Watkins and Sons Funeral Service

10/09/2026

Eddie Joe Layton was born September 11, 1972 in Chaffee, Missouri to Connie Jean Richman and the late Elvis Lee Layton and passed away on October 7, 2026 at the age of 54 years old.
Eddie Joe has lived in this area his whole life, eventually moving to Sikeston, Missouri. He graduated high school and went on to enjoy things in life. He loved to hunt and fish, worked on cars and collected a lot of antiques. Eddie was of the religious faith and he will be missed by all who knew him.
Surviving family include, his uncle, Johnny Layton and wife Connie Jean (Richman) Layton, one brother, Daniel Carver in Wappapello, Missouri, two sisters, Denise Carver in Bloomfield, Missouri and Jamie (Alex) Bell in Bloomfield, Missouri. A special mention to Laurie Latimore Moore who took wonderful care of Eddie.
Preceded in death is his father, Elvis Lee Layton.
Visitation will be held Wednesday, October 14, 2026 at 2:00 PM at the Watkins and Sons Funeral Home in Dexter, Missouri.
A Memorial Service will be held Wednesday, October 14, 2026 at 3:00 PM at the Watkins and Sons Funeral Home in Dexter, Missouri.

Watkins Funeral Homes provides complete funeral services in Dexter, MO. Call us today for pre-planning or custom planning options

10/08/2026

Patricia Anita Green passed away Tuesday, October 6th, 2026 at Puxico Nursing Home. Patrcia passed away at the beautiful age of 89 years old.

Patricia was born July 8th, 1937, in Hoxy, Arkansas. She was the daughter of Joseph Canada and Dollie Emmons which preceded her in death along with daughter Angela Green, and children that had died in infancy, Richard Emmons her brother, and her sister Virginia Bacon.

On July 30th, 1967, Patricia married her loving husband James William Green in El Reno, Oklahoma. Patricia was a resident of Puxico, Missouri for forty plus years. She had a passion for taking care of her family and lived life as a Christian. She took part in the funeral service industry as a secretary for Morgan Sifford Funeral Home and for thirty years Patricia was involved in over the road team drivers. Patricia will be missed immensely.

Surviving family are four sons; Keith Rosson, Chuck Stephens, J.W. Green Jr., of Dexter, Missouri, and C.J. Green Taylor of Puxico, and three daughters; Loretta Stein of Bertrand, Missouri. Pam Jackson of Wi******er, Illinois, and Peggy Gill. Patricia and James had seven grandchildren and several great grandchildren as well as two great-great grandchildren Drake and Carter.

The Funeral Service will be Saturday, October 17th, 2026, at 10 A.M. at Richmann Cemetery in Wappapello, Missouri.

Watkins And Sons Funeral Service handles all arrangements.

Watkins & Sons Funeral Service

10/02/2026

Eric Lorren Merideth was born in East St. Louis, Illinois, on January 3, 1968 and passed away on October 1, 2026. He had loving parents, Dallas Leamon Sr. and Mary Lou Merideth.

Eric lived in the area for more than 40 years, where he made and kept many friends. He was deeply loved by his family, friends, and caregivers, Eric will be missed.

Eric was a Baptist and a devoted Cardinals fan, Eric made sure everyone knew which team had his heart. He enjoyed watching television, especially Western movies, and loved horses. He also loved painting with his hands and participating in the Special Olympics, competing in the 50-yard dash, Kan Jam, and shot put.

Eric is survived by his brother, Kenneth Merideth of Missouri; his sisters, Janet (Larry) Bieber of Columbia, Illinois, and Bonnie Satterfield of Fisk, Missouri; and many friends and caregivers who meant so much to him. His family is grateful for the wonderful people who cared for Eric and for the love they showed him.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Dallas Leamon Sr. and Mary Lou Merideth; his brother, Dallas Merideth Jr.; and his sisters, Susan Moore and Barbara Arras.

A graveside service will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Wednesday, October 7, 2026, at Ash Hill Cemetery in Fisk, Missouri.

Eric will be remembered for his love of the Cardinals, the joy he found in his interests, and the many friendships he built. He was so loved and will be dearly missed.

Arrangements being made by Watkins and Sons Funeral Home.

