ALTHEA ROSE VANDEMARK

Althea Rose VanDeMark, age 71, of Lamar, Missouri, passed away peacefully at her home on November 24, 2025.

Althea was born on January 1, 1954, in Hannon, Missouri, to Ocee Olen Williams and Naomi Violet (Hoover) Williams. She graduated from Lamar High School with the Class of 1973. On September 21, 1980, she married Harold Lee VanDeMark in Lockwood, Missouri.

She was employed by Lamar Enterprises for 12 years and then served on its board for 28 years, including a period as interim manager. Althea served at Baptist Hill Assembly and was a longtime member of the First Baptist Church of Lamar, where she was active in many ministries, including Vacation Bible School, the preschool department, and children's church. She also served as a member and treasurer of Missouri Right to Life for many years.

Althea worked as a Parents As Teachers educator, specializing in early childhood education for 10 years. She was a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother. Althea accomplished all of this while helping her husband, Harold, build their business into a successful and respected part of the community. 

Survivors include her husband of 45 years, Harold; three daughters, Felicia (Nathan) Ramseyer of Jefferson City, Missouri, Yvonne (Andrew) O'Neal of Springfield, Missouri and Denise (Eric) Vaughn of Marionville, Missouri; three grandchildren, Alyssa Ramseyer, Taylin Ramseyer, and Olivia O’Neal; and two brothers, Bob Williams of Kansas City, Missouri, and Jake Williams of Frontenac, Kansas.

She was preceded in death by her parents; four brothers; and three sisters.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m., Monday, December 1, 2025, at First Baptist Church of Lamar, with burial to follow at Mount Carmel Cemetery.

The family will receive friends beginning at 9:30 a.m., Monday, December 1, 2025, prior to the service at the church.

Contributions are suggested to First Baptist Church of Lamar (Missions Trip) and may be left in the care of Daniel Funeral Home.

Condolences may be shared at www.dfhlamar.com.