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Ozark Funeral Homes, 100 Spring Street, Anderson, MO (2026)

06/24/2026

Bambette Blanch Shramek departed this life on June 18, 2026, at 8:07 p.m., leaving behind a legacy of love, strength, and cherished memories.

Bambette was a beloved mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend. Her presence brought meaning, comfort, and love to the lives of those closest to her. She will be remembered for the love she gave, the lives she touched, and the special place she will forever hold in the hearts of her family.

She is survived by her children, Justice Philpot and Jalie Weimer; her granddaughter, Shay Philpot; her sisters, Brandi Hart, Starla Stephens, and Carol Baker; as well as her 2 nieces and 4 nephews. Each of them carries with them memories, love, and pieces of her spirit that will never be forgotten.

Though her time here ended far too soon, Bambette’s life will continue to be honored through the stories shared, the love remembered, and the bond of family that remains. Her memory will live on in the hearts of all who loved her.

A celebration of life will be held at a later time.

She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered always.

May Bambette rest in peace, surrounded by eternal love.

06/24/2026

Eugene Dickie Townsend, a cherished father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and a stalwart member of the Jane Missouri community, passed away peacefully at his home on May 31, 2026. Born on November 10, 1939, in the serene town of Rogers, Eugene's life was a testament to hard work, love, and dedication to family and faith.

Eugene was the beloved son of Ollie and Mabel (Fletcher) Townsend, who instilled in him the values of integrity and perseverance that he carried throughout his life. He married Betty Horton in 1958. He was predeceased by his son, Jimmy Townsend, and his siblings—sisters Wanda and Wallsey, and brothers George, Joe, and Robert. Eugene's legacy is carried forward by his surviving children: Ricky Townsend of Jane, Missouri, Jody Townsend and his wife Trudy, also of Jane, Missouri, and his daughter Sandra Richardson and her husband Kenneth of Jane. His life was further enriched by the love of his 13 grandchildren and 24 great-grandchildren, and 2 great-great grandchildren who were the light of his life.

A proud veteran, Eugene served his country with honor as a member of the US Army. Following his service, he returned to his roots in Jane and embraced his calling as a sawmiller. His life's work in logging and sawmilling was not just a profession but a passion that connected him to the land he cherished. Eugene's hands were never idle, as he found joy in woodworking—a craft that allowed him to shape beauty from raw timber, much like he shaped his own life.

Eugene was a devout Christian, and his faith was the cornerstone of his existence. His love for bluegrass music was well known, and it was not uncommon to find him tapping along to a lively tune. An adventurer at heart, Eugene loved to travel, and he fulfilled his dream of visiting every state in the union, save for Washington, which remained on his list of hopeful destinations.

His zest for life extended to the dance floor, where he could often be found enjoying senior center dances. Eugene's joyful presence and warm spirit made him a favorite at these gatherings, and he was known for frequenting numerous centers in the area, spreading cheer wherever he went.

Eugene's family will honor his life with a memorial service on Thursday, June 18, 2026 from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. where they will gather to celebrate the love and memories he leaves behind. In these moments of remembrance, they will cherish the lessons he imparted, the love he gave unconditionally, and the laughter he shared so generously.

Eugene Dickie Townsend's life was a rich tapestry woven with love, dedication, and an unyielding spirit. He will be profoundly missed by all who had the privilege to know him, yet his legacy will live on in the hearts of those he touched. Rest in peace, dear Eugene, knowing your journey was well-traveled and your life well-lived.

06/24/2026

Joe B. Fischer, age 95, of Noel, Missouri, departed this life on Tuesday, June 9, 2026, at McDonald County Living Center in Anderson, Missouri. He entered this life on January 8, 1931, in Wallace County, Kansas, the third of five children born to the late Julius and Ernestine (Weller) Fischer.

Joe was raised in Oakley, Kansas, and graduated from Oakley High School in 1949. Following high school, he enlisted in the United States Army and served his country in Korea. On June 3, 1951, he married Luetta Mae “Lou” Bemiss, and together they shared nearly seventy-four years of marriage filled with love, commitment, and the blessings of a close family.

After their marriage, Joe and Lou resided in Nebraska until moving to Noel, Missouri, in 1963. Once in Missouri, they built a life rooted in hard work and community. Joe and Lou owned and operated Fischer’s Clothing for a number of years. In addition to his work in retail, Joe was proud to have been a fire chief, a Boy Scout leader, and a proud member of the American Legion. He also farmed, raised chickens, and served as a rural mail carrier.

Joe found joy in the simple and meaningful things in life. He enjoyed fishing and hunting. And he especially treasured time spent with his family. In July of 1963, he began attending the Noel United Methodist Church, where he became a lifelong faithful member.

