The Obituary Section

Deborah Baird

, Missouri

May 6, 2026

Deborah Clarke Baird, fondly known as Doodlebug, passed away on May 7, 2026, in her home in Joplin, Missouri. Born on November 21, 1938, Deborah's life was a testament to resilience and dedication. Her spirit, as vibrant as her beloved garden, radiated a warmth that touched all who had the privilege of knowing her.Deborah's journey was as unique as the woman herself. From Philadelphia to Park Hill, Oklahoma, every place she called home was enriched by her presence. Her dedication to her career as a pediatrician was evident in her tireless service in the medical field until her retirement in 2015. Her smart and spirited approach to her work earned her the respect of her peers and the love of the countless young lives she touched. Her dedication didn't end with her professional life. An active member of the Daughters of the American Revolution and The American Academy of Pediatrics,…

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Rick Agan

, Missouri

Richard W. Agan, known affectionately as Rich, passed away peacefully on May 14, 2026, at Mercy Hospital Joplin, Missouri, surrounded by the love of his family. Born in Carthage, Missouri, on July 24, 1947, to the late William Agan and Lola Howerton, Richard embodied a spirit that was as resilient as it was compassionate. His witty humor and infectious laughter were his signature, often lighting up a room and putting smiles on the faces of those around him. His dedication and generous spirit were evident in his work, his relationships, and his hobbies.Richard was a devoted employee at Schreiber Foods, where he was known for his dedicated maintenance work, before retiring from Walmart in 2004. He was not just a man of work, but also a man of many talents and interests. Richard found great joy in the simplicity of life. He loved woodworking and building stuff - a testament…

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Linden "Linny" Andrews

, Missouri

October 31, 2022 — May 7, 2026

Linden Carroll Andrews (“Linny”) was born on November 1, 2022, in Joplin, Missouri, to Jacob and Hannah (Dodson) Andrews. Linny passed away May 8, 2026 in Kansas City, Missouri, leaving behind a family and community who will forever cherish her memory and the time with her that the Lord gave to them.She had an active personality and determined spirit, and she loved being a big sister to her younger brother, Roy. Her days were mostly spent at home with her parents, where she loved playing outside, working on crafts and puzzles, helping her mom bake, tagging along on trips into town for groceries, and especially taking special trips to Bass Pro Shops just to see the animals. Her sweet smile and laugh left an impact everywhere she went, and she will be so very missed by her family and friends.She was a precious daughter, a beloved sister, and a treasured…

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Lee Murphy

, Missouri

May 12, 2026

H. Lee Murphy, known to family and friends as Lee, passed away on May 13, 2026, in Joplin, Missouri, at the age of 91. She was born on May 30, 1934, in Warsaw, Missouri, the daughter of the late Melvin and Lola (O’Dell) Bolyard and lived a life marked by kindness, quiet strength, and a warm spirit that touched those around her.Lee was a proud graduate of Carthage High School, Class of 1953. She married Cullen Murphy on August 7, 1965 in Carthage, Missouri, he preceded her in death on June 30, 2000. In her working years, Lee served in insurance as a secretary and later sold real estate. She approached her work with professionalism and care, and she was respected for her dependable nature and pleasant manner. Whether assisting others in an office setting or helping people through the process of buying and selling property, she was known for…

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