As of Wednesday, Jan. 28, 2026
Cities without a state are in Missouri
Dec. 21, 1951 – Jan. 24, 2026
Jannell Kay Haner, born on Dec. 21, 1951, in Alba, to her mother, Roberta Medders, was a beacon of laughter and creativity. She had an adventurous spirit that was contagious, always finding a way to make those around her smile with her witty humor and vivacious personality. Jannell was a lover of the great outdoors, a passion that shone through in her stunning nature photography and was a testament to her creative soul.
Jannell, originally an Armstrong, spent the vast majority of her years in Webb City, before settling in Carterville with her husband Jim “Big” Haner. She was the heart and soul of the local tavern, where she spent many years as a bartender. Her quick wit and radiant smile made her a favorite among patrons. She had a knack for turning any ordinary day into an extraordinary one, her laughter resonating through the establishment, leaving a lasting impression on all who were fortunate enough to know her.
Widowed, and having outlived her beloved mother and father, Carl Koch and Roberta Medders, and her loving husband Jim “Big” Haner, what mattered most to Jannell were her family and her cats. She is survived by her son Brent (Loye) Pierce, of Jasper; stepson, Cody (Karissa) Haner, of Carl Junction; stepdaughter, Maranda Haner, of Springfield; brother, Steve (Carol) Koch; five grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.
She had a heart that was as vast as the Missouri skies, with a capacity for love that was truly unparalleled. She believed that family was not just an important thing, it was everything. Her love for her cats, her companions in solitude and joy, was a reflection of her deep kindness and compassion.
Services are under the direction of Simpson Funeral Home. As you reflect on her life, remember the words of Dr. Seuss, “Don’t cry because it’s over, smile because it happened.” Jannell brought joy, adventure, and creativity to our lives. Let’s celebrate and remember her in the same spirit.
March 9, 1956 – Jan. 17, 2026
Royal Arthur Miller, 69, of Webb City, went home to be with the Lord at 11:50 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 17, 2026, surrounded by loved ones at his home.
Royal Arthur Miller, lovingly known as “Bear,” was born on March 9, 1956, in Monroe, Wisconsin, to Evelyn (Kahl) Miller and Gaylord Miller.
Bear married the love of his life, Sally, on July 10, 1980. He was a semi-truck driver for more than 30 years. Bear attended church at Spring Grove Apostolic Faith and New Living Faith and Fire in Galena, Kan. His hobbies included woodworking, fishing, camping, watching westerns (with John Wayne being his favorite), going to church, and passionately cheering for the Green Bay Packers. More than anything, Bear loved spending time with his family and friends.
Bear is survived by his three children: Charlease Stover (Mark), of Webb City, Ashley Miller (Meghan), of Joplin, and Matt Ray (Shannon), of Galena, Kan.; 12 grandchildren and their spouses; 22 great-grandchildren, and one expected great-great-grandbaby.
He is survived by one brother, Randy Miller (Peggy), of Iowa; one sister, Candace Murray, of Texas; and several nieces, nephews and extended or adopted family members.
Bear was preceded in death by his parents, Evelyn and Gaylord Miller; his wife, Sally Miller; one sister, Charlease Johnson; two brothers, Gary Miller and Terry Miller; and three great-grandbabies.
A memorial service will be held at a later date.
Arrangements are under the personal care of Ozark Memorial Park Cemetery.
March 10, 1928 – Jan. 20, 2026
Kathleen Ann (Murray) Travis passed away on Jan. 20, 2026, in Webb City, at the age of 97. She was born on March 10, 1928, in Axtell, Kan., to the late James Francis and Louise Christine Godbout Murray. Kathleen’s early life was marked by academic excellence and community involvement, setting the stage for a life rich in service and family.
A proud graduate and valedictorian of St. Peter’s High School in 1946, Kathleen’s intellectual prowess was complemented by her grace and poise, as evidenced by her crowning as the May Queen in the same year. Her commitment to education and personal growth was a constant thread throughout her life, inspiring all who knew her.
Kathleen’s professional life was dedicated to the noble calling of homemaking, where she created a warm and loving environment for her family. Her nurturing spirit extended beyond the walls of her home as she volunteered countless hours at her children’s schools, ensuring that not only her own children but also many others benefited from her care and attention.
Later in life, Kathleen continued to give back to her community through her volunteer work at Spring River Christian Village. Her selfless contributions were a testament to her unwavering commitment to helping others and making a positive impact on the world around her. Kathleen was well-known in the Joplin area for her beautiful singing voice. She sang at several weddings and social gatherings throughout the years.
Kathleen’s interests were deeply rooted in the joys of family life. She cherished moments spent with her loved ones at the lake, where laughter and stories were shared against the backdrop of nature’s beauty. Her presence at her grandchildren and great-grandchildren’s sporting events was a source of encouragement and pride, as she cheered them on from the stands with an unwavering enthusiasm that was felt by all.
The holidays were a special time for Kathleen, as she hosted family gatherings with an open heart and open doors. Her ability to bring people together and create lasting memories was one of her most remarkable gifts.
Along with her parents, Kathleen was preceded in death by her husband of 50 years, E.L. (Gene) Travis; infant brother, Gerald; infant sister, Dorothy; brothers, J. Leon Murray, James and wife Rosa Murray, Jack Murray and Thomas Murray; sister, Helen Louise Nelson and her husband John E. Nelson; and son-in-law, Bob Snodgrass.
Survivors include one daughter, Connie Snodgrass, of Stilwell, Kan.; and two sons, Eugene L. “Chip” Travis and wife Rana, of Pittsburg, Kan., and Stephen Michael Travis and wife Stacey, of Boulder, Colo.; grandchildren, Clayton Snodgrass (Sarah), Erin Crofford (Josh), Eric Travis (Erin), Emily Humphrey (Mike), Ellen Welling (Gabe), Ryan Travis, and Cade Travis; 15 great-grandchildren; brother, Dick Murray and wife Saundra, of Bella Vista, Ark.; and numerous nieces and nephews.
A funeral Mass will be held at 10 a.m. Friday, Jan. 30, 2026, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Joplin. Burial will follow in Ozark Memorial Park Cemetery. The family invites friends for a time of visitation and rosary from 5 to 7 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 29, 2026, at Parker Mortuary. Contributions may be made to McAuley Catholic High School, in care of the mortuary.
The family wants to send their sincere gratitude to Foxberry Independent Living and Good Shepherd’s Hospice for their care.
As it was when the Sentinel was in print, ‘Obituaries are news to us.’ THERE IS NO CHARGE
Obituaries on this page are primarily found by looking for those with a connection to our immediate area on local funeral home and crematory websites. So we don’t miss one, please notify us by email at news@webbcity.net.
