February 2024

Michael Anthony Davis, 27, of Kansas City, Missouri, died Sunday, February 11, 2024. Funeral services will be Friday, February 16, 2024 at 11:00 A.M. at Slater United Methodist Church, with William W. Harlow officiating. Burial will be in Slater City Cemetery, with Layne Clemons, Austin Eddy, Tanner Fuemmeler, Travis Holt, Jermie Pittman, and Drew Weiker serving as pallbearers; and Jesse Cummings and Adam Dulaney serving as honorary pallbearers. Visitation will be Friday from 9:30 A.M. until the time of the services at the church. Memorials are suggested to Slater School District in care of Weiker Funeral Home in Slater. He is survived by the love of his life, Katie Franiuk, of the home, and his fur babies, Leo and Atticus; parents Franklin and Dianna Davis; mother Khristina LaGore; siblings Kelly Jo (Jason) Dobbins, Kara Davis (Robby Leathers), Jamie Leffert, and Luke (Jamie) Vance; nephews Graiden Vance, Graham Vance, and Finn Leffert; nieces Sawyer Leffert, Nora Vance, and Wren Dobbins; his maternal grandparents - Rosemary and Jerry Arth; his parental grandparents - Beckie and Frank “Sonny” Davis; and numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins. He was preceded in death by maternal grandparents Raymond and Opal Jean Ford; an uncle, Donnie Swearingen; and an aunt, LaDonna Moad. Michael was a 2014 graduate of Slater High School. He will always be remembered as the guy with the big, goofy personality who loved his family and friends

KENNETH P. “KENNY” LEIMKUEHLER Kenneth P.

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Gary Dean Littrell, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, educator, coach, and mentor who dedicated his life to shaping the minds and hearts of countless individuals. He departed this world on February 10, 2024, leaving behind a legacy of inspiration, wisdom, and indelible impact. Born on June 27, 1952, Gary spent his 71 years on this earth, leaving an enduring mark on the lives of his children, grandchildren, students, athletes, and colleagues alike. He will be remembered not only for his professional achievements but also for his kindness, generosity, and unwavering commitment to the growth and development of those around him. As an educator, Gary devoted his career to the pursuit of knowledge and the empowerment of young minds. He held positions at Newtown Harris R-III, Pettis County R-V, Braymer C-4, LaMonte R-IV, Santa Fe R-10 and St. Peter Catholic School and played a pivotal role in shaping the educational landscape. His passion for learning extended far beyond the confines of the classroom, and he consistently inspired students to reach for their highest potential. In the realm of sports, Gary was not just a coach but a mentor who instilled values of teamwork, discipline, and sportsmanship. He coached basketball, football, track and field, and softball teams with dedication and enthusiasm, leading his athletes to numerous victories both on and off the court/field, including an appearance at the state championship in 2002 with the Santa Fe boys’ basketball team. Gary had a rare ability to blend competitiveness with compassion, creating an environment where athletes not only excelled in their respective sports but also grew as individuals. Beyond Gary’s professional accomplishments, Gary was known for his smile, warmth, sense of humor, and genuine care for others. Colleagues admired him for his leadership and collaborative spirit, and students cherished him for his unwavering support and encourageme