OBITUARIES

As of Wednesday, 
Cities without a state are in Missouri

OBITUARY

Buck Farrell

May 3, 1948 – June 15, 2023

Beauford “Buck” Farrill, age 75, of Carl Junction, passed away unexpectedly in his home on Thursday, June 15. He was born May 3, 1948, in Chelsea, Okla.

Buck met his soulmate, Vicki Oyler, at the young age of 16 at Teen Town in Vinita, Okla. They married May 29, 1966, and went to college together at Southwestern Oklahoma State University. Buck became a registered pharmacist licensed in three states, and practiced for 45 years, including a stint in Webb City. He retired from Walmart in 2016.  He was an “old school” pharmacist. He got to know many of his customers personally and was always available to them for questions and concerns.

Buck showed his big love for his wife, his three children, his seven grandchildren, and all who knew him with acts of service and gift giving. He also gave generously with his time, by helping loved ones, attending his grandchildren’s many activities, visiting his friend groups, and hanging out with Vicki and his children.

He was given an extraordinary gift of people skills and a witty sense of humor. He could make any mood or situation lighter with a quick funny comment or words of encouragement. He never met a stranger and was friendly, conversational, and well loved by all who knew him. He enjoyed keeping up with old friends, work colleagues, and making new friends too. Buck was the neighbor everyone knew in every place he lived.

His list of hobbies was long and quirky: photography, flower gardening, bird watching, Boston Terrier wrangling, collecting pharmacy memorabilia, sock hunting-(as he was in search of the perfect sock), weather watching, researching his family’s genealogy, and following current events and politics. He absolutely loved the invention of online shopping.

Buck’s cherished loved ones include his wife, Vicki Farrill; daughter Kellee Uber and son-in-law Ray, Carl Junction; son Blake Farrill and daughter-in-law Dana, St. Louis; daughter Jamie Blood, Joplin; grandchildren Keese Uber, Allec Uber, Brayden Uber, Jenna Uber, Corinne Farrill, Bennett Blood, and Grayson Blood, and his in-laws, Leonard and Leta Oyler. He was preceded in death by his father, Hoss Farrill; mother Mary Farrill; brothers Robert Farrill and Austin Farrill; and his son-in-law, Gary Blood. 

Buck leaves behind these simple life lessons about how to live a full and happy life. Marry your best friend. Work a career you enjoy and then go above and beyond what that job requires. Raise your children and grandchildren to be kind, generous, and a friend to all. Do the little things daily that bring joy. Give of your time to loved ones, while saving some time to marvel at God’s daily sunrise. And in any and all of your circumstances, always look for the humor in it.

Funeral services were held Thursday, June 22, 2023, at The Well United Methodist Church, 601 W. Well St., Carl Junction, with Pastor Rick Flynn officiating. Arrangements were under the direction of Parker Mortuary. Memorial contributions may be made to the American Heart Association or the Joplin Humane Society.

OBITUARY

Scott Graves

Feb. 1, 1985 – June 19, 2023

Scott Everrett Graves, age 38, Oronogo, passed away on Monday, June 19, at Freeman West Hospital.

Scott was born Feb. 1, 1985, in Joplin, and grew up in the Oronogo area before graduating from Webb City High School in 2003, where he played trombone in the band. He later earned a certificate as a locksmith. He was currently working as a manager for Webb City McDonald’s. He enjoyed spending time sitting by bonfires, making as well as playing video games, taste-testing hot sauces, and being with family and his many friends. Many considered him an avid marksman because of the time he spent on the gun range shooting anything from his collection of BB guns to archery, or his beloved pistol. He will be greatly missed by many.

Scott was preceded in death by his brother, Michael Jaramillo, in 2016.

He is survived by his mother, Diane Graves, Joplin; father, John Graves, Oronogo; sisters, Tracey Graves, Oronogo and Kristey Graves, Joplin; brother, Sean Graves, Oronogo; and a nephew, Brayden Martinez, Oronogo.

A celebration of life was held Sunday, July 2, 2023, at Parker Mortuary.

OBITUARY

Richard Earl Smith Jr.

May 29, 1967 – June 12, 2023

Mr. Richard Earl Smith Jr., 56, of Pittsburg, Kan., formerly of Oronogo, departed this life on Monday, June 12.

Richard entered this life on May 29, 1967, in Joplin, the only son born to the union of the late Richard Smith Sr. and Lucille (Eshom) Smith. He was raised in Oronogo and was a 1985 graduate of Webb City High School. He furthered his education at Missouri Southern State University, receiving a degree in drafting. After college, Richard enlisted and served his country faithfully in the U.S. Army in the 203rd, earning the rank of staff sergeant E-6. Following his discharge in 2001, he returned to the area to pursue his career in auto body and collision. In 2002, Richard began his employment with Sharp’s Auto Body and Collison in Pittsburg. Through hard work and love of his profession, Richard was able to purchase the shop in 2006. He was a member of the Pittsburg American Legion, served two terms as alderman for the city of Oronogo and was a former I-Car instructor. He enjoyed restoring old cars and houses, playing racquetball, rock climbing, riding his Harley and teaching others the trade of auto body.

Richard is survived by his wife, Elizabeth “Beth” Smith, of Pittsburg; four children, Mary Rolf, Nixa, Brandie Nading, Carl Junction, Randy Bogle, Clearwater, Fla., and Faith Smith, Pittsburg; seven grandchildren, Preston Bogle, Trenton Nading, Dalton Nading, Sabashton Bogle, Brooklynn Rolf and Scarlett Rolf; three sisters, Debbie Cornell, Oronogo, Cathy Hailey and husband Steve, Webb City, and Cheri Sampson and husband Jeff, Alba; several nieces and nephews; and a host of other family and friends.

