The Reporter covers Miller, Morgan and Camden County in Central Missouri's Lake of the Ozarks and is published once per week on Wednesdays.

Obituaries

Published December 24, 2025

Darrell Wayne Howser, 75
Darrell Wayne Howser, of Barnett, Missouri, passed away on December 11, 2025. He was born on April 1, 1950, to Thomas Howser Sr. and Ruby F. Adams Howser, who preceded him in death.
 
Darrell was also preceded in death by his beloved son, Timothy W. Howser and his brothers, Tommy Howser Jr. and Billie Howser.
 
A proud United States Army Veteran, Darrell honorably served his country during the Vietnam War and remained deeply proud of his military service throughout his life. After many years of hard work, he retired from Fasco, where he was known for his dedication and strong work ethic.
 
Darrell was a devoted husband to Reva A. Howser, with whom he shared many loving years. He cherished camping with Reva and their dog, enjoyed fishing, and valued time spent outdoors. Known for his warm personality, Darrell truly never met a stranger and could make friends wherever he went.
 
He is survived by his loving wife, Reva A. Howser; his daughters, Lisa (Kyle) Bradley of Columbia, Missouri, Melissa (Jerry) Howell of Russellville, Missouri, and Carrie (Chris) Brown of Jonesboro, Missouri; his sister, Frances Beanland; his grandchildren, Drake Howell, Colt Howell, Dakota Branstetter, Hunter Howell, Madison Howell, Quinlin Brown, Thomas Brown, Ema Bradley, Lilli Bradley, and Penelope Bradley; seven great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews.
 
In honor of Darrell’s faithful service to his country, military honors will be rendered. We remember him with gratitude for a life lived in service, integrity, and love. May he rest in peace, knowing his duty was fulfilled and his legacy will endure.
 
Funeral services were held Thursday, December 18, at the Kidwell-Garber Funeral Home in Versailles.  Graveside services and interment with full military honors followed at Union Cemetery in Rocky Mount. 

Memorial contributions are suggested to the family in care of Reva Howser.
 
Expressions of sympathy may be left online at www.kidwellgarber.com

Arrangements are under the direction and care of the Kidwell-Garber Funeral Home in Versailles.

Donald David “Dave” Walters, 86
Donald David “Dave” Walters, son of Wilbur Walters and Flora (Cullen) Walters, was born, November 19, 1939 in Decaturville, Missouri. He passed away, December 14, 2025, in Eldon, Missouri at the age of eighty-six years, and twenty-five days.

He was preceded in death by his parents Wilbur and Flora Walters; brothers, Gerald, Gib, and Glen Walters; sisters, Mary Eveline Newell, and Betty Jo McGuire; and grandson, John Isaac Duncan.

He is survived by his daughter, Angie and husband John Duncan of Climax Springs; son, Dave and wife Barbara Walters of Bolivar; sister, Betty Lou Rogers of Camdenton; grandchildren, Tammy Herbert, Tracy Hillenburg, Jessica Hicks, Keith Walters, Elias Duncan and Justus Duncan along with great-grandson’s Wyatt, Bowe, Landon and Galvin Walters.

Dave was born in his home, in Decaturville, on November 19, 1939.

Working most of his life in concrete, he worked at Clary Concrete and at Southway Concrete, for Leon Burns, later at Marathon Electric in Lebanon and Camdenton Walmart as door greeter and maintenance.

When Dave attended Pearson Branch church in Climax Springs, he would sing specials, always inviting people to revivals and Easter sunrise services.

Dave enjoyed going to singings and dances; He even recorded his own Bluegrass gospel CD, which he would hand out to any and every one he came in contact with. In his younger years, he rode bucking broncs and bulls and enjoyed showing his jumping mules. His biggest pleasure was riding his horses and mules with family & friends and for many years, he rode his horse in the Camdenton Dogwood parade; Even having his 2-month-old son in the saddle with him. After retirement, he gave horseback riding lessons. He enjoyed old black and white western shows as well as watching a good boxing match on TV.

Dave never knew a stranger and would help anyone in need. Loaning a little money to someone, paying for people’s groceries or just handing some cash to someone in a restaurant.

Folks around town would know it was Dave when they saw the Lincoln Town car and the cowboy hat.

