As of Wednesday, April 8, 2026
Cities without a state are in Missouri
Nov. 8, 1943 – March 28, 2026
Jerry Ray Huddleston, 82, of Joplin, passed away on March 28, 2026, after an extended illness.
He was born on Nov. 8, 1943, in Webb City, to the late Don and Opal Huddleston. Jerry spent his life rooted in the community where he was raised, and he carried the values of hard work, loyalty, and kindness with him throughout his years.
He graduated from Webb City High School in 1961, beginning a life marked by steady dedication to his family, his work, and his faith.
Jerry served his country as a Vietnam veteran in the United States Air Force, a chapter of his life that reflected his sense of duty and commitment to something greater than himself. After his military service, he built a long career as a diesel mechanic for Ozark-Kenworth in Joplin. He was known for being handy and resourceful, and he took pride in being able to fix what others could not. He especially enjoyed tinkering with engines, and he found satisfaction in working with his hands and solving mechanical problems.
Jerry was a member of Fir Road Christian Church and lived his faith as a Christian in the way he treated others. He was also a member of the Joplin VFW, where he shared fellowship with fellow veterans and remained connected to the military community that meant so much to him. He was also a lifelong member of the NRA. Those who knew Jerry will remember him as a friendly, selfless man who was always willing to lend a hand and offer support when it was needed.
He loved the sport of shooting guns and appreciated the time spent around the hobbies and interests that brought him joy. More than anything, Jerry valued time with his family. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Sandra Jewell Huddleston, with whom he shared over 60 years of marriage. Their long life together was a testament to devotion, partnership, and enduring love.
Jerry is survived by his son, Jerry “Mitch” Huddleston and significant other, Shelley of Arma, Kan.; his daughters, Tonia Diaz and her significant other, Rusty, of Galena, Kan., and Amber Huddleston of Joplin. He also leaves behind his grandchildren, Zakk Huddleston, Hunter Huddleston, Tyler Luckey and wife Chelsea, and Trae Diaz, as well as his great-grandchildren, Rynleigh, Remington, Axel and August. His family was a source of great pride and joy, and he cherished each of them deeply.
Inurnment of ashes will take place at a later date at Ozark Memorial Park Cemetery. Visitation will be from 1 to 2 p.m. Saturday, April 11, at Fir Road Christian Church, and services will follow.
Arrangements are under the direction of Parker Mortuary.
Jan. 16, 1947 – April 2, 2026
Michael L. Shelton, 79, of Webb City, passed away peacefully on April 2, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family.
Born Jan. 16, 1947, in Lamar, to Joseph and Maxine Shelton, Mike was the cherished firstborn of two children. From an early age, he was full of energy and curiosity, which led him to learn many trades throughout his life. Although he lived in several places over the years, his heart ultimately found home in the Joplin and Webb City area. During his school years, Mike discovered his love for both art and math – talents that would shape both his career and his passions.
Mike proudly served his country in the military from 1965 to 1969. After his honorable discharge, he pursued further education, following his passion for art at Missouri Southern State University. Though commercial art was his dream, the path led him instead through technical coursework that eventually brought him to a rewarding career as a project engineer at a local manufacturing company. He excelled professionally, admired for both his skill and work ethic.
In 1987, Mike’s life changed forever when he met Jesus. His faith became the foundation of everything he did, and he found great joy in studying the Bible, devotionals, and spiritual teachings. That same year, he met Connie –and from the moment they met, he was completely smitten. On Feb. 20, 1988, Mike and Connie were married, entering into a covenant before God. In their 38 years together, they were rarely seen apart. Their shared love for Jesus blossomed into a life filled with deep friendships, laughter, service and devotion.
Though accomplished in his career, Mike never set aside his God-given artistic gifts. In 1996, he graduated from MSSU with an art education degree and was named the Most Outstanding Art Student that year. He was tremendously talented, working beautifully in acrylics, oils, watercolors and ceramics. Art was his greatest joy outside of reading, attending vintage car shows, flying RC planes, and taking his beloved wife fishing – one of his favorite ways to spend time together.
