As of Wednesday, July 9, 2025
Cities without a state are in Missouri
Feb. 14, 1960 – June 11, 2025
On Feb. 14, 1960, a beacon of compassion named Valerie Kay Bricker (Rupe) was born in Webb City. Valerie was a woman who lived her life in service of others; her spirit and humor touched many lives in her 65 years. Her beautiful journey came to a peaceful end on June 11, 2025.
Valerie was a loving wife who was married on the 10th of August, 1983, to Sidney Bricker. She was a dedicated mother to her son, Joshua (Melanie) Bricker, and a daughter, Jennifer Roland; grandkids, Alex Ritter, Ben Roland, Samuel Roland, Blake Brozeck, Sidney Bricker and Sophia Bricker; and great-granddaughter, Constance Marie Ritter.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Alfred and Ruth Rupe; brothers, Samuel Rupe, Larry Rupe and David Rupe.
Valerie led a life of service as an Air Force veteran and a homemaker raising two children. Her commitment to the community was further demonstrated through her involvement as a Sunday School teacher at Cave Springs Baptist Church. Valerie wasn’t just reliable, she was the embodiment of consistency and trust. She was the rock that people could lean on in times of need.
Valerie’s life was centered around her relationship with God, her family, and her students. Her hobbies included arts and crafts. Valerie was a resident of Joplin for most of her life and was an integral part of the local community.
Services are under the direction of Simpson Funeral Home.
July 17, 1964 – July 7, 2025
Mr. Donnie Joe Clemons, 60, of Webb City, departed this life on Monday, July 7, 2025, in the comfort of his home.
Arrangements are under the care of Hedge-Lewis-Goodwin Funeral Home.
Nov. 27, 1949 – June 20, 2025
Claude L. Evans, 84, of Oronogo, passed away June 17, 2025. A visitation was held Friday June 20, 2025 at Simpson Funeral Home.
Claude was buried in Ozark Memorial Park Cemetery following the visitation.
Feb. 27, 1985 – July 3, 2025
Krystal Elaine Flathers, 40, of Oronogo, departed this life on Thursday, July 3, 2025, in the comfort of her home.
Arrangements are under the direction of Hedge-Lewis-Goodwin Funeral Home.
Sept. 11, 1940 – June 19, 2025
Lowell “Skip” H. Stone Jr., of Webb City, passed away peacefully on June 19, 2025 at the age of 84. A beloved husband, father, and grandfather, Skip was known for his hard work, dedication, and warm heart.
He was born in Tulsa, Okla., on Sept. 11, 1940, to his late parents Lowell H. Stone and Ellen H. (Ford) Stone. Skip was a dedicated husband to his loving wife Sue Burnett and a loving father to their three children, Joe, Brad and Alizabeth.
Skip worked at FAG Bearing until his retirement and wore many hats during his time with the company.
The family will hold a private remembrance at a later date. Arrangements are under the direction of Mason Woodard Mortuary.
Dec. 21, 1944 – June 23, 2025
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the peaceful passing of David Earl Tourtelot, age 80, of Joplin, on June 23, 2025.
David was a man full of warmth, humility, and quiet strength. He was kind and gentle. He began each day with a smile and made those around him feel seen, accepted and deeply loved.
He graduated from Joplin High School and then Missouri Southern State University with a bachelor’s degree in business. He worked as manager for Binswanger Glass for many years before retiring.
An exceptional golfer, David found joy in the time spent with friends on the course. He loved celebrating all of life’s moments with genuine joy. He was always present, always proud. His words carried wisdom, and his gratitude was heartfelt. Being around David always brought love and laughter.
David and his wife, Cindy, shared over 36 years of a joy filled marriage. He was a devoted father to Jeff Tourtelot and became a steady, loving presence in the lives of Troy, Jeff, and Matt Stovern after the loss of their father. David simply showed up with love, grace, and consistency, helping shape the wonderful men they are today. Along with his wife and sons, David is also survived by his daughters-in-law, Kristin Stovern and Aston Stovern; his stepson, Scott Johnson; his grandchildren, Rylee Munch (Nolan), Sam, Tressa, Grayson, Max, and Gage Stovern; and his great-grandchildren Sawyer and Charlotte Munch.
In addition to his parents, Dale and Warrena, David was preceded in death by his brother Danny Tourtelot.
Arrangements were under the special care and direction of Parker Mortuary.
July 27, 1945 – June 30, 2025
Glenda Kay Vandergrift, born on July 27, 1945, in Mt Vernon, entered into eternal rest on June 30, 2025. A cherished and beloved member of the Carterville community, where she resided for 55 years, Glenda was a beacon of love, dedication, support, and humor.
As city clerk of Carterville, she worked tirelessly to ensure the smooth running of city affairs. Glenda was also a devoted secretary for the Carterville Cemetery Association. Beyond her work, she liked reading and crochet, and hobbies that reflected her love for learning and creativity. Glenda’s greatest joy, however, was her family, especially her grand and great-grandchildren. To them, she was not just a grandmother but a friend, confidante, and source of boundless love and support. Glenda was a rock, a guiding light, and the heart of her family.
Glenda is survived by her loving children, Glenna Vandergrift, Mikel (Becky) Vandergrift and Matthew (Misty) Vandergrift; five grandchildren; and 11 great-grandchildren. She now joins in heavenly rest her parents, Herbert and Elva Long; and siblings, Paul, Bob, Steve, Virginia, Ruth and Glenna.
Contributions may be made to the American Red Cross or the Carterville Cemetery Association.
Services are under the personal care and direction of Simpson Funeral Home.
Oct. 20, 1925 – June 20, 2025
Mary Louise Werries, age 99, passed away on Friday, June 20, 2025 at her home in Webb City.
Arrangements are made with Midland Cremation Society.
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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