He was a loving father, brother, grandfather, great-grandfather and a caring neighbor and friend. We celebrate his life and his accomplishments and will treasure the memories he created for his family and friends.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m., in Ozark Bethel Church, Monday, December 29, 2025. Visitation will be held prior to the service, in the church, from 10:00 a.m., - 11:00 a.m.

Arrangements are under the direction of Allee-Holman-Howe Funeral Home of Camdenton, Missouri.

Deborah Lynn Schneidler, 62
Deborah Lynn Schneidler, of Kaiser, passed away unexpectedly on December 16, 2025, at her home. She was born June 8, 1963, in Jackson County, Missouri, the daughter of the late Claude W. and Patricia A. (Allen) Hatton.
 
Debbie was a true free spirit. Unapologetically herself, with a gypsy soul and a heart that followed joy wherever it found it. She was kind in quiet ways, funny without trying and hardworking to her core. Debbie had a way of making people feel welcome and at ease, often with a smile, a story, or a bit of laughter at just the right moment. She embraced life on her own terms and found happiness in simple pleasures, shared moments, and being surrounded by those she loved.
 
She also enjoyed trips to the casino and the excitement of a good game. Above all else, Debbie loved her family deeply and treasured every moment spent with them.
 
She is survived by her children, Tiffany Sears (Spencer) of Versailles, Missouri; Taylor Shuck (Alexia) of Stover, Missouri; and Sasha Paden (Ryan) of Festus, Missouri; her grandchildren, Karson Shuck, Cooper Shuck, Chloe Shuck, Caden Shuck, Samuel Paden, and Hannah Paden; her brother, Rick Hatton of Stover, Missouri; and many other relatives and friends.
 
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her son, Michael Schneidler, whom she missed dearly. She is now reunited with him.
 
A celebration of Deborah’s life was held Friday, December 19, at Kidwell-Garber Funeral Home in Versailles. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are suggested to the family.
 
Arrangements are under the direction and care of Kidwell-Garber Funeral Home in Versailles.

Vera Miller, 97
Vera Miller, of Lake Ozark, Missouri, passed away on December 16, 2025. She was born July 20, 1928, on a farm near Big Spring, Mo.; daughter of Gus and Bertha Huenefeld.  On January 29, 1965, Vera was united in marriage to Doug Miller. They shared 52 years of marriage and a lifetime of memories at the time of his passing in October 2017.

Vera is survived by her daughter Karen Carr and husband Terry; and her son, Gary Leu and wife Linda.  Vera had six grandchildren, fifteen great-grandchildren, and one great-great-granddaughter as well as other relatives and many friends.  She was preceded in death by her husband Doug, Doug’s daughter Julie Burg, and all her siblings.

As a young lady Vera would go to what was then called an old folks’ home and fix their hair.  Later in life, she apprenticed to become a licensed beautician, which she continued until she was 92. 

A woman of faith, Vera was a dedicated member of Mt. Carmel Baptist Church and found great joy in the company of her many friends and family members.  Many dinners, visits, and domino games were enjoyed throughout the years.  Vera and Doug were active in their church and community.

Vera, affectionately called "Nanny" by many, lived by a simple but firm philosophy:  work hard, make no excuses, and make your own way. She was the picture of health for most of her life and a true rule-follower. Whether it was eliminating eggs to manage cholesterol or ensuring no part of a strawberry or potato went to waste, Vera lived with a sense of discipline and thrift. She was an "eat-to-live" person who valued routine and the wisdom of healthy living.

Due to the unwavering attention and support of friends and family, especially her son Gary, Vera was able to maintain her independence and live at home with her cat Bobby until the final few months of her life.  A special thanks to Anita and Max, long-time friends who were with her throughout her illness.

Known for her honesty, Vera always told you exactly how she felt. While she was direct, that same honesty meant that when she told you she loved you, you knew she meant it with her whole heart. Her family takes comfort in knowing she is reunited with Doug-likely showing him how to do heaven the "right" way.

Funeral Service was held Monday, December 22, 2025, at Mt. Carmel Church in Lake Ozark, Missouri.

Graveside Service were held at Hugo Cemetery New Florence, Missouri; Hugo Road, New Florence, Missouri 63363.

