Howard-Millard Funeral Home, 1397 W Ashley Road, Boonville, MO (2026)

03/19/2026

Nichole Victoria Lawson, age 39, of Boonville, passed away on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at her home surrounded by her loved ones.

She was born on February 18, 1987, in Kansas City, Missouri, the daughter of Lawrence and Patricia (McCollum) Reynolds.

Nichole graduated from Lee’s Summit high school. Nichole worked as an Aviation Technician, security guard, and her most recent position as a desk attendant for a hotel.

She was a fighter, battling cancer for several years. Nichole was quite an artist. She loved painting and mixed media. She also enjoyed attending the theatre with her aunt and spending time with family.

She is survived by her parents, Larry and Patricia Reynolds of Lee’s Summit; her significant other, David Birch of Boonville; daughters Angel “Alex” Marie Cook-Ennis of Lee’s Summit, Bella Rader; and Aunt Carol Gerhard of Moberly. She was preceded in death by her husband, Cory Lawson, infant son Oscar Bradley Reynolds and her grandparents.

A Memorial Service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, March 25, 2026, at Our Lady of the Presentation Church, 130 NW Murray Road, Lee's Summit, Missouri, with a visitation held from 10:00 a.m. until the time of the service.

Arrangements are under the direction of Howard-Millard Funeral Home, 1397 Ashley Rd., Boonville, Mo 65233 (660) 882-3381. Condolences may be shared with the family at www.howardfh.com.

03/19/2026

Procession Notice – Honoring Billy Hurt

The funeral procession following services for Billy Hurt on Monday, March 23rd, will begin at The Crossing Church on Southland Dr.

The procession will travel west on Grindstone Parkway, north on Providence Road, west on Stadium Blvd, to I-70 West, continuing on I-70 West to the Route B exit in Boonville, Cooper County.

The funeral service will begin at 2:00 p.m. at The Crossing and the procession will tentatively leave The Crossing around 3:15 p.m., traveling through the Boonville area around 3:45 to 4:00p.m.

Motorists are encouraged to avoid the sides of the roadways and intersections along Route B, Route J, and Route O during the procession to help ensure a safe and dignified journey.

Boonville residents wishing to pay their respects as the procession goes by, may do so by assembling at:

• The empty parking lot next to Rick Ball or the Route B Mall parking lot.

Thank you for your cooperation and for helping us honor Billy.

03/18/2026

Please join us in honoring Billy Hurt—a life of service, dedication, and sacrifice.

For more information, please visit: https://www.millardfamilychapels.com/obituaries/Billy-Dean-Hurt?obId=47717287

03/18/2026

Billy Dean Hurt, 65, a resident of Boonville, passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, March 14, 2026, in Kennedale, Texas.

Billy was born on July 20, 1960, in Bunceton, Missouri, the son of William Maurice Hurt and Helen Josephine (Smith) Hurt.

Billy lived a life centered on service to others. He began his career in the fire service as a volunteer with the Boonville Fire Department and then became a proud member of the Columbia Fire Department, where he served his community for 25 years and retired with the rank of Captain. Billy also worked for Alex Air Apparatus, traveling throughout the State of Missouri as the company’s only service technician, selling and servicing extrication equipment for fire departments and emergency responders.
Billy served as a safety crew leader at dirt tracks across the Central Region of North America. He was known as an expert and instructor of proper rescue extrication procedures at racetracks.
Billy never met a stranger. He had a gift for conversation and could strike up a friendly discussion with anyone, no matter the topic. He was passionate about racing and dedicated countless hours to teaching extrication training to local safety officials and firefighters. In difficult rescue situations, Billy was often the person others looked to for guidance, thanks to his experience and steady leadership.

While he was deeply committed to his work and community, Billy’s greatest joy in life was his grandchildren. Being Papa allowed him to forget the world around him and focus on what mattered most, spending time with them and creating lasting memories.

Billy also loved to cook—especially on the grill—and took pride in being the “grill master.” If Billy planned to cook for 40 people, he would cook for 100, making sure no one ever went hungry. The only exception might be at the racetrack, where his cooking was so popular that people kept coming back for more.

