Helen Joan Hight, 86, Carthage, MO, passed away early Wednesday morning, November 7, 2018, at her home. Helen Joan Tappana was born September 29, 1932, in Webb City, MO, to the late Don Alvin Tappana and Evelyn (McMinn) Tappana. She was a 1950 graduate of Webb City High School. Helen Joan married Mervin Hight on March 25, 1951, in Carl Junction, MO; he survives. She received her BS & MS degrees in education from Kansas State Teachers College in Pittsburg, Kansas, and then her library science degree from Emporia State College. Helen Joan worked as a librarian for Carthage R-9 Schools until her retirement in July 1990.
Survivors include her husband, Mervin; one daughter, Denise Lamb (Charles), Carthage, MO; one son, Steve Hight (Cindy), Riverton, KS; two brothers, Don Tappana, Sedalia, MO, and Les Tappana, Webb City, MO; two sisters, her twin Ellen Oney, Webb City, MO, and Mary Glassburner, Carl Junction, MO; five grandchildren, Whitney Hussey (Shawn), Kelsey Baucom (Justin), Aaron Hight (Lacey), Taylor Hight (Andrea), and Jared Hight; nine great grandchildren and several nieces, nephews, and extended family. She was preceded in death by her parents, one brother, Mack Tappana, and one sister, Patty Tappana.
Helen Joan was an avid reader, hospital volunteer, and was a frequent volunteer and supporter of Stone’s Throw Theatre.
Visitation will be held 6-7 pm, Tuesday, November 13, 2018, at Knell Mortuary, Carthage. Memorial graveside services will be held 2:00 pm, Thursday, November 15, 2018, at Carl Junction Cemetery. Memorial gifts are suggested to the Carthage Public Library or the Stone’s Throw Theatre in care of Knell Mortuary. Online condolences may be expressed through www.knellmortuary.com. Arrangements are under the direction and personal care of Knell Mortuary.
