a memory on his tribute page at www.wilsonmortuary.com

11/12/2025

Sara Ann Hutson, 45, of Salem, Missouri, passed away Monday, November 10, 2025, at home with her family by her side.

Visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m. Thursday, November 13, 2025, in the Wilson Mortuary Salem Chapel.

Funeral Services will be held at 12:00 p.m. Thursday, November 13, 2025, in the Wilson Mortuary Salem Chapel. Burial to follow in the Sligo Cemetery. Arrangements are under the direction and care of Wilson Mortuary of Salem, Missouri.

Sara is survived by her loving parents: Ron and Kathy Hutson of Salem, MO; aunt: Sue Fry and husband Chris of Mountain Home, AR; uncles: Joe Thompson of Decorah, IA and Jim Moritz and wife Shirley of Dora, MO; as well as several cousins, extended family, and dear friends.

Leave the family a condolence or share a memory on her tribute page at www.wilsonmortuary.com

11/12/2025

Gary Allen Cooper, 87, of Salem, Missouri, passed away Tuesday, November 11, 2025, in Salem, Missouri.

Visitation will be held from 12:00 p.m. until 1:30 p.m. Saturday, November 15, 2025, at Salem First Baptist Church.

Funeral Services will be held at 1:30 p.m. Saturday, November 15, 2025, at Salem First Baptist Church and will be live streamed on the First Baptist Salem page. Burial with Military Honors to follow in the Miner Cemetery. Arrangements are under the direction and care of Wilson Mortuary of Salem, Missouri.

Gary is survived by his loving wife: Verna Cooper of Salem, MO; children: Kim Cooper of Salem, MO, Gary John Cooper and wife Gabby of Fairview Heights, IL, and Tammy Barrett and husband Mark of Andover, KS; sister: Beverly Millsap and husband Eugene of Salem, MO; sister-in-law: Patsy Cooper of Salem, MO; grandchildren: Robert Cooper and wife Sally Jo, Matthew Cooper, Andrew Cooper and wife Courtney, Brett Barrett, and Aaron Barrett; great-grandchildren: Nicholas, Vivian, Wallace, and Amelia; as well as several nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives, and dear friends.

Preceding him in death were his parents: Charles and Verna (Halbrook) Cooper; infant sister: Barbara Sue Cooper; and brother: Johnny Cooper.

Memorial Contributions may be made in memory of Gary Cooper to the Salem First Baptist Church for Missions and left with Wilson Mortuary. Memorial Envelopes will be available.

Leave the family a condolence or share a memory on his tribute page at https://www.wilsonmortuary.com/obituaries/gary-cooper-46/ #!/TributeWall

11/11/2025

Sharon Suzanne Boyle Wheat was born September 21, 1961, in St. Louis, Missouri, to Charles and Peggy (Barksdale) Willett. She passed November 3, 2025, in St. Louis, Missouri, at the age of sixty-four years.

Always wanting to look her best, Sharon made sure that her hair and makeup were perfect before leaving home. She was a beautiful lady inside and out. Her contagious smile would brighten your day. Her sense of humor made her fun to be around.

Sharon was the proud mother of two daughters: Jennifer and Brittany and one son: Andrew. As a young family they spent many summers making memories on Council Bluff Lake. They enjoyed swimming, picnics, and barbecuing. She was one of a kind, cared for her family, and adored her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Sharon is survived by her husband: Jim Wheat of Park Hills, MO; daughters: Jennifer Stacy and husband Kevin of Salem, MO and Brittany Land and husband Dwayne of Salem, MO; as well as numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, other relatives, and dear friends.

Preceding her in death were her son: Andrew Boyle; parents: Charles and Peggy (Barksdale) Willett; and brother: Paul Willett.

Sharon will be deeply missed but forever remembered by those who knew and loved her.

11/11/2025

Harold W. Hamilton, 71, a resident of Salem, Missouri passed away on Thursday, October 30, 2025, in Rolla, Missouri. He is survived by his companion Jarriel “Jay” Brewer of Salem, MO; his children, Allister Bradley Hamilton and wife Tara of Albuquerque, NM, Mitchell Leigh Hamilton, Courtney Anne Friend and husband Josh and Caitlin Brooke Hamilton and fiancé Jason all of Crocker, MO; siblings: Lynda Asby and husband David of Kansas City, MO, Leslie Booth and husband Dan of Kansas City, MO and David Hamilton and wife Sherry of Selina, KS; several nieces and nephews; his dear friend who he spent many hours antiquing with, Ann Rouse of Columbia, MO; and many other relatives and friends.

Harold was preceded in death by his adoptive parents, Glen and Jean Hamilton; his birth father, Earl Slayton; and his birth mother, Patricia Williams Freeland. He was born on October 28, 1954, in Waynesville, Missouri to Patricia Williams Freeland and was adopted at three days old by the parents who raised him into adulthood, Glen and Jean Hamilton. He was fortunate to have such wonderful adoptive parents during the first 27 years of his life and for the next 27 years of his life, the birth mother who loved him so very, very much. Harold always felt he was very lucky to have such wonderful people in his life. He attended and graduated in 1972 from Salem High School in Salem, Missouri and then attended Southwest Baptist College in Bolivar, Missouri and the University of Missouri- Rolla, before attending St. Louis Community College in St. Louis, Missouri where he received his Associate in Applied Science in Funeral Science Harold lived in Salem, Missouri where he was raised and was very active in the community serving as President of the Salem Chamber of Commerce in 1988, the Dent County Historical Society for two years, and the Dent County Fair Board for five years. He also served on the Oak Hill School District Board for one term. Harold was instrumental in the publishing of the first two Dent County History Books.

While in Salem, Harold owned and operated Hillcrest Florist in Salem for 16 years where he enjoyed using his decorating and arranging skills in serving many customers. Upon moving to Albuquerque, New Mexico, he worked as Department Manager at Foley’s before starting at French Mortuary in January 1996, where he took great pride in serving families in the Albuquerque area. Harold was a member of the Albuquerque Chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution, serving as President for 3 years. He also sang with the New Mexichords Barbershop Choir for a couple years and the New Mexico Gay Men’s Chorus, prior to moving back to his hometown with his companion, partner and best friend, Jay, during the later years of his life.

Harold loved searching for antiques, history, researching genealogy and reading many books. One of the highlights in his life was when Harold found his birthmother and obtained a whole new family. He remained close to each of his families’ right up until his death. Harold was a loving father, son, brother and friend to many and will be deeply missed by all who knew him. Harold’s desire is that part of his cremains are to be scattered on his favorite river in Missouri, the Current River, during a family float trip and the remainder be buried in the family plot in Salem, Missouri. At Harold’s request, only white arrangements of flowers or plants are to be sent to his service and should friends desire, memorial contributions may be made in his name to the Salem Public Library, where he served on the board, and left with Wilson Mortuary.

11/10/2025

David Ray Hedrick was born February 11, 1944, in Elvins, Missouri. He was the son of Claire James and Wilma Beatrice (Highfil) Hedrick. He grew up in Bismarck and graduated from Cherryville High School. After graduating, he enlisted into the United States Army and served his country faithfully until his honorable discharge.

While in high school, he met the love of his life, Joyce K. Payne. On June 28, 1968, they were united in marriage and started their beautiful adventure together creating fifty-seven years of lasting memories. David and Joyce were blessed with three sons: Chance, Creighton, and Chad, and later gained a bonus son: Bryan.

David was a family man and worked hard to provide for his family. He had a successful career in the mines, starting with St. Joseph, then Amax, and retiring from Doe Run after thirty years of dedication. His love for his family was endless, he taught them how to work hard, love deeply, speak honestly, and never take life for granted.

David was an avid outdoorsman and loved sharing that passion with his sons and grandchildren. They have many fond memories hunting and fishing together. His strong faith in the Lord was evident in his life. He was a longtime and active member of the Assembly of God Church in Viburnum.

David passed away October 28, 2025, in Fort Madison, Iowa, at the age of eighty-one years. Those left behind to treasure his memory include his loving wife: Joyce Hedrick of Keosauqua, IA; sons: Chance Hedrick and wife Hilary of Kahoka, MO and Chad Hedrick and wife Katie of Mt. Sterling, IA; brothers: Denny Hedrick and wife Debbie of Barnhardt, MO and Paul Hedrick and wife Sharon of House Springs, MO; grandchildren: Chloe, Chase, Canyon, Anna, and Leah Hedrick; as well as several nieces, nephews, other relatives, and dear friends.

Preceding him in death were his son: Creighton Hedrick; bonus son: Bryan Hedrick; parents: Claire and Wilma (Highfil) Hedrick; and brothers: LaDon and Gary Hedrick.

His positive impact on the lives he touched will be treasured forever. His legacy will live on in those who loved him most. David will be deeply missed.

11/10/2025

William Ray Hutson, 91, of Salem, Missouri, entered eternal rest on May 24, 2025. He passed peacefully, surrounded by loved ones, after a brief but courageous battle with lung cancer.

William was born on January 16, 1934, in Greenly, Missouri, to loving parents Lola “Short” Hutson and Lee Wesley Hutson. The family came to settle in Boss, Missouri. Growing up in the Ozarks instilled in him a deep love for the land, a strong work ethic, and an appreciation for the simple joys of life.

As a young man, William set out from his childhood home in search of new opportunities, eventually finding his way to California. There, he built a long and steady career as a skilled machinist with Bell & Howell in Pasadena, California. His dedication, integrity, and strong sense of responsibility earned him the respect of his colleagues and friends alike.