Throughout his life, Billy touched the hearts of many people. The memories made with him, and the kindness he shared so freely, will be cherished by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

He will be sadly missed and forever remembered by his life companion of 28 years Karen Lechner of Boonville; four children, Brandon Hurt and wife Danielle of Wentzville, Brett Hurt and wife Brittany of Boonville, Jenna Lechner and wife Tiffany of Columbia, and Brett Lechner of Boonville; eight grandchildren, Olivia Hurt, Lillian Maule, Addelyn Hurt, Kendall Hurt, Sophia Hurt, Gavin Maule, Cooper Hurt and Jordan Lechner; two brothers, Ronnie Hurt and wife Jean of Bunceton, Darrell Hurt and wife Tammy of Boonville; one sister, Murl Jones and husband Dennis of Bunceton; a large and loving extended family of many nieces, nephews, and cousins. Billy’s family also recognizes the deep impact to the extended family of fire departments across the region as well as the dirt track racing community.

Billy was preceded in death by his parents; a grandson, Jayden Hurt; two sisters, Debbie Buck and Cindy Hurt.

A visitation will be held from 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. on Sunday, March 22, 2026, at Parker-Millard Funeral Service & Crematory, 12 E. Ash St. Columbia, MO 65203. Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Monday, March 23, 2026, at The Crossing, 3615 Southland Dr. Columbia, MO 65201, with a visitation being held one hour prior to the service. Following services Billy will be laid to rest in Pisgah Cemetery in Bunceton.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions are suggested to The Missouri Fire Fighters Memorial, c/o Memorial Foundation, 5590 Dunn Dr. Kingdom City, MO 65262 in memo line put note if donation is for the museum or the memorial.

Arrangements are under the direction of Howard-Millard Funeral Home of Boonville and Parker-Millard Funeral Service & Crematory of Columbia. Condolences may be shared with the family at www.howardfh.com

03/11/2026

Today we recognize the funeral directors who serve here at Howard-Millard Funeral Home. Supporting families through difficult moments requires a genuine commitment to helping others.

We appreciate all that you do for the Boonville community and for the families who trust you during life’s most challenging times.

Happy National Funeral Director Day.

03/10/2026

Arlene Helen Friedrich, age 90, of Boonville, passed away peacefully on Sunday, March 8, 2026, at Katy Manor in Pilot Grove, holding her husband’s hand surrounded by her family.

Arlene was born December 27, 1935, to Frederick and Pauline Bonen Barringhaus in Howard County, the youngest of three daughters. She attended Saints Peter and Paul Catholic School in Boonville where she graduated in 1953.

Arlene married Oscar “Sonny” Friedrich on March 2, 1954, at Saints Peter & Paul Catholic Church. They recently celebrated their 72nd wedding anniversary, a beautiful example to everyone of love, faith, and commitment in the sacrament of marriage. After they were married, they lived on the family farm in Billingsville until 1968, when they moved into town. Arlene worked at Holsum Bakery in Boonville as a secretary/bookkeeper for over 10 years and then stayed home to raise her children.

Her greatest joy and legacy was her family. She was a proud mother of 5 children, the grandmother to 13 grandchildren and 18 great-grandchildren. Her home was a place of welcome, warmth, family and food. She was famous for her cookies, strawberry dessert, and angel food cake. Her family would all gather at her home on Halloween for her vegetable beef soup. Her door was always open and there was always a home cooked meal waiting for anyone.

Arlene was a member of Saints Peter & Paul Catholic Church, and her faith was a center of who she was. She often turned to prayer throughout her day. You could usually find her with a rosary nearby or under her pillow. Her faith guided the way she loved people, the way she treated others, and the way she lived her life. She enjoyed the simple things in life from jigsaw puzzles, card games, People magazine crosswords, reading, and watching “her story” at 12:30 every weekday. She also loved flowers and hummingbirds. She was fond of country music, especially The Statler Brothers and Alan Jackson. She also enjoyed watching St. Louis Cardinal’s baseball and Mizzou basketball. Arlene had a special talent of remembering phone numbers and important dates better than anyone.

Being a survivor of Multiple Sclerosis for over 50 years, Arlene was a resilient fighter who never complained. Even when things became difficult to bear, she faced it with courage. It was in those moments that the love she had given to her family came back to her in the most beautiful way. Her five children cared for her with patience, devotion, and love, just as she had taught them. Arlene had a way of touching the lives of many who came to know her.

