As of Wednesday, Aug. 13, 2025
Cities without a state are in Missouri
Feb. 14, 1956 – Aug. 6, 2025
Billy Lawrence Lundstrum, age 69, a lifelong resident of Webb City, passed away on Wednesday, Aug. 6, 2025, at his residence. He entered this life on Feb. 14, 1956, in Joplin, born to the union of the late Bill and Betty (Selby) Lundstrum.
At age 18, Billy began his long and devoted career with the Webb City Fire Department, where he proudly served 43 years until his retirement on May 11, 2018. He loved his job deeply and was proud to support and protect the town he called home.
Billy lived a life of thrill-seeking and adventure. He had a deep love for music and could often be found at concerts or running his own 100-watt radio station, Smokin 98.5. He cherished time with his pets and never passed up a chance to hit the road on his Indian motorcycle. Whether he was working, riding, or exploring new experiences, Billy embraced life to the fullest.
Billy was preceded in death by his parents, Bill and Betty Lundstrum. He is survived by his sister, Debbie Curtis and her husband Carl; his niece, Amanda Curtis; great-niece, Averi Curtis, and many loving cousins.
The family extends a heartfelt thanks to the Webb City Fire Department for their unwavering support and friendship over the years. They also wish to thank all of Billy’s friends whose love and loyalty meant so much to him throughout his life.
Services will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 16, 2025, at the Mt. Hope Cemetery Open Air Chapel, with Fire Chaplain Tim Sumners officiating. Following the service, the family will receive friends at the home of Amanda Curtis. Memorial contributions may be made to the Joplin Humane Society or Webb City Fire Department, in care of Hedge-Lewis-Goodwin Funeral Home.
May 18, 1938 – Aug. 9, 2025
Vernon Eugene Spaulding, age 87, of Webb City, passed away Saturday, Aug. 9, 2025, at his home surrounded by his family.
Vernon was born on May 18, 1938, in Sioux City, Iowa, to the late union of Victor and Viola (Lariviere) Spaulding. He spent most of his childhood working on the family farm in Lawton, Iowa. He was a high school graduate of Lawton High School. He worked for over 25 years as a custodian between Millard Public Schools and Papillion-La Vista School District in Omaha, Neb.
Vernon married Pamela “Pam” Champlin on March 5, 1964, in South Dakota. Together they were blessed with 62 years of marriage before his passing. He enjoyed painting, tinkering on old cars, bird watching and gardening in his flower beds. He loved spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren. Before he passed, he was blessed to be able to welcome his new great-granddaughter.
In addition to his parents, Vernon was preceded in death by his daughter, Becky.
Vernon is survived by his wife, Pam Spaulding; daughter, Christine Aase and her husband, Kirt; two grandchildren, Brittany Seifert and her husband, Kalvin, and Brandon Aase and his wife, Rachel, and five great-grandchildren.
A celebration of life will be announced at a later date. Arrangements are under the direction of Parker Mortuary.
