OBITUARIES

As of Wednesday, Feb. 21, 2024
Cities without a state are in Missouri

OBITUARY

Kenneth McNamara

Oct. 28, 1962 – Feb. 19, 2024

We bid a fond and funny farewell to Kenneth McNamara, who passed away on Monday, Feb. 19, 2024, at Webb City Health and Rehabilitation. Born on Oct. 28, 1962, in Orville, Calif., Kenneth was the life of the party from the very beginning. Known for his quick one-liners and dry wit, Kenneth was always ready to bring a smile to anyone who needed it.

Despite the trials of life, Kenneth always maintained a sense of humor. He was involved with NA with his brother John, with over 15 years of sobriety.

Kenneth’s love and laughter live on through his siblings, Nora de la Rosa of Carterville, John McNamara of Lakeside, Frank McNamara of Carterville, Phil McNamara of Lakeside, and Julie (Rick) Edens of Carl Junction; as well as nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews. He joins his beloved daughter Kendra, and his parents, John and Mary McNamara in heavenly peace.

A memorial service to celebrate Kenneth’s life and laughter will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday, March 2, 2024, at the Route 66 Events Center, 21 S. Webb St., Webb City, with Kenneth’s nephew, Phillip McNamara, officiating. A meal will follow at the same venue. Arrangements are under the direction of Simpson Funeral Home.

OBITUARY

Don Stokes

Sept. 24, 1938 – Feb. 11, 2024

Donald “Don” Lee Stokes, age 85, of Joplin, passed away on Sunday, Feb. 11, 2024 surrounded by loved ones after a lengthy illness.

Don graduated from Webb City High School and later began work as a maintenance welder at Cardinal Scale in Webb City, where he stayed for 52 years prior to retirement.

He was married to Sharon (Beaver) on Aug. 17, 2001, in Joplin.

He enjoyed the small things in life, such as fishing, hunting, and spending time with his family. Don was an avid bowler and took great pride in maintaining his pristine lawn for all to see.

Don is survived by his wife, Sharon; seven children, Donnita Ghramm (Lester), Michael Stokes (Traci), Regina Watkins, Bill Watkins, James Watkins (Christy), Chris Beaver, and Kayla Beaver; 14 grandchildren; 16 great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandchild.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Paul and Sylvia Stokes; one brother, Sterling Coop; his first wife, Anita Betterton; one daughter, Amy Miller; and one grandson, Matthew Watkins.

Services were held Saturday, Feb. 17, at Mason-Woodard Mortuary. Burial was in Osborne Cemetery.