Theo Iris Fox-Ely, age 83, of Kirksville, Missouri, passed away Tuesday (December 27, 2022) at LaPlata Nursing Home where she had resided since 2018.

She was born March 22, 1939, in Macon County, Missouri, the daughter of C. Irvin and Blanche Lea Hatfield.

On August 9,2006, at Kirksville Missouri, she was united in marriage to Dale R. Ely, and he preceded her in death on February 26, 2009.

Theo is survived by her three children, Martin Fox Sr. of Columbia, MO., Denise and Stanley Ellsworth of Green Castle, MO., and Iris & George Mills of Kirksville, MO. Sixteen grandchildren, Seventeen great-grandchildren and One great-great grandchild.

Theo is survived by one sister Lodema Kirkpatrick of Ottumwa, IA, one brother Van and Beverly Hatfield of Emmetsburg, Iowa, and one sister-in-law Delores Hatfield of Spencer Iowa. She was preceded in death by her parents, and 6 siblings.

Theo received her education at LaPlata schools and graduated with the Eighth Grade Class of 1954. She Graduated from Kirksville College of Cosmetology in 1977 and was a practicing beautician in the Kirksville area for several years.

Theo was an avid hunter, fisher and enjoyed archery. She loved to dance and listen to music, loved watching her hummingbirds, wildlife, and work in her flower beds. She was a member of the Hamilton Street Baptist Church of Kirksville.

Graveside services will be held at 2:00p.m. Friday (December 30,2022) at Old LaPlata City Cemetery in LaPlata, MO., with Deacon Doug Athon officiating. No public visitation will be held.

Expressions of sympathy in memory of Theo Fox-Ely may be made to LaPlata Cemetery of LaPlata. Memorials may be left at or mailed to Travis- Noe Funeral Home, P.O. Box 306, Kirksville, MO 63501