09/14/2026

Lomas Patrick Johnson was born on November 4, 1992, to Paul Allen and Kirtina Johnson. He departed this life on September 3, 2026, in Columbia, Missouri, at the age of 33.
Lomas was a graduate of high school who lived life in his own unique way. He found joy in playing basketball, watching movies, spending time with family and friends, and creating treasured memories with his beloved daughter, Naiara. Lomas had a warm spirit and a memorable way of connecting with others. His favorite saying, “Shake a Hand, Meet a Friend,” reflected the kindness and openness he carried with him.
Lomas will be remembered for his individuality, his love for those closest to him, and the special moments he shared with everyone whose life he touched. He will be missed every day and lovingly remembered always.
He leaves to cherish his memory his daughter, Naiara Renee Johnson of Columbia, Missouri; his brothers, Cameron (Kate) Whittaker of Columbia, Missouri, Hakeem (Vanessa) Whittaker of Columbia, Missouri, and Jamal Johnson of Missouri; his sister, Jakyra Johnson of Columbia, Missouri; and many aunts, uncles, relatives, and friends who loved him dearly and will continue to honor his memory.
Lomas was preceded in death by his grandparents, Enoch Simmons, Maeida Whittaker, Smokey Johnson, and Dora Johnson; his great-grandmother, Ollie Mae Getter; his great-great-aunt, Ida Jones; his aunt, D. Ruth Simmons; and his uncles, Charles, Larry, and David Johnson.
Services
Visitation
Saturday, September 19, 2026, at 11:00 a.m.
Watkins and Sons Funeral Home
Dexter, Missouri
Funeral Service
Saturday, September 19, 2026, at 12:00 p.m.
Watkins and Sons Funeral Home
Dexter, Missouri
“Shake a Hand, Meet a Friend.”
Lomas made friends wherever he went, and his memory will remain in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

09/11/2026

Ruby "Lorine" Griffin, a cherished soul, passed away peacefully at her home on September 6, 2026, at the age of 94. Born on May 8, 1932, in Sylvania, Missouri, Lorine was the beloved daughter of John Park and Ruth Opal Cooper.
Lorine’s journey was one of love, dedication, and community service. She married the love of her life, Thomas L. Griffin Jr., on July 18, 1953, in Vanduser, Missouri. Together, they created a life filled with family and shared dreams. Lorine’s legacy continues through her surviving family. Her cherished grandson, Thomas R. Brown of Bonne Terre, Missouri, carries forward her spirit and love.
A devoted family woman, she leaves behind a loving extended family, including her nieces and nephews: Tammy (Robert) Olson of Fulton, Missouri; Amy (Bradley) Wren of Essex, Missouri; Charles Partain of Advance, Missouri; Linda Gean of Dexter, Missouri; and Robert Olson Jr. of Advance, Missouri, along with many great nieces and nephews who remember her fondly.
Preceded in death are her parents, her loving husband, Thomas L. Griffin Jr., two daughters, Sandra K. Brown and Juanita Griffin, three sisters, Opal Catherine, Opal Biezold, and Ruth Nadine Partain.
Lorine’s life was marked by her commitment to nurturing those around her. Lorine’s first job out of high school was working at the local store in Vanduser which is where she met Thomas Griffin Jr. In the 1960s, Lorine broke new ground by serving as the Mayor of Vanduser, Missouri, for four years. She became the main cook for a nursing home, where her warmth and culinary skills comforted countless residents. Her leadership and dedication to her community left an indelible mark. Her hobbies were expressions of her love and creativity. Lorine was a Mary Kay Consultant for a many years and found joy in crocheting, sewing, and baking, often cooking for her family and community at Faith Baptist Church. Her passion for these activities was a testament to her generous spirit and her deep love for others.
Lorine’s life will be celebrated on September 18, 2026, at Watkins and Sons Funeral Home, located at 301 North Walnut Street, Dexter, Missouri.
Visitation will be held Friday, September 18, 2026 beginning at 11:00 AM at the Watkins and Sons Funeral Home in Dexter, Missouri.
Funeral Service will be held Friday, September 18, 2026 at 1:00 PM at the Watkins and Sons Funeral Home in Dexter, Missouri, where family and friends will gather to honor her memory and the remarkable life she led.
Following the Service she will be going to the Missouri Veterans Cemetery in Bloomfield, Missouri at 2:00 pm.
Ruby "Lorine" Griffin's life was a testament to the power of love, service, and family. Her warmth, kindness, and dedication to those she loved will be remembered by all who were fortunate to know her. She will be dearly missed, but her legacy will continue to inspire and guide those she leaves behind.

www.watkinsfuneralhome.com

09/09/2026

Eugene Scott Durbin was born October 16, 1953 in Missouri to the late Verneil Horn, and passed away on September 2, 2026 in Poplar Bluff, Missouri at the age of 72 years old.

Scott lived in Campbell where he lived all of his life. He was married to his beloved wife Diane Durbin. Scott and Diane married in Arkansas on September 8, of 2003. They attended church regularly at Church of Christ. Scott loved to sing, be at the Eagles Club, drive a truck and enjoyed the company of 22 grandchildren and 2 great grandchildren. He served time in the Army and retired from employment in the year of 1998.

