Denise Charlesworth

Billie “Denise” Charlesworth entered into the presence of the Lord on Wednesday, March 25th, 2026, at the age of 64.

Denise was born on April 11, 1961, in Springfield, Missouri, to Richard M. Stagner and Billie M. Stagner. She was the youngest of three children. She was preceded in death by her sister, Barbara Stagner, and her brother, Richard Stagner.

Raised in the Ozarks, Denise developed a deep love for nature at an early age, spending countless hours on her family farm in Clever, Missouri. Her summers were often spent along the James and Finley Rivers—wandering the outdoors and exploring the beauty around her.

Denise met William R. Charlesworth, her former husband of 35 years, at Glendale High School. They were married on April 8th, 1983, and together raised three children: Amanda M. Hay, Harrison R. Charlesworth, and Christopher N. Charlesworth.

Above all, Denise was a devoted mother. She found joy in the simple and meaningful things in life- time spent on her farm, caring for animals, and being surrounded by nature.

A believer in God and His goodness, Denise lived with a strong sense of purpose and conviction. She was never afraid to stand firm in her beliefs. As a proud member of the vegan community, she was deeply committed to caring for all living beings with compassion. Denise treasured her time with family, friends, and fellow adventurers.

In recent years, Denise worked at Café Cusco, where she formed many lifelong friendships and left a lasting impression on everyone she met through her authenticity and steadfast beliefs.

Denise passed peacefully on her beloved farm, surrounded by the animals and natural beauty she cherished most.

She is survived by her daughter, Amanda Hay; her son, Christopher N. Charlesworth; her son-in-law, Nathaniel Hay; and her two grandsons, Noah Hay and Roman Hay.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Denise’s honor to The Vegetarian Club of the Ozarks, Ozarks Food Harvest, or Animal Advocates of the Ozarks.

Denise will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew her.

In honor of her life, a come-and-go memorial service will be held on Sunday, April 19th, from

11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Pavilion near the Japanese Stroll Gardens in Nathanael Greene Park.

Guests are invited to stop by the pavilion to view photos, share a written memory of Denise, and receive a ticket for entry into the gardens. You are then welcome to enjoy the gardens in remembrance of her life, taking in the beauty of nature that she so greatly cherished.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Midwest Cremation and Funeral Services of Springfield, MO.