Gerland Moore, born on September 5, 1943, passed away peacefully on September 20, 2024. A beloved member of the community, Gerland's life was characterized by his unwavering commitment to his family, friends, and the values deeply cherished.

Throughout his years, Gerland cultivated rich relationships and was known for his kindness, warmth, and supportive. He embodied the spirit of generosity, always ready to lend a helping hand or a listening ear to those in need. His dedication to fostering connections made a lasting impact on all who knew him.

Family and friends will gather to honor Gerland’s memory and pay their respects during a visitation on September 26, 2024, from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM at Watkins Funeral Homes - Puxico, located at 301 N Hickman St, Puxico, MO 63960. Following the visitation, a funeral service will be held at the same location, beginning at 12:00 PM and concluding at 1:00 PM.

As we remember Gerland, let us cherish the beautiful memories he has left with us and celebrate the remarkable life he lived. He will be profoundly missed by all.

Ronald Dean Roper, son of Bonnie Bloyce Roper and Mary Susan Sue Roper of Swinton, Missouri, was born December 14, 1947, in Advance, Missouri and departed this life on September 23, 2024, at his residence in Dexter, Missouri at the age of 76.  


On May 5, 1967, in Advance, Missouri he was united in marriage to Peggy Louise Lacy. Mrs. Roper survives at their home in Dexter. This loving union lasted for over 57 years. Along with his wife, he is survived by one son, Brett Dean Roper and wife Tammy of Dexter and daughter, Brandi Roper Tatum of Bloomfield, Missouri by three wonderful granddaughters, Nicole Roper, Kaley Roper and Ellie Tatum. He is also survived by two brothers Larry Roper and Eddie Roper and two sisters, Barbara Phillips and Patricia Stoker and his large family of nieces, nephews, as well as friends.  
Other than his parents, he was preceded in death by one brother, Rick Roper.  


Ron was a well-known Residential Contractor and Business Owner. His work ethic was unparalleled. Ron was a proud Veteran of the United States Army. He enjoyed working, hunting, boating and most of all spending time with his wife, children, grandchildren and family. Ron along with Peggy held a strong passion for family. This was instilled into his children and grandchildren. The love Peggy and Ron had for each other and their family was beyond obvious. It exudes from the entire family. Ron was a special man and left a legacy that can not be matched. God just dont makeem all like that.


Memorials may be made to the Stoddard County Childrens Home. P.O. Box 164, Dexter, MO 63841

Visitation will be held at Morgan Funeral Home in Advance, Missouri on Thursday, September 26, 2024, from 5:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. The funeral will be held Friday, September 27, 2024, at 9:45 a.m. with Pastor Patrick Grissom officiating. Interment will follow in the Missouri State Veterans Cemetery in Bloomfield at 11:00 a.m.  

Morgan Funeral Home in Advance is assisting with arrangements.

Roy Leon “Doc” Dooley, 78, of Van Buren entered the presence of the Lord on Sunday, Sept. 22, 2024.

Born Oct. 19, 1945, in Cape Girardeau, Roy was a hard-working, dedicated husband and father, a competitive and enthusiastic summer league baseball coach and an avid horseman. He was often a man of few words, but when he spoke, he was always worth listening to. He leaves behind a legacy of love, dedication to family and service to animals.

Roy’s journey through life was marked by his unwavering commitment to his family, his profession and his community. He was a proud husband to his beloved wife of 57 years, Leanne, who survives of the home. Roy was also a guiding light to his children: sons, Mike (Sharon) of Montgomery City, Steve (Samantha) of Van Buren, David (Laura) of Affton and Willie (Sarah) Dooley of Saint Claire; and daughters, Lacey Dooley of Jackson and Amanda (Bryan) Downing of Bowling Green, Kentucky. He was an adored grandfather to 16 grandchildren and cherished great-grandfather to four great-grandchildren. His family was the cornerstone of his existence, and he instilled in them the values of honesty, integrity and hard work.

Roy was preceded in death by his parents, Roy Reeves Dooley and Flora Nell Pratt; stepfather, William A. “Dub” Pratt; half brother, James Robert “Jimmy” Dooley; and his infant daughter, Lindy Lee Dooley.

An alumnus of the University of Missouri, Roy earned his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine in 1969. His profound love for animals and his calling to care for them led to a distinguished career spanning two decades in private equine veterinary practice across Missouri, Minnesota, Kansas, Arkansas and Arizona. His desire to settle his family in a single area led to his decision to leave private practice for the U.S. Department of Agriculture Food Safety Inspection Service, from which he retired in 2015 after 26 years of service in Dexter.

Christina Dill, born on May 13, 1941, was a beloved member of her community who left this world September 16, 2024. Christina's life was marked by her unwavering kindness, vibrant spirit, and steadfast dedication to those around her. She touched the hearts many with her warmth and generosity.

The viewing for Christina will take place at Watkins Funeral Homes in Dexter, Missouri, on September 24, 2024, from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM. This gathering will offer friends and family a chance to remember her lively spirit and share loving memories of her life. Following the viewing, a funeral service will be held at the same location, starting at 2:00 PM, allowing all who knew and loved Christina to come together in celebration of her remarkable journey.

Christina Dill will be remembered not only for the joy she brought into the lives of her family and friends but also for her profound impact on her community. She leaves behind a legacy of love and light that will continue to inspire those who were fortunate enough to have known her.