Marla June Stroup

Marla June Stroup, a beloved school teacher at Sikeston Public Schools where she taught Kindergarten, has passed away at the age of 53. Marla was born on March 7, 1970, in Creve Coure, Missouri. She peacefully breathed her last breathe at her residence in Bloomfield, Missouri, surrounded by her loving family on January 11, 2024.

Marla had a passion for education, which led her to earn a Bachelor's degree in education. For many years, she dedicated herself to shaping the minds of young children and instilling within them a love for learning. Marla's commitment to teaching went far beyond textbooks and classrooms; she cared deeply for her students' well-being and was known for going the extra mile to support them.

Not only was Marla an exceptional educator, but she was also a devoted wife,  and mother. She shared countless beautiful moments with her husband Harvey Stroup, whom she adored dearly. Their love served as an inspiration to all who knew them. Together they created a warm and loving home for their four daughters: Oceanna Stroup of Bloomfield, Missouri; Viola Stroup of Cape Girardeau, Missouri; Rachael Otten of Norman, Oklahoma; and Erin Stroup of Bloomfield, Missouri. Marla cherished every moment spent with her family and took great joy in nurturing her children's growth.

In addition to her immediate family, Marla is survived by one grandchild who brought immeasurable happiness into her life. She reveled in the role of being a doting grandparent and cherished the opportunity to create special memories with her grandchild.

Marla was also close to her extended family members who provided unwavering support throughout her life's journey. She held a special bond with her brother Myron Rhodes and his wife Addie of Desoto, Kansas; sister Carol Jean Burnell and her husband David of Norman, Oklahoma; and her dearest friend Mary Beth Davis.

Outside of her professional and family life, Marla had a variety of hobbies and interests that made her shine. She possessed an undying love for musicals and could often be heard singing show tunes with a smile on her face. She enjoyed going on trips, allowing herself to explore new places and create lasting memories. Marla was a former Girl Scout Leader and a member of the Missouri Teachers Association. 

The impact Marla had on the lives she touched will never fade away. Her love for teaching, devotion to her family, and vibrant personality will forever be remembered. Her legacy lives on through the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to have known her.

Visitation services for Marla June Stroup will be held on January 16, 2024, from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Watkins Funeral Homes - Bloomfield located at 106 N Prairie, Bloomfield, MO 63825. A funeral service will take place the following day, January 17th, at 10:30 AM at the same location with Pastor Jonathan Rice officiating. Interment will follow the funeral service at Mt. Zion-Walker General Baptist Church located at 20002 Co Rd 510, Bloomfield, MO 63825.

During this time of mourning, let us remember Marla's vibrant spirit and loving nature that brought joy into the lives of so many. May we draw strength from the cherished memories we shared with her and find solace in knowing that she would want us to live our lives to the fullest, just as she did.

Marla June Stroup was an extraordinary woman whose kindness, warmth, and love touched the lives of everyone around her. She will forever be missed but never forgotten. As we say our final goodbyes, let us celebrate the remarkable life she lived and hold tight to the beautiful memories we shared. Rest in peace, dear Marla.