Robert James
Robert James, 65, of West Plains, Missouri, passed away on August 3, 2026, in West Plains, Missouri.
Arrangements are pending.
Services in care of Carter Funeral Home Inc., – West Plains, Missouri.
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Othel Hayden “Barney” Barnes
Othel Hayden “Barney” Barnes, 84, passed away July 31, 2026, in West Plains, Missouri. Barney was born May 29, 1942, to the late Omer Hayden Barnes and Viola Brawley Barnes. He was united in marriage to Mary “Sue” Barnes on July 3, 1965. As a young man, he served his country as a medic in the U.S. Army.
Barney had a long career working for BNSF Railroad as a clerk in the Thayer depot. Following his retirement, he kept busy working at the local pawn shop, Many Islands Camp & Canoe Rental, and Harps grocery store.
In his earlier years, Barney was an avid outdoorsman who loved fishing, hunting, hiking, backpacking, camping, and golf. He and Sue enjoyed driving the back roads, finding places to day hike, explore, and enjoy together. He also enjoyed stamp collecting, and in later years, developed a deep interest in firearms—learning about their history and craftsmanship, collecting, reading articles and forums, and staying informed on issues related to gun rights. Barney was a faithful member of the Church of Christ in Mammoth Spring, Arkansas.
Barney is survived by his son and daughter-in-law, Jamie and Billie, and his grandson, Alex. He was preceded in death by his parents; his two brothers, Lynn Barnes and Jim Barnes; and his beloved wife of 58 years, Sue.
The Funeral Service will be held on Thursday, August 6, at 10:30 a.m. in the Carter Funeral Home Chapel in Thayer, Missouri. The service will be officiated by Barry O’Dell, minister. Pallbearers will be Kevin Hedden, Jerry Johnson, Steve Simers, Derek Hufstedler, Alex Barnes, and Wade Weems. Honorary Pallbearer is Jerry French.
Barney was a firm believer in being comfortable, and anyone who knew him knew he was never a fan of wearing a suit and tie—so in Barney’s honor, comfortable attire is warmly welcomed—open collars included.
Interment will follow at the Davis Cemetery in Thayer, with services under the direction of Carter Funeral Home Inc.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorial contributions be made to Children’s Homes, Inc. in Paragould, Arkansas.
Children’s Homes, Inc.
5515 Walcott Road
Paragould, Arkansas 72450
870-239-4031
Robert “Bob” Eugene Simers
Robert “Bob” Eugene Simers was born September 1, 1932, in Mammoth Spring, Arkansas, to Frank and Eunice Simers. He passed away peacefully on July 29, 2026, surrounded by his loving family in Salem, Arkansas.
In the 93 years between those dates, Bob built a legacy of love, friendship, faith, and service.
A graduate of Mammoth Spring High School and student at Arkansas College in Batesville, Arkansas, Bob enrolled in the U.S. Navy at just 18 years old, serving during the Korean War. He served as an electrician, helped recommission naval ships, and was aboard the USS St. Paul, the flag ship for the U.S. Fourth Fleet, operating in Japan, Korea, and China.
Bob was a proud veteran and member of his local American Legion. He often said, “I got more out of the Navy than the Navy got out of me.
On August 25, 1959, he married the love of his life, Joan Gail Berry of Mammoth Spring. Together, they built a life centered on faith, family, and hard work, raising two sons, Rob and Steve.
Following his military service, Bob worked as an electrician, mechanic parts store manager, and engineer and inspector at Contel Phone Company for over 20 years.
In retirement, he became an avid golfer and – most fondly – became known as Papaw Bob to his grandchildren, Earle Wayne, Timothy, Brittany, and Jacob.
Bob served as an elder for the Mammoth Spring Church of Christ for many years. He was a strong and faithful Christian and enjoyed Sunday lunches with his family.
Bob was his family’s patriarch, the source of countless stories, laughter, and quiet wisdom. Perhaps two of his greatest qualities, Bob was a listener and storyteller. He rarely had a cross word to say (unless it was out of frustration against a ballgame).
He is preceded in death by his parents, Frank and Eunice Simers, and his brother and sister, Jack Simers, Mary Alice (Midge) Murphy, along with an infant sister.