Arlene is survived by her husband Oscar “Sonny” Friedrich who resides at Katy Manor; children: Kathy (Donnie) Wilmsmeyer of Franklin, Steve (Sarah) Friedrich, Ricky (Sandy) Friedrich, Brenda (Vernon) Sharp, Jennifer (Chad) Kirchner, all of Boonville; grandchildren: Melissa (Jason) Hundley, Amy (Dustin) LeCave, Matthew (Jayna) Friedrich, Nicholas (Miriam) Sharp, Jared Friedrich, Megan (Justin) Baden, Courtney (Parker) Gross, Amanda Sharp, Melanie (Brogan) Stuart, Paige (Aaron) Schanzmeyer, Samuel (Tiffany) Wiser, Andrew (Olivia) Wiser, Ellise Kirchner; 17 great grandchildren, and several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents and her two sisters, Louise Overstreet and Mabel Simmons.

Visitation will be held from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, March 12, 2026, with the rosary recited at 4:45 p.m. prior to visitation at Howard-Millard Funeral Home. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, March 13, 2026, at Saints Peter & Paul Catholic Church. Interment will follow at St. John’s UCC Cemetery in Billingsville.

Memorials are suggested to St. John’s UCC Cemetery, 14191 Billingsville Road, Boonville, Missouri 65233 or Saints Peter & Paul Catholic School, 502 7th Street, Boonville, Missouri 65233.

Arrangements are under the direction of Howard-Millard Funeral Home, 1397 Ashley Rd., Boonville, Mo 65233 (660) 882-3381. Condolences may be shared with the family at www.howardfh.com.

03/06/2026

Elizabeth Kathryn Haynie, 86, passed away peacefully at her home in Boonville Missouri on Thursday, March 5th, 2026, surrounded by her family.

Kathryn was born in Boonville, Missouri on January 22, 1940, the daughter of Andrew Hoff and Elizabeth ‘Buschmeyer’ Hoff. She was married to Carl “Bo” Haynie on September 19, 1959, at the Martinsville Catholic Church.

Kathryn lovingly known as “Kate” was known for her kindness, warm smile and unconditional love. She was adored by everyone who knew her, especially her grandchildren! She had a gentle spirit, was quick witted, and sharp as a tack until the end of her life. She was extremely talented at making quilts, sewing and crocheting. She was a fantastic cook and anyone who had the pleasure of eating her carrot cake was truly blessed!

Mrs. Haynie was preceded in death by her husband Carl ‘Bo’ Haynie; parents Andrew and Elizabeth Hoff; sister Mary Wolf; great grandson Jireh Blaine Schwen; and brother-in-law Charlie Gramlich.
She is survived by her daughters, Karen Einspahr and Carla Wirths; son-in-law, Darrell Wirths; two granddaughters, Ashley Elizabeth Schwen (Jordy) and Kristan Leigh Einspahr (Austin Rohlfing); great granddaughter Selah Elizabeth Schwen; siblings Helen Reuter (Jerry), Elaine Gramlich, Marty Eastman (Frank), Raymond Hoff (Nancy), and brother-in-law Jerry Wolf.

In accordance with her wishes, a celebration of life will be held at a later date.

Memorials in her honor are suggested to St. Martin’s Cemetery, c/o Mike Lang, 15711 Highway 135, Boonville, Missouri 65233, or Central Missouri Cancer Memorial Park, P.O. Box 251, Boonville, Missouri 65233.

Arrangements are under the direction of Howard-Millard Funeral Home, 1397 Ashley Rd., Boonville, Mo 65233 (660) 882-3381. Condolences may be shared with the family at www.howardfh.com.

03/04/2026

Nancy Sue Haas, age 70, passed away Tuesday, March 3, 2026, at the University of Missouri Hospital. She was born on March 2, 1956, in Columbia, Missouri, the daughter of Archie and Bessie (Neal) Thurman.

A visitation will be held from 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, March 7, 2026, at Howard-Millard Funeral Home with a funeral service to follow at 1:00 p.m. at the funeral home. Internment will take place at Fayette City Cemetery after the service.

Memorials are suggested to the family c/o Brad Haas, for end-of-life expenses.

Nancy graduated from Bunceton High School. She was a bartender and waitress at many of the local bars and restaurants for most of her life.

She didn’t know a stranger and always had a happy smile on her face. Nancy was a caregiver at heart. Her life’s enjoyment was taking care of her family. She would take her son and nieces to the Lake of the Ozarks when they were younger to enjoy family time. Nancy was also her brother’s caretaker until his passing. She loved her family.

Nancy is survived by her son Brad Haas (Tara Loesing) of Boonville; grandchildren: Tret Loesing (Courtney), Mary Yung; one great grandson Larson Lee Loesing; sister-in-law, Linda Thurman of Warsaw; several nieces and nephews; and her three best friends: Arlene, Carol and Annie.

She was preceded in death by her parents, and 5 brothers: Ray, Larry, Dennis, Tommy, and Donnie Thurman, and one niece Lisa Thompson.

Arrangements are under the direction of Howard-Millard Funeral Home, 1397 Ashley Rd., Boonville, MO 65233 (660) 882-3381. Condolences may be shared with the family at www.howardfh.com.

03/04/2026

William "Wayne" Kahle, age 86, from Fort Myers, formerly of Cooper County, passed away on Wednesday, February 25, 2026.

A Memorial Service will be held at 11 a.m. on Friday, April 24, 2026, at Zion Lutheran Church in Lone Elm. Inurnment will take place following the service at Zion Lutheran Cemetery.

Arrangements are under the direction of Howard-Millard Funeral Home, 1397 Ashley Rd., Boonville, Mo 65233 (660) 882-3381. Condolences may be shared with the family at www.howardfh.com.

03/03/2026

Please note that the Howard-Millard Funeral Home website will experience scheduled downtime on Thursday, March 5, 2026, as we transition to our new website.

We appreciate your patience during this brief interruption and look forward to welcoming you to our updated site, which we expect to be up and running smoothly by Friday.

If you need immediate assistance during this time, please call our office directly. Thank you for your understanding as we continue working to better serve our amazing community.

02/26/2026

We are proud to share that our very own Chris Howard was elected President of the International Conference of Funeral Service Examining Boards (ICFSEB)!

🌟 The ICFSEB is a respected not-for-profit organization that provides national examination services, regulatory support, and standards for funeral service licensing. This organization helps ensure funeral professionals are well-qualified to serve families with excellence.

Chris is attending the 122nd Annual Meeting in Louisville, KY, where he’ll begin his term leading this important industry association. Please join us in congratulating him on this well-deserved honor! 🎉

02/07/2026

Elizabeth “Betty” Evelyn Nauman, 92, of Bunceton, passed away on Friday, February 6, 2026, at Tipton Oak Manor.

Visitation for Betty will be held Friday, February 13, 2026, from 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Howard-Millard Funeral Home. Funeral Service will begin at 1:00 p.m. with Pastor Paul Weisenborn officiating. Burial will follow at Zion Lutheran Cemetery in Lone Elm.

Betty was born August 10, 1933, in Boonville, Missouri. She was the daughter of Marshall and Stella (Dumolt) Sloan. She graduated from Saints Peter and Paul Catholic School in Boonville. She married Kenneth Nauman on October 3, 1953, in Boonville, Missouri and they had one daughter, Dorothy. They were married 69 years at the time of Kenny’s passing in 2022.

Betty began working at Woolworths at the age of 16. She continued to work for them as they changed names to Ben Franklin and then The Variety Store. Once Dorothy was a senior in high school, Betty became a homemaker.

She was a member of the Jefferson Extension Club. Betty was busy as a 4-H leader and assistant leader teaching clothing and sewing skills. Betty was a great cook and loved her cookbooks. She would memorize any recipe and cook from scratch for her family. She loved spending time with her family.

She is survived by her daughter Dorothy (Howard) Draffen; her grandson Christopher (Melissa) Draffen; great granddaughter Emma Draffen and step great grandsons Clayton and Wyatt Kendrick. She is also survived by several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents; siblings: Marshall Sloan Jr., Kathryn Cauthorn, Margaret “Peg” Lang and Helen Marie Hoff; three nieces and four nephews. Betty was the last of 5 children and the last of 13 cousins of that generation.

Memorial contributions are suggested to Zion Lutheran Cemetery.

Arrangements are under the direction of Howard-Millard Funeral Home, 1397 Ashley Rd., Boonville, Mo 65233 (660) 882-3381. Condolences may be shared with the family at www.howardfh.com.

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