Above all else, Mike was a devoted family man. He is survived by the love of his life, Connie Shelton, of Webb City; his children, Mitch Orahood (Jennifer), Arlington, Texas, Tommy Orahood, Lamar, and Nikki (Tim) Head, Webb City; his treasured grandchildren, David (Claire) Tompsett, Rosie, Brady, Lazer, and Fletcher Orahood, Jackson and Kloie Head; and his great-grandson, Benjamin Tompsett. He is also survived by his nieces and nephew, Joesette (Craig) Schnaufer, Bryan Jenkins, Jennifer White, and Allison (Mark) Rhodes, along with many great-nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Joe and Maxine Shelton; and his younger sister, Gwen Clements.
Mike’s legacy is one of laughter, loyalty, and genuine love. He lived with a servant’s heart, always ready to help –whether it was a stranger stranded on the roadside or a loved one in need. He delighted in entertaining others, cherished his friendships deeply, and left an unforgettable imprint on all who knew him. Those who have loved him dearly knew that we should all “watch and be amazed” by him.
A visitation to celebrate Mike’s life will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, April 11, at New Hope Church of Carl Junction, with the service to follow at 12 p.m. All who loved Mike are warmly invited to attend and honor a life so beautifully lived.
Arrangements are under the direction of Ozark Memorial Park.
Jan. 28, 1929 – April 1, 2026
Glenn Edwin “Stoney” Stone, age 97, of Oronogo, passed into eternal life on Wednesday, April 1, 2026, at Mercy Hospital Joplin, surrounded by his family.
Glenn was born on Jan. 28, 1929, in Joplin, to the late Glenn and Ruth (Place) Stone. He was united in marriage to Thelma Hammond on May 5, 1951, in Joplin. They shared 64 years together until her passing on July 29, 2015.
Glenn was a veteran of the United States Army, serving during the Korean War. He worked in manufacturing during his lifetime and retired from F.A.G. Bearing in 1993.
He was a member of the Full Gospel Faith for several years serving as elder and minister.
Glenn is survived by his sons, Scott Stone, of Oronogo; Jay Stone and wife Deanna, Oronogo, and Clay Stone and wife Angie, of Green Forest, Ark.; nine grandchildren; 23 great-grandchildren; special friend Wanda McKee, of Oronogo; several nieces and nephews; and a host of other family and friends.
Glenn was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Thelma; and his sisters.
Funeral services for Stoney will be held at 10 a.m. Friday, April 10, at Parker Mortuary, with Pastors Jack Johnson and Mike Wilkins officiating. Burial will follow at Forest Park Cemetery. Visitation will be from 5 to 7 p.m. Thursday at the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be made to the Joplin Humane Society, in care of the funeral home.
Feb. 23, 1951 – April 4, 2026
With profound sorrow, we announce the passing of the compassionate and resilient Steven Douglas Stone, affectionately known as Stoney and Pop Pop, on April 4, 2026. Born on Feb. 23, 1951, in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, Steven’s journey of life was a testament to the power of love, faith, and resilience. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather who truly embodied the characteristics of a noble Christian man. His faith and his family were the twin pillars of his life, and he often spoke of his deep love for the Lord and his cherished ones.
Steven was a creative soul with a passion for woodworking, bird-watching, fishing, camping, exploring caves, and scuba diving. He spent 24 years in Purcell, working in production at Jasper Products before retiring in 2013. His work was a source of great pride, but his true joy came from spending time with his family and pursuing his hobbies.
Steven was preceded in death by his father, James Stone; and mother, Betty Stone. He is survived by his beloved wife, Patricia Stone; his children, Catherine (George) Ray, Cody (Ciara) Stone, Joe (Ambrosha) Nunes, and Carolyne (William) Watson; eight grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren.
Services are under the direction of Simpson Funeral Home.
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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.
