With heavy hearts and deep love, we announce the passing of Larry Ballou Sr., who left this world on July 26, 2025, in Joplin, Missouri of the age of 84. Born on February 4, 1941, to Charlie and Delores (Monroe) Ballou in Fort Scott, Kansas. Larry’s journey through life was nothing short of remarkable. He passed peacefully, surrounded by family and friends he loved so dearly.

Larry grew up in the heart of Kansas, where he attended Fort Scott Schools, laying the foundation for a life characterized by hard work and dedication. His first job was at Comstock’s Texico Filling Station, where even at a modest .25 an hour, he learned the value of earning one’s keep. Larry’s career later took him to the Mid America Welding Supply and, most notably, his 30-year tenure with the Painters Union District Council No.3 Local #9, where he left a lasting impact through his commitment and craftsmanship.

A man of many interests, Larry was most passionate about dirt track racing, a pursuit he enjoyed from the 1960s to the 1980s. His love for the sport was matched only by his enthusiasm for coon hunting and fishing—activities that not only reflected his adventurous spirit but also his appreciation for nature’s simple pleasures. Mornings for Larry were a sacred time to indulge in his favorite cookies and coffee, a ritual he cherished deeply.

Larry met the love of his life, Johnna Kay Davis at Lowe’s Skating Rink on National Ave. From their very first meeting, it was clear their love story would be one to remember. When Johnna’s mother would not allow her to ride in Larry’s car, he walked her all the way home to little street- an act that marked the beginning of a lifelong devotion. One year later, they were married on Easter Sunday, March 29th, 1959. Together, they built a life full of love, laughter and unwavering commitment, celebrating 66 beautiful years of marriage.

A devoted husband, father, unk, grandfather, and friend, Larry’s greatest pride and purpose was his family. He was the kind of man who showed up- cheering from the sideline, fixing what was broken or simply sitting and listening with a cup of coffee in hand. He lived with a quiet strength, a servant’s heart, and a sense of humor that left lasting impressions.

Larry’s greatest joy, however, was his family. He is survived by his brothers, Charley Ballou (Diana), and Paul Ballou (Cheryl); his children, Susan Davis (Rick), Pam Cowan (Billy), and Larry Ballou Jr. (Brenda). His legacy continues through his favorite grandchildren, Joshua Cowan (Chrystal), Stacey Atkins (Brandon), Ashley Valentine (Tyler), Jenni Simhiser, Dana Midkff (Corey) and Kelli (John), Smith and his 18 great-grandchildren, who will carry forward the stories and lessons he imparted. Also surviving are numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and many friends.

Those who knew Larry will fondly remember a man who was the epitome of loving, funny, and adventurous. He had a way of lighting up a room with his sense of humor and had a knack for making everyone feel special—especially his children, whom he loved dearly. Larry’s absence will be felt deeply by all who had the pleasure of knowing him, but his memory will live on, a testament to a life well-lived and a man deeply loved.

Larry is preceded in death by his parents, Charlie and Delores Ballou, and his precious granddaughter Amanda Kay Cowan.

In honor of his life long love of Dirt Track Racing, guests are encouraged to wear their favorite racing shirt. Though our hearts ache, we find peace in knowing Larry’s race has been faithfully ran- and the checkered flag has now waved him home.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 P .M. Thursday, July31^st at the Cheney Witt Chapel.  Burial will follow in the Oak Grove Cemetery, Fort Scott, Kansas.  The family will receive friends on Wednesday from 5:00 – 7:00 P.M. at the Cheney Witt Chapel.  Memorials are suggested to Care to Share and may be left in care of the Cheney Witt Chapel, 201 S. Main, P.O. Box 347, Ft. Scott, KS 66701.  Words of remembrance may be submitted to the online guestbook at cheneywitt.com.

John Sackett, age 65, passed away on Tuesday, July 22^nd at Integris Baptist Medical Center in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. John was born in Fort Scott, Kansas to William (Jim) and Mary Sackett (Monroe).

John enlisted in the Army in 1977. When he stepped onto the bus to travel to Fort Polk, Louisiana for boot camp, he looked back at that moment as the most defining decision of his life. His military career took him to Germany, where in 1980 he wed Margaret Anderson, Texas, Korea, Colorado, New York, (back to) Germany, and then returning to Kansas to finish his service at Ft. Riley, KS, retiring in 1998.

