Lester “Joe” Laney, 81, of Purdy, Mo. passed away Monday, September 9, 2024, at his home surrounded by his family.

He was born April 16, 1943, in Washburn, Mo., the son of William Spearman and Fern Marie (Shields) Laney, who preceded him in death.

Also preceding him in death were four brothers, Charles Laney, Jerry Laney, Dayton Laney, and Tom Laney and two sisters, Donna Smith, and Elizabeth Ellison.

Survivors include his wife, Kathy Charlton; two sons, Rickie Joe Laney and his wife Angela of Purdy, Mo. and Aaron Todd Laney and his wife Stephanie of Neosho, Mo.; two daughters, Missy Allphin and her husband Darren of Stark City, Mo. and Katina Laney and her husband Jamey Pierce of Granby, Mo.; two sisters, Lorene Dotson of Purdy, Mo. and Dortha Belle Woolaway of Fairview, Mo.; two sisters- in-law, Betty Laney and Mardell Laney; nine grandchildren, and 23 great grandchildren as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

He grew up and attended school in Washburn, Mo. graduating from Washburn High School. He served in the United States Army during the Vietnam War. Following his military service, he was employed by ICI Explosives in Joplin, Mo., where he devoted 18 years before retiring.

He was a respected figure on the Granby City Council and Wheaton School Board.

His passion for sports led him to coaching summer baseball and softball teams for his kids.

He was of the Baptist faith.

The family wishes to extend their heartfelt gratitude to Hospice Compassus and caregivers Julie, Dana, Shante, and Spring for their exceptional support and care in Joe’s final days.

Services were held at Saturday, September 14, 2024 at McQueen Funeral Home in Wheaton. Pastor Russell Bishop conducted the services. Burial with military honors will be at Allphin Family Cemetery in Stark City, Mo.

Contributions may be made to Table Rock Quilts of Honor in memory of Joe.