He is survived by his wife of nearly 67 years, Joan Simers, his children, Rob Simers, Steve (Rae Lynn) Simers; his grandchildren, Earl Wayne, Timothy, Brittany, and Jacob Simers; his great-grandchildren, Christopher, McKenzie, Gavin, and Chole Simers.
Though he will be deeply missed, fond memories of “Bob” – “Dad”, “Papaw Bob” – will continue to live on in the minds and hearts of all who knew him.
Officiating will be Barry O’Dell
Pallbearers are Kevin Hedden, Derek Hufstedler, Jay Towell, Robert Cox, Danny Busch, and Jerry French.
Honorary Pallbearers are Ken Royster, Bill Pace, Randy Ward, and Wendall Ragsdale.
Lead Singer will be Forrest Rose.
Benediction will be done by Ricky Ragsdale.
Memorials can be mailed to
Or left with the funeral home.
Visitation will be on Friday, July 31, 2026, from 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. at the Carter Funeral Home Chapel of Thayer, Missouri.
A Funeral Service will be on Saturday, August 1, 2026, at 2: 00 p.m. the Mammoth Spring Church of Christ.
Burial will be after the funeral at the Riverside Cemetery of Mammoth Spring, Arkansas with Military Honors.
Services in care of Carter Funeral Home Inc., – Thayer, Missouri.
Charlotte Jane Oakes
Charlotte Jane Oakes was born on April 15, 1946, in St. Louis, Missouri, the second oldest of seven children born to Leo and Clara Kaatman. She grew up in Florissant, Missouri and graduated from McCluer High School.
After graduation, Charlotte worked as an assistant and model at a photography studio before accepting a position as a file clerk with Conductron. During that time, a friend arranged a blind date with Arthur Oakes Jr. Six months later, on July 2, 1966, they were married, beginning a loving partnership that would span 60 years.
Charlotte and Art welcomed two daughters, and in 1975 they made the life-changing decision to move to the Oakes family farm near Thayer, Missouri. There they embraced country living, raising hogs, chickens, and cattle. Although adjusting from city life to the farm took time, Charlotte made it her home. She developed a love for sewing, crafting, and baking, creating countless handmade gifts and treasured memories for her family.
While raising their daughters, Charlotte devoted her time to her community by serving as a Brownie and Girl Scout Leader. Later, she and Art opened their own auto repair business, where Charlotte managed the office. As the business evolved into an auto glass repair and replacement shop, she continued overseeing daily operations, including while Art was deployed to Fort Leonard Wood following the events of September 11, 2001.
Charlotte’s greatest joy was her family. She was a devoted grandmother to her four grandchildren, spending many years helping care for and raise them. She was overjoyed to become a great-grandmother and cherished every opportunity to spend time with her growing family during her final years. Just weeks before her passing, Charlotte and Art celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary on July 2, 2026 – a milestone that reflected a lifetime of love, commitment, and faith.
Above all, Charlotte was a faithful Christian and is a devoted member of the Church of Christ. She taught Bible classes, helped organize Vacation Bible School, faithfully served alongside her husband as an elder’s wife, and lived her life according to God’s Word. Her unwavering faith remained her foundation until her final breath on July 17, 2026.
Charlotte is survived by her beloved husband, Arthur Oakes Jr.; her daughters, Sheri Felton and Lisa Chezem (Matthew); her grandchildren, Derek Felton (Courtney), Wade Chezem (Chase), Brenna Hernandez (Thomas), and Madison Newton; and her great-grandson, Jace Hernandez. She is also survived by her siblings, Robert Kaatman (Nancy), John Kaatman (Nilda), Michael Kaatman (Linda), Catherine Andert (Charles), and Peggy Ferrone (Curtis Kreitner), along with many nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Leo and Clara Kaatman, and her older sister, Carolyne Jay.
Charlotte will be remembered for her steadfast faith, unwavering devotion to her family, quiet strength, generous heart, and the love she shared with everyone blessed to know her. Her legacy lives on in the family she cherished and the countless lives she touched through her kindness, service, and example.
