Candace Nichole Dugger, 34, of Licking, Missouri, passed away on October 22, 2025. She was born on August 21, 1991, in Mobile, Alabama, to Kenneth Driver and Carletta Briggs.

Candace was baptized earlier in life. Though her journey was often difficult, her family takes comfort in the promises of God's Word. Scripture reminds us: "For he knoweth our frame; he remembereth that we are dust". Even in weakness, the Lord's mercy is steadfast.

As a child, Candace lived a fairly typical life. She did well in school, enjoyed friendships, and shared in the ordinary joys of growing up. In later years, she faced many struggles that tested her and those around her. Yet her family chooses to remember her not only for those challenges, but also for the ways her life touched theirs. She was a daughter, granddaughter, sister, and mother. These roles connected her forever to the people who now carry her memory.

Candace is survived by her parents, Kenneth Driver and Carletta Briggs; her sons, Jordan Dugger, Levi Dugger, Triston Driver, and Scotty Smith; her brothers, Joshua Driver and Christopher Driver; and her grandfather, Donnie Driver. Each of them grieves in their own way, yet they are united in love and remembrance.

Her life is a reminder that every person's story is a mixture of joy and sorrow, triumph and struggle. In the midst of this loss, her family clings to the hope given in Jesus Christ: "Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest".

Though Candace's years were fewer than those who loved her would have wished, the family finds comfort in knowing that God's compassion is without measure. In times of grief, we are reminded of His promise: "And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain".

Those who mourn her passing also hold to the peace of God, which carries us through seasons of loss: "And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus".

As her family says goodbye, they are comforted by the words of the Psalmist: "The Lord is nigh unto them that are of a broken heart; and saveth such as be of a contrite spirit". In this truth, they find strength, hope, and the assurance that God is near.

Candace's story is not defined solely by her struggles, but by the love of her family and the grace of God that never fails. While she will be missed deeply, the family rests in the hope of eternal peace promised in Christ.

Memorials:

In lieu of flowers, the family has established an education fund for her children in Kenneth Driver's name "Memorial for Candace Dugger" at West Plains Bank.  Donations may be made at any West Plains Bank location or at the funeral home.

A GoFundMe has also been established

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