Thayer

Ruby Opal Idleman was born the daughter of Charles William Ball and Georgia Ava (Pentecost) Ball on November 25, 1919, in Oregon County, Missouri and departed this life March 3, 2014, at Shady Oaks Healthcare in Thayer, Missouri at the age of 94 years.

She was united in marriage April 15, 1937, in Brandsville, Missouri to Aubro Idleman.

She is survived by one son, Charles L. Idleman and wife, Dorajean of Vilonia, Arkansas; one granddaughter, Doralee Chandler and husband, Jeff of Conway, Arkansas; one grandson, Charles Lee Idleman II of Little Rock, Arkansas; four great-granddaughters; one brother, Charles Barnett and wife, Marietta of Brandsville, Missouri; four sisters, Edna Williams of Longview, Texas, Ina Godard and husband, Don of Springfield, Missouri, Norma Ruth Shirk and husband, Harry of Springfield, and Minnie Waite of Independence, Missouri; a host of nieces and nephews and many friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; three brothers, Glen Ball, Fred Ball and James Barnett and one sister, Pearl Perkins.

Ruby was a dedicated homemaker and a wonderful cook, making many delicious meals for family and friends. She enjoyed needlework; especially sewing, quilting, and crocheting.

Mrs. Idleman was a member of the Koshkonong United Methodist Church, attending as long as health permitted.

She will be remembered as a kind and caring lady and will truly be missed by her family and dear friends at Shady Oaks Healthcare.

Funeral services will be Friday, March 7, 2014, at 11:00 AM at the Carter Funeral Home Chapel in Thayer, Missouri with Reverend Charles Barnett officiating.

The family will receive friends at the Funeral Home in Thayer on Friday, March 7^th from 10:00 AM until the service time.

Burial will be in the Koshkonong Cemetery in Koshkonong, Missouri, with services under the direction of Carter Funeral Home, Inc. in Thayer.

Hazel Lola (Mills) Baker was born the daughter of Walter T. Mills and Bertha (Strain) Mills on August 17, 1916, in Oregon County, Missouri, and departed this life on March 1, 2014, at Miller County Care and Rehabilitation Center in Tuscumbia, Missouri, at the age of 97 years.

She was united in marriage at Alton, Missouri on November 20, 1935, to Ray James Baker, who preceded her in death on September 16, 1964.

She is survived by one son, Joe W. Baker and wife, Phyllis of Eldon, Missouri; one daughter, Ruth M. Kelley of Daphne, Alabama; one daughter-in-law, Gail Baker of Stoutland, Missouri; four granddaughters, Cindy Grob, Vicki Kirkman, Donna Greif, and Sonja Blackburn; one grandson, Joseph Baker; four great grandsons; five great granddaughters; one sister, Nola Willoughby of Bartlett, Texas; several nieces and nephews, other relatives, and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Walt and Bertha Mills; her husband, Ray Baker; one son, James W. “Jim” Baker; son-in-law, Patrick Kelley; three brothers, Ralph Mills, Frank Mills, and Glenn Mills; and one infant sister.

Hazel was a Christian lady and a member of the Broadway Baptist Church in Springfield, Missouri.

She was an excellent seamstress; sewing as a hobby and making her living by doing professional clothing alterations. She loved her family, the beauty of nature, and working in her garden.

Hazel will be remembered as a lady with a kind heart and sweet spirit. She will truly be missed by all who knew and loved her.

Funeral services will be Saturday, March 8, 2014 at 2:00 PM in the Carter Funeral Home Chapel at Thayer, Missouri.

The family will receive friends at the funeral home in Thayer on Friday, March 7^th from 6:00 until 7:30 PM.

Burial will be in the Cave Springs Cemetery near Alton, Missouri with services under the direction of Carter Funeral Home, Inc. in Thayer.

Marie May (Corter) Burrow was born the daughter of Oscar Allen Corter and Ruby May (Frisbee) Corter on September 11, 1925 in Mammoth Spring, Arkansas, and departed this life on February 28, 2014, at Fairview Care Center in Joliet, Illinois at the age of 88 years.

She was united in marriage on October 28, 1939 at Mammoth Spring, Arkansas to Noble Burrow, who preceded her in death on July 9, 1975.

She was united in marriage on May 23, 1978 at South Beloit, Illinois to Freeman Jerral “Bill” Burrow, who preceded her in death on October 21, 1996.