Surviving family includes the following: four sons, Andy (Toni) LeBlanc in Pesktoy, MI, Brian (Heather) Empey in Battlecreek, MI, Josa Durbin, Micheal (Jodi) Kucharek of Battlecreek, MI, and one daughter Eugina (Durbin) Elliott from Holland, MO. Scott had twenty-two grandchildren and eight great grandchildren that he cherished and they all will miss him.

Visitation will be held Friday, September 11, 2026 at 10:00 am at Watkins and Sons Funeral home in Bloomfield, Missouri.

Funeral services will be held Friday, September 11, 2026 at 11:00 am at Watkins and Sons Funeral home in Bloomfield, Missouri.

09/02/2026

Randall “Randy” Martin, a lifelong resident of Puxico, Missouri, was born December 10, 1962, to Elmer and Vadola Martin. He passed away on September 1, 2026, at the age of 63.

Randy married Cindy Bess on October 7, 1989, and together they built a life centered on family, friendship, and many wonderful memories. He was a devoted husband and the proud father of their son, Jarrett. Randy was a hardworking man who would do anything he could for his family and friends.

Randy retired from Operating Engineers Local 513 and took great pride in his work. In 2014, he was honored as Craftsman of the Year by the Springfield chapter of the American Institute of Architects for his work on the athletic and recreational improvements at Missouri State University. This recognition reflected the skill, dedication, and attention to detail he brought to everything he did.

Randy’s talents did not stop when the workday ended. He enjoyed working on cars and often completed sandblasting and engine projects for others from his garage. He was known for being very particular about his work—because, in Randy’s mind, there was a right way to do something, and then there was Randy’s way, which was usually even more precise.

A lifelong car enthusiast, Randy especially loved Fords and Mustangs. He enjoyed dirt track racing during the late 1990s and into the 2000’s, watching NASCAR, attending swap meets, and spending time with fellow car enthusiasts. Some of his favorite swap-meet memories were made alongside his friends Rob Ruser and the late David Holloway. Randy also treasured the time he spent with his family, Heartland Cruisers friends, camping family, and Taco Tuesday group. These friendships brought him great happiness and many stories that will continue to be shared.

Randy was preceded in death by his parents, Elmer and Vadola Martin; his parents-in-law, Jerry Bess and Maggy Bess; his sister, Barbara White; his brother, Gary Martin; his sister-in-law, Bami Bess; his nephews, Eric and Corey Martin; and his niece, Laurie Massey.

He is survived by his loving wife, Cindy Martin; his son, Jarrett Martin; and his siblings, Gordon (the late Carolyn) Martin of Wentzville, Missouri; Ron (the late Elvena) Martin Sr. of Dexter, Missouri; Duane Martin of Puxico, Missouri;

Gloria (Lonnie) Massey of Sedgewickville, Missouri; Priscilla (Larry) Hull of Old Appleton, Missouri; Tony (Leslie) Martin of Cape Girardeau, Missouri; Roger (Robin) Martin of Puxico, Missouri; and Lynetta (Mike) Baldwin of St. Peters, Missouri. He is also survived by his brother-in-law, Todd Bess; sisters-in-law, Ashley Carlisle, Michelle DeLong, and Lois Martin; and many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and special friends who loved him dearly.

Randy will be remembered for his strong work ethic, craftsmanship, loyalty, generous heart, and the care he showed to those he loved. Whether he was working in his garage, talking about cars, searching for treasures at a swap meet, camping with friends, or gathering for Taco Tuesday, Randy enjoyed life most when he was surrounded by the people who mattered to him. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.

Visitation will be held Friday, September 4th, 2026 at 11:00 am at the Watkins and Sons Funeral Home in Puxico, Missouri.

A Funeral Service will be held Friday, September 4th, 2026 at 1:00 pm at the Watkins and Sons Funeral Home in Puxico, Missouri.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Heartland Cruisers through its account at People’s Community Bank or mailed to Kelly Burge, 24868 State Highway 51, Puxico, MO 63960; or to Community Corner, P.O. Box 123, Puxico, MO 63960.

