Lanny Ross Mock, 83, of Carl Junction, passed away on Sunday, October 11, 2026, at Freeman Hospital in Joplin. A resident of the Four States region for most of his life, Mock was a decorated Air Force veteran and a dedicated member of local civic groups.
Mock served his country honorably for four years in the United States Air Force. He held the rank of Staff Sergeant and contributed his skills as a jet aircraft mechanic, specializing in the F-102 Delta Wing Fighter Jet. Following his distinguished military service, Mock returned to civilian life, working in factories for various local companies within the Joplin area, contributing to the region's economy.
Born on May 16, 1943, in West Plains, Missouri, Lanny was the son of Stanley Ross and Helen Jo (Hatfield) Mock. His roots in the area ran deep; he graduated from Joplin Senior High School in 1961, where he was recognized for his academic achievements as a member of the National Honor Society. He continued his education locally at Joplin Junior College before attending Southeastern State College of Durant, Oklahoma.
On March 6, 1965, Lanny Mock married Sandra “Sandy” L. Hoffman. Together, they built a life in the Carl Junction area. Mock was known for his active participation in hobbies he felt strongly about, including his lifetime membership with the National Rifle Association and the Joplin Rifle-Pistol Club. He frequently engaged in competitive shotgun skeet shooting and rifle-pistol competitions.
Beyond his personal interests, Mock was noted for his generosity. He regularly donated to more than eight different charities, supporting causes he believed in within the community and beyond.
Lanny Mock is survived by his wife, Sandy Mock, who resides at their home in Carl Junction. He is also survived by his son, Jeff Mock, and his wife, Shelly, of Joplin, Missouri. His two granddaughters, Brooke Mock and her fiancé, Jared Greninger, reside in Webb City, Missouri, while Paige Mock lives in Joplin, Missouri. Mock also leaves behind four siblings: Steven Mock and his wife, Connie, of Galena, Kansas; Doug Mock and his wife, Cathy, of Joplin, Missouri; Joanna Fannan, of Joplin, Missouri; and Pamela Oxford, of Mount Vernon, Missouri.
In remembrance of Lanny Mock, the family has requested that, in lieu of flowers, donations be made to charities of individual choice in his honor. No formal services are planned at this time. Cremation arrangements are under the special care and direction of Parker Mortuary.
