It is with deep sorrow that we announce the peaceful passing of Carol Mitchell on Sunday, May 26, surrounded by family. Carol Jean (Solomon) Mitchell was born on July 10, 1939, in Malta Bend, Missouri.  She was the oldest of two children born to John and Vivien Solomon. Carol was a dedicated career public school educator who profoundly impacted the lives of many. Above all, she was a devoted mother who gave of herself unconditionally to her two children, Debbie and David.

Carol’s career as an elementary classroom teacher spanned over 30 years, 24 of which were with the Independence School District.  Her kindness and unwavering commitment to her students, families, and colleagues defined Carol’s professional life. Carol retired from teaching in 2000 and her dedication to education and warm, nurturing spirit left a lasting mark on her school community.

Following retirement, Carol remained active and engaged, particularly with the Red Hat Society, where she held an office and cherished the camaraderie of her fellow Joyful Jewel members. During this time, she also took on the role of primary caregiver for her beloved husband Ron until his passing in 2018.

Carol was preceded in death by her husband of 56 years, Ron Mitchell, and her parents, John E. Solomon and Vivien Solomon. She is survived by her brother, John Solomon; her son David Mitchell and his wife Sonja; daughter Debbie Dillard and her husband Ken; grandchildren Trent Mitchell, Cole Mitchell, Caroline Dillard, Claire Dillard, Bryce Dillard, and Grayson Dillard.

Carol will always be remembered for her radiant smile, infectious laugh, and the love and kindness she shared with those around her.

Friends and family are invited to celebrate Carol’s life and Memorial Service at Speaks Suburban Chapel, 18020 East 39th St S, Independence, MO 64055 on Friday, June 7 at 1:00pm.  

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in memory of Carol Mitchell to the Independence School District Foundation Donation Link: http://weblink.donorperfect.com/Carol_Mitchell

Amy Kathleen Ward Pratt, 49, of Land O Lakes FL, formerly of Boonville, MO., died on Monday, January 22, 2024.

Visitation for Amy was held at Howard Funeral Home in Boonville, MO on Saturday, February 10, 2024, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Celebration of Amy’s life will begin at 12:00 noon. Inurnment will follow at Walnut Grove Cemetery in Boonville.

Amy was born May 11, 1974, in Boonville to John and Anne Ward. She graduated from Boonville High School in 1992. Amy attended Hesston College in Hesston, KS and Goshen College in Goshen, IN and received her Associates Degree in Early Childhood Development.

Amy is survived by her husband, Joe Pratt, of the home, daughter Elia Anne Marie Matacchiero (Nick), sons Raider Sanchez and Maddox Sanchez, grandchildren, Ellie Anne and Vincent Matacchiero, all of Seminole, FL, her parents John and Nancy Ward of Boonville, siblings Jim Ward of Ozark, MO, Missy Walker (Darin) of Boonville, MO, Charice Hilgedick (Shane) of Fayette, MO, an uncle, Steve Solomon of Boonville, numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins. Amy will be missed by her many friends in Missouri and Florida.

She was preceded in death by her mother, Anne Miller Ward in 1983.

In honor of Amy, who had a loving and kind heart for those in need, we would like to request that contributions go to help the numerous youth and young adults served by Eckerd Connects. To make a donation please go to: http://www.eckerd.org and reference Project Bridge or make your check payable to Eckerd Connects/Project Bridge.