Graveside services were held Monday, June 19, at Oronogo Cemetery, with Pastor Max Raney officiating. Pallbearers were Duane Lange, Jeff Sampson, Travis Sampson, Bo Sampson, Oliver Cornell, Steve Hailey Sr. and Steve Hailey Jr. Memorial contributions may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project. Arrangements were under the direction of the Hedge-Lewis-Goodwin Funeral Home.

OBITUARY

Gary Mayfield

Jan. 1, 1943 – June 30, 2023

Gary Richard Mayfield, a man whose life embodied faith, loyalty, and kindness, peacefully passed away on Friday, June 30, at the age of 80. Born on Jan.1, 1943, he leaves behind a legacy of selflessness and generosity that touched the lives of all who knew him.

Gary was preceded in death by his parents, George and Wilma Mayfield, and his brothers, George and David Mayfield. He was also preceded in death by his beloved wife, Linda Mayfield, formerly Linda Tamminen, who passed away on Jan. 27, 2020. Theirs was a love story that spanned decades and left a mark on their family and friends.

A devoted family man, Gary is survived by his children, Kim Mayfield and Gary “Scoot” or “Scoob” Mayfield, who will forever cherish the memories they created together. His grandchildren, Reagan Hayes and Jordyn Mayfield, held a special place in his heart, and he took immense pride in watching them grow and thrive.

A dedicated employee, Gary spent over four decades working at Eagle Picher from 1961 to 2003. He was known for his strong work ethic.

Gary’s love for the outdoors was evident in everything he did. Whether he was hunting, fishing, or meticulously checking his trail cameras, he found solace and joy in nature’s beauty. He had a keen eye for capturing the essence of wildlife and the natural world through his photography.

Gary’s faith was the cornerstone of his life. He was a devoted member of his local church and rarely missed an opportunity to worship and serve others. If the doors of First Christian Church in Webb City were open, you could always find him there, surrounded by his church family. His faith was a guiding light, providing comfort and strength, and his presence was felt by all who crossed his path.

Described as faithful, loyal, kind, and selfless, Gary Mayfield exemplified the virtues of a life well-lived. He approached every day with thoughtfulness, humility, and patience, never hesitating to lend a helping hand to those in need. His kindness extended beyond his immediate circle, touching the lives of his neighbors, Carterville Comet friends, and anyone fortunate enough to cross his path.

Gary Richard Mayfield’s life was a testament to making the most of one’s time on earth. He lived with an open heart, cherishing the moments and people that brought him joy. His memory will forever live on in the hearts of those who loved him, and his legacy of kindness will continue to inspire generations to come.

A celebration of Gary’s life will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday, July 15 at the First Christian Church in Webb City, 219 South Webb St. Friends and family are invited to join in honoring his remarkable journey.

May he rest in peace, knowing that his impact on the world will be cherished and remembered always.

Services are under direction of Simpson Funeral Home.

OBITUARY

Jacob Williams

Jan. 14, 1986 – July 3, 2023

Jacob A. Williams, age 37, of Webb City, passed away at 4:30 p.m. on Monday, July 3, 2023.

Jacob was born Jan. 14, 1986, in Wichita, Kan. and has been a Webb City area resident since 2004. He was a 2004 graduate of Tonganoxie High School in Kansas. Jacob also graduated from the Missouri Southern State University Police Academy in 2009. He completed his degree in criminal justice with a minor in political science at MSSU.

Jacob was employed with the Webb City Police Department since 2018, reaching the rank of corporal. He was the recipient of the department’s Life Saving Award. Jacob’s passion was to serve his God, his country and his community, and he did so with all of his heart. He loved being a part of the Shop with a Cop program each Christmas season. Jacob also served as an emergency medical technician for several local ambulance services. In addition, Jacob served his country as a medic, 68W, with HSC 935th ASB, Missouri National Guard in Springfield, reaching the rank of sergeant. He was one of 11 chosen for the inaugural class of the Law Enforcement Phlebotomy Program (LEPP). Accommodations he received as a member of the National Guard include the Missouri Conspicuous Service Medal, Army Reserve Component Achievement Medal with Bronze Oakleaf Cluster, National Defense Service Ribbon, NCO Professional Development Ribbon, Missouri Basic Training Ribbon, Army Service Ribbon, and the Missouri National Guard 5 Year Long Service Ribbon. Jacob was a member of Christ’s Church of Oronogo, Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 27, SRT Team, and the Midwestern Built CrossFit Family.

Jacob married Brynna Brouwer on Nov. 16, 2019, in Oronogo, and she survives. Additional survivors include his mother, Lesley Kirkland, Wichita; one brother, Seth Kirkland and wife Amanda, Alpha, Ill.; his paternal grandmother, Mary Jo Finson, Topeka, Kan.; and his constant companion of 15 years, his dog, Lady. Jacob was preceded in death by his father, Mark E. Williams.

Services will be at 2 p.m. Friday at Christ’s Church of Oronogo, with Peter Buckland, minister, officiating, followed by Military Honors. Pallbearers will be Dylan Fieker, Seth Kirkland, Andrew Barchak, Kent Shouse, and Thomas Murphy. Honorary pallbearers will be Josh Smith, John Watkins, Gavin Gannaway, Elvis Barahona, Justin Henry, Chris Shonk, Brad Brown, Mitchel Carlin, and Dennis Arroyo. Visitation will be from 12:30 p.m. Friday at the church until the service begins. Private family burial will be later. Memorial contributions may be made to Webb City Shop with a Cop, Charlie 22 Outdoors, or Warriors’ Ascent, in care of Mason-Woodard Mortuary.