In 2002, John moved to Oklahoma for a supervisor position with the Transportation Security Administration after 9/11. In 2005, he married Christie (Borggren) and they made their home in Blackwell, Oklahoma. There they would host get-togethers where John would break out his DJ skills, vast music knowledge, and congregate with good friends. In 2007 John became a mail carrier for the United States Postal Service until his retirement in November 2019. As a mail carrier, he became the family’s weather/news man. John had numerous friends, many from his youth at Country Kitchen to his Ft. Riley group.

It has been said that John was everyone’s best friend.

John is survived by his wife Christie, daughter Jennifer Thurston (Justin) of Fort Scott, Kansas; daughter Mary Larsen (Chris) also of Fort Scott, Kansas; and son Ian Sackett of Sierra Vista, Arizona. Surviving siblings include brother Jim (Gayle) of Fort Scott, and sisters Jane Burgess (Bob) of Ponca City, OK, and Judy Wilmoth (Jerry) of Webb City, MO.

He has seven grandchildren: Jordan, Madi, Emily, Ryann, Sarina, Owen, and Chance, all of Fort Scott, KS; numerous nieces and nephews; and three godchildren: Deklan, Dawsen, and Kynleigh Moore.

Funeral services will be held at 10:00 AM Wednesday July 30th at Cheney Witt Funeral Chapel, 201 S. Main St., Fort Scott, Kansas. The family will receive friends from 5-7 pm the evening before at the funeral home. Burial will follow at the Fort Scott National Cemetery. Words of remembrance may be submitted online at cheneywitt.com.

Hazel Marie Gulliford, age 99, a resident of Nevada, Missouri, passed away Monday, July 21, 2025, at the Moore Few Care Center in Nevada.  She was born on January 11, 1926, in Garland, Kansas, the daughter of Charley and Viva (Clyburn) Bley.  She attended school in Bronaugh, Missouri and after graduation, Pittsburg State College.  She married V. H. Gulliford on April 30, 1947.  He preceded her in death in 2016.

Hazel taught school in a one room schoolhouse.  She then worked as a teacher’s aide in the Nevada school system.  She later worked in the accounting department for The Western Insurance Company.

Hazel enjoyed quilting and was a member of the Jolly Circle Club. She had an affection for animals and was quite the baker, especially her rolls.  Hazel loved spending time with her family.  Her sister Charlene lived with her from the age of nine.

Survivors include her sister, Charlene Widmar, Franklin, Kansas, and several nieces and nephews.  Besides her husband, she was preceded in death by her daughter, Nancy; 3 brothers, Marvin, Lee, and Clyde Bley; 2 sisters, infant Chelsea Bley and Glenna Gordon; and her parents.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 AM Thursday, July 24^th at the Cheney Witt Chapel.  The family will receive friends from 10:30 AM until service time at the funeral home.  Memorials are suggested to Vernon County Cancer Relief and may be left in care of the Cheney Witt Chapel, PO Box 347, 201 S. Main St., Fort Scott, Kansas 66701.  Words of remembrance may be submitted online at cheneywitt.com.

Clifton Carl Marsh, age 81, resident of Fort Scott, Kansas passed away on Friday, July 18, 2025, at Nevada Regional Medical Center in Nevada, Missouri. Born on October 6, 1943, in Hermitage, Missouri, to Clifton and Ida Mae (Thompson) Marsh, Carl’s life was a combination of love, laughter, and the great outdoors.

Carl’s early years were spent in the nurturing environment of Hermitage, where he developed a lifelong passion for nature. His education included Fort Scott High School and Fort Scott Community College, laying a strong foundation for his future endeavors.

Carl was a self-employed advertising salesman, a career that suited his outgoing nature and allowed him to form countless friendships.

He was an avid bass fisherman and hunter, finding solace and joy in the tranquility of nature. His stories of outdoor adventures were legendary, filled with humor and often a touch of mischief.

Carl is survived by his beloved wife, Esther Mae (Bennett) Marsh; his daughter, Audra Peterson, and her husband, Les; his step-son, Ted Sutterby; 4 grandchildren, Luke, Gregory, Joshua, and Emily; and 4 great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his son, Vincent Marsh; a brother, James Marsh; 3 sisters, Leona Banks, Geraldine Skinner, and Yvonne Guimbellot; and his parents.

