Henrietta L. Bird
April 16, 1936 – Nov. 30, 2020
Henrietta Lucille “Birdie” Bird, 84, Lee’s Summit, was born April 16, 1936, in Iola, Kansas. She died Nov. 30 at home surrounded by her loving family.
Birdie grew up on the family farm near Iola, Kansas, and was always proud of her country roots. She was very active in 4-H during her childhood and very proud of the many awards she received.
Upon high school graduation from Iola High School, she worked for the Bell Telephone Company.
Aug. 30, 1957, she married Paul W. Bird in Iola. After marriage she enjoyed being a homemaker and raising three daughters.
In 1976 she graduated from LPN school. As a licensed practical nurse, she worked as a school nurse and in the hospital bedside setting in Sikeston and Lee’s Summit and as a case manager at Allen County Hospital.
Her favorite job of all time however, was being Grandma Henri “Gam” to her three beautiful grandchildren.
For those fortunate enough to know Birdie, they experienced her warm and welcoming smile and hugs. She was always generous and wanted to help those in need. She will be greatly missed, but we know she is with our Lord and we will see her again.
Birdie was preceded in death by her husband, Paul W. Bird; her mother, Minnie Grimm Cleaver; and her brother, Loraine Cleaver.
She is survived by her daughters, Paula Bird and Lisa and Jim Nichols, all of Harrisonville, and Pamela and Jeff White, Pleasant Hill; three grandchildren, Matthew White, Audrey White and Jessica Nichols; sister-in-law, Sherry Virtue, DeSoto, Kansas; several nieces and nephews; other relatives and friends.
Per Birdie’s wishes cremation has been accorded. Inurnment will be in the Geneva Cemetery near Iola at a later date.
Birdie’s family would like to thank all of the staff and nurses with Amedisys Hospice for the compassionate care they gave their mother during the past several weeks.
Memorial contributions are suggested to Amedisys Hospice, 9001 State Line Rd., Suite 120, Kansas City, MO, 64114 or Shiloh Center, 208 Oriole St., Harrisonville, MO 64701.
Arrangements were under the direction of the Stanley-Dickey Funeral Home Pleasant Hill.
P. Ann Brown
Nov. 7, 1937 – Nov. 26, 2020
Patricia “Ann” Brown, daughter of the late William and Bernice Flanery, was born Nov. 7, 1937, in Freeman. Ann died Nov. 26 peacefully in her home surrounded by her loving family.
Ann had a lively childhood growing up on a farm in Harrisonville with her six siblings that remained her best friends throughout her lifetime.
She is survived by her sisters, Freda Cummings and Vera “Sue” Pippen; and her brother, John Flanery.
She was preceded in death by her sister, Beverly Baker; and her brothers, Larry and Derrel Flanery.
At the age of 17, Ann met her husband and soul mate, Robert “Bob” Brown, and they were blessed with 66 years of true love together. Not too long after marrying, April 20, 1956, Ann and Bob bought their first house in Grandview and started their family.
Ann is survived by her husband, Bob; and her two children, Terry Brown and Sharon Falter; who adored her.
One of Ann’s favorite roles in life was being a grandmother and she is survived by her seven grandchildren. Sharon’s girls, Carmen Bradford and husband David, Kayla Lascano and husband, Jared, and Rebecca Falter; and Terry’s children: Caiti, Cara, Molly and Jacob Brown; as well as her great-granddaughters, Carmen’s daughters, Aurora and Kensington; and Kayla’s daughter, Avaleigh.
Ann’s greatest passion was her love of flowers, especially her daylilies. She grew the most beautiful flower beds and her passion and love for this will live on across the country each spring as lilies and irises, that were handpicked and dug from her garden, bloom in the gardens of all her family and friends.
Ann’s hobbies included collecting rocks from all over the country, sewing, crocheting, reading, cooking and baking, being the best living room Wheel of Fortune contestant and collecting her “pretties” from all kinds of thrift shops and garage sales through the years.
Ann retired with her husband in Archie in 2003, fulfilling their dream of building a home on a piece of property in the country and spent her blissful days enjoying her many flower beds.
Ann found the Lord at the age of 26 and was saved. She spent her life a devout servant and was a member of the Belvidere Heights Baptist Church family.
She was a pure example to all she crossed paths with of what a true Christian should represent.
Her love for her family and our Lord rang loud and clear. Her laughter, hugs, wisdom and advice and heartfelt gospel will remain in the hearts of all she left behind for generations to come as we continue to share stories and memories of the most precious woman and soul.
She not only made our lives and the world a better place, she truly blessed it and she will be immensely missed.
A celebration of life for Ann will be held in the spring of 2021 due to COVID-19.
Arrangements were under the direction of the Dickey Funeral Home, Harrisonville.
Robert A. Carlsen
May 26, 1938 – Nov. 29, 2020
Robert Andrew “Bob” Carlsen, 82, Pleasant Hill, was born, May 26, 1938, in Kansas City, the son of Andrew C. and Marjorie S. (Shonley) Carlsen. He died Nov. 29 at St. Luke’s Hospital in Lee’s Summit.
Bob was a 1956 South East High School graduate. June 20, 1959, he married Carol Anne Kernodle in Hickman Mills. She preceded him in death Dec. 30, 2010.
Bob was employed as a union carpenter and construction supervisor. He had worked for Penner Construction, Hastings Construction and Fagan Construction.
He was a 50-year member of Carpenters Union Local No. 61. He loved flying and was a member of EAA Flight Club No. 91 in Lee’s Summit. He truly enjoyed spending time with his children and grandchildren.