He is survived by his three daughters, Karen Carpenter of Bentonville, Arkansas, Mary Jane Fischer and HD Sawyer of Sulphur Springs, Arkansas, and Nancy Huntsman and her husband, David, of Parker, Colorado; a daughter-in-law, Toni Fischer of Noel, Missouri; seven grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; and a host of other family members and friends who will cherish his memory.

Joe was preceded in death by his parents, Julius and Ernestine Fischer; his beloved wife, Lou Fischer, on May 23, 2025; his son, Wayne Fischer; and four siblings, Fred Fischer, Bobby Logan, Gen Scully, and Lois Simonton.

06/24/2026

Syprina "Sis" Lynn Claxton, 51, of Stella, Missouri, passed away on Sunday, June 7, 2026, at her residence.

She was born on May 22, 1975, in Stella, Missouri, to the late James and Patricia (Mace) Mathews. She was a 1993 graduate of McDonald County High School. She carried herself with quiet strength, warmth, and kindness, and she touched the lives of many with her gentle spirit and caring nature.

Syprina was a wonderful homemaker throughout her life. She had a beautiful heart and was known for the love and compassion she shared with those around her. Her presence brought comfort and joy to her family, and she will be remembered for the grace with which she lived her life. She especially enjoyed singing Karaoke, and those who knew her will remember the happiness she found in music and the way her voice and spirit could brighten a room.

She is survived by her husband, Robert Claxton, of the home; three brothers, Donald Rose and his wife, Tina, of Anderson, Missouri, Sherman Mathews and his wife, Sandy, of Seneca, Missouri, and Conan Mathews of Rocky Comfort, Missouri; as well as a host of other family and friends who will cherish her memory.

She was preceded in death by her parents, James and Patricia Mathews; her daughter, Brightley Faith Claxton; and her brother, Wayne “Pete” Mathews.

06/24/2026

Douglas Laverne “Doug” Atkins, 68, of Anderson, Missouri, departed this life on Saturday, June 6, 2026, at his residence. He entered this life on August 15, 1957, in Neosho, Missouri, the only child born to the union of the late Harold and Cloteel (Carlin) Atkins.

He graduated from McDonald County High School in 1975 and later furthered his education at MSSC in Joplin, where he received a bachelor’s degree.

After graduation, Doug began working for Eagle Picher in Joplin and later for RAE Manufacturing in Pryor, Oklahoma. Eventually, he returned to the family farm, where he worked for various poultry plants in the maintenance department, retiring in August of 2022.

On September 19, 1996, Doug married Iva Rowe Ferell in Noel, Missouri.

Doug is survived by his wife, Iva Atkins; sons, Seth Atkins and fiancée Stephany Moua, Neill Ferrell and wife Season, and Andrew Ferrell and wife Vergie; daughters, Chelsea and Caitlin Thornburg; nine grandchildren; as well as a host of other family and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Harold and Cloteel Atkins; and his in-laws, Esther and Kent Ferdig.

Cremation arrangements are under the care of Ozark Funeral Home in Anderson, Missouri.

06/24/2026

Judith Ann Duncan, 81, of Bella Vista, Arkansas formerly of Anderson, Missouri passed away on Saturday, June 6, 2026, at 12:55 a.m. surrounded by the love of her three children, exactly as she wished.

She was born on June 15, 1944, in St. Louis, Missouri to the late Frank and Ruth (Biermann). She graduated from Riverview Gardens High School of St. Louis in the class of 1962. On January 1, 1963, she was united in marriage to Gale Lee Duncan and to this union two sons and one daughter were born. She graduated from Harris Teachers College where she received her Bachelor of Science Degree. Judy worked as a teacher in the St. Louis, Missouri school system until 1977 when she and her husband, Gale became owners of Ozark Funeral Homes, Inc. until Gale’s retirement in 2004. They started the Bella Vista Funeral Home and Crematory in 1990, where Judy continued serving families until she officially retired in 2024.

Judy served as the owner of the Bella Vista Funeral Home until her passing, was involved in ESA (Lambda Chi Chapter of Epsilon Sigma Alpha Sorority), Traveling Sams of Bella Vista, Questers of Bella Vista, PEO Chapter BR of Bella Vista, Order of the Eastern Star of Missouri - Webb City Chapter #204, board member of the McDonald County Historical Society, former member of the Anderson United Methodist Church, and was a member of the First United Methodist Church of Bella Vista.

She was preceded in death by her parents and husband, Gale L. Duncan on March 20, 2012.

