Hazel Gillihan

Hazel Laverne (Stark) Gillihan, age 90, departed this earthly life for an eternal home in heaven on Tuesday, June 9, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of love, strength and fierce devotion to her family.  

Hazel was born on May 7, 1936, in Kennett, MO to William Earl and Jewell Irene Stark.  On October 21, 1956, she married Troy Gillihan in Fisk, MO.  Hazel built a life full of purpose alongside her husband.  Together they planted roots in Poplar Bluff where they owned and operated Poplar Bluff Monument Works until their retirement- a testament to their shared dedication and hard work.  Hazel was a Christian and influenced many children through her years of teaching Sunday School and Children's Church at Collins Chapel Church.

Those who knew Hazel know she was generous with her time and money and loved without limits.  Her grandchildren, in particular, can attest to this as they held a special place in her heart.  Anyone who witnessed her with them knew the soft tender side of a woman who gave everything she had to the people she loved.  Her love and influence spans several generations. 

She leaves behind her faithful loving spouse of 69 years, Troy, and five devoted and loving children...daughters Janice (Gary) Duckett, Shari (Kenny) Stratton, Karen and Lori and son Steve (Susan) Gillihan, eight grandchildren, Justin, Andrew, Emily, Tristan, Landon, Maddie, Lucas and Bella, step granddaughter, Kerry Stratton.  Four great-grandchildren, Addison, Asher, Ansley, and Amelia as well as many nieces and nephews.  She was preceded in death by her parents, Earl and Jewell Stark, siblings, Audra Bergmann, Denver Stark, Leonard Stark and Minnie Coons.

Visitation will be on June 11th, 2026, at Fowler-Sullivan Funeral Home 701 Vine St. Poplar Bluff from 12:30-1:30 p.m. with the funeral service following at 1:30 p.m. in the funeral home chapel with Pastor Mike Wilson officiating.  Burial will then follow in Woodlawn Cemetery.

" A life well - lived is never truly gone- it lives on in the ones left behind."