Melinda Jane Still, a cherished mother, grandmother, and friend, left this world on January 23, 2025, at the age of 73, in La Platta, Missouri. Born on July 3, 1951, in her family’s home near Bonaparte, she was the beloved daughter of Dale “Archie” and Mildred Gail (House) Still. Melinda’s life was a tapestry of dedication to her family, work, and community, woven with threads of love, care, and joy that touched the hearts of all who knew her.
A proud graduate of Harmony High School in 1969, Melinda’s early years were filled with the excitement of horse shows and rodeos with many achievements. Melinda’s love for horses was a bond she shared dearly with her parents and brother, Jimmie. Melinda married Raymond M. Morris, and three children were born from this union. Although their paths later diverged, the family they created remained the centerpiece of her life.
Melinda’s professional journey began alongside her mother at M & M Fabrics Shop, where she honed her skills as an accomplished seamstress. Her dedication to her craft was evident, as she balanced her time between the fabric shop and her position at Riverside Plastics. Later, she joined the Barker Company in Keosauqua, where she retired after many years of service. Her colleagues at Barker Company became a second family to her, and she was known for her quiet, caring nature and strong work ethic.
Beyond her professional life, Melinda’s passions were diverse and deeply rooted in her community. She was an avid sewer, often creating beautiful pieces for her loved ones and friends. Her competitive spirit found joy in games of bingo and the camaraderie of walking with friends. Melinda was also an active member of various local organizations, including the Bonaparte Saddle Club, Sunset Bowling League in Keosauqua, and the Square Benders Square dancing club. These activities brought her much happiness and allowed her to form many lasting friendships.
Above all, Melinda’s greatest joy was her family, especially her grand and great-grandchildren, with whom she shared countless precious moments. She lived to see their triumphs, support them through challenges, and provide a foundation of unconditional love. Her legacy of kindness, strength, and compassion will live on in each of them.
Left to honor Melinda’s memory are her children, Lance Morris, Heather Coffman (Wayne), and Melissa Hocker (Harry Tuggle); her ten grandchildren, Dylan Coffman (Leona), Hunter Coffman (Bryana) and Trevor Coffman (Jaycee), Mackenzie Baker (Jeremiah), Bryce Winslow (Mya Batten), Macie Hocker, Kelsey Martens (Kevin), Dalton Hocker, Drake and Dexter Morris; her niece, Jimmie’s daughter, Angi Krawiec; and a host of extended family members and friends who were blessed to know her.
Melinda was preceded in death by her parents, Dale and Mildred Still, and her brother, Jimmie Dale Still, whose memories remain a treasured part of her remarkable story.
A memorial visitation will be held to celebrate Melinda’s life, with family present to receive friends and share memories. The service details are as follows: Sunday, February 2, 2025, from 4:00 to 6:00 PM, with the visitation opening at 2:00 PM at Cranston Family Funeral Home in Keosauqua. A private burial of cremains will take place at a later date in Thompson Cemetery near Bonaparte, where she will be laid to rest. Memorials in Melinda’s honor to Team Macie Special Olympics of Missouri may be left at the funeral home or mailed to the family at 1414 Park Avenue, Kirksville, MO 63501. Friends may leave online condolences at www.cranstonfamilyfuneralhome.com.