She is survived by her four children, Emma Smith and husband, Gordon of Channahon, Illinois, Clara Johnson of Overland Park, Kansas, Noble D. Burrow and wife, Patricia of South Beloit, Illinois, and Wanda Watkins and husband, Barry of Stillman Valley, Illinois; twelve grandchildren, Douglas Smith and wife, Kristina of Channahon, Illinois, Bradley Smith and wife, Robin of Crest Hill, Illinois, Donald Smith and wife, Sharon of Wilmington, Illinois, Tina Wills of Shorewood, Illinois, James Johnson of Overland Park, Kansas, Kimberly Lynn and husband, Richard of Independence, Missouri, Louise Block and husband, Paul of Randall, Minnesota, Edward Burrow of South Beloit, Illinois, Noble “Bo” Burrow and wife, Tammy of South Beloit, Illinois, Theresa Hess of Beloit Wisconsin, Brent Watkins of Stillman Valley, Illinois, and Gregory Watkins and wife, Melody of Rockford, Illinois; nineteen great grandchildren; three great, great grandchildren; one brother, John H. Parker and wife, Dawn of Fennville, Michigan; one sister, Betty “Rachel” Congdon and husband, Douglas of South Beloit, Illinois; two sisters-in-law, Virginia Parker of Mammoth Spring, Arkansas, and Vesta Meryl Peebles of Thayer, Missouri; one brother-in-law, Dempsey Burrow of Lonoke, Arkansas; daughter-in-law, Peggy Burrow; a host of nieces and nephews; other relatives, and many friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Oscar and Ruby Corter; her husbands, Noble Burrow and Bill Burrow; her step-son, Gerald Burrow; two brothers, Virgil H. Parker and Clarence Corter; and one son-in-law, Marvin Johnson.

Marie was a proud homemaker who loved caring for her family. She enjoyed sewing and gardening, and was particularly fond of growing beautiful flowers.

She was a member of the First Assembly of God in Thayer, Missouri. She cherished time spent with her church family in worship and fellowship, and especially enjoyed the ladies in the Church Quilting Club.

She will be remembered as a loving and caring mother and grandmother, a wonderful sister, and a loyal friend. She will truly be missed by all who knew her.

Funeral Services for Mrs. Burrow will be at 12:00 Noon, Monday, March 10, 2014, at the Carter Funeral Home Chapel in Thayer, Missouri with Brother Abel Perez officiating.

The family will receive friends at the Funeral Home in Thayer on Monday, March 10th from 10:00 AM until the service begins at noon.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Mrs. Burrow’s memory to the First Assembly of God Church in Thayer and may be left at the Funeral Home.

Burial will be in the Riverside Cemetery in Mammoth Spring, Arkansas, under the direction of Carter Funeral Home, Inc. in Thayer.

Goldie Norton, age 101, of Thayer, Missouri, died at 9:15 PM on Tuesday, February 25, 2014 at Shady Oaks Healthcare in Thayer. 

 Graveside Services for Mrs. Norton will be at 2:00 PM, Saturday, March 1, 2014, in the Myrtle Cemetery in Myrtle, Missouri with Jerry Arnold officiating.

William Fearl “Bill” Thompson was born the son of Benjamin and Dora May (Wrenfrow) Thompson on April 24, 1930, in Wirth, Arkansas and departed this life February 21, 2014, at his home in Thayer, Missouri at the age of 83 years.

He was united in marriage May 19, 1955, in Sharp County, Arkansas to Alice Deane Melton.

He is survived by his wife, Deane Thompson of the home in Thayer, Missouri; one daughter, Sheila Ann Thompson of Thayer, Missouri; three sons, William Fearl Thompson, Jr. and wife, Pinmanee of Thailand, Robert Dean Thompson and wife, Deborah of St. Charles, Missouri, and Richard Glenn Thompson and wife, Teri of Shreveport, Louisiana; nine grandchildren, Eric Thompson and wife, Andrea, Ben Thompson and wife, Precious, Haley Thompson, Nathan Thompson, Karin Thompson, Beverly Thompson, Ryley Thompson, Reagan Thompson, and Mariah Bonner; three step-grandchildren, Rocky Sifford, Kelly Sifford, and John Sifford and wife, Mariana; five great grandchildren; two step great grandchildren; one brother, John Thompson and wife, Ruth of Kansas City, Missouri; one brother-in law, David Melton and wife, Addie; a host of nieces and nephews, other relatives and many friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; four sisters, Mary, Dora May, Annabelle, and Lily; and two brothers, Ed and Woodrow.

Mr. Thompson was a Veteran, serving his country in the United States Marine Corp during the Korean Conflict.

He was a livestock farmer, an avid gardener, and was employed by several local businesses for many years. He enjoyed fishing, deer and turkey hunting, and coaching his son’s Little League Baseball teams.

Having been deeply devoted to his family, he will be remembered as a loving husband, father, and grandfather, as well as, a loyal friend and neighbor. He will truly be missed by his family and the community in which he lived.

