Ralph O. Jones Funeral Home

03/23/2026

03/21/2026

Marjorie Louise (Clevenger) Wilson, 91, of Odessa, Missouri, passed away peacefully on Friday, March 20, 2026, at Odessa Healthcare, surrounded by the love of her family—just as she had always surrounded others with hers.
Visitation will be held from 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m., Wednesday, March 25, 2026, at Ralph O. Jones Funeral Home, 306 S. 2nd St., Odessa, MO 64076. A funeral service will follow at 1:00 p.m. at the funeral home. Interment will be at Greenton Cemetery. Memorials are suggested to the Daughters of the American Revolution, Gilead Rupe Chapter. Memories of Marjorie and condolences for her family may be shared at www.LedfordFamilyFH.com or on the funeral home’s page.
Marjorie was born October 13, 1934, in Green Ridge, Missouri, the daughter of Paul and Mildred (Helphrey) Clevenger. She graduated from Windsor High School in 1952. On May 27, 1954, she was united in marriage to Jimmy Dale Wilson in Windsor. Together they shared over fifty years of love, partnership, and devotion until his passing on March 16, 2006.
Marjorie devoted over 40 years to the Bank of Odessa, where she became more than an employee—she was a familiar smile, a steady presence, and a friend to so many. Even after “retiring,” she found her way back more than once, a testament to her strong work ethic and the relationships she cherished.
Her life was one of service and care for others. Marjorie was a faithful member of the First United Methodist Church in Odessa and an active member of the D.A.R. Gilead Rupe Chapter. She gave generously of her time as a Girl Scout leader, helping guide and encourage young girls, and later as a volunteer at St. Luke’s East Hospital, where for 13 years she offered kindness and comfort to those in need.
Marjorie had a true sense of adventure and a love for seeing the world. Her travels took her to places like China, Prague, Austria, and on many cherished trips to Alaska. No matter where she went, she carried with her a warm spirit and genuine curiosity that made every journey meaningful.
Above all, Marjorie was devoted to her family. She treasured every moment spent with them, whether at gatherings, holidays, or in the simple, everyday moments. She will be especially remembered for her famous peanut brittle—made with love and eagerly anticipated by those lucky enough to receive it.
She is survived by her children, Delores (Gary) Jordan and Dale (Jennifer) Wilson, both of Odessa; her four grandchildren, Melissa Jordan, Brian (Emily) Wilson, Geoffrey (Kelsey) Wilson, and Jalah Jordan; eight great-grandchildren, Brandon, Jacob, Ean, Zoe, Mia, Isla, Laycee, and Easton; her sisters, Betty Maxwell and Arlene Clevenger; and many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.
In addition to her parents and her husband, Marjorie was preceded in death by her brothers, Ernest Clevenger and Dwayne Clevenger.
Marjorie will be remembered for her kind heart, her steady presence, and the way she made others feel welcomed and cared for. She leaves behind a lifetime of memories and a legacy of love that will continue to live on in her family and all who knew her. She will be deeply missed and forever cherished.

03/20/2026

The more personal a funeral service is, the more meaningful it will be for the entire family. To help your family brainstorm possible ways to create a truly one-of-a-kind final goodbye, check out this list of 10 ideas to consider. And if you don't find something that feels right, this list is only the beginning. We're happy to sit down with you and come up with even more ideas to create the perfect sendoff.

To be meaningful and healing, a funeral must be personal. Check out this article for 10 ideas to create a truly unique final tribute.

03/20/2026

Winter is past. Spring has come. After long and difficult winters, spring is a welcome change. Do you have any plans for this spring that you're looking forward to?

03/19/2026

Robert “Bob” Lee Smith, affectionately known as Bob and Cowboy, of Odessa, Missouri, passed away on March 18, 2026. He was born on May 5, 1943, in Mound City, Missouri, to Mart W. Smith and Alberta Dooley Smith.

Visitation will be held from 11:00a.m. to 12:00p.m., Monday, March 23, 2026, at the Mt. Tabor United Methodist Church, 12507 Mt. Tabor Road, Odessa, Missouri, 64076. A Funeral Service will follow at 12:00p.m., Mt. Tabor United Methodist Church, 12507 Mt. Tabor Road, Odessa, Monday. Interment will follow at Mount Tabor Cemetery in Odessa, Missouri. In Lieu of flowers, Mount Tabor Cemetery Association. Memories of Bob and condolences for his family may be left at www.LedfordFamilyFH.com or on our page. Arrangements have been entrusted to Ralph O. Jones Funeral Home, 306 South Second Street, Odessa, Missouri 64076, 816-633-5524.

Bob spent his childhood and school years in Mound City, where he graduated with the Class of 1961. He was active in football, basketball, FFA, and band—interests that reflected his energy, curiosity, and willingness to dive into every opportunity. He continued his education at the University of Missouri, earning a degree in Agricultural Economics.

In 1962, Bob married Margo Cobb in Montgomery City, Missouri, beginning a lifelong partnership rooted in devotion, humor, and shared purpose. Bob began his career with MFA before joining Shelter Insurance, where he worked for ten years. He later served as Vice President of Ellison Appraisal for seven years. Guided by an entrepreneurial spirit and a deep understanding of his field, he founded Storm Appraisal & Management Services, contracted with Farmers Insurance and numerous smaller companies. A respected professional, Bob was a Gold Pin member of CIC for 20 years, chaired the Fraud Committee, and served on several additional industry committees. He was also a member of NABC—serving one year as Secretary—and a member of SCRS.

Outside of work, Bob’s passions defined him just as strongly. A lifelong drag racing enthusiast, he owned one of the 50 Super 69 Stock AMXs built by Bill Rodekopf Motors and ran a fuel dragster with Ron Martin. His mechanical skill extended to building motors for pulling trucks and tractors. When he wasn’t around engines, Bob enjoyed fishing and treasured the time he spent playing golf with his daughter, whom he loved deeply.

Bob was preceded in death by his parents; his daughter, Kimberly; his sister Coleen King and her husband Bill; his father and mother in law Frank, Ella, and Rhoda Cobb; and his brother in law Dan Cobb.
He is survived by his wife, Margo, daughter number two, Teresa Bolton and her husband Rodney, his sisters in law Patricia (John) Hunn and Mary Ella (Mike) Beardslee; his brothers in law Sam (Donna) Cobb, Bob Cobb, John (Nancy) Cobb, Jim Cobb, Dave (Janet) Cobb, and Tom (Alice) Cobb; as well as many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends who will miss him dearly.

Bob leaves behind a legacy of dedication, craftsmanship, curiosity, and unwavering love for his family. He will be remembered for his humor, his generous spirit, and his lifelong passion for anything with an engine.

For an article on Bob, please see collisionweek.com for March 20, 2026.

03/17/2026

The color green has long been associated with Ireland, so it makes perfect sense that we should wear green to honor St. Patrick's Day. Do you wear anything special to celebrate St. Patrick's Day?

03/16/2026

Carol Frances (McDaniel) Thompson, 79, of Odessa, Mo, a woman whose life was marked by love, dedication, and warmth, passed peacefully on March 14, 2026, at Riverbend Heights in Lexington, Missouri.

Visitation will be held from 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m., Friday, March 20, 2026, at Ralph O. Jones Funeral Home. A funeral service will follow at 2:00 p.m. at the funeral home. Interment will be at Odessa Cemetery in Odessa, Missouri. Memories of Carol and condolences for her family may be left at www.LedfordFamilyFH.com or on our page. Arrangements have been entrusted to the Ralph O. Jones Funeral Home, 306 S. 2nd St., Odessa, MO, 64076, 816-633-5524.

Born on January 17, 1947, in Kansas City, Missouri, to John McDaniel and Mary (Riggs) McDaniel. Carol lived a life rich in family devotion and personal grace, leaving behind a legacy that will be forever cherished by those who knew her. Carol was a caring and family-oriented soul, known for her welcoming nature and the special way she made everyone feel at home. She was a homemaker by calling, nurturing her family with unwavering commitment, and pursued hairdressing as a side career, a talent she honed with the same meticulous care that defined her character. Her educational career included both High School and Beauty School, foundations that shaped her skills and passions.

Carol will be fondly remembered for her delightful rice crispy treats at family gatherings. Carol was also delighted in reading, painting, and most importantly, spending quality time with her family, which she counted among her proudest accomplishments, especially her grandchildren.

A devoted military wife to her beloved Shelton Thompson, who has preceded her in death along with her parents John McDaniel and Mary (Riggs) McDaniel, siblings John McDaniel, Douglas McDaniel, Jack McDaniel, James McDaniel, Lois Hicklin, Patsy Hicklin, Mary Maynard and Joyce McDaniel.

Carol leaves behind her cherished son, Steve Thompson, and daughter, Lisa Fox, along with seven beloved grandchildren, Kirsty, Skyler, Dylan, Steven, Dani, Katelyn, and Natalie—and four great-grandchildren Amelia, Georgia, Steele, and Everett who will continue to carry forward her loving spirit and the values she held dear.

03/16/2026

Thomas "Tommy" Edward Hedges,64, of Odessa, Missouri, passed away peacefully on March 15, 2026, in Odessa, Missouri at his home. A man of strength and warmth, Thomas led a life enriched by dedication, passion, and an unyielding love for his family.

Family has chosen cremation and private services at a later date. Memories of Thomas and condolences for his family may be left at www.LedfordFamilyFH.com or on our page.
Arrangements have been entrusted to the Ralph O. Jones Funeral Home, 306 S. 2nd St., Odessa, MO, 64076, 816-633-5524.

Thomas was born July 16, 1961, in Kansas City, Missouri to Henley & Terry Hedges. A proud high school graduate from Odessa, Missouri, Thomas devoted many years of his working life to his career as a machinist, contributing his skill and expertise across various businesses.

Thomas was more than his profession; he was a man who genuinely treasured the moments spent with those he loved most. His proudest accomplishment was the time devoted to his family. One treasured memory he held dear was a family trip to Branson and the lake during the boys’ youth, a joyful chapter that brought laughter, adventure, and togetherness.

His commitment to service extended beyond his family. Volunteering at the VFW, Thomas gave back to the community. Outside of work and service, he found joy in simple pleasures: golfing, fishing, and bowling.

He was preceded in death by wife Belinda (Turner) Hedges; his dear parents, Henley and Terry Hedges, whose influence shaped the man he became.

Thomas is survived by his beloved sons, Tony Hedges and Thomas "TJ" Hedges, who carry forward his legacy of strength and kindness. His grandchildren—Kayla, Michaela, Eric, Aaron, Thomas, Tyler, and Dylan. He was also a proud great-grandfather to Jocelyn Hedges.

Thomas’s life was a testament to the power of passion, family, and service. Those who loved him will forever cherish his spirit, his laughter, and the enduring legacy of a man who gave so much to those around him.

03/13/2026

Have you ever wondered what happens during an arrangement conference for a funeral? This article shares a few tips on what to expect and how you can prepare ahead of time.

Do you know what to expect at a funeral arrangement conference? Read over these tips so you can prepare for the conversation ahead of time.

03/13/2026

Carolyn Ann (Williams) Lancaster, 77, of Odessa, Missouri passed away Wednesday, March 4, 2026, in Carrollton, Missouri.

Family has chosen cremation with no service at this time. Memorials are suggested to the family in care of Richard Lancaster. Memories of Carolyn and condolences for her family may be left at www.LedfordFamilyFH.com or on our page. Arrangements have been entrusted to the Ralph O. Jones Funeral Home, in Odessa, MO, 816-633-5524.

Carolyn was born on October 15, 1948, in Ceder, Missouri. Carolyn and Richard Lancaster was married in August 2003 in Odessa, Missouri. Carolyn dedicated her life to be a devoted mother/wife, she cherished spending time with her friends and family creating lifelong memories.

Carolyn is survived by her loving husband, Richard Allen Lancaster of Carrollton, MO; five children, Wallace Malone, Patricia Lurket, Rhonda Killgore, Adam Clark, and Jennifer Ford; and stepchildren Richard, Joe, Travis, and Steven Lancaster; 7 grandchildren; and 5 great grandchildren

Carolyn was preceded in death by both parents Goldie and Charles, and her son Eddie

03/11/2026

Happy Funeral Directors Day to our favorite gang Austin, Jennifer and Megan!