Shirley Faye Zimmerman, daughter of the late Orabell & Walter Thurston, was born on April 18, 1942, in Bernie, Missouri and departed this life peacefully in her home in Bernie, Missouri on November 5, 2023, at the age of 81.
Shirley was a true Jack of all trades, master of many. Her working years were spent in the jean shop, hanging wallpaper, and reupholstering furniture. Her true passion and what she really excelled at was being a homemaker. Her hobbies were plentiful and included painting, crocheting, cooking, and collecting. She was a member of the auxiliary at the Dexter hospital for many years, always sporting her pink jacket proudly. She also enjoyed fishing with her husband, taking her rightful seat as queen of the boat and sure to have the biggest catch of the day.
She was a dedicated wife, mother, and grandmother. Known as “Grandma Shirley” to more than just her grandchildren, she was a true gem in this world, opening her home and her heart to all that wanted to enter.
On April 18, 1958, she was united in marriage to Howard Wayne Zimmerman. He survives of their home in Bernie.
Along with her husband she is survived by two daughters, Tracy Zimmerman and Tonya and husband Randy Pierce of Bernie; two grandsons, Shawn Lundy and Tony and wife Natalie Zimmerman of Bernie; one granddaughter, Brittney and husband Adam Carlson of Ellsinore; two sisters, Melba Baker and Mary and husband Jack Norman of Dexter; and three great-grandsons, SJ Lundy, Drake Zimmerman, and Cooper Zimmerman of Bernie.
Other than her parents she was proceeded in death by one son, Tony Zimmerman; two sisters, Helen Beauchamp and Thelma Hartley; and four brothers, George, Raymond, Ralph, and Bud Thurston.
Visitation will be held at Mathis Funeral Home in Bernie on Wednesday, November 8, 2023, from 11:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. Funeral services will then be conducted in the Mathis Funeral Home Chapel on Wednesday, November 8, 2023, at 1:00 p.m. with Rev. Paul Pierce officiating. Interment will follow in the Bernie Cemetery.
Mathis Funeral Home in Bernie is assisting with arrangements.
Jeffrey Keith Barker Jr, son of Sandra Miller Williamson and Travis Williamson of Essex, Missouri and Jeffery Barker of Bloomfield, Missouri, was born on April 20, 1988, in Sikeston, Missouri, and departed this life on November 1, 2023, in Dexter, Missouri, at the age of 35 years.
Mr. Barker attended Sweet Prospect Church in Dexter, Missouri. He enjoyed playing the guitar and singing Christian songs, and he loved God.
On June 2, 2022, he was united in marriage to Star Bright House. Mrs. Barker survives of their home in Dexter.
Along with his wife and parents, he is survived by two daughters, Isabella Barker of Dexter, Missouri, and Kata Lena Henson; by his son, Herbert Henson; by three sisters, Brittany Barker of Essex, Missouri; Kimberly Barker and Breanna Barker; and by two brothers, Austin Barker of Marble Hill, Missouri; and Jeffrey Barker III of Bloomfield, Missouri.
He was preceded in death by his sister, Hailey Laws.
Visitation will be held at Mathis Funeral Home in Dexter on Tuesday, November 7, 2023, from 1:00 p.m. until 2:30 p.m. Funeral services will then be conducted in the Mathis Funeral Home Chapel on Tuesday, November 7, 2023, at 2:30 p.m. Interment will follow in the Essex Cemetery.
Mathis Funeral Home in Dexter is assisting with arrangements.
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.
