Barbara Jean Spruce “B.J.”, 79, of La Russell, Mo, passed away early Thursday morning, October 11, 2018 at Mercy Hospital, Joplin. Barbara Jean Spruce was born August 30, 1939 in Carthage, MO to the late Almous Freeman Spruce and Geda Mildred Watson. Barbara loved people and her calling was customer service. She was very proud of her 40 years as a waitress and 20 years of service at Wal- Mart. BJ had a great sense of humor and enjoyed sarcasm and a good cup of coffee.
BJ was survived by her son and daughter in-law, Michael Cassidy and Brandi; granddaughter Makayla Cassidy; step son, Randy Cassidy and family; brother, Dale Spruce; and other family and friends.
BJ is preceded in death by her parents, Almous and Geda Spruce, two sisters, Naomi Cobaugh, and Nancy Pennington, and grandson Andrew Cassidy.
Funeral services were held at 10:00 am Tuesday, October 16, 2018 at the Blake Baptist Church with Pastor Jerry Mayfield officiating. Burial will follow in the Red Oak Cemetery La Russell, MO. The family will receive friends from 6:00 to 7:00 pm Monday, October 15, 2018 at the Knell Mortuary. In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be given to Carthage Health and Rehab in care of the Knell Mortuary. Online condolences may be expressed through www.knellmortuary.com.
Arrangements under the direction of the Knell Mortuary.
