Marla June Stroup, a beloved school teacher at Sikeston Public Schools where she taught Kindergarten, has passed away at the age of 53. Marla was born on March 7, 1970, in Creve Coure, Missouri. She peacefully breathed her last breathe at her residence in Bloomfield, Missouri, surrounded by her loving family on January 11, 2024.
Marla had a passion for education, which led her to earn a Bachelor's degree in education. For many years, she dedicated herself to shaping the minds of young children and instilling within them a love for learning. Marla's commitment to teaching went far beyond textbooks and classrooms; she cared deeply for her students' well-being and was known for going the extra mile to support them.
Not only was Marla an exceptional educator, but she was also a devoted wife, and mother. She shared countless beautiful moments with her husband Harvey Stroup, whom she adored dearly. Their love served as an inspiration to all who knew them. Together they created a warm and loving home for their four daughters: Oceanna Stroup of Bloomfield, Missouri; Viola Stroup of Cape Girardeau, Missouri; Rachael Otten of Norman, Oklahoma; and Erin Stroup of Bloomfield, Missouri. Marla cherished every moment spent with her family and took great joy in nurturing her children's growth.
In addition to her immediate family, Marla is survived by one grandchild who brought immeasurable happiness into her life. She reveled in the role of being a doting grandparent and cherished the opportunity to create special memories with her grandchild.
Marla was also close to her extended family members who provided unwavering support throughout her life's journey. She held a special bond with her brother Myron Rhodes and his wife Addie of Desoto, Kansas; sister Carol Jean Burnell and her husband David of Norman, Oklahoma; and her dearest friend Mary Beth Davis.
Outside of her professional and family life, Marla had a variety of hobbies and interests that made her shine. She possessed an undying love for musicals and could often be heard singing show tunes with a smile on her face. She enjoyed going on trips, allowing herself to explore new places and create lasting memories. Marla was a former Girl Scout Leader and a member of the Missouri Teachers Association.
The impact Marla had on the lives she touched will never fade away. Her love for teaching, devotion to her family, and vibrant personality will forever be remembered. Her legacy lives on through the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to have known her.
Visitation services for Marla June Stroup will be held on January 16, 2024, from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Watkins Funeral Homes - Bloomfield located at 106 N Prairie, Bloomfield, MO 63825. A funeral service will take place the following day, January 17th, at 10:30 AM at the same location with Pastor Jonathan Rice officiating. Interment will follow the funeral service at Mt. Zion-Walker General Baptist Church located at 20002 Co Rd 510, Bloomfield, MO 63825.
During this time of mourning, let us remember Marla's vibrant spirit and loving nature that brought joy into the lives of so many. May we draw strength from the cherished memories we shared with her and find solace in knowing that she would want us to live our lives to the fullest, just as she did.
Marla June Stroup was an extraordinary woman whose kindness, warmth, and love touched the lives of everyone around her. She will forever be missed but never forgotten. As we say our final goodbyes, let us celebrate the remarkable life she lived and hold tight to the beautiful memories we shared. Rest in peace, dear Marla.
Wilma Lee Burch, daughter of the late Lawrence Eugene Mason and Edith Opal Fields Mason, was born on January 1, 1944, in Poe, Missouri, and departed this life on January 9, 2024, at her residence in Wappapello, Missouri, at the age of 80 years.
Mrs. Burch was a former licensed practical nurse at Poplar Bluff Regional Medical Center. She was a member of Faith Baptist Church in Wappapello. She loved spending time with her family.
On July 30, 1959, in Malden, Missouri, she was united in marriage to Bobby Ray Burch Sr. Mr. Burch preceded her in death on June 2, 2021.
She is survived by her son, Bobby Ray Burch, Jr. (Kerri) of Wappapello, Missouri; by two daughters, Cheryl Smith of Wappapello, Missouri and Laura West (Terry) of Doniphan, Missouri; by her brother, L.C. Mason of Poe, Missouri; by her sister, Linda Ann O’Daniel of Bloomfield, Missouri; by nine grandchildren, Charity Smith of Springfield, Missouri, Bobby Smith Jr. (Shanell) of Roy, Washington, Johnny Cullum (Christy) of Poplar Bluff, Missouri, Lucy Burch of Wappapello, Missouri, Brandy Ross (Michael) of Bloomfield, Missouri, Christina Cavenar (Tim), Jordan Burch, Victoria Lynn Payne Burch, and Thomas Burch, all of Wappapello, Missouri; and by fourteen great-grandchildren and three great-great-grandchildren.
Other than by her husband and parents, she was preceded in death by her daughter, Deborah Kay Christman; by two sons-in-law, Bobby Gale Smith, and Bill Christman; by two brothers, Jim Buck Mason, and James Eugene Mason; by five sisters, Anglee Barnes, Mildred Hampton, Eva Tipton, Alma Pospeshil, and Nina Hartle; and by two grandchildren, Joshua David Smith, and Tanya Rene Cullum.
A memorial service will be held at Faith Baptist Church in Wappapello, Missouri on Saturday, February 3, 2024, at 10:30 a.m.
Mathis Funeral Home in Dexter is assisting with arrangements.
Robert Adam England, 84, of Advance, passed away January 6, 2024 at his home. He was born May 10, 1939, the son of Troy and Ida Hitt England. He was raised in Arbor, Missouri.
After his service in the Army as a military policeman, he began his 25-year career at Inland Shoe Factory. Later in life he worked for Nearly Perfect Shoes setting up stores all over this area.
He was a founding member of the Advance Faternal Order of Eagles Aerie #4154. He enjoyed working in his garden and was proud of his huge, delicious tomatoes. He always shared his garden vegetables with his family and friends.
In 1964 he met his wife, Patricia, on a blind date. They were wed May 28, 1966. Their family grew over the years: daughter Tracy (Roger) Slinkard, grandsons Ryan (Amber) Slinkard and Tyler (Jade) Slinkard. His greatest joy was his 6 great- grandchildren: Briella, Lexington, Grayson, Lainey, Judith and Bowyn.
He was sadly preceded in death by his parents, his brother Charles Ray (Patrice) and many beloved family and friends.
Visitation will be held on Wednesday, January 10, 2024 from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Morgan Funeral Chapel in Advance. A funeral service will be held at 1:00 p.m. at the chapel with Rev. Greg Teague officiating. Burial will follow at the Missouri State Veterans Cemetery in Bloomfield.
David “Sonny” Acord Jr., son of the late David Acord Sr. and Doris Moore Acord, was born on January 7, 1966, in Dexter, Missouri, and departed this life on December 21, 2023, at his residence in Idalia, Missouri, at the age of 57 years.
Mr. Acord was a mechanic. He enjoyed fishing, was always doing things for his friends and others, and he loved his mother.
He is survived by his sister, Tammy Jackson Hester of Bloomfield, Missouri.
Other than by his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Carl Jackson Jr.; by his paternal grandparents, Mayo McClain and Anetha McClain; and by his maternal grandparents, Jesse Moore, and Ruby Baker.
Visitation will be held at Mathis Funeral Home in Dexter on Saturday, January 20, 2024, from 1:00 p.m. until 2:00 p.m. A memorial service will then be conducted in the Mathis Funeral Home Chapel on Saturday, January 20, 2024, at 2:00 p.m. Interment will follow in Walker Cemetery in Bloomfield.
Mathis Funeral Home in Dexter assisted with arrangements.
Rebecca Charlene Richmann, known to her loved ones as "Becky," passed away peacefully at her residence in Puxico, Missouri on January 5, 2024. She was born on July 12, 1951, in Dexter, Missouri to Lyman Francis Fowler and Mary Belle Scott.
Becky had a fulfilling career as an Accountant at Morlan Automotive, where she dedicated her time and skills. Her meticulous work ethic and attention to detail made her an invaluable asset to the company. Colleagues remember her for her professionalism, commitment, and unwavering dedication to her craft.
Outside of work, Becky was an active member of Corinth General Baptist Church. She loved and faithfully served as the piano player for many years.
In her personal life, Becky had a wide range of interests and hobbies. She delighted in going shopping and would often spend hours exploring stores in search of unique treasures. But perhaps what brought her the greatest joy was loving on her grandsons. Those precious moments spent with them were filled with laughter, love, and cherished memories. Additionally, Becky loved embarking on trips with her friends, creating lifelong bonds and unforgettable adventures along the way.
On the journey of life, Becky was fortunate to find immense love and companionship in Curtis Richmann. They shared 49 wonderful years as husband and wife. Curtis stood by her side through thick and thin, providing unwavering support and endless love until the time of his passing in April of 2022.
Becky is survived by two daughters who meant the world to her: Shelly (and husband Allen) Clark of Puxico and Amanda (and husband Jason) Fortner of Bloomfield. Her grandchildren were the light of her life, and she leaves behind four adoring grandsons: Brad Clark, Jeff Clark, Trevor Fortner, and Tyler Fortner.
The bonds of family are eternal, and Becky leaves behind a strong support network. She is also survived by two brothers: Dennis (and wife Ava) Fowler of Advance, Missouri, and Kenny (and wife Bambi) Fowler of Jackson, Missouri. Her sister Tammy (and husband Joe) Wilson of Puxico, Missouri will hold her memory close to their hearts.
The visitation for Becky will take place on January 9, 2024, at Watkins Funeral Homes in Puxico, Missouri. Friends and loved ones who wish to pay their respects can join between 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM. The funeral service will follow on January 10, 2024, commencing at 11:30 AM at the same location, with Brother Jim Clark of Puxico officiating. Finally, Becky's interment will take place at the Missouri St. Veteran's Cemetery in Bloomfield on January 10, 2024. The interment ceremony is scheduled for 1:00 PM.
Becky's positive spirit and zest for life will be dearly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her. May her legacy live on in the hearts of those she touched with her kindness, love, and beautiful music. Though she may no longer be physically present among us, her soulful melodies will forever echo in our memories. Rest in peace, dear Becky—you have left an indelible imprint on our lives.