Funeral services for Mr. Thompson will be Monday, February 24, 2014 at 2:00 PM at the Carter Funeral Home Chapel in Thayer, Missouri with Erman Croney officiating.

The family will receive friends at the Funeral Home in Thayer on Sunday, February 23^rd from 4:00 until 6:00 PM.

Burial will be in the Thayer Cemetery in Thayer, Missouri with services under the direction of Carter Funeral Home, Inc. in Thayer.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in Mr. Thompson’s memory may be made to the American Cancer Society and may be left at the Funeral Home in Thayer.

Funeral Services will be Thursday, February 20, 2014 at 11:00 AM at the Carter Funeral Home Chapel in Thayer with Brother Bill Bales officiating.

The body will lie in state at the Funeral Home Chapel on Wednesday, February 19th from 3:00 PM until 8:00 PM.

Burial will be in the Thayer Cemetery, with services under the direction of Carter Funeral Home, Inc. in Thayer.

Gerald Devon Baker was born the son of James Villous Baker and Velma Delores “Rene” (Wiley) Baker on September 19, 1921, in Nettleton, Arkansas and departed this life February 16, 2014, in Batesville, Arkansas at the age of 92 years.

He was united in marriage September 30, 1942, in Willow Springs, Missouri to Wanda Mae Reeves.

He is survived by his wife, Wanda Mae Baker of the home in Thayer, Missouri; one daughter, Donna Baker Fagan of Batesville, Arkansas; three grandchildren, Michael Patrick Fagan and wife, Jessica of Jonesboro, Arkansas, Bryan Christopher Fagan and wife, Amy of Tupelo, Mississippi, and James Matthew Fagan and wife, Aimee of Tallahassee, Florida; seven great grandchildren, Sam, Tolly, Bonnie, Kaylee, Emma, Annelise, and Alice Fagan; one brother, J.W. “Peck” Baker of Mammoth Spring, Arkansas; one sister, Marzee Ann Wade of Port Townsend, Washington; one sister-in-law, Joan Baker of Mammoth Spring, Arkansas; several nieces and nephews; railroad buddies; and many friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; one granddaughter, Amie Elizabeth Fagan; and one brother, Harold Leonard Baker.

Mr. Baker was a Veteran, serving his country in the United States Navy as a radio school instructor in Indianapolis, Indiana.

Gerald started his career on the railroad in 1942 with the old “Frisco” line. After 40 years of service, he retired as an agent with Burlington Northern Sante Fe Railroad.

He enjoyed fishing and camping on Spring River, hunting, playing tennis, and making his own creations in his woodworking shop.

Gerald was an active member of the St. Paul United Methodist Church in Thayer and the American Legion. He will be remembered as a loving husband, father, grandfather and loyal friend. He will truly be missed.

Funeral Services will be Saturday, February 22, 2014 at 2:00 PM at the St. Paul United Methodist Church in Thayer.

The family will receive friends at the Methodist Church in Thayer on Saturday, February 22^nd from 1:00 PM until time of the service.

Burial will be in the Thayer Cemetery at Thayer, Missouri, with services under the direction of Carter Funeral Home, Inc. in Thayer.

In lieu of flowers, the family prefers contributions be made in Mr. Baker’s memory, to St. Paul United Methodist Church in Thayer and may be left at the funeral home.

Ruth P. Gutierrez was born the daughter of Leo Conrad Pruitt and Erma Buck Pruitt on October 2, 1927, in Danville, Virginia, and departed this life January 28, 2014, at her home in Thayer, Missouri, at the age of 86 years.

She was united in marriage to John D. Spencer, Sr. and to this union two children were born, John D. Spencer, Jr. and Pamela Leigh Spencer. Later, she was united in marriage to Esteban “Steve” Gutierrez.

She is survived by her daughter, Pamela Leigh Austin and husband, Frank of Okarche, Oklahoma; daughter-in-law, Kimberly Spencer; four stepchildren, Steve, Bill, Tim, and Laura; nine grandchildren, Zach, Blake, Britany, Bailey, Mark, Rowan, Brendon, Caleb, and Baron; five great grandchildren; loving friends and caregivers, Jean Simmons and Imogene Richardson; special friends, Lois Price and Pat Simmons; several nieces, nephews, and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Conrad and Erma Pruitt; her husbands; her son, John D. Spencer, Jr.; two brothers, Clyde “Smokey” Pruitt and Leo “L.C.” Pruitt and three sisters, her twin, Ruby Early, Mabel and Polly.

