Bates County News

Thursday, July 3, 2025

Curry Joseph “Joe” Massey, 41, of Yukon, Oklahoma (formerly of Butler)

 Curry Joseph “Joe” Massey, 41, of Yukon, Oklahoma, passed away June 30th 2025. A visitation will be held Sunday, July 6th, 2025 from 5:00 pm – 6:00 pm at Mullinax Funeral Home, Butler (660-679-0009).  Mass of Christian Burial will be held 10:00 am, Monday, July 7th, 2025 at St. Patrick Catholic Church in Butler, MO.  In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations be made in Joe’s memory to Ronald McDonald House Charities of Kansas City.  Messages of condolence may be left for the family at www.mullinaxfuneralhome.com.

 Joe was born on June 16, 1984, at St. Joseph Hospital in Kansas City, Missouri.  He lived a life full of passion, humor, and deep-rooted values. Joe grew up in Butler, Missouri, where he developed a love for the outdoors early in life. Whether it was deer or coon hunting, fishing, showing cattle through 4-H and FFA, or just being outside, Joe was in his element.

 He graduated from Butler High School in 2003, where he was a proud member of the baseball, football, and basketball teams. He thrived in team settings, cherishing the camaraderie and connection that came with shared goals and locker room laughs.

His passion for agriculture and livestock judging led him to Hutchinson Community College, where he competed on the livestock judging team. That path brought him to Oklahoma State University—an experience that not only solidified his love for agriculture but also ignited a lifelong devotion to the OSU Cowboys. He earned his degree in Animal Science from OSU and remained a proud Cowboy fan for the rest of his life. After graduation, Joe began his professional career with the United States Department of Agriculture, working as a cattle market news reporter. His career took him to Lancaster, Pennsylvania, then Springfield, Illinois, before he eventually made his way to Amarillo, Texas. From there, he landed his dream job at the Oklahoma National Stockyards in Oklahoma City—a role he loved and truly excelled in. Joe had a larger-than-life personality and could tell a story better than just about anyone—whether the tale was completely true or had just a touch of exaggeration for dramatic effect. He had a genuine gift for conversation and never hesitated to pick up the phone for a long chat.

Joe loved to travel and was fortunate to experience the beauty and culture of Ireland, Greece, and Italy. He also enjoyed golfing with friends, cheering on the OSU Cowboys, and spending time with the people he loved.

 He is survived by his parents, Curry and Linda Massey; his sisters, Leslie Hedrick (Joe) and Maggie Massey; his beloved nephews, Alden and Henry Hedrick; and many aunts, uncles, cousins, and dear friends who will miss him dearly. He was preceded in death by his grandparents and one very special uncle.

 Joe's vibrant spirit, warm heart, and unforgettable stories will live on in all those who were lucky enough to know and love him. He leaves behind a legacy of laughter, loyalty, and love.



Curry Joseph “Joe” Massey, 41, of Yukon, Oklahoma (formerly of Butler)

  Curry Joseph “Joe” Massey, 41, of Yukon, Oklahoma, passed away June 30th 2025. A visitation will be held Sunday, July 6 th , 2025 from 5:0...