Valli “Sophie’’ L. Root, 72, of Niangua, was born Feb. 11 1951, in Pontiac, Mich. to Lewis Smartt and Glennice Deason, and died Thursday, Oct. 19, 2023, in Mercy Hospital at Springfield. She is survived by her husband Ray of the home; two sons, Gregory Wagner of Long Lane and Raymond R. Root Jr. and wife Karon, of Lebanon; a number of grandchildren and great-grandchildren; two sisters, Kimberly Ybarra and Alicia Mandy. A family gathering was held at 4 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 22, 2023. Arrangements were under the direction of Holman-Howe Funeral Home of Lebanon.