In the late 1950s, William married and was blessed with two children, John and Jean Hutson of Altadena, California. Though he embraced his life and work on the West Coast, William’s heart always remained in Missouri, close to his roots and the countryside he loved so deeply.

Upon his retirement from Bell & Howell, William fulfilled his lifelong dream of returning home. After marrying his second wife, Opal Hutson, the two made their way back to the familiar hills of Missouri, where they shared a quiet, contented life together. Their days were filled with simple pleasures — tending to their home, visiting with friends and family, and enjoying the peace of rural living.

Later, William and Opal moved to Salem, Missouri, where William found continued purpose working with Kraft Foods, a position he faithfully held well until the age of 80. His remarkable work ethic and unwavering spirit were an inspiration to all who knew him.

Following Opal’s passing, William returned to California to live with his children, where he spent his remaining years surrounded by family and cherished memories.

William was an outdoorsman through and through. He found his greatest joy in nature — hunting, fishing, and spending long hours under the open sky. He was a storyteller at heart, often recalling tales of his early days on the farm, raising hogs, and the adventures of growing up in the country. His stories carried both humor and wisdom, and those who heard them will hold them dear for years to come.

William will be laid to rest in his hometown at Boss Cemetery, beside his beloved family — his grandparents, John Wesley and Sarah Hutson; his parents, Lee Wesley and Lola “Short” Hutson. He is also preceded in death by his siblings, Bertha (Hutson) Pyatt, Opal (Hutson) Floyd, Dolly (Hutson) Labruyere, Paul Hutson, and Cletus Hutson.

He is survived by his loving children, Jean and John Hutson; Robin Hammond; and Tracy Snyder-Maldonado; along with his cherished niece, Doris Heacock. William’s legacy also lives on through his many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and a wide circle of cousins, nieces, nephews, and dear friends who were blessed by his kindness and generosity.

William’s life was a testament to hard work, love of family, and faith in the value of simple living. He was proud of his heritage and never forgot where he came from.

“You can take a boy from the country, but you can’t take the country out of the boy.”

A Graveside Service honoring the life of William Ray Hutson will be held at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, November 15, 2025, in the Boss Cemetery in Boss, Missouri. Family and friends are invited to gather in remembrance of a life well lived and a man deeply loved. Arrangements are under the direction of Wilson Mortuary of Salem, Missouri.

11/08/2025

Mary “Linda” (Posey) Hobson, 75, of Salem, Missouri, passed away Friday, November 7, 2025, in Salem, Missouri.

Visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, November 12, 2025, in the Wilson Mortuary Salem Chapel.

Funeral Services will be held at 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, November 12, 2025, in the Wilson Mortuary Salem Chapel. Burial to follow in the Carty Cemetery. Arrangements are under the direction and care of Wilson Mortuary of Salem, Missouri.

Linda is survived by her loving husband: Wilmer Hobson of Salem, MO; daughter: Crystal Parsons and Bill of Salem, MO; sons: Eddie Hobson and wife Trish of Salem, MO and Jimmy Hobson of Salem, MO; many grandchildren and great-grandchildren; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives, and dear friends.

Preceding her in death were her parents: James and Velma (Sanders) Posey; and siblings: Janie Fout, Bill Posey, and Deanie Duncan.

Leave the family a condolence or share a memory on her tribute page at https://www.wilsonmortuary.com/obituaries/mary-hobson-3/ #!/TributeWall

11/07/2025

Beverly Ann (Ellerman) Edwards-Mace, 79, of Salem, Missouri, passed away Thursday, November 6, 2025, in Rolla, Missouri.

Visitation will be held from 11:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. Monday, November 10, 2025, in the Wilson Mortuary Salem Chapel.

Funeral Services will be held at 1:00 p.m. Monday, November 10, 2025, in the Wilson Mortuary Salem Chapel. Burial to follow in the Cedar Grove Cemetery. Arrangements are under the direction and care of Wilson Mortuary of Salem, Missouri.

Beverly is survived by her grandson: Brandon Biele and wife Leah of Rolla, MO; husband: Larry Mace of Plato, MO; son: David Biele and wife Ginger of Lenox, MO; brother: Leland Ellerman and wife Rhonda of Salem, MO; grandchildren: Alec Biele and wife TK of Lenox, MO and Whitney Leek and spouse Tabby of Rolla, MO; great-grandchildren: C**t, Cash, Aiden, and Alahney Biele; daughters-in-love: Vickie Brown and Jessie Wolfe; as well as several nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives, and dear friends.

Preceding her in death were her first husband: Delmar Nivens; second husband: Robert Edwards; parents: Roy and Alma (Johnson) Ellerman; close aunt: Tressie Johnson; and special family members: Betty Adams and Tammy Davis.

Leave the family a condolence or share a memory on her tribute page at https://www.wilsonmortuary.com/obituaries/beverly-edwards-mace/ #!/TributeWall

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