A Memorial Service will be hosted by the Church, on Sunday, July 26, 2026, at 2:00p.m. at the Thayer Church of Christ located at 300 Monroe St. with Preacher Coleman Taylor Smith officiating.
Arrangements in care of Carter Funeral Home, Inc. – Thayer Missouri
Vanetta Carroll
Vanetta Newsom Carroll, was born January 20, 1938 in Wirth, Arkansas, to Howard Newsom and Alice (Wittman) Newsom. She departed this life on July 15, 2026 in West Plains, Missouri with family at her side.
Vanetta is survived by two sons, Sherman Douglas Carroll of Theodosia, Missouri and Kirk Howard Carroll of West Plains, Missouri; two grandchildren, Dillon Jessie Carroll of Castle Rock, Colorado and Blake Andrew Carroll of Springfield, Missouri.
She is preceded in death by both her parents; her husband Sherman Afton Carroll, and daughter April Carroll Mayfield.
After graduating high school Vanetta moved to Memphis and worked for Sears and Roebuck for about one year before deciding to move back and live in Thayer, Missouri. She worked at Wahlquist and Wahlquist CPA’S, the bank of Thayer, and for the law office of Pat Freeman. After working many years in Thayer, Vanetta moved to West Plains where she worked for the Office of State Courts as Circuit Court Clerk and served for Judge Henry, Judge Moore, and Judge Garrett, from which she retired.
Vanetta served the Lord all of her adult life and as a devout Chirstian she taught Sunday School for forty years.
Vanetta also served the community by working at the polls during many elections. As a concerned citizen of the community, in the summer of 2009 Vanetta gathered with a group of like-minded ladies in her home, and it was there that the beginning of the United Federated Republican Woman’s Club headquarted in West Plains, Missouri first began.
She was a devoted mother to her three children and grandmother of two.
In lieu of flowers, the family has asked for memorials be made to the St. Jude Children’s Hospital.
Services will be held Monday July 20, 2026, at the First Baptist church in West Plains, Missouri at 11:00 am.
There will be a visitation at the church from 10:00 am until service time.
Burial will be in Thayer cemetery, Thayer, Missouri under the direction of Carter Funeral Home, Inc., West Plains, Missouri.
Richard Wayne Coppock
Richard Wayne Coppock, 79, of Thayer, Missouri passed away on July 13, 2026, in West Plains, Missouri. He is proceeded in death by his parents of Hasting, Michigan-Paul and Virginia Ruth Coppock & his brother Kenneth.
Richard lived a life defined by hard work, quiet strength, and unwavering love for his family. He is survived brother Gary and his sister-in-law Sharon Coppock and by his beloved wife, Joyce LaVern Coppock, and his six children: Darryl Coppock (Tonya) of Kansas, Denise Coppock Murtagh (David) of Mississippi, Jason Coppock (Kathie) of Florida, Nathan Abraham Coppock (Brandy) of Mississippi, Elizabeth Coppock Bentz of Springfield Missouri, and Joy Coppock Pace (Royce) of West Plains, Missouri. He also leaves behind many cherished grandchildren Stephanie Coppock Dietrich, Veronica Willoughby; Ryan Coppock, Rachel Coppock, Claire Murtagh, Alyssa Coppock, Taylor Webb, Austin Coppock, Dillon Coppock, Marshall Bentz, Jackson Hays, Mayella Pace and one great grandchild Audrey and extended family members and friends who will forever carry his legacy.
Richard proudly served his country as a Vietnam Veteran in the United States Navy. After his military service, he built a respected career as a Journeyman Farrier and Cattleman. Whether training horses, riding them, shoeing them, or working cattle, there was rarely an animal he didn’t appreciate. Later in life, he even developed a special fondness for his cats, proving that beneath his rugged exterior was a gentle heart.
To those who knew him, Richard was the definition of a hardworking man. He was the toughest and strongest person his family had ever known, but his greatest strength was found in his character. He believed in honesty, respect, integrity, and doing every job to the very best of your ability. He lived by the saying, “Better to be an hour early than a minute late,” teaching his children and grandchildren that punctuality was a sign of respect and responsibility.
