OBITUARIES

As of Wednesday, Aug. 2, 2023
Cities without a state are in Missouri

OBITUARY

Callie Bridges

Oct. 30, 1992 – July 29, 2023

Callie Jane Bridges, born on Oct. 30, 1992, in Tulare, Calif., was a radiant beacon of charisma and love, her adventurous spirit and dedicated nature shining brightly in all she did. Her remarkable life journey concluded on July 29, 2023. Callie was a life enthusiast, her vibrant essence touching all those fortunate enough to have crossed paths with her.

Callie’s love for life emanated in her diverse passions and pursuits. She was a talented office worker at the Jasper County Sheriff Office, where her dedication and hard work were always on full display. Outside of work, Callie reveled in the joy of cooking, her adventurous spirit manifesting in her love for experimenting with new spices and flavors. She was also an avid Vlogger, her charismatic personality engaging her viewers. Holding an associate’s degree, and having served as a section manager at Walmart, she was a woman of many talents and achievements. Callie lived a fulfilling life in various cities including Carthage and Mesa, Ariz., before making Purcell her home.

In the words of Proverbs 31:25, “She is clothed with strength and dignity, and she laughs without fear of the future.” This verse perfectly encapsulates Callie’s approach to life. She was a loving daughter, sister, and friend, her life being a testament to the importance of family and friendship.

Her parents, Tim Bridges and Stephanie Golde, her sister Jennifer Lindstrom, and her brothers Steven Sandavol and Jeremy Helms, were the pillars of her life. Every day was precious to Callie, her love for life, family, and friends being her guiding force. Her radiant presence was such that people naturally gravitated towards her, eager to bask in her wit, warmth, and positivity.

The world is a little less bright without Callie, but her light continues to shine in the hearts of those who loved her.

A visitation service will be held at 1 p.m. Monday, Aug. 7, 2023, at Simpson Funeral Home. The funeral service will follow at 2 p.m.

OBITUARY

Gary Gunlock

July 8, 1937 – July 28, 2023

Mr. Gary Wayne Gunlock, 86, of Carl Junction, formerly of Webb City, departed this life on Friday, July 28.

Gary entered this life on July 8, 1937, in Redings Mill, the only son born to the late Harry A. Jr. and O. Naomi (Drake) Gunlock. He was raised in the Redings Mill area and was a 1955 graduate of Seneca High School. Gary furthered his education by attending the former Joplin Junior College.

On May 18, 1956, he was united in marriage to Lillie Mae Copher, and to this union three children were born, Terri, Randall and Michael.

Gary was deeply devoted to his family. He was admired and respected by all that knew him. With the support of his wife, Gary flourished in his career in the trucking industry. He was vice president of Tri-state Motor Transit in Joplin and president of multiple other trucking companies.

As a leader and mentor to generations of members, he served the Webb City Church of the Nazarene for over 60 years. Whether running, golfing, water skiing, walking, or lifting weights, he was dedicated to an active lifestyle. He left behind a legacy of love and faith that will live on in his family.

He was preceded in death by his parents; four sisters, Peggy Brock, Karen Cooper, Virginia Peavler and Barbara Gunlock; brothers-in-law, Gene Smith, and Richard Brock; and great-grandson, Andrew Paul Merritt.

Gary is survived by his wife of 67 years, Lillie Mae Gunlock, of the home; three children, Terri Sue Gunlock Garrett and husband Tony, Eagle Rock, Randall Wayne Gunlock and wife Betsy, Carl Junction, and Dr. Michael Gary Gunlock and wife, Martha, Boulder, Colo.; nine grandchildren, Trisha Moore (Dustin), Angela Schreiner (Derek), Shelli Merritt (Michael), Tara Dill (Tyler), Sharon Lindsey, Jamie Lindsey, Chase Gunlock, Parker Gunlock and Graham Gunlock; 10 great-grandchildren, Weston Moore, Hailey Merritt, Kelsey Moore, Taylor Merritt, Sladen Schreiner, Kaitlyn Merritt, Brooklyn Schreiner, Owen Dill, and 4-year-old twins, Lawson & Griffin Dill; a sister, Donna Smith of Joplin; brothers-in-law Bud Cooper and Lanny Peavler; as well as a host of other family and friends.

