OBITUARIES

As of Wednesday, Aug. 9, 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

Violet Houdyshell

July 1, 1927 – Aug. 7, 2023

Mrs. Violet Irene Houdyshell, 96, of Joplin, departed this life on Monday evening, Aug. 7, at Westgate Care Center in Joplin after a recent decline in health.

Violet entered this life on July 1, 1927, in Milwaukee, Wisc., the eldest of 10 children born to the late Herbert and Clara (Martens) Schick. She was raised and attended schools in Marion, Kan. As a young adult she moved with her family to Lamar.

On Jan. 12, 1947, she was united in marriage to David Daniel Houdyshell, and to this union three children were born, Ronald, Patricia and Tim. In 1954, they moved their family to Joplin.

For nearly 30 years, Violet worked as an in-home caregiver for Oxford Health Care, retiring in 2017 at the age of 90. She enjoyed quilting, bowling, cooking and baking, playing music and cards with her family and was an avid fan of the St. Louis Cardinals. She was a longtime faithful member of Open Door Baptist Church in Carthage.

Violet was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, David Houdyshell, on April 3, 1970; a son, Ronald Houdyshell; a grandson, Jeremy King; a great-great granddaughter, Katy Lynn Waddle; and eight siblings.

Violet is survived by her two children, Patricia Starchman and husband Pete, Joplin, and Tim Houdyshell and wife Becky, Joplin; 11 grandchildren; 24 great-grandchildren; and 29 great-great grandchildren; a brother, Gary Schick and wife, Sue, Joplin; lifelong friend of the family, Vida (Hart) Martinez and husband Frank; several nieces and nephews; and a host of other family and friends.

Funeral services will be at 1 p.m. Friday, Aug. 11, 2023, at Hedge-Lewis-Goodwin Funeral Home, with Pastor David Shumaker and Chaplain Johnie Adkins officiating. Burial will follow at Lake Cemetery in Lamar. Pallbearers will be Dr. Jimmy Morgan, Tim Morgan, Randy Morgan, Dave Houdyshell, Joe Houdyshell, Ronnie Houdyshell, Joe Hackett and Yainer Oviedo. The family will receive friends from 5-7 p.m. Thursday at the funeral home. Memorials are being directed to Open Door Baptist Church, in care of the funeral home.

OBITUARY

Janie Wood

Oct. 13, 1947 – Aug. 5, 2023

Janie Lynn Wood, age 75, of Webb City, passed away peacefully at 8:15 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 5, at home surrounded by her family. Janie was born October 13, 1947, in Joplin, the daughter of the late Emmett and Alice O’Connell.

Janie was married to the love of her life, Jay Wood, on June 19, 1969, in Joplin. Together they were blessed with five children, Jay Wood II (Josephine) LeMoore, Calif., David Wood (Lisa) Carterville, Kelly Wood, Joplin, and Lisa Brock (Scott) Webb City; eight grandchildren, Jay III, Andrea, Chelsea, John, Amber, Brittany, Ty and Eli; 15 great-grandchildren, Anna, Grayson, Chloe, Greckyn, Louis, Axle, Emmett, Olivia, Avery, Eisley, Desmond, Arthur, Cora, Daxtynn, and Eden. She is also survived by two sisters, Faye and Twyla, and a lifelong best friend, Betty Campbell. She was preceded in death by her loving husband, Jay; their beautiful son, Randy; both parents; and eight siblings.

Janie enjoyed camping, playing cards with family and friends and loved winning at marbles. Most of all she enjoyed spending precious time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, they were her loves. She was a devoted wife, loving Mother, and Nanny.

She will forever be missed by all who knew and loved her dearly.

Graveside services will be conducted at 10 a.m. Thursday, Aug. 10, at Ozark Memorial Park Cemetery. Services are under the direction of Mason-Woodard Mortuary.