Richard didn’t just provide for his family; he led by example. Through countless hours of work and sacrifice, he instilled the values of perseverance, accountability, and dedication into his children, their spouses, and his grandchildren. His quiet nature spoke volumes, and although he was never one to seek attention, his influence on those around him was profound and lasting. Richard was also an extraordinarily gifted artist. Whether with pencil, paint, or steel, he possessed a rare talent for bringing what he saw to life. He could draw, paint, and create remarkable works of iron welding art with a skill that seemed effortless. If he could see it, he could make it. He once explained his gift simply: “It goes from your eye to your hand to the paper.” If only it were that easy for everyone. Those who knew him understood that his talent was exceptional, yet he never sought recognition or praise. His quiet humility matched his remarkable ability, allowing his work to speak for itself.
Above all else, Richard loved his family. He was a devoted husband to Joyce, a proud father, and a grandfather whose wisdom and example will continue to guide generations to come. His love was shown not through grand gestures, but through steadfast devotion, tireless work, and a lifetime of putting those he loved first.
Richard Wayne Coppock leaves behind a legacy of faithfulness, strength, honor, and love that will continue to live on in the lives of all who had the privilege of knowing him. He will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever honored.
Richard Wayne Coppock’s hand’s-built fences, shod horses, worked cattle, and provided for his family. More importantly, they built generations of honest, hardworking people who will carry his name, his values, and his example forward. His family will forever hear his familiar reminder, “We’re burning daylight,” and they will honor him by living the life he taught them to live; with integrity, humility, determination, and love.
We’re not saying goodbye! We’re simply saying, we’ll see you on the Mountain. Fair winds and following seas. Your work here is done, your legacy is secure, and your family will love and miss you forever.
A Graveside Service with Military Honors will be held on Saturday, July 18, 2026 at 11:00a.m., at the Koshkonong Cemetery of Koshkonong, Missouri.
Services in care of Carter Funeral Home Inc., – Thayer, Mo.
Mary Ruth Combs
Mary Ruth Sisk Combs, 87, of Myrtle, Missouri, entered her Heavenly home on Monday, July 13, 2026.
Mary was born on July 26, 1938, in Myrtle, Missouri, to Rev. Joseph and Meda Lorine Cantrell Sisk. On September 29, 1962, she married Charles Thomas Combs. Together they built a wonderful life, sharing many happy years until his passing.
Mary was a faithful member of Cotton Creek Free Will Baptist Church and, above all else, was a child of God. Her faith was the foundation of her life, carrying her through every season with strength, hope, and unwavering trust in the Lord. She lived her faith daily through her service to others, her love for her family, and the example she set for those around her.
Mary was an exceptionally talented seamstress. She worked for approximately twelve and a half years at the sewing factory in Thayer, Missouri, where her craftsmanship was admired by many. She enjoyed sewing, quilting, embroidery, and cross-stitch, making clothing for her children and creating countless handmade gifts that will be treasured by her family for generations.
Later in life, Mary continued her calling of serving others by working as a caregiver for Allen Supported Living until she was 80 years old. She was a very hard worker who never shied away from caring for others. Throughout her life, she lovingly cared for her mother, faithfully cared for her bedridden husband twenty-four hours a day for ten years, and helped raise two of her grandchildren. Through every challenge she faced, Mary remained steadfast in her faith, worked tirelessly, and never allowed life’s hardships to diminish her joyful spirit.
Mary never met a stranger. She had a quick wit and a wonderful sense of humor that kept those around her laughing. She had a special gift for making everyone she came in contact with feel like part of her family, especially the caregivers she grew to love at Shepherd’s View Assisted Living. Her kindness, warmth, and genuine love for people will be remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing her.
Her greatest joy was her family. She cherished every moment spent with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren and leaves behind a legacy of faith, service, love, and strength.
