As of Wednesday, May 13, 2026
Cities without a state are in Missouri
Nov. 21, 1938 – May 7, 2026
Deborah Clarke Baird, fondly known as Doodlebug, passed away on May 7, 2026, in her home in Joplin. Born on Nov. 21, 1938, Deborah’s life was a testament to resilience and dedication. Her spirit, as vibrant as her beloved garden, radiated a warmth that touched all who had the privilege of knowing her.
Deborah’s journey was as unique as the woman herself. From Philadelphia to Park Hill, Okla., every place she called home was enriched by her presence. Her dedication to her career as a pediatrician was evident in her tireless service in the medical field until her retirement in 2015. Her smart and spirited approach to her work earned her the respect of her peers and the love of the countless young lives she touched. Her dedication didn’t end with her professional life. An active member of the Daughters of the American Revolution and The American Academy of Pediatrics, she also found joy in the simple pleasures of life, like gardening, crocheting, and singing.
Deborah was preceded in death by her parents, Isabelle and John Noble. She is survived by her sons, Stewart (Christine) Baird and Robert (Aimee) Baird; grandchildren, Callum (Kylie) Baird, Ian Baird, Jacob Baird, Ethan Baird and Andrew Baird. She is preceded in passing by her husband, Robert H.L. Baird; and her son, Bruce Baird.
A committal service will be held at 9 a.m. Friday, May 22, in the Missouri Veterans Cemetery in Springfield. Services are under the direction of Simpson Funeral Home.
Sept. 16, 1937 –May 8, 2026
It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of the spirited and courageous Mary Lou Hayes, known affectionately as Lou, who departed on May 8, 2026, at her home in Webb City. Born on Sept. 16, 1937, in Webb City, Mary Lou’s roots were firmly planted in her cherished hometown, where she resided for 89 fulfilling years. Mary Lou, with her sharp intellect and unwavering loyalty, strove to make life easier and more enjoyable for those around her.
Mary Lou’s early years were spent in Oronogo. After marrying the love of her life in 1956, she embarked on a rewarding career with the United States Postal Service, serving her community with dedication until her retirement in 1993. In her role, she was much more than a postal worker; she was a friendly face, a helping hand, and a source of comfort for many. Mary Lou’s love for her job was only eclipsed by her love for family and her favorite pastime, bingo. She was a spirited member of the Bunco Club and an avid traveler, always eagerly awaiting the next adventure.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Raymond and Ruth Courtright; her loving husband, Jackie Merle Hayes; a brother, Glen Courtright; and sisters, Vela Shofler and Patty Hackney. Mary Lou leaves behind her devoted daughter, Beth (Rick) Campbell; son, Dan (Marilyn) Hayes; sister Judy Courtright; four grandchildren, six great-grandchildren, three great-great grandchildren; and many nieces and a nephew.
A visitation will be held at 10 a.m. Thursday May 14, 2026, at Simpson Funeral Home, with a funeral service to follow. Burial will take place in Ozark Memorial Park Cemetery.
April 9, 1960 – May 8, 2026
Rebecca G. Johnson, 66, of Joplin, passed away suddenly on May 8, 2026, in Joplin. She was born on April 9, 1960, in Ontario, Calif., and lived a life marked by love, generosity, and courage. Rebecca was a Christian woman whose faith, compassion, and devotion to others guided the way she lived each day.
Rebecca earned her associate’s degree in nursing and devoted her career to caring for others as a registered nurse. She brought comfort, dignity, and kindness to the people she served, and her work reflected the gentle strength and steady presence that so many came to appreciate in her. She was respected not only for her skill and professionalism, but also for the warmth and sincerity she shared with patients, families, and coworkers alike.
Family was the center of Rebecca’s life, and she cherished every moment spent with those she loved. She especially enjoyed being present for her grandchildren’s events and took great joy in cheering them on and celebrating their accomplishments.
She loved her family deeply and found happiness in the simple, meaningful moments shared with them. Her loving nature touched everyone around her, and her generous spirit will be remembered by all who knew her.
Rebecca is survived by her sons, Dustin Johnson and his wife Sara, of Webb City, Brandon Johnson and his wife Melanie, of Joplin, and Jordan Johnson and his wife Erin, of Springfield; grandchildren, Maggie Berlin and her husband Javis, Ellie, Blake, Teddi, and Griffin Johnson; her great-grandchild, Brogan; brothers, Danny McDonald, of Joplin, Richard McDonald and his wife Tara, of Joplin, Missouri; her sisters, Patricia Coleman, of Joplin, Pam Porter, of Joplin, and Cari McDonald-Griffith, of Joplin; and many nieces and nephews, as well as extended family members and friends who will miss her deeply.
Rebecca was preceded in death by her parents, George H. and Carolyn (Lott) McDonald, and by her brother, Brian McDonald.
Services will be planned at a later date. Arrangements are under the direction of Parker Mortuary.
April 21, 1945 – April 30, 2026
David Earl Miller, 81, passed away on April 30, 2026, at his home, surrounded by his family. He was born on April 21, 1945, in Oronogo to the late Earl and Dollie (Stanley) Miller.
He worked as a farmer, contributing to the land and the rhythms of agricultural life that shaped so much of the region. He also owned and operated Dari-Dee Milk Co. in Carthage, and later, Kadee Kennell, with his wife, Kay, as they both have a heart for animals, dogs in particular. In addition to his work, he pursued interests in oil investing, demonstrating both business sense and a willingness to engage in opportunities beyond the everyday.
In his personal life, he found joy in the outdoors and in the peaceful moments spent in nature. He cherished spending time at the lake, taking boat rides, fishing, and hunting with his children and grandchildren. Their house at Grand Lake was one of David’s favorite places in the world. He had many beautiful memories in Canada and Montana, as well.
David was an avid sports fan. He enjoyed following the St. Louis Cardinals each season, and he always loved watching NASCAR. He was president of Carthage Little League and coached many of the baseball games; he was also president of Carthage Peewee Football.
In high school, he played center on his basketball team and ran track and field, holding the record in broad jump for several years. He graduated from Carl Junction High School in 1963.
David married Kay Stephenson on Oct. 3, 1964, in Joplin. To this union, they raised three wonderful children, Darin, Jeff and Mike.
David is survived by his loving wife, Kay Miller; children, Darin and his wife Patty Miller, and their children, Chaz Miller, Kylar Miller, and Colton Miller; Jeff and his wife, Keli Miller, and their children, Madeline and her husband Connor Carpenter, and Natalie Miller; Mike and his wife Leigh Miller, and their children, Caden and his wife Katherine Miller, Drake Miller, and Eli Miller; great-grandchildren, Lexi, Zach, Will, and a new baby girl on the way.
A memorial service was held Wednesday, May 6, at Parker Mortuary.
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.