Funeral services are 10:00 a.m. Wednesday, August 2, 2023, at the Webb City Church of the Nazarene with Pastors Dustin Ledford and Chad Johnson officiating. Burial will follow at Mt. Hope Cemetery in Webb City. Those honoring his life by serving as pallbearers are Dustin Moore, Michael Merritt, Derek Schreiner, Tyler Dill, Chase Gunlock, Weston Moore, Graham Gunlock and Sladen Schreiner.

The family received friends on Tuesday, Aug. 1, at the Webb City Church of the Nazarene. Memorial contributions may be made to the church for youth camp, in care of Hedge-Lewis-Goodwin Funeral Home.

OBITUARY

Junito Navarrette

– July 29, 2023

On July 29th, 2023, Juan Antonio Navarrete, known as “Juanito” to all his loved ones, passed away at home in Webb City at the age of 67. Juanito was known for being a kind, innocent and loving soul. His heart was forever filled with love for everyone else.

Juanito was born in El Salvador but lived the majority of his life in Los Angeles, Calif. He was born to Cristina Navarrete and Alvaro Osorio in the city of Jiquilisco, El Salvador. He was one of seven, being the youngest one of them all. He was born with the amazing and special gift of Down Syndrome. At the age of 36, he moved from El Salvador to California, where he was taken under the wings of his beloved sister, Rita Navarrete, and his niece, Angelica Alas, who both became his primary caregivers. Majority of his life he spent playing with his toys, dancing to his favorite Cumbias, doodling, and watching his two favorite movies: “Old Yeller” and “Alice in Wonderland.” His all-time favorite foods were cheeseburgers and fries with loads of ketchup because he just loved ketchup.

Surpassing the life expectancy of the majority who are born with his special gift, he was able to watch his great-nieces, Damaris Alas, Elizabeth Navarrete, and Karen Navarrete, and great-nephew, Nehemias Alas, grow up and share many memories with them. One of his favorite things to do with his great-nieces and nephew was to ride his tricycle and push them on the swing set. He was forever a child at heart and mind, always spreading his love with big and warm hugs.

A memorial service was held Tuesday, August 1, 2023, at Simpson Funeral Home and a graveside service was held Wednesday at Mount Hope Cemetery.

Juanito will forever live in the hearts of his family Alas Navarrete and friends.

OBITUARY

Charlie Rice

Oct. 8, 1950 – July 31, 2023

With a profound sense of sorrow, we announce the passing of Charles Allen Rice of Joplin, better known to his loved ones as Charlie, on Monday, July 31.

Born on Oct. 8, 1950, in Carthage. Charlie was a man who touched the lives of many with his loving nature, thoughtful demeanor, and loyal friendship.

Charlie had a deep passion for the great outdoors, often immersing himself in hunting and fishing expeditions with friends and loved ones. Charlie spent many years working as a master scheduler and later in life in the trucking industry, which allowed him to explore and appreciate the beauty of the country he loved so much. A dedicated member of the Masonic Lodge in Neosho, Charlie was also proud of his service in the Missouri National Guard. Above all, family was what mattered most to Charlie. He was a loving father, grandfather, great-grandfather and a devoted brother.

Charlie leaves behind a legacy of love and cherished memories. He is survived by his daughter, Macy Freed (Jimi); his son, Nathan Rice (Tanya); his step-daughter Debbie Spratley; his sister, Jeanette Rice; and his brother, Dennis Rice (Cindy). He was a proud grandfather to Keaton LaMaster (Lauren), and Destiny South (Colton), Ryleigh McMullen, and Drake McMullen (Kaylee). He also leaves behind his great-grandchildren, Harmony South and Henry LaMaster.

Charlie was predeceased by his parents, Eugene Rice and Helen (Murphy) Keller, his brother, David Rice and his loving wife, Judith Rice whom he was so looking forward to reuniting in heaven.

Charlie’s life was a testament to the power of love, loyalty, and thoughtfulness. His memories will continue to guide and inspire all who knew him. As per his wishes, no services will be held. A small family gathering for a celebration of life will be held at a later time.

Services are under the direction of Simpson Funeral Home.