She is survived by her children, Wayne Combs and Jackie of Couch, Missouri, and Athena Neptune and Dr. James Neptune of Springfield, Missouri; five grandchildren: Tonya Willard (Brandon) of Couch, Missouri, Adam Neptune (Hannah) of Littleton, Colorado, Tara McIntire (Kody) of Alton, Missouri, Sarah Neptune (Sam) of Ozark, Missouri, and Charli Roberts (Jake) of West Plains, Missouri; seven great-grandchildren: Alee Willard, Brayden Willard, Jordyn Willard, Tripp McIntire, Blakely Roberts, Ada Roberts, and Jack McIntire; sisters-in-laws Charlotte Veasman of Brinktown, Missouri, Rosemary Rowden of Camdenton, Missouri, and Sue Sisk of Myrtle, Missouri; along with a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives, and many dear friends.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Charles Thomas Combs; her parents, Rev. Joseph and Meda Sisk; her sister, Una Mae Estes; her brother, Henry Sisk; an infant brother; and sister-in-law Naomi Combs.
Visitation will be held Thursday, July 16, 2026, from 6:00 until 8:00 p.m. at Carter Funeral Home in Thayer, Missouri. Funeral services will be held Friday, July 17, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at Carter Funeral Home with Rev. Darrell Mitchell and Rev. Russell Hensley officiating. Burial will follow at Myrtle Cemetery in Myrtle, Missouri.
In lieu of flowers please send memorials to the
Myrtle Cemetery
Rt1 Box 1121
Thayer, M0, 65791
or they can be left with the funeral home.
A Visitation will be held on Thursday, July 16, 2026, from 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m., at the Carter Funeral Home Chapel of Thayer, Missouri.
A Funeral Service will be held on Friday, July 17, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at the Carter Funeral Home Chapel of Thayer, Missouri.
Burial will be at the Myrtle Cemetery of Myrtle, Missouri following the funeral.
Services in care of Carter Funeral Home Inc., – Thayer, Mo.
Mary E. Bisbee
Mary E. Bisbee, 97, of Thayer, Missouri, peacefully passed away at her home on July 3, 2026. Mary was born on October 8, 1928, in Bushnell, Illinois, to Floyd and Ruth (Miller) McDonald.
On April 5, 1947, she married Nelson Schacherbauer in Roanoke, Illinois. Together they welcomed three children: Richard Schacherbauer (Karen) of Roanoke, Illinois; Gary Schacherbauer (Lynn) of Roanoke, Illinois; and Diana Parton (Kenneth) of West Plains, Missouri. After 22 years of marriage, Nelson preceded her in death. On June 9, 1979, she married Terry Bisbee, and they shared 16 years together until his passing. She also gained a beloved stepdaughter, Carole Breidenbach (Wade) of Tiffin, Ohio.
Mary found her greatest joy in caring for others. She loved cooking for her family, baking cakes for friends, traveling during her younger years, tending to her flowers and plants, and spending time with her favorite little ones. She never forgot a birthday or special occasion, and delighted in sending greeting cards to family and friends, making everyone feel remembered and loved. She was a faithful member of the Lutheran faith and was active in her community for many years. Mary was a proud member of the American Legion Auxiliary for 69 years and the Fraternal Order of Eagles for 36 years.
She is survived by her children, Richard Schacherbauer (Karen), Gary Schacherbauer (Lynn), and Diana Parton (Kenneth); her stepdaughter, Carole Breidenbach (Wade); seven grandchildren, sixteen great-grandchildren, and four great-great-grandchildren; her sister, Arlene Quinn (James) of Leroy, Illinois; and her special friends, Lynn Simpson, her devoted caregiver, Connie Hedden, and Lynnette Mills.
Mary was preceded in death by her parents; both husbands, Nelson Schacherbauer and Terry Bisbee; four brothers; one great-grandson; one great-great-grandson; and her lifelong best friend, Faye Farris.
Mary will be remembered for her warm heart, generous spirit, unwavering love for her family, and the simple kindness she shared with everyone she met. Her legacy of love, service, and faith will live on in the many lives she touched, and she will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.
Officiating will be Pastor Wayne Hurst and Pallbearers will be Stanley Hedden, Ronnie Bowers, Lynn Simpson, Gene Hedden, Joseph Sacra, and David Sacra. Honorary Pallbearers are Jason Schacherbauer, Michael Schacherbauer, Kody Parton, Keltin Parton, and Kyvin Parton.
