Joe VanNess' Obituary
Joe Ray VanNess, son of Joe S. and Verna Brazeal VanNess, was born December 26, 1934, in Wright County, Missouri. He departed this life Saturday, March 7, 2009, in St. John’s Hospital, Springfield, Missouri, at the age of seventy-four years, two months, and nine days. Joe Ray was preceded in death by his parents; a wife, Margaret VanNess; and one son Tony Ray VanNess; four brothers Bobby, Jerry, Curtiss, and Jackie VanNess; as well as one step-grandson. He is survived by two step-daughters, Judy Morris of Peoria, Illinois, and Jaynie Stanifer and her husband, Carl, of Mansfield, Missouri; three step-grandchildren; ten step-great-grandchildren; one sister, Leah Mae Lee and her husband, Connie Ray, of Ava, Missouri; three brothers Larry VanNess and his wife, Jan, of Ozark, Missouri, Gerald VanNess and his wife, Beverly, of Springfield, Missouri, and Darrell VanNess and his wife, Catherine, of Mansfield, Missouri; a very special friend, Norma O’Dell of Springfield, Missouri; many nieces and nephews along with a host of other relatives and many dear friends. Joe Ray loved horses and spent as much time as possible riding them and going camping. He loved to fish, especially with his late brother Curtiss. Joe Ray also worked for the Missouri Department of Transportation, retiring as a Supervisor after thirty-two years of service. Joe Ray was a loving step-father, step-grandfather, step-great-grandfather; brother, and uncle, and was a caring neighbor and friend. He will be greatly missed by all that knew him. Services will be at 10:00 am Tuesday March 10, 2009 at the Holman-Howe Funeral Home Mansfield. Burial will be in the Nancy Newton Cemetery. Visitation Monday evening 7-8:30 pm under the direction of the Holman-Howe Funeral Home Mansfield, Missouri. Return to top
What’s your fondest memory of Joe?
What’s a lesson you learned from Joe?
Share a story where Joe's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Joe you’ll never forget.
How did Joe make you smile?