Arliss Ray Stillings, age 74, passed away on January 7, 2026.

Arliss Ray Stillings, age 74, of Forsyth, Missouri, passed away January 7, 2026. He entered this life on August 28, 1951, the son of Neil and Ima (Thomas) Stillings in Springfield, Missouri.  Arliss was joined in marriage on May 26, 1975, to Linda Joyce Wistrom. Their union was blessed with two sons, Elisha and Jonas.

Faith, music, and education were the cornerstones of Arliss’ life. Growing up in Ava Missouri, Arliss found the Lord early. After high school, he began his formal education at School of the Ozarks, where he graduated with a degree in music in 1974. Later, Arliss earned his Master’s Degree from Southwest Missouri State University in Springfield. He was a high school music teacher for 27 years, beginning in Norwood and spending most of his career at Hollister.  After early retirement he taught music at the Riverview Christian School.

Having a servant’s heart, Arliss dedicated his time and love to the College of the Ozarks, playing in the CofO band until his passing. He served the Lord in music at many local churches, either singing or directing choirs and cantatas.  He was an organized planner with a fine eye for details. Due to his passion for cars, for over 40 years, Arliss was well known for his auto detailing work.  He will be remembered fondly for his dedication to teaching music, love of cars, and his service to the community and church. Most of all, Arliss will be remembered for his service to his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

Arliss is survived by his wife of fifty years, Linda Stillings of Forsyth, Missouri; sons: Elisha (Amanda) Stillings of Conway, South Carolina, Jonas Stillings of Forsyth, Missouri; sister, Jennifer (Keith) Dougherty of Branson, Missouri; nieces: Kelsey (Bobby) Bierschenk, and Darby (Daniel) Thomas; as well as his great-nephews: Waylon, Rhett, and Colter along with a host of nieces, nephews, uncles, aunts and dear cousins.

There will be a celebration of life held at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, January 24, 2026, at First Baptist Church-Forsyth, 10000 State Hwy 76, Forsyth, Missouri.

 In lieu of flowers or other memorial gifts the family has set up a scholarship fund in memory of Arliss, promoting music education for the students at College of the Ozarks. 

Contributions to The Arliss Ray Stillings Memorial Scholarship Fund may be made through the development office at College of the Ozarks.  Checks can be mailed to:

College of the Ozarks 
ATTN: Development Office
PO Box 17
Point Lookout MO, 65726

Arrangements and cremation are under the direction of Cremations of the Ozarks. To leave an online condolence or share a memory, please visit http://www.cremationsoftheozarks.com.