Judy is survived by her daughter, Sheryl Duncan Pennington and husband, Steve of Newton, Kansas; two sons, Gale L. Duncan, II of Rogers, Arkansas and David M. Duncan and wife, Tammy of Bella Vista, Arkansas; granddaughters, Caila Spitzer and husband, Devehn of Valley Center, Kansas, and Laura O’Malley and husband, Patrick of Little Rock, Arkansas; great granddaughters, Tennley Spitzer of Valley Center, Kansas and Phoebe O’Malley of Little Rock, Arkansas; two bonus grandsons, Denton and Derby Pruitt of Sulphur Springs, Arkansas; twin siblings, Jerry Pais and wife, Cindy of Lake St. Louis, Missouri and Jackie Martin of Florissant, Missouri; baby brother, Jon Pais and wife, Nancy of St. Charles, Missouri; several nieces and nephews; as well as a host of other family and countless friends.

06/24/2026

Mr. Jerry Joe Plumlee, 73, of Rogers, Arkansas, passed away on June 4, 2026. Cremation arrangements are under the care of Ozark Funeral Home in Anderson, Missouri.

06/24/2026

Louetta Mae Zinn, 65, of Anderson, Missouri, passed away on Tuesday morning, June 2, 2026, at Freeman Hospital West in Joplin, Missouri. She entered this life on May 18, 1961, in Walnut Ridge, Arkansas, born to the union of the late Olieas and Tommie (Meeker) Hatfield.

Louetta graduated from Mammoth Springs High School in 1979. She resided in Springfield, Missouri, until moving to Anderson in 2000, where she continued to build a home filled with warmth, laughter, and care for those around her.

Family was the center of Louetta’s life, and she cherished every moment spent with those she loved. She is survived by her husband, Larry Zinn, whom she married on September 11, 1991; three children, Jennifer Busby, Thomas Busby, and Jeremy Zinn; seven grandchildren; her brother, Toby Hatfield and Teresa; her five sisters, Joann Washam and Bobby, Joyce Mullaney, Donna Liggett and Kerry, Judy Dill and Danny, and Tommie Baldridge and Jimmy; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins. She was deeply loved by her family, and she returned that love with unwavering devotion, encouragement, and strength.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Olieas and Tommie Hatfield; sisters, Gereldene Mullins and Lorene Brandon; a brother, Otis Gene Hatfield; a niece, Michele Liggett Spears; grandparents, Theodore and Mae Meeker and Jacob and Lula Hatfield; her in-laws, Fred and Evelyn Zinn; a brother-in-law, Fred Zinn; and a sister-in-law, Rhonda Zinn Willis.

Louetta had a deep and abiding faith in the Lord, and her love for Jesus Christ was evident to all who knew her. She sang about Him with joy and lifted her arms in worship just days before her home going, a beautiful reflection of the peace and hope that guided her spirit. She now rests in the presence of her Savior, walking with no more pain on the streets of gold.

She loved her family dearly and was so loved by them. Her life was a blessing to those around her, and her memory will continue to live on in the hearts of her husband, children, grandchildren, siblings, extended family, and friends. She will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved her, especially her dog, Taz, who was a faithful companion and source of comfort.

06/03/2026

Michael Coates
( December 7, 1960 - May 31, 2026 )

Michael Edward Coates, 65, passed away peacefully on May 31, 2026, in Pineville, Missouri, surrounded by the love of his family.

Born on December 7, 1960, in Stony Point, New York, Michael lived a life marked by kindness, dedication, and love for those around him.

Michael proudly served his country in the United States Air Force for 16 years. After his military service, he spent 25 years working in the Information Technology department at Walmart. He was hardworking, dependable, and dedicated, but if you knew Michael, you knew his career was only one small part of who he was.

Long before he was an Air Force veteran, husband, father, grandfather, or friend, he was a kid who could always find adventure and sometimes trouble. His mom loved telling stories about him and would laugh as she called him a "hell raiser." Somehow, Michael always seemed to find himself in the middle of something unexpected. Those stories became some of the family's favorites because they captured his fearless spirit and larger-than-life personality.

Michael had a special love for animals that never faded throughout his life. In true Michael fashion, his love for animals wasn't exactly ordinary. Family and friends still laugh about the time he had an alligator living in the bathtub. It sounds unbelievable, but for those who knew him, it was just another Michael story one more example of his adventurous heart and his affection for every creature he came across.

Many of the people who knew Michael had been by his side for most of their lives. They looked up to him because he was the kind of man you could always count on. He had a way of cutting through the noise and seeing situations clearly. Whether someone was facing a difficult decision, a personal struggle, or simply needed honest advice, Michael was the person people called. He had remarkable common sense, a gift that can't be taught, and his friends deeply valued his wisdom and perspective. More importantly, they knew he would always have their backs no matter what.

But Michael wasn't all serious advice and life lessons. He was fun. He was the guy who could make people laugh, tell a great story, and make every gathering a little better just by being there. His sense of humor, loyalty, and genuine love for people made him someone others naturally gravitated toward.

Music was another one of his passions. He especially loved Pink Floyd and could often be found listening to their music, getting lost in the songs he loved. Whether he was enjoying music, spending time with family and friends, caring for animals, or sharing stories from his life, Michael lived life fully and unapologetically.

One of Michael's greatest accomplishments wasn't something that could be listed on a résumé it was the family he helped build. Alongside his sons, Michael built the house they live in today, pouring countless hours of hard work, determination, and pride into every part of it. Anyone who worked alongside him knew that Michael ran a tight ship. Excuses weren't accepted, and "good enough" rarely met his standards. He pushed his boys harder than they often thought they could go, expecting them to give their best in everything they did. At times, that toughness wasn't always easy to understand, but it came from a place of love and a desire to prepare them for life. Michael saw strength in his sons long before they saw it in themselves. Through his guidance, high expectations, and unwavering belief in their potential, he helped shape them into the men they are today. The house they built together stands as more than just a home it is a lasting symbol of his work ethic, his determination, and the legacy he leaves behind in his family.

Michael was also a good man whose love knew no limits. When he chose to marry Kathi, he wholeheartedly embraced not only her, but also her two children and her mother, welcoming them all as family. His devotion, generosity, and steadfast love helped create the close-knit family they shared. To Kathi, Michael was far more than a husband he was her heart and her whole world.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Kathi Coates; his sons, Garrett (Inez) Coates, Christopher (Danielle) Sorrells, and Matthew (Ashley) Morrison; his daughter, Megan Coates; and his eight grandchildren, Zackery Morrison, Paige Sorrells, Kolby Sorrells, Faith Sorrells, Amir Marcel, Tiana Charmaine, River Cash Coates, and Braden Coates.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Willis James Coates and Mary Lynn Sharp.

06/02/2026

Shirley Ann Newburn-Williamson
( March 1, 1935 - May 30, 2026 )

Shirley Ann Newburn-Williamson, born on March 1, 1935, in Wichita, Kansas, and passing away on May 30, 2026, in Granby, Missouri, lived a life marked by faith, devotion, and a steady commitment to the people she loved. She was a woman who understood that a meaningful life is not measured only by years, but by the love shared, the lessons taught, and the strength poured into family, church, and community. Her journey on this earth reflected grace, perseverance, and a spirit that encouraged others to keep going, keep believing, and keep trusting God through every season.

On May 15, 1953, she married Dale Newburn, and together they built a home rooted in love and purpose. To this union, three sons were born, and Shirley embraced her role as a mother with unwavering dedication. She poured herself into her family with patience, wisdom, and a deep well of care. Her husband, Dale Newburn, preceded her in death on July 20, 2003, but the love they shared remained a lasting part of her story and the foundation of the family they created together. Shirley carried forward with strength, honoring the life they built and continuing to be a source of encouragement for those around her.

She is lovingly remembered by her sons, David Newburn and his wife, Deborah, of Neosho, Missouri, Mark Newburn and his wife, Shelley, of Noel, Missouri, and James Newburn of Knoxville, Tennessee. Her legacy also lives on through her grandchildren, Monica, Jason, Greg, Joshua, Dustin, Caleb, and Sarah, as well as her numerous great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren. Each of them carries a part of her heart, her influence, and her example. Shirley’s family was not simply important to her. It was central to who she was, and she made it her mission to love them well, support them faithfully, and remind them through her actions what steadfast devotion looks like.

Shirley lived with a joyful appreciation for life and a genuine love for travel. She enjoyed seeing new places and experiencing the world around her, always carrying with her the calm confidence of someone who knew how to find beauty in the journey. Yet no matter where life took her, her heart remained anchored in her faith. She loved going to church and found great purpose in serving others through the ministry of the First Baptist Church in Noel, Missouri. Her faith was not something she kept to herself. It was something she lived out openly and faithfully, becoming a light to those who knew her.

She taught Sunday School and Bible studies, sharing scripture, encouragement, and truth with a heart that desired to strengthen others. Shirley was also deeply involved with the Awanas group, where she invested in young lives with energy, consistency, and love. Her presence in the church was more than participation. It was leadership through service, teaching through example, and ministry through kindness. She understood that every child, every lesson, and every prayer mattered. She gave of herself in ways that shaped hearts and built faith, leaving an impact that will continue to echo through the lives she touched.

Today, her family and friends honor not only the length of Shirley’s life, but the richness of it. They remember her laughter, her devotion, her teaching, her travels, and her steadfast faith. They remember a woman who gave generously of herself and who left behind more than memories. She left behind a model of how to live with purpose and how to finish strong. Shirley Ann Newburn-Williamson’s life was a testimony to faith in action, love in motion, and strength that endured. Though she is no longer with us in body, the influence of her life remains, and her legacy will continue to bless generations to come.

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