Bob was also preceded in death by his parents and a sister, Mardelle Carlsen.
He is survived by three sons, Kurtis Carlsen, Overland Park, Kansas, Scott and Diane Carlsen, Putnam Valley, New York, and Jason and Jennifer Carlsen, Peculiar; a daughter, Kristen and Kevin Halfhide Warrensburg; 15 grandchildren, Elizabeth Boston, Rebekah Wilson, Andrew Halfhide, Hannah Halfhide, Sarah Boston, Benjamin Halfhide, Courtney Carlsen, Carly Carlsen, Matthew Carlsen, James Carlsen, Jacob Carlsen, Jaydon Carlsen, Faith Carlsen, Levi Carlsen and Ashley Fowler; eight great-grandchildren, Constance Boston, Isaiah Wilson, Jessah Wilson, Asher Wilson, Everly Carlsen, Aria Carlsen and Rowan Carlsen; a sister, Marcia Carlsen, Raymore; other relatives and friends.
Graveside funeral services were Dec. 5 at the Mt. Moriah Cemetery, Kansas City.
Pastor Brad Parrish officiated. Casket bearers were Jake Carlsen, Jason Carlsen, Jaydon Carlsen, Kurt Carlsen, Scott Carlsen, Andrew Halfhide and Benjamin Halfhide. Honorary casket bearers are James Carlsen, Matthew Carlsen and Dennis Woods.
Memorial contributions are suggested to VFW Post No. 3118 Veterans Relief
Fund and may be sent in care of the funeral home, Stanley-Dickey Funeral Home, 203 N. Armstrong St., Pleasant Hill, MO 64080 .
Arrangements were under the direction of the Stanley-Dickey Funeral Home, Pleasant Hill.
Marguerite E. Chandler
Oct. 26, 1923 – Nov. 24, 2020
Marguerite Evelyn (Hooper) Chandler was born Oct. 26, 1923, in Lisle and died Nov. 24 in Harrisonville at the age of 97 years and 29 days.
She was the daughter of George Albert and Celia (Randles) Hooper.
Marguerite spent her younger years in the Lisle and Drexel area and attended school in Drexel.
During her high school years, Marguerite took a job waitressing at the Main Street Inn in Grandview. She proceeded to rent a room in Grandview and enrolled in Grandview High School.
Working full time and going to school, she completed her high school education, graduating from Grandview High School in 1941. During World War II, Marguerite worked at Pratt & Whitney. Later she went to work for Sunshine Biscuit, then took a position with Solo Cup Company, working her way up to production manager.
Jan. 7, 1961, Marguerite married Jack Carter “Bud” Chandler in Miami, Oklahoma. After their marriage, they continued to live in Grandview and Marguerite became a full-time homemaker.
Marguerite and Bud bought their second home at Indian Springs near Schell City where they spent every weekend until Bud retired, then they split their time between their home in Grandview and their river house, as they called it, at Indian Springs.
Bud Chandler died May 28, 2012, and Marguerite continued to live in Grandview until her death.
Marguerite enjoyed raising flowers and had a greenhouse at both of her homes.
She also enjoyed bird watching and fishing on the river. Above all else, Marguerite loved her family. She was a devoted and loving mother and grandmother and enjoyed spending as much time as she could with each and every one of her grandchildren.
Marguerite was a member of the First Christian Church and had been a member of the Friendly Neighbors Club, both in Schell City. Marguerite had also been a member of VFW Auxiliary Post No. 8220 of Belton.
In addition to her husband, Jack “Bud” Chandler,” Marguerite was preceded in death by her parents, George and Celia Hooper; a daughter, Karen B. Schneider; and three sisters, Viola Snider, Mary Pugh and Nellie Poe.
She is survived by three daughters, Patricia Duggar, Kansas City, Kathy Nichols and husband, William, and Jackie Wallen and husband, Buddy, all of Harrisonville; eight grandchildren, Andrea Duggar, Christina Duggar, William Nichols, Melissa Schneider, Benjamin Carter Nichols, Nickolas Cody Chandler-Wallen, Dustin Casey Chandler-Wallen and Jesse Austin Chandler-Wallen; nine great-grandchildren; other relatives and many friends.
Graveside service and interment for Marguerite Chandler were Dec. 2 at the Freeman Cemetery, Freeman, with the Rev. Kent Deubner officiating. Casket Bearers were Cody Wallen, Dustin Wallen, Jesse Wallen, Buddy Wallen, Bill Nichols and Ben Nichols.
Arrangements were under the direction of the Wallace Funeral Home, Pleasant Hill.
John L. Conran
Jan. 20, 1932 – Nov. 28, 2020
John L. Conran, 88, Harrisonville, died Nov. 28 at his home surrounded by love and family. He was born Jan. 20, 1932, in Glasgow (Howard County) the son of Francis Lee Conran and Dorothy E. (Hackley) Conran.
He graduated from Lillis High School in 1948 and served in the United States Navy from 1953 to 1955.
He was married to June E. McLaughlin from 1952 to 1970. He worked at AT&T as a tool and die maker from 1959 to 1992 when he retired.
He and Carol Ritchie were married Dec. 26, 1992. He loved hunting, chopping firewood, telling stories and spending time with his family. He was a devoted Catholic with strong faith which is a comfort to his family. He will be forever loved and missed by so many.
He was preceded in death by his parents and youngest sister, Judy Suttner; as well as many aunