Harold Glen Razer, a beloved member of the Dexter community, passed away peacefully at his home on October 30, 2023. He was born in Essex, Missouri on November 17, 1947, to his loving parents Manford and Gertrude Marie (McDaniel) Razer.
Throughout his life, Harold made a significant impact on those around him. He worked diligently at Webers Ben Franklin and later at Watkins and Sons Funeral Chapel, where he dedicated his time and effort to providing compassionate care and support to families during their most difficult moments. His dedication and empathy in this role were deeply appreciated by all who crossed his path.
One of Harold's proudest accomplishments was his involvement with the Dexter Elks Lodge. He was a valued member of this organization and received numerous awards for his work with the Elks Bingo. His commitment to serving others extended to his membership in the Dexter Eagles Lodge as well.
Beyond his professional achievements, Harold had a deep love for life and pursued various hobbies and interests. He found joy in spending time with his son, Matthew Ross and his three grandchildren. Harold also cherished the company of his many loving nieces and nephews, finding comfort in their companionship throughout the years.
In addition to family ties, Harold formed strong bonds with those who became more than friends— they became family. One such individual was Wayne Razer, Harold's brother, along with Wayne's wife Emma of Bernie, Missouri. Their unwavering support was a source of strength for Harold.
Harold's long-time friend and employer Randal Swindell greatly admired him for his work ethic and loyalty. Joe Webber also held a special place in Harold's heart as both a friend and colleague throughout the years.
Shelly Rusher and Tris Wright deserve special recognition as they provided exceptional care for Harold during his final days. Shelly served as both a caregiver and a dear friend, ensuring that Harold's days were filled with love and comfort. Tris Wright, another dedicated caregiver, ensured Harold received the necessary support and assistance during his time of need.
Harold Glen Razer will forever be remembered for his kindness, unwavering dedication, and his uplifting spirit. He touched the lives of many with his compassionate nature and will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
As we gather to celebrate Harold's life and honor his memory, let us find solace in the knowledge that he has left an indelible mark on our hearts. May he rest in eternal peace.
A Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, November 11, 2023 at 11:00 a.m. at Hagy Cemetery in Dexter, Missouri with Watkins and Sons in charge all arrangements.
Terrie Lynn Lemons, daughter of the late Alvis Haynes and Esther Winters Haynes, was born on March 11, 1958, in Sikeston, Missouri, and departed this life on October 30, 2023, at Southeast Health in Cape Girardeau, Missouri, at the age of 65 years.
Mrs. Lemons was a homemaker and a resident of Dexter, Missouri.
She was first united in marriage to Terry Belcher; he preceded her in death. She was then united in marriage to Amil Britton; he preceded her in death. On May 9, 1992, in Essex, Missouri, she was united in marriage to Jerry Don Lemons. Mr. Lemons preceded her in death on March 22, 2009.
She is survived by her son, David Belcher of Poplar Bluff, Missouri; five brothers, James Haynes of Bloomfield, Missouri, Wayne Haynes of Dexter, Missouri, Kenneth Haynes, David Haynes of Bernie, Missouri, and Randy Haynes of Dexter, Missouri; by eight sisters, Dicie Greggs of Potosi, Missouri, Mary Walton of Dexter, Missouri, Margaret Caldwell of Marmaduke, Arkansas, Gwendolyn Mills, Cathy Smith, and Christine Haynes all of Dexter, Missouri, and Theresa Bostic and Patricia K. Spradling both of Bloomfield, Missouri; by four grandchildren, Lillian Belcher, Emily Belcher, Olivia Alford, and Alyssa McCall; by two great-grandchildren, Aniyah Alford and Nova Alford; and by many nieces and nephews.
Other than by her husbands and parents, she was preceded in death by her son, Terry Belcher Jr., by two brothers in infancy, Charles Haynes and Paul Haynes; and by two sisters, Jane Auger and Shirley Austin.
Visitation will be held at Mathis Funeral Home in Dexter on Thursday, November 2, 2023, from 9:00 a.m. until 10:00 a.m. Funeral services will then be conducted in the Mathis Funeral Home Chapel on Thursday, November 2, 2023, at 10:00 a.m. with Rev. Jeff Wells officiating. Interment will follow in the New Essex Cemetery.
Mathis Funeral Home in Dexter is assisting with arrangements.
Tommy Dewayne Newell, son of the late Danny Reynolds and Carolyn Sue Surface, was born on November 17, 1969, in Chaffee, Missouri and departed this life on November 2, 2023, at Landmark Hospital in Cape Girardeau, Missouri at the age of 53 years.
Mr. Newell was a resident of Bell City, Missouri and worked as a boiler maker and body technician. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, and riding motorcycles. Mr. Newell also coached youth league baseball and basketball.
On May 1, 1993, in Blodgett, Missouri, he was united in marriage to Michelle Williams. Mrs. Newell survives in their home in Bell City, Missouri.
Other than his wife, he is survived by one son, Easton Newell of Bell City, Missouri; one daughter, Brittany Newell of Morley, Missouri; one brother, Sonny Polley of Advance, Missouri; two sisters, Tammy Bailey of Bell City, Missouri and Julie Whitehead of Bell City, Missouri; two grandchildren, Mikylia Daniel and King Mosley; Special nephew, Kyle Robinett of Bell City, Missouri; special great-nephews, Colton Pobst and Keaton Robinett; one special great-niece, Khloe Robinett.
Other than his parents, he was preceded in death by one grandchild, C.J. Mosley.
Visitation will be held Monday, November 6, 2023, at Mathis Funeral Home in Dexter from 12:00 p.m. until 2:00 p.m. Funeral services will then be conducted in the Mathis Funeral Chapel on Monday November 6, 2023, at 2:00 p.m. with Rev. Mark Finney officiating. Interment will follow in the Gravel Hill Cemetery near Bloomfield, Missouri.
Mathis Funeral Home in Dexter is assisting with arrangements.
Keith Craft son of the late Leon Craft and Flossie Turner Craft was born on March 26, 1971 in Dexter, Missouri and departed this life on November 1, 2023 at his residence in Dexter, Missouri at the age of 52.
Keith had worked in maintenance in Tyson and had also worked for his brother’s roofing company. He enjoyed fishing and spending time with his grandchildren.
In December of 1994 he was united in marriage to Cathy Taylor. Mrs. Craft survives of their residence in Dexter.
Other than by his wife he is survived by his son, Cameron Craft of Dexter, Missouri; by his daughters, Kaylin Craft and Keaira Craft both of Dexter, Missouri; by four brothers, Bill Craft of Bernie, Missouri, Danny Craft of Malden, Missouri, Robert Craft of Bernie, Missouri, and David Craft of Dexter, Missouri; by five sisters, Linda Strickland of Bernie, Missouri, Patricia Riddell of Campbell, Missouri, Marilyn Rushing of Dexter, Missouri, Marlene Craft of Bernie, Missouri, and Kayeela Sugg of Dexter, Missouri; by two grandchildren, Kendalynn Jane and Sofia Blake.
Other than by his parents he was preceded in death by one brother, Mike Craft.
A memorial service will be conducted on Saturday, November 4, 2023 at 1:00 p.m. at the Lighthouse Christian Center in Dexter, Missouri with Rev. Ivan Mekan officiating.
Mathis Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.
Harold Merick Jr., son of the late Harold Merick Sr. and Edith Mae Bond Merick was born on April 9, 1938, and passed away peacefully at his home in Aquilla on October 31, 2023, at the age of 85.
Jr was a strong-willed man. He was known as a jack of all trades. Jr was a secretary in the US Army, farmer, businessman, horse fanatic, leather worker, wood worker, and anything else you could think of. However, Jr’s most beloved titles were husband, father, and papa.
On December 19, 1958, Jr. married Joyce Ray of East Prairie. To this union, three children were born: Randy Merick and his wife, Susan, the late Patrick Merick and a daughter.
After the passing of his wife Joyce, Jr. married Brenda (Gustin) Merick on August 10, 2004. They then joined families and Jr. welcomed Greg Gustin and wife Christy, Todd Gustin and wife Amy, Stacy Henry and husband Byron all from Ohio.
Jr is survived by his wife, Brenda, his son, Randy, and three sisters; Jeannie White, Karen Lancaster, and Barbara Robinson; by his grandchildren, Hillary Crain and husband David, Matthew Merick and wife McKenzie, Emily Pratt and husband Corey, Jinny Maust and husband Brodie, Heather Gustin and Corey Farrens, Byron Gustin and
wife Lindsey, Megan Winegar and husband Seth, Andrea Burns and husband Brady, Kevin Gustin and wife Courtney, Evan Henry, and Makenna Henry; and by sixteen great-grandchildren, who he adored.
Jr. was preceded in death by his parents, his first wife, his son and his brother, Charles Merick and his sister, Linda Ott.
Visitation will be held on Friday, November 3, 2023, from 5:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at the Trinity United Methodist Church in Bloomfield. Funeral services will be conducted on Saturday, November 4, 2023, at 10:00 a.m. at the Trinity United Methodist Church in Bloomfield with Rev. Kenneth Lambert officiating. Interment will follow at the Bloomfield Cemetery.
Memorials may be made to the 18 Fore Life, c/o Scott Kruse, 705 Laurie Circle, Dexter, Missouri 63841. Envelopes will be provided at the Church.
