Stories from Tuesday, January 3, 2023

Missouri State Highway Patrol responded to several accidents on New Year’s weekend, two of which were fatal. The first fatality occurred Saturday, Dec. 31, 2022. Roger Vinson, 63, of Piggott, Arkansas, died when the vehicle he was driving crashed at the intersection of Route C and State Highway 25 in Stoddard County. ...

From record-breaking low temps and snow to spring-like rain and thunderstorms, it seems Mother Nature has gotten confused, but it is par for the course for Missourians, who are well versed in ever-changing and unpredictable weather. According to the National Weather Service, one noteworthy aspect of this year’s weather is the “feels like” temperatures observed a 150-degree spread in a few locations. ...

A mighty oak has fallen on Potter Branch in Reynolds County. Patricia Jane “Patsy” Potter, widow of Sanford, greeted the Lord on the first of January, 2023 to ring in eternity. Her death had been expected since the day prior, and she had made it known to loved ones that she expected them to follow her to Gloryland. ...

Poplar Bluff firefighters about to change shifts at 5:59 a.m. New Year’s Day responded to a fire involving two structures and a vehicle in the area of Henry and Marshall streets. According to Lt. Jonathan D. Miller’s report, upon arrival fire crews located the original building and vehicle at 818 Nickey St. were fully involved with flames showing, and another structure the siding was beginning to melt on another house at 819 W. Henry St....

Charles David Jones, 88, of Doniphan, Missouri, departed this life Jan. 1, 2023, surrounded by family at his home. He was born on June 22, 1934, in Riverton, Missouri to Dona and Beecher Jones. Out of high school, Charles joined the National Guard. He retired after 32 years at the rank of captain. ...

Dr. Tearl Joe (TJ) Tillery of Conway, Arkansas, passed away peacefully in his home on Dec. 30, 2022 at the age of 77. TJ was born on March 6, 1945 in San Angelo, Texas to Tearl and Anne Jo Tillery. After graduating from dental school, TJ entered the army and served as a dentist. After serving in the army, TJ continued his education to eventually become an orthodontist. He spent the majority of his years practicing orthodontics in Poplar Bluff, Missouri until his retirement...

Personal property taxes generated over $27 million for schools, emergency services and infrastructure in 2022. The Butler County Commissioner’s office reported seven school districts — Poplar Bluff, Neelyville, Twin Rivers, East Carter, Doniphan, Naylor and Greenville — received 82% of personal and property taxes collected in the last fiscal year...

Karen Moore, 65, of Piedmont, passed away Saturday, Dec. 31, at her residence. Visitation is at 5 p.m., Wednesday, Jan. 4, 2023, at Ruegg Funeral Home, Piedmont Chapel. Funeral service is at 11 a.m., Thursday, Jan. 5, 2023, also in the Piedmont Chapel. Burial is in Hampton Cemetery in Reynolds County...

Firefighters responded to a car fire at 9:31 a.m. Friday, Dec. 30, at 802 Apple St. A black 2010 Chevy Camaro’s engine compartment was on fire. They knocked down the flames and opened the hood with pry tools and a rotary saw. After the fire was extinguished, the power was disconnected from the battery. ...

Poplar Bluff Fire Department Poplar Bluff Firefighters responded at 8:41 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 3, to a report of a structure fire at 122 Barlett St. Arriving at the scene firefighters saw what looked like the glow of fire through the glass block window on the second floor of the building. ...