Joplin, MO - Barbara "Sue" Gould, age 65, of Joplin, MO passed away on October 28, 2025 at her home.

Sue was born in Joplin, MO on August 2, 1960 to her parents Richard Hawkins and Betty (Morgan) Newman.

She worked in healthcare at Freeman for 20 years, St. John's hospital for 8 years, and ended her career in healthcare with Positive Achievements Healthcare prior to her retirement. Sue was a natural caretaker, and everyone's mother. She was known to many as "Momma Sue". She will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

Sue is preceded in death by her father and step-mother, Richard and Helen Hawkins; her mother Betty Newman; one brother, Steven Hawkins; and one sister Rita Massey.

She is survived by her partner in life, James Gould, her children, Kimberly Smith and husband Larry, Jason Hawkins and wife Melisa; one bonus sister, Cora Mix, all her beloved nieces and nephews and her "Gma's friends" group.

A memorial service will be held at 2:00pm, Saturday, November 8, 2025 at Mason- Woodard Mortuary.

"Jesus said to her, 'I am the resurrection and the life. Those who believe in me, even though they die, will live, and everyone who lives and believes in me will never die.'"

-John 11:25-26