Lois LaNear

Lois Jean LaNear passed away on Wednesday, December 22, 2021 after a long illness.  Lois was born in Joplin on December 10, 1927 to Emmet and Eula Foster.  After losing both of her parents in childhood, she was raised by her great-aunt, Amy Campbell.  On February 17, 1944, Lois married Paul Courtney.  Lois and Paul had two children, a son, Stephen Courtney, born in 1950, and a daughter, Paula Courtney, born in 1969.  Lois lost Paul in 1975 to a sudden death, but continued to raise her daughter on her own until she re-married to Eddie Kenneth LaNear.

Lois and her husband, Kenneth, spent many years square dancing, round dancing, and being active members of the American Legion.  They also traveled and went on many vacations in their beloved RV.  Lois retired from the R-8 School District as a cafeteria cook in 1987.  Lois was a member of Bethel Baptist of Joplin.

She lost her beloved Kenneth in 2017 and spent the last four years of her life spending time with family and her beloved best friend, John Newberry, who brought much happiness to her in a very lonely time.  We will be eternally grateful to John for his loving kindness and friendship.  Lois lost her son, Steve Courtney, in 2003, and her grandson, Steve Courtney, Jr., in 2021.

Lois is survived by her daughter, Paula Freer Hendrix; and seven of her eight grandchildren, Mandy Freer Carlile, Alexander Freer, William Freer, Steven Hendrix, Bradley Hendrix, Megan Hendrix, and Casey Courtney; and several great-grandchildren.

The family will hold a graveside committal service at 12:00 p.m. Thursday, December 30, 2021 at Osborne Cemetery in Joplin with John Newberry officiating.  All are welcome to attend.

Cremation arrangements are under the personal care and direction of Parker Mortuary, Joplin, Missouri.

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