08/21/2026

Eleanor June T***s was born June 15, 1931 in Chenoa, Illinois to the late John Henry Melvin and Irene (Runyon) Mallory and passed away on August 18, 2026 in Dexter, Missouri at the age of 95 years old.
Eleanor lived in this area most of her life, coming from Illinois, where she spent some time. Eleanor was married to Paris Edward “Bud” Qualls, Benton Bowman, and Lester “Jimmy” T***s, all who preceded her. She attended church regularly all of her life and was a member of the SW Church of the Nazarene. She spent a lot of time with genealogy and caring for the elderly.
Surviving family include: Edward Dean Qualls of Venice, Florida, Keith Bowman of Dallas, Texas, Marilyn (David) DeJournett of Essex, Missouri, Kim (Rick) Williams of Dexter, Missouri and Bradley (Susan) T***s of Dexter, Missouri. June had many grandchildren and many great grandchildren that she cherished and they will miss her. She has two brothers, Jim Mallory of Mississippi and Ken Mallory of Mary Esther, Florida and one sister, Ruth Tippen of Bloomfield, Missouri. She had many friends and family that she loved and cherished.
Preceded in death are her parents, 1st husband, Paris Edward “Bud” Qualls, 2nd husband, Benton Bowman, and 3rd husband, Lester “Jimmy” T***s, two sons; Carl Qualls, David Qualls and ten siblings; John, Irma, Gerald, Charles, Daniel, Duane, Donald, Mac, Lonnie, and Dennis.
Services will be Friday, September 4th, 2026 at Watkins and Sons Funeral Home, Dexter, Missouri. Visitation at 10:00 am to 12:00 pm and Funeral at 12:00 pm.
Following we will be at Bloomfield Veterans Cemetery at 1:00 pm.

08/11/2026

Tiffany Renee Worley, a beloved daughter, wife, and friend, passed away on August 4, 2026, leaving a profound impact on all who knew her. Born on August 28, 2002, in Poplar Bluff, Missouri, Tiffany was a beacon of kindness and joy, beloved by her family and cherished by her community.

Tiffany was the cherished daughter of Terry Lee and Georgianna Hillman and the devoted wife of Austin Worley, whom she married on August 12, 2022, in a beautiful ceremony in Kennett, Missouri and expecting first born a baby girl whose name would of been Arabella Sue Worley. Their love was a testament to the power of partnership and mutual respect, and their time together was filled with laughter, shared dreams, and unwavering support. Growing up in Dexter, Missouri, Tiffany was a bright and compassionate individual. She graduated high school and pursued a career in healthcare, earning her Certified Nursing Assistant license. She found her calling at Wi******er Place in Bernie, Missouri, where she worked dedicatedly as a CNA, caring for the elderly with grace and empathy.

Tiffany Renee Worley, a beloved daughter, wife, and friend, passed away on August 4, 2026, leaving a profound impact on all who knew her. Born on August 28, 2002, in Poplar Bluff, Missouri, Tiffany was a beacon of kindness and joy, beloved by her family and cherished by her community.

Tiffany was the cherished daughter of Terry Lee and Georgianna Hillman and the devoted wife of Austin Worley, whom she married on August 12, 2022, in a beautiful ceremony in Kennett, Missouri and expecting first born a baby girl whose name would of been Arabella Sue Worley. Their love was a testament to the power of partnership and mutual respect, and their time together was filled with laughter, shared dreams, and unwavering support. Growing up in Dexter, Missouri, Tiffany was a bright and compassionate individual. She graduated high school and pursued a career in healthcare, earning her Certified Nursing Assistant license. She found her calling at Wi******er Place in Bernie, Missouri, where she worked dedicatedly as a CNA, caring for the elderly with grace and empathy.

A member of Victory Baptist Church in Piedmont, Missouri, Tiffany's faith was a guiding force in her life. She had a passion for the arts, often losing herself in drawing and creative expression. Her enthusiasm for playing Fortnite and her love for her family and friends were well known to all who were fortunate enough to be a part of her life. Tiffany shared a special bond with her siblings, Brittany Hillman(Martin Simpson) and Travis Hillman, all of Dexter, Missouri, who survive her. She was a dear friend to many, including Morgan Armstrong and Diane Worley, who will deeply miss her warmth and companionship. She was preceded in death by her paternal grandparents, Lucy and Ralph Hillman, and her maternal grandparents, Donna and Forest Henderson, whose memories she cherished deeply.

A Visitation will be held on Friday, August 14, 2026, at 4:00 P.M. at Watkins and Sons Funeral Home, located at 301 North Walnut Street, Dexter, Missouri.

A Funeral Service will be held on Friday, August 14, 2026 at 6:00 P.M. at Watkins and Sons Funeral Home, located at North Walnut Street, Dexter, Missouri.

Family and friends are invited to gather in her memory, to share stories and to honor the beautiful life she led. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to a charity of your choice, reflecting Tiffany's spirit of giving and her commitment to helping those in need. Tiffany Renee Worley's light was a gift to all who knew her, and although her time with us was far too short, her legacy of love and kindness will endure in the hearts of those she touched.