Ruth was a dedicated homemaker, with her artistic talents being reflected throughout her home in both needlework and crafts. She was a fun loving person, enjoyed traveling, and lived life to the fullest. Most of all, she treasured time spent with family and appreciated the love and care she received from family and dear friends.

Ruth attended Refuge United Pentecostal Church in Thayer as long as health permitted. She will always be remembered by her sweet smile, her kisses, and her words, “that was some good sugar.”

Funeral Services for Mrs. Gutierrez will be held at 2:00 PM, Friday, January 31, 2014, at the Carter Funeral Home Chapel in Thayer, Missouri with Pastor Clay Risner officiating.

The family will receive friends at the Funeral Home in Thayer on Friday from 12:00 noon until the time of the service.

Burial will be in the Thayer Cemetery in Thayer, Missouri.

Cecil Franklin Jackson was born the son of Celly P. Jackson and Gussie Fiola (Madden) Jackson on November 28, 1937, in Paragould, Arkansas, and departed this life January 23, 2014, in West Plains, Missouri, at the age of 76 years.

He was united in marriage on October 27, 1980, in Alton, Missouri, to Carolyn Lane.

He is survived by his wife, Carolyn Jackson of the home near Thayer, Missouri; six daughters, Connie Noble of Amboy, Illinois, Carolyn McGuire of Amboy, Illinois, Brenda Phipps and husband, James of Thayer, Missouri, Carrie Coursey and husband, Bobby Lee of Koshkonong, Missouri, Jennifer Hay of Buchanan, Michigan, and Jessica Crawford and husband, Clifton of Portia, Arkansas; thirteen grandchildren, fourteen great grandchildren; one sister, Helen Harlan and husband, John of Koshkonong, Missouri; numerous nieces and nephews, other relatives and many friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Celly P. Jackson and Gussie F. Braden; one daughter, Annette Marie Sites; one infant brother; and one niece and one nephew, Marie and Jimmy Harlan.

Cecil was a Veteran of the United States Army. He was a hard-working craftsman and woodworker who built beautiful custom cabinetry and furniture. While he worked at several jobs through the years, he also owned and operated his own auction service.

He was a member of the Grand Gulf Shiloh Church. He enjoyed fishing, hunting, and raising quail, and will be remembered as a loving and devoted husband, father and grandfather. He will truly be missed by his family and many friends.

The family of Cecil Jackson invites family, friends, and neighbors to a memorial service in honor of Cecil on Saturday, February 1, 2014 from 2:00 to 4:00 PM at the Koshkonong School Multi-Purpose Building.

Kenneth Oscar Farrell was born the son of Oscar Riley Farrell and Ella Elizabeth (Putman) Farrell on September 10, 1934, in Springfield, Missouri, and departed this life January 22, 2014, at Sparks Regional Medical Center in Fort Smith, Arkansas, at the age of 79 years.

He was united in marriage on October 31, 1954, in Thayer, Missouri, to Mary Sue Risner.

He is survived by his wife of fifty-nine years, Mary Sue Farrell; one daughter, Sheree Lynn Shea and husband, Jon of Richardson, Texas; one son, Grant Arden Farrell of Charleston, Arkansas; four grandchildren, Aaron Jay Bollinger, Amber Lynn Bollinger, Callum Grant Farrell and Elam Newhart Farrell; one brother, Don Farrell, of Fayetteville, Arkansas; two sisters, Mary Alice Davis of Springfield, Missouri, and Jean Kremeier of Yukon, Oklahoma; several nieces and nephews, other relatives, and many friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Oscar and Ella Farrell; one son, Kenneth Paul Farrell; two sisters, Thelma Atkinson and Dorothy Crews.

Ken worked in the food service business most of his life. He owned A&W Drive-In restaurants in West Plains, Springfield, and Rolla, Missouri, and Springdale, Arkansas for several years, while at the same time, operating his own dairy farm. Later, he and his wife, Mary, owned and operated Warm Fork Restaurant in Thayer, where Ken was well known for his culinary skills.

He enjoyed the outdoors and was an avid quail hunter, along with his dog, Duke.

He was a member of the Church of Christ and will be remembered as a devoted husband, father, and grandpa, as well as a loyal friend. He will truly be missed by all.

Funeral Services for Mr. Farrell will be Sunday, January 26, 2014, at 2:00 PM at the Church of Christ in Thayer, Missouri.

The family will receive friends at the Church of Christ in Thayer on Sunday, January 26th from 12:30 until 2:00 PM, with the funeral service following.

Burial will be in the Thayer Cemetery at Thayer, Missouri, with services under the direction of Carter Funeral Home, Inc. in Thayer.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Mr. Farrell’s memory to Fairhaven Children’s Home in Strafford, Missouri, and may be left at the Funeral Home in Thayer.