Wiloma S. Swatsenbarg

Wiloma "Sue" (Snodgrass) Swatsenbarg passed away peacefully on March 7, 2025, at Solace House in Joplin, Missouri, at the age of 88 with her daughter beside her. She was born on July 28, 1936, in Butler, Missouri, and lived a life dedicated to family, faith, and service to others. Wiloma pursued her education at the former School of the Ozarks in Point Lookout, Missouri, later attending Joplin Business College. Much later in life, she studied office technology at Franklin Technology Center. Her career reflected her strong work ethic and adaptability. She worked in the office at Griffin's Groceries and later at General Steel, where she met her husband, James Earl Swatsenbarg. They married on November 1, 1958, and shared a life together until his passing in 1991. She later worked at the Jasper County Courthouse and volunteered at the Cerebral Palsy Center in Carthage before becoming a homemaker. In her later years, she returned to the workforce as a caregiver before retiring. Faith played a central role in Wiloma’s life. She served as a church secretary for several years and found great joy in playing the piano for services. Her love for music and dedication to her faith brought comfort and inspiration to many. Wiloma also had a passion for gardening, preserving the fruits and vegetables she cultivated with her husband. Her love of baking earned her the affectionate title of "The Cookie Lady," as she delighted in sharing homemade treats with family and friends. She is survived by her daughter, Pam Farrell of Webb City, Missouri; brother, Wayne Snodgrass of Collinsville, Oklahoma; sisters-in-law, Debra Snodgrass of Carthage, Missouri, and Janet Snodgrass; as well as numerous cousins, nieces, and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, Wilbur Snodgrass and Neoma Bell (Sims) Snodgrass; stepmother, Helen Snodgrass; husband, James Earl Swatsenbarg; son-in-law, Tim Farrell; and half-brother, Bill Snodgrass. A Celebration of Life will be held on March 29, 2025, from 3:00 PM to 4:30 PM at Mercy Village Apartments, located at 1148 W. 28th St., Joplin, Missouri, where she resided for 17 years before making her home with her daughter. Wiloma’s kindness, generosity, and unwavering love for others left a lasting impact. Her memory will continue to bring warmth and comfort to all who knew her.

Wiloma S. Swatsenbarg

July 28, 1936 - March 7, 2025