Funeral services will be held at 1:00 PM on Tuesday, July 22nd, at the Cheney Witt Chapel.  A time of visitation will follow the service. Memorials are suggested to the Medicalodge Activity Fund and may be left in care of the Cheney Witt Chapel, PO Box 347, 201 S. Main St., Fort Scott, KS 66701.  Words of remembrance may be submitted online at cheneywitt.com.

Dr. Charles “Stewart” Reeves, age 88, passed away on Sunday, July 6, 2025, at Balfour Central Park in Denver, Colorado.

Stewart was born in Louisburg, Kansas to Charles Hunter Reeves and Alta Mae (Ring) Reeves. After graduating from Louisburg High School, Stewart joined the United States Navy and attended The University of Kansas (KU) for both his undergraduate and medical degrees.

Overall, Captain Reeves served 38 years for our country. His military postings took him to provide medical care in many Naval hospitals across the United States and overseas, including Connecticut, Illinois, Maryland, Massachusetts, Texas, Washington, Bahrain in the Persian Gulf, and even under the sea. He was the Chief Medical Officer on the submarine U.S.S. Thomas Jefferson SSBNG18.
Once retired from the Navy, Stewart worked as an internist and Chief of Staff at Mercy Hospital in Fort Scott, Kansas for 20 years.

When Stewart was in his medical training at KU, he was working rounds in the emergency department. Harriett Louise Carr happened to stumble in with a minor head injury and Stewart oversaw her care. The two were married in Fort Scott on
June 5, 1965. They had two children: Catherine Carr Reeves Kilanoski and Charles Hunter Reeves, II.

Stewart loved golfing, listening to classical music, reading about history, drinking scotch, enjoying Harriett’s homecooked meals and going on many memorable vacations with her and their friends. In the wintertime, he and Harriett would retreat to San Antonio, Texas for relief from the harsh Fort Scott winters. Above all, Stewart loved spending time with his children and four grandchildren: Hannah, Emmah, Hunter, and Hollis.

Stewart is survived by his daughter, Catherine; four grandchildren, Hannah Brandt (Caleb), Emmah Dikeman (Miles), Hunter Reeves (Madi), Hollis Reeves and one great-grandchild, Harlan Leann Brandt.

Stewart is preceded in death by parents; beloved wife, Harriett Reeves; son, Hunter Reeves, II; and daughter-in-law, Talitha Ann (Tally) Brown Reeves and Son-in-law, Joe Kilanoski.

There was cremation. Graveside committal services will be conducted at 12:30 PM Friday, October 24th at the Fort Scott National Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 11:00 AM until 12:00 PM Friday, the 24th at the Cheney Witt Chapel, 201 S. Main St., Fort Scott, KS 66701. Words of remembrance may be
submitted online at cheneywitt.com.

Palmer Don May, age 78, resident of Fort Scott, KS passed away Wednesday, July 9, 2025, at Nevada Regional Medical Center in Nevada, MO. Arrangements are under the direction of the Cheney Witt Chapel, 201 S. Main.

Berniece Buell, a resident of Ft. Scott, Kansas, passed
away July 10, 2025, surrounded by the love of her family.
She was born on December 8, 1929, in Lake City,
Missouri, the daughter of William and Ruth Pitts. Despite
a challenging early life, Berniece faced adversity with
strength and grace. She married the love of her life, John
Buell, on July 22, 1967, in Independence, Missouri, where
they were living at the time. Berniece and John later
relocated to Ft. Scott. Together, they shared a life full of
love, adventure and dedication to family and community.
Berniece was a talented and creative woman. She found
joy in crafts, especially ceramics, macrame, tole painting,
and stained glass. She was a gifted seamstress and she
made costumes for her grandchildren, toys for the
Shriners and formal wear for herself. Quilting was one of
her passions, and each family member proudly owns one
of her handmade quilts. Berniece was a proud member of
the Daughters of the Nile and served as their queen in
1987. She and John organized many fundraisers for the
Mirza Shrine and traveled on several Shriners cruises.
Her commitment to service and community left a lasting
impact on all who knew her. An adventurous spirit,
Berniece and John traveled the United States extensively
in their motorhome. They spent their winters in Texas for
over twenty years. Even after John’s passing, Berniece
continued to travel as much as possible. Berniece adored
her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Her presence
brought laughter, warmth, and a sense of joy to every
gathering. Some of her bold and fun adventures in her
later years included parasailing, riding a donkey through
the Grand Canyon, riding a camel, white water rafting, water skiing, motorcycling, and even doing donuts in
snow-covered parking lots with her grandkids.

