Richard A. Staples, 70, of Carthage passed away Monday, September 12, 2022 at Mercy Hospital in Joplin. Richard was born November 5, 1951 in Neosho, MO, the son of Harry Alva Staples and Lola C. (Berry) Staples. Richard grew up in Anderson, MO and moved to Carthage as a boy. He was in the family business of General Irrigation, and later did body work for Tri-State Motor Transit. He realized his lifelong dream of being a Farmer and sustained that job for the rest of his life. Richard was a Kansas City Chiefs fan and enjoyed hunting in his younger days. His greatest joy in life was spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren.
Richard married Sheila Nelson on March 22, 1975, at Fairview Christian Church in Carthage. She survives.
Survivors include one son Zachary Staples (Brenna) of Sarcoxie, MO, two daughters, Kimberly Thomas(Erin) of Springfield, MO and Rachel McNeely (Kent) of Carthage, MO, one brother David Diggs and two sisters, Dian Wicklund and Susan Zimmerman. Eight grandchildren, Taegan, Tucker, Julian(Thomas), Sawyer, SiddaJo McNeely, Oliver, Stetson, Emberly (Staples).
Graveside services will be 2:00 p.m. Friday, September 16, 2022, at Dudman Springs Cemetery, east of Carthage.
Contributions may be made to the Dudman Springs Cemetery in care of the Ulmer Funeral Home.
Online condolences maybe sent at www.ulmerfh.com. Arrangements are under the direction of the Ulmer Funeral Home.