Birtie Gladys Stocks

Birtie Gladys Stocks of Poplar Bluff, Missouri, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, February 24, 2026, at the home of her son and daughter-in-law, Rich and Dee Stocks, in Branson, Missouri.

Birtie was born on February 26, 1929, to Cozy and Samantha Carter of Ellsinore, Missouri. She had reached the age of 96, passing away just two days before her 97th birthday.

Birtie grew up with a love for reading, cooking, sewing, gardening, canning, and quilting. She also enjoyed writing poetry, and some of her poems were published.

On December 16, 1959, Birtie was married to Richard Alfred Stocks of Malden, Missouri, who preceded her in death on July 5, 2000. They were married at Whites Mill Church near Ellsinore, Missouri, and shared 41 years together.

Birtie lived and worked most of her life in Poplar Bluff, Missouri, where she retired from the Florsheim Shoe Factory after 30 years of employment. After retiring, Birtie moved to Australia with her family for a year and later to Broken Arrow, Oklahoma, to attend Rhema Bible College, where she was one of the oldest graduates. After graduating, she continued to attend for seven years, well into her 80s.

Birtie could be seen walking almost every day, whether to McDonald’s, the grocery store, the laundromat, or the park to sit and read. She walked to McDonald’s, where she ate twice a day for almost 30 years—in Poplar Bluff, in Broken Arrow, and even in Australia.

One of Birtie’s greatest joys in life was giving to her grandchildren. She also had a generous heart toward everyone around her and was always ready to help, often putting others’ needs before her own.

Birtie is survived by her only son, Rich Stocks, and his wife, Dee, of Branson, Missouri; four grandchildren: Jessica Ewing, Elizabeth Tinker, David Stocks, and Christopher Stocks; and four great-grandchildren: Emma Stocks, Knox Tinker, Tatum Tinker, and Josie Lee Stocks. Also surviving at the time of her passing were her brother, Nathan Carter, and her sister, May Magnall. Nathan passed away the following day.

Birtie was preceded in death by her parents; four brothers: Bert Carter, Charles Carter, Elbert Carter, and John Carter; and one sister, Goldie Carter.

Birtie will be greatly missed by all who knew her.

A visitation and funeral will be held at Fitch-Hillis Funeral Home, located at 366 College Street, Poplar Bluff, Missouri. The visitation will be on Friday, March 13, from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. The funeral service will be on Saturday, March 14, at 10 a.m., with the Reverend Steve Proctor officiating.