Memorials may be sent to the
Disabled American Veterans
Attention: GIFT PROCESSING
PO Box 14301
Cincinnati, OH 45250-0301
Donate Today – Disabled American Veterans (DAV)
OR LEFT WITH THE FUNERAL HOME
A Visitation will be held on Wednesday, July 8, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 11: 00 a.m. at the Carter Funeral Home Chapel of Thayer, Missouri.
A Funeral Service will be held on Wednesday, July 8, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at the Carter Funeral Home Chapel of Thayer, Missouri.
Burial will be on Wednesday, July 8, 2026, at the Thayer Cemetery of Thayer, Missouri.
Services in care of Carter Funeral Home Inc., – Thayer, Missouri
Nancy Raith
Nancy Raith, age 68, of Mountain View, Missouri, passed away on July 1, 2026, She was born on January 19, 1958, and spent her life embracing the simple joys and quiet beauty of rural farm living.
Nancy was happiest at home on her beloved farm, where she built a life centered around family, nature, and the land she loved. A true homebody at heart, she found great contentment in the everyday rhythms of country life. She also found comfort in her faith and believed in the hope of a future resurrection, looking forward to the time when she would be reunited with loved ones and enjoy life again in peace and happiness. She took pride in caring for her animals, tending her colorful flower beds, and nurturing her garden each season. Her love for the outdoors also led her to enjoy hunting and fishing, activities that brought her peace and happiness throughout her life.
Above all else, Nancy cherished her family. She was devoted to her husband, the love of her life, with whom she shared 49 wonderful years of marriage. Together they built a life filled with love, commitment, and countless memories. She was also a loving mother to her son and daughter-in-law.
Nancy will be remembered for her jovial spirit, her appreciation for life’s simple pleasures, and her unwavering love for her family, home, and animals. Her presence brought comfort and warmth to those who knew her, and her memory will continue to live on in the hearts of those she leaves behind.
She is survived by her devoted husband of 49 years, Jerry Raith; her son, Jason Raith; and her daughter-in-law, Cami Raith, along with other family members and friends who will miss her dearly.
Though she has fallen asleep for now, the beauty she cultivated in her gardens, the love she shared with her family, and the memories she created on the farm will remain for generations to come.
There will be a gathering and potluck in remembrance of Nancy at the Ivory & Oak Event Center at 118 N. Elm Street, Mountain View, MO on July 18th, 2026 from 12:30 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. All are welcome to attend.
Hildreth Ann ” Sugar” Smalley
Hildreth Ann “Sugar” Smalley, 79, of Fenton, Missouri, passed away at her home on June 23, 2026. She was born in Springfield, Missouri, on September 18, 1946, to Virgil and Mary Hildreth Cresap Smalley, who preceded her in death. Sugar was also preceded in death by her brother, Jimmy Smalley of Jonesboro, Arkansas; and her beloved aunt, Myrtle Files of Brandsville, Missouri.
Sugar is survived by lifelong friends Wilma Pratt of Greer, Missouri; Billie Elaine Evans Romine of Dallas, Texas; and Janice Rice Griner of West Plains, Missouri. She is also survived by her cousins Michael McMillian and wife Carla of Doe Run, Missouri, and Patricia McMillian of Farmington, Missouri; her special cousin, Terry Range of Thayer, Missouri. She was blessed with kind and caring neighbors in Fenton, Missouri.
Sugar attended Thayer Schools and graduated from Thayer High School in 1964. She began her career as a clerk for the Frisco Railroad in Saint Louis, Missouri, and was known for her strong work ethic throughout more than 30 years of service.
She had a smile that would light up the room and a delightful giggle.
Her love for animals included a horse, birds, and several dogs throughout her life, not forgetting her beloved rescue dog, Toby. Sugar generously gave to animal rescues and sanctuaries.
A Graveside service will be at Woodlawn Cemetery in Brandsville, Missouri, on Thursday, July 2, 2026, at 11:30 a.m. with Brother Jalen Andrews officiating, under the direction of the Kutis Funeral Home of St. Louis, Missouri. Folders provided by Carter Funeral Home Inc., – Thayer, Mo.
To locate the cemetery with GPS Google Maps please use:
9590 County Road 8960, West Plains, Missouri, 65775