OBITUARIES

As of Wednesday, Oct. 22, 2025
Cities without a state are in Missouri

OBITUARY

Keith Hembree

July 1, 1971 – Oct. 19, 2025

With hearts full of cherished memories and eyes filled with tears, we announce the passing of a remarkable man, Keith Hembree. He passed away on Oct. 19, 2025. Born on July 1, 1971, in Grove, Okla., to the late Walter Hembree and Linda Hembree-Stapleton, Keith was a beacon of love, humor, and strength to all who knew him. His compassionate spirit, quick wit, and generous heart made him a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend.

Keith attended Webb City High School with the class of 1989. Soon after, on Dec. 1, 1989, Keith married the love of his life, Linda Hembree. Together, they shared a beautiful journey built on partnership, laughter, and unwavering devotion. Keith was a devoted and proud father to his daughters, Ashley Duncan, Melinda Hembree, Tara Tindal, and Keyla Husby, always encouraging their dreams and celebrating their accomplishments. His family was his greatest joy, and he cherished every moment spent with them.

Keith dedicated 28 years of his life to a career in retail, serving in management at O’Reilly in Carthage with loyalty and pride. His commitment to excellence was recognized with a training award from O’Reilly’s. He proudly served in the 203rd Corps of Engineers in the Missouri Army National Guard from 2009 until his retirement in 2021.

Outside of work, Keith found peace and happiness in the simple things, fishing, golfing, singing and experimenting with his 3D scanner.

He is lovingly remembered by his wife, Linda Hembree; daughters Ashley Duncan (spouse Ron Duncan) and granddaughter Akayley Duncan and bonus granddaughter Nevaeh; Melinda Hembree; Tara Tindal (spouse Joshua Tindal) and grandson Brayden Tindal; Keyla Husby (spouse Cory Husby) and granddaughter Erica Husby; his mother Linda Hembree-Stapleton; brother Randy Hembree (spouse Bonnie Pettit); sister April Coleman (spouse Tommy Coleman); and many nieces and nephews who adored him.

A visitation will be held from 6 to 8 p.m. Friday, Oct. 24, 2025, at Simpson Funeral Home. Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 25, 2025, at the Purcell Baptist Church. Pastor Scott Simmons will officiate. Burial will follow at Weaver Cemetery.

OBITUARY

Ronald Koch

June 30, 1937 – Oct. 18, 2025

Memorial services for Ronald “Big Ron” Koch have been scheduled for 10 a.m. Saturday, Nov, 8, 2025, at New Hope Church in Carl Junction, with Randy Steele and Craig Price officiating.

The family will receive friends from 5 to 7 p.m. Friday at the church.

Memorial contributions may be made to New Hope Church or Carl Junction Cemetery Care Fund  by mail to 27714 Maple Road, Carl Junction, MO 64834. Services are under the direction of Parker Mortuary.

OBITUARY

Sharon Smith

Oct. 4, 1966 – Oct. 15, 2025

Sharon Louise Smith, age 59, passed away on Oct. 15, 2025, at her home in Webb City.

Sharon was a caregiver to all those she loved. Arrangements are made with Midland Cremation Society.

As it was when the Sentinel was in print, ‘Obituaries are news to us.’ THERE IS NO CHARGE

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.