Berniece is survived by her daughters, Paula Hochstedler
and her husband Mike of Lee’s Summit, Missouri, and
Karen Mix and her husband Mike, of Ft. Scott, seven
grandchildren, and twelve great-grandchildren. She is also
survived by her beloved dog Buttons, who literally stayed
be her side at all time, and a longtime family friend, Patty
Buell.

She was preceded in death by her husband, John; her
son, Rick Petrechko; granddaughters, Missy and Tina; and
stepson Steve Buell. Let us remember and celebrate
Berniece’s remarkable life – a legacy of love, laughter,
creativity and fearless adventure.

Thank you to the staff of Presbyterian Village for their
loving care and support they provided to Mom and all of
the family.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 A.M. Wednesday,
July 16 th at the Cheney Witt Chapel. Burial will take place
at the Evergreen Cemetery in Fort Scott, Kansas. The
family will receive friends from 10:00 A. M. until service
time at the Cheney Witt Chapel. Memorials are suggested
to the Mirza General Fund and may be left in care of the
Cheney Witt Chapel, 201 S. Main, P.O. Box 347, Ft. Scott,
KS 66701. Words of remembrance may be submitted to
the online guestbook at cheneywitt.com.

Palmer Don May, age 78, resident of Fort Scott, KS passed away Wednesday, July 9, 2025, at Nevada Regional Medical Center in Nevada, MO. Arrangements are under the direction of the Cheney Witt Chapel, 201 S. Main.

Charles Howard Cress, age 89, a resident of Ft. Scott, Kansas commonly known as Charlie to his friends and loved ones, passed away peacefully on Thursday, July 10, 2025, in Ft. Scott, Kansas. Born on July 5, 1936, in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, to the late Col. Howard C. Cress and Arnstina Cissna Cress, Charlie’s life was
marked by dedication to his family, his country, and his community. Charlie’s early years were spent in the heartland of America, where he developed a strong sense of patriotism and service. After completing high school, he followed this calling by enlisting in the United States Army in 1957. During his time in the service, he was
stationed primarily in Germany, where he met the love of his life, Gertie Konrad. Charlie and Gertie were united in marriage on October 22, 1960, in San Antonio, Texas, and cherished fifteen years together until Gertie’s untimely passing on September 15, 1975. Following his military service, Charlie began a long career with the United States Postal Service, where he worked diligently for twenty-seven years. Charlie attended both the First Christian Church and the First Presbyterian Church, where he found solace and fellowship. An avid history enthusiast, Charlie absolutely loved re-enacting wild west gunfights. He took great joy in participating
with the Plainsmen and the Border Creek Raiders re-enactment groups, sharing his passion for the Old West with others. His performances were not just a hobby but a way of connecting with people and keeping history alive. In addition to his love for re-enactment, Charlie was involved in his community. He volunteered his time with the Ft. Scott Pride Program and contributed to the betterment of the lives of many through his work at the Tri-Valley Developmental Center. His generosity and willingness to help others were hallmarks of his character. Charlie is survived by his son, Allan Cress of Ft. Scott, Kansas; his daughter, Ingrid Bohm of Germany; and his nephew, Jim, and niece, Patty. He was preceded
in death by his parents; his sister, Mary Lou Welch; and his half son, Karl Heinz.

Pastor Sarah Gengler will conduct a memorial service at 1:00 P.M. Tuesday, July 15th at the First Presbyterian Church. Burial will be in the Evergreen Cemetery. Memorials are suggested to the American Cancer Society and may be left in care of the Cheney Witt Chapel, 201 S. Main, P.O. Box 347, Ft. Scott, KS 66701. Words of remembrance may be submitted to the online guestbook at
cheneywitt.com.