In Lieu of flowers expressions of sympathy can be made to the Hope House.

Arrangements are under the direction of Hedges-Scott-Millard Funeral Homes, 514  Highway 42, Osage Beach, MO 65065 (573) 348-3232. Condolences may be left online for the family at www.hedgesscottmillard.com

Published December 17, 2025

Larry Osborn, 89
Larry Osborn, of Macks Creek, Missouri passed away on December 3, 2025, at his home surrounded by his loving family. He was born on February 12, 1936, in Macks Creek, Missouri; a son of Wayne and Erva (Varner) Osborn. He was united in marriage to Bonnie Young on May 9, 1954. They shared 71 years together at the time of his passing.

He was a great man in every sense-steadfast, kind, and deeply devoted to the people he loved. As a father and husband, he put his family at the center of everything he did, always ready with a story, a joke, or a few words of wisdom, never at a loss for words when someone needed him. In his younger days, he found joy in hunting and fishing, spending countless hours outdoors where he felt most at peace. His passion for sports, logging, and farming showed his love for hard work and the simple, honest things in life. With a sharp wit and a big heart, he brought laughter and strength to those around him, truly embodying what it means to be a family man.

Larry is survived by his wife, Bonnie Osborn of the home; his children Steve Osborn (Dotty), Deryl Osborn (Shelly), Karen Addington (Jerry) and Brad Osborn (Jennifer); his fifteen  grandchildren Brandy Boutin (Ronnie), Wesley Osborn (Ali), Bryan Osborn (Kisha), Ashley Swegle (Ryan), Brent Davis (Jamie), Lindsey Blecher (Justin), Jasper Addington (Stephanie), Shawn Addington (Tori), Krystle Lowrance (Tim), Abby Benscoter (Ryan), Ashleigh Bryner, Austin Bryner, Taeler Osborn, Christy L Huber, and Jason Huber; his twenty-five great-grandchildren; his great-great-grandchild; his sister Jean Osborn; several nieces and nephews; other relatives and many friend.

Larry was preceded by his son Lynn Daniel Osborn, his daughter Sheryl Osborn, his grandson Phillip Osborn, his parents Wayne and Erva Osbron, and his sister Marlene Fleeman.
 
Funeral Services were held Wednesday, December 10, 2025 at Hedges -Scott-Millard Funeral Home Macks Creek.

Expressions of sympathy can be made to the First Baptist Church of Macks Creek, Missouri.

Arrangements are under the direction of Hedges-Scott-Millard Funeral Homes, 14384 West Highway 54, Macks Creek, MO 65786 (573) 363-5360.

Condolences may be left online for the family at www.hedgesscottmillard.com

Joseph Dale Hutchison, Sr., 62
Joseph Dale Hutchison, Sr., of Versailles, passed away Monday, December 8, 2025, at his home.  He was born September 3, 1963, in Boone County, Missouri, a son of Don and Marva (Johnson) Hutchison.
 
Joe worked as an over the road truck driver for many years with his dogs and loyal companions by his side.  In his spare time, he enjoyed working on tractors and vehicles.  An avid outdoorsman, he found peace while hunting, fishing, gardening and riding horses.
 
He is survived by his children, Joseph Hutchison, Jr. (Amanda) of Versailles, Missouri, Christina Hutchison of Versailles, Missouri and Tyler Dabbs (Jessica) of Joplin, Missouri; grandchildren, Brooklyn Lambert (Eli), Leighton Carter, Jaron Carter, Westyn Fields, Jayce Hutchison, Ripp Hutchison, Kylie Hutchison, Charlotte Dabbs and Wyatt Dabbs; great-grandson, Echo Lambert; his mother, Marva Hutchison of Versailles, Missouri; brother, David Hutchison (Dana) of Versailles, Missouri; several nieces, nephews and many friends. 

He was preceded in death by his father, Don Hutchison and sisters, Sherry Hutchison and Diana Draves.
 
Graveside services and inurnment will be held at a later date in Greenmore Memorial Gardens in Barnett.
 
Expressions of sympathy may be left online at www.kidwellgarber.com

Arrangements are under the direction and care of the Kidwell-Garber Funeral Home of Versailles.

