Olivia Woolsey

Olivia Woolsey, age 79, of Webb City, Missouri, entered peacefully into the presence of her Savior on July 6, 2026, at Circle of Life Hospice in Springdale, Arkansas.

Olivia was born on May 7, 1947, in Mount Vernon, New York, to Herbert Cox and Aline Whan Cox. On July 30, 1976, she was united in marriage to John Leon Woolsey, Jr. Together they shared 41 years of marriage rooted in faith, unconditional love, and devotion. Following John’s passing in 2017, Olivia deeply missed the love of her life. Today, her family rejoices knowing they are together once again in the presence of the Savior they both loved.

Olivia lived a life marked by unwavering faith, boundless compassion, and an extraordinary ability to uplift those around her. She never met a stranger and had a gift for making people feel seen, valued, and loved. Whether through a kind word, a helping hand, or a heartfelt prayer, she quietly impacted countless lives.

Her relationship with Jesus Christ was the foundation of her life and shaped everything she did. She longed for others to know the hope and saving grace found in Him. Her greatest ministry wasn’t found in a title or profession—it was found in faithfully loving people, pointing them to Jesus, and praying for them every chance she had. She taught Sunday School, volunteered with local charities, and never hesitated to come alongside someone in need. If Olivia told you she would pray for you, she meant it.

Her entrepreneurial spirit led her to careers in real estate, sales, and marketing, including many years as a national sales representative for U.S. Telecom and School Messenger. Believing children should be taught to dream big and set goals, she wrote a children’s goal-setting book. Recognizing it would complement the message of renowned sales and motivational speaker Tom Hopkins, Olivia pursued the opportunity to share her vision with him. Her vision and determination led to a partnership with Tom Hopkins, whose organization incorporated her children’s goal-setting book into its nationally recognized curriculum.

Above all, Olivia will be remembered not for the things she accomplished, but for the lives she touched. She celebrated with those who rejoiced, stood beside those who were hurting, and encouraged others to trust God through every season of life. She leaves behind a legacy of unwavering faith, generous love, and selfless service. Her family rejoices in knowing she has heard the words, “Well done, good and faithful servant.” Though dementia gradually changed what the world saw, it never changed who Olivia truly was. Today she is completely restored—her mind is clear, her memories are whole, and her faith has become sight. While we may never know the full impact Olivia made on the lives of others, Heaven surely does.

Olivia is survived by her children, Karen Staggs and husband Bobby of Webb City, Missouri; Robert Pelton and wife Jessica of Santa Fe, New Mexico; Barbie Lake and husband Bill of Springfield, Missouri. She is also survived by her stepson, Shane Woolsey of Miramonte, California; her sister, Colette Fuller of Joplin, Missouri; her half-sisters, Sally Nichols and Nancy Gilbertson, both of California; her brother and sister-in-law, Lloyd and Sharon Cox of Prescott, Arizona; 19 grandchildren; 15 great-grandchildren; and many beloved nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Herbert and Aline Cox; her sister, Connie Rose; and her stepchildren, Rod Woolsey, David Woolsey, and Kimberlee Werberger.

In accordance with Olivia’s wishes, there will not be a traditional funeral service. Instead, family and friends are invited to gather as we share memories and celebrate a life beautifully lived. Olivia’s Homegoing Celebration will be held on Tuesday, July 14, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. at La Rose Blanche, 1977 S. Dry Creek Lane, Joplin, Missouri.

A private family interment will be held at a later date.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the caregivers and staff of Grand Brook Memory Care in Rogers, Arkansas, and Circle of Life Hospice in Springdale, Arkansas, whose compassion, dignity, and loving care brought comfort to Olivia and her family during her final journey.

In lieu of flowers, the family encourages you to honor Olivia’s legacy of serving others by making a memorial donation to God’s Resort or Watered Gardens, both of Joplin, Missouri. We believe there is no better way to celebrate her life than by extending the same love, hope, and compassion she so freely gave to others.

Arrangements are under the care and direction of Ozark Memorial Park Cemetery and Crematory.