It is with heavy hearts and deep gratitude for a life well-lived that we announce the passing of Marcella Maples Moore, who departed this life on July 17, 2026, at the age of 91, following a brief illness at Cox Hospital. Marcella was born on August 18, 1934, in Highlandville, Missouri, to Loren L. Maples and Merle Moore Maples. She was a beloved daughter, sister, wife, mother, grandmother, and friend whose presence will be dearly missed.

Marcella was preceded in death by her cherished husband, Billy Joe Moore, to whom she was devoted since their marriage on June 4, 1952. She also joins in eternal rest her beloved grandson, Jason Michael Moore, a sister, Freda Maples Roy, and brothers Junior Maples, Wendell Maples, Deral Maples, Orville Maples, as well as her parents, Loren and Merle Maples.

She is survived by her loving children, Karen Sue Moore Neal, alongside her husband Richard, and Joe Keith Moore with his wife Dianne. Marcella’s legacy is further carried on by her adored grandchildren, Laura Ashley Neal Rogg, married to Brandon, great granddaughter Destiny Moore, and the delightful great-great grandaughters Annabelle and Autumn Richards. Sisters Jean Coats(Lendal), Martha Ellen White and Colleen Moore Donham, along with a host of nieces, nephews, and friends, will continue to hold her memory close.

A proud graduate of Galena High School in 1952, Marcella later enhanced her skills by attending Vocation Technical School in 1964. Her career as an Office Manager at Modern American Life Insurance Company spanned nearly three decades from 1964 to 1992. After retirement, she shared her talents part-time in the Nixa Public Schools office, and generously volunteered in the children’s reading program, nurturing a love of learning in young hearts.

Marcella was a devoted member of Ridgecrest Baptist Church, where her faith was a guiding light. She found joy in cooking, especially her renowned chicken and noodles and homemade pies, bringing her family together around her table. Shopping was another passion, yet nothing brought her more joy than time spent with her grandchildren. Music was a constant delight, and she never missed the opportunity to see her favorite artists like Charley Pride, Loretta Lynn, or Daniel O’Donnell. Traveling with her husband, Joe, her sister, Jean, and brother-in-law, Lendal, filled her life with joyous adventures.

A visitation will be held from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM, Wednesday, July 22, 2026 at Greenlawn Funeral Home South located at 441 W Battlefield, Springfield, MO 65807.  A celebration of Marcella’s life will begin at 11:00 AM with burial to follow at the IOOF Cemetery in Highlandville, MO. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to a charity of your choice in Marcella’s memory.

The family extends their sincere gratitude to the compassionate medical staff at Cox South Hospital for the exceptional care provided during Marcella’s brief illness. Her warmth, laughter, and generous spirit will forever remain in the hearts of all who knew her.

May her soul rest in peace and her memory be a blessing to us all.