Joshua Stapleton, 47
Joshua Stapleton, of Waynesville, Missouri passed away on December 3, 2025, at Barnes-Jewish Hospital in St. Louis. He was born on August 9, 1978, in North Little Rock, Arkansas; a son of Dennis Brown and Melodee Stapleton. He was united in marriage to Tiffany Sweat on July 17, 2017, on their family’s property at Ha Ha Tonka State Park in Camdenton, Missouri.

Joshua lived his life with a beautiful, kind heart that seemed to glow everywhere he went, and his funny, effortlessly sharp sense of humor could lift even the heaviest days. His selflessness was the kind of light that filled a room before he even spoke, and his love for his family was the steady center of everything he did. A true gearhead, he appreciated cars in every era - from the raw muscle of a 1967 Mustang to the sleek innovation of the newest Tesla, which only deepened his admiration for Elon Musk and all things futuristic.

It was even said that if you know Joshua and you opened the conversation up about Elon Musk, you would be there for a while. His fascination with the solar system, space, and rockets made his curiosity feel infinite, as if his spirit was always reaching for the stars.

Joshua was a loving husband, father, son, brother, uncle and friend. His legacy will be lived on in the lives of his family and everyone he knew.

Joshua is survived by his wife Tiffany Stapleton of the home; his children Jaden Stapleton and his wife Heaven, Derick Stapleton, and Luna Stapleton; his father Dennis Brown; his mother Melodee Forshey and stepfather Kevin Forshey; his siblings Jacob Forshey, Benjamin Nichols, Cheyenne Mallett-Forshey, Alicia Timmons, Lani Staub, Michelle Emmitt, Carrie Hurley, and Rachel Owens; several nieces and nephews; and other relatives and many friends.

Joshua was preceded in death by his stepmother Janet Brown; his grandmother Jean Stapleton; his grandparents Vivan and Ruth Brown; his grandparents Arthur and Judy Forshey; his grandmother Dayle Forshey, his mother and father-in-law Stephanie and Richard Morris, and his grandparent in laws Judith and Raymond Burns.

A Celebration of Life was held Sunday, December 14, 2025 at Hedges-Scott-Millard Funeral Home-Camdenton.

Expressions of sympathy can be made to help with the funeral expense at https://www.hedgesscottmillard.com/services/e-pay

Arrangements are under the direction of Hedges-Scott-Millard Funeral Homes, 1270 S Business Route 5, Camdenton, MO 65020 (573) 346-2090.

Condolences may be left online for the family at www.hedgesscottmillard.com

Joseph ‘Joe’ Merriott, 68
Joseph ‘Joe’ Merriott, born April 16, 1957, in Kansas City, Missouri, passed away on December 8, 2025, surrounded by his family. Joe was a devoted husband, father, ‘Papa’, brother, and friend whose quiet strength, determination, and love for his family left a lasting mark on everyone who knew him.
 
He is survived by his loving wife, Beth; his daughters, Jessica Goodrich and her husband, Seth, and Breanna Tyger and her husband, Allen, whom he was immensely proud of; and his grandchildren, Emery, Hudson, and Essie, who brought him endless joy. He is also survived by his sister, Lorna Berkstresser, and brother, Matt Merriott.

Joe was preceded in death by his parents, EJ and Dora (Calton) Merriott.
 
Joe loved the outdoors, whether bow hunting or simply soaking in nature. Incredibly handy, he could tackle any project, even if it was his first time trying. He held high standards for everything he did, from construction projects to grilling the perfect steak, which he could make better than any restaurant. His love language was teasing, and he could always make those he loved laugh. He faced life’s hardships with remarkable strength and determination.
 
Above all, Joe loved Jesus and lived with unwavering faith. Even through the painful fight with cancer, he never gave up hope.
 
Joe treasured time with his family, whether around a table or in the everyday moments. His legacy of love, strength, humor, and determination will live on in all who were lucky enough to know him.
 
Funeral services were held Saturday, December 13, at the Kidwell-Garber Funeral Home in Versailles with Dale Bentch officiating. Graveside services and interment followed in Newkirk Cemetery near Fortuna.
 
Expressions of sympathy may be left online at www.kidwellgarber.com

Arrangements are under the direction and care of the Kidwell-Garber Funeral Home of Versailles.

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