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 husband Carl of Mansfield, Missouri; three step-grandchildren; ten step-great-grandchildren; one sister, Leah Mae Lee and husband Connie Ray of Ava, Missouri; three brothers Larry VanNess and wife Jan of Ozark, Missouri, Gerald VanNess and wife Beverly of Springfield, Missouri, and Darrell VanNess and 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.
Funeral services for Mr. Joe Ray VanNess will be held at 10:00 a.m. Tuesday, March 10, 2009 in the Holman-Howe Chapel, Mansfield, Missouri. Burial will follow in the Nancy Newton Cemetery.
Visitation will be held from 7-8:00 p.m. Monday evening in the funeral home. Arrangements are under the direction of the Holman-Howe Funeral Home of Mansfield.
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?