Sara Evalina McCauley

Sara Evalina McCauley, age 40, of Nixa, passed away on May 16, 2026, at Barnes-Jewish Hospital. She was born on May 22, 1985, to Steven and Olivia DeClue McCauley.

Sara was a 2003 graduate of Ozark High School. Growing up, she was an active member of 4-H and attended Ozark Methodist Church with her beloved grandma, MeMe. Sara dedicated more than 20 years to the medical field, working as a medical assistant and caring for others with compassion and kindness. She was also a devoted leader in Cub Scouts and Boy Scouts for 10 years, helping guide and encourage countless young people along the way.

Sara loved camping, hiking, floating, crafting, playing games on her tablet, watching movies, and spending time with family and her beloved dogs, Zeus and Axel. She especially enjoyed attending craft festivals where she proudly sold her handmade creations. Sara had the biggest heart and the best sense of humor. She was wonderfully silly and could turn an ordinary moment into laughter with a goofy face, a spontaneous dance in the kitchen, or a ridiculous song made up on the spot. Even on hard days, she found reasons to smile and helped others do the same. She loved fiercely, always putting others before herself.

Above all, Sara was a devoted mother. She poured everything she had into her two children, often sacrificing her own needs so they could have more. Whether it was staying up late to talk through worries, cheering the loudest at every accomplishment, or simply making sure they felt safe and loved, her devotion never wavered. She would blast her favorite songs and pull her children onto the dance floor — often the kitchen floor — reminding them not to take life too seriously. Her beautiful spirit will live on in every smile, every dance, and every act of love shared by those who knew her.

Sara is survived by her daughter, Olivia McCauley (Brett Coker); her son, Michael Sutton; her sister, Jodie (David) Burns; her aunts, Jennifer and LaDonna; her nieces, Mackenzie, Izi and Brie; her husband, Denton Mabe; her beloved dogs, Zeus and Axel; grand dogs, Maggie and Wren; as well as many friends who will miss her.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Steven and Olivia DeClue McCauley; her grandparents, Jeanette McCauley and Jessie Hale; and her nephew, Travis Smith.

Visitation will be held from 5:00 p.m.-7:00 p.m., Thursday, May 21, 2026. at Adams Funeral Home, Ozark, Missouri.

Funeral services will be held 10:00 a.m., Friday, May 22, 2026, at the funeral home.

Graveside service will follow the funeral service at McCauley Cemetery, Ozark, Missouri.