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As of Wednesday, Sept. 11, 2024
Cities without a state are in Missouri
Jan. 25, 1985 – Jan. 25, 1985
Adam David Hensley, 39, passed away on August 29, 2024, after a courageous battle with cancer. He was born on Jan. 25, 1985, in Joplin to David and Laurie (Craig) Hensley.
He was a graduate of Webb City High School in 2003. Adam worked as a meat cutter at Price Cutter in Aurora. His passion for the outdoors was a defining aspect of his character. He found joy in fishing, a hobby that allowed him to connect with nature and find peace. His love for animals was unparalleled; over the years, he cared for a diverse array of pets, including a duck, lemur, squirrel, and monkey, each of which added a unique and joyful chapter to his life story. Adam’s adventurous spirit was also embodied in his love for his Jeep. Above all, Adam cherished the time spent with friends and family.
Adam is survived by his loving wife, Anna Bell (Burnett) Hensley; his parents, David and Laurie Hensley; siblings, Amy Ghidotti (David) and Andy Hensley (Christina); stepchildren, Jacob, Josh, and Victoria; and his nieces and nephews, Nikki Hensley, Riley Hensley, and Paxton Ghidotti.
A memorial service was held Tuesday, Sept. 10, 2024, at Parker Mortuary. Arrangements were under the direction of Hedge-Lewis-Goodwin Funeral Home.
July 26, 1963 – Sept. 4, 2024
Diane Louise Johnson, 61, passed away Wednesday, Sept. 4, 2024, at her home in Webb City.
She was born July 26,1963 in Parsons, Kan., to Betty and Joe Willis. She attended Parsons schools.
Diane had a passion for arts and crafts, which was only matched by her love for animals, gardening, and enjoying the simple pleasure of sitting outside. Her home was a welcoming space filled with the beauty of her crafts and the tranquility of her garden. Diane was a creative soul.
Diane is survived by her son TJ Lamb, of Frontenac; a grandson (Kaden); five siblings, Marcia Ellis, Celiece Dhooghe, and Steve Willis (Ginger), of Parsons, Tina Arb (Rocky), Altamont and Lynn Myers (Brad), Afton.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Joe and Betty Willis and her brother James “Jim” Martin Willis.
A Celebration of Diane’s life will be held at a later date. Arrangements are under the direction of Parker Mortuary.
Aug. 14, 1946 – Sept. 3, 2024
Paul Matthew Thom, age 78, a cherished father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away peacefully at Mercy Hospital in Carthage on Tuesday morning, Sept. 3, 2024, following a recent decline in health. He entered this life on Aug. 14, 1946, in Elgin, Ill., one of two sons born to the union of the late Matthew and Virginia (Newman) Thom.
Raised in Wilmot, Wisc., Paul was a graduate of Wilmot High School, class of 1964. His early career began with his hands skillfully working as a mechanic and later in the ski Shop at Wilmot Mountain, where he first cultivated his lifelong passion for skiing. From 1969 to 1973, Paul honed his technical skills as an engineering tech at American Motors in Kenosha, Wisc., contributing to the innovation of the automotive industry during a dynamic era.
In 1973, Paul’s adventurous spirit led him to the majestic slopes of Vail, Colo., where he embraced the mountain lifestyle and became a beloved ski instructor for Vail Resorts. His love for skiing was infectious, and he spent over three decades teaching others to share in the joy of the sport. Paul retired in 2006, leaving behind a legacy of enthusiasm and expertise on the slopes that will be remembered by many.
Paul’s interests extended beyond the ski trails; he was an avid enthusiast of old cars and motorcycles, finding joy in the restoration and preservation of these classic machines. His hands, always skilled and sure, brought many an engine back to life, and his knowledge of vintage vehicles was vast and impressive.
He is survived by his loving daughter, Jill Gracia and her husband, Guy, of Carthage. Paul’s legacy continues through his four grandchildren, Eric Thom, Meghan Burnett, Jordan Toscano and Steven Long, as well as his 13 great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandson. He also leaves behind his brother, Michael Thom of Madison, Wisc.
Arrangements were under the direction ofHedge-Lewis-Goodwin Funeral Home.
Aug. 12, 1947 – Sept. 2, 2024
Patricia Joy Townsend, known affectionately as Patti and often referred to as “Tiger,” was born on Aug. 12, 1947, in Stockton, Calif. She passed away peacefully on Sept. 2, 2024, in Joplin, where she had made her home for many years.
Patti graduated from Webb City High School in 1965 and later attended Franklin Tech. Throughout her professional life, she showcased her talents in various roles, serving as an accountant and co-owning a business called Gifts With A Sassy Attitude with her best friend Jeannie. Patti was also a dedicated notary, known for her meticulous attention to detail.
An avid cook, she had a particular fondness for shrimp lo mein and white chili, often experimenting with new recipes. She had a taste for the finer things in life, which some described as having “champagne taste on a beer budget.” Her home, a place she cherished and took great pride in, was a reflection of her elegant style.
Patti was deeply committed to her community. She volunteered with the Department of Social Services for the Veterans Affairs division and received a certificate of appreciation for her service with American Legion Post 322. Her straightforward nature and willingness to share her opinions endeared her to many, while her loyalty and nurturing spirit allowed her to take many people under her wing throughout her life.
Though she had no children or grandchildren, Patricia is remembered fondly for her generosity and compassion. She leaves behind a legacy of service and style that will not be forgotten. Arrangements are under the direction of Ozark Memorial Park.
Feb. 7, 1952 – Sept. 5, 2024
James D “Jim” Whitfield, 72, of Oronogo, passed away at 10:51 a.m. on Thursday, Sept. 5, 2024, at Mercy Hospital Springfield after a lengthy illness.
Jim was born on Feb. 7, 1952, in Springfield. He resided in several places, including Bolivar, El Dorado Springs, Columbia, Tallahassee, Fla., Macon, Jefferson City and Oronogo.
He was an avid baseball player from the time he was little through college, where he was a very good pitcher. He graduated from Southwest Baptist University in Bolivar. He loved his Lord and Savior and his family. He was always trying to help family members by making their lives better somehow.
He was a Missouri State Highway Patrolman, serving in the following ranks, trooper, corporal, sergeant, lieutenant and finally as captain. He also served undercover. He was an instructor at the recruit academy in Jefferson City for several years. He was of the Baptist faith.
He is survived his sister, Julie Whitfield, Oronogo.
He was preceded in death by his parents, James L. Whitfield and Peggy Masters Whitfield.
A graveside service was held Tuesday, Sept. 10, 2024, at the Stockton City Cemetery in Stockton. Bruce Reed, pastor, and Johnnie Hoggatt officiated.
Memorial Contributions may be made to Cancer Research or Brain Stem Injuries in care of Mason-Woodard Mortuary.
The Webb City Sentinel isn’t a newspaper – but it used to be, serving Webb City, Missouri, in print from 1879-2020. This “newspaper” seeks to carry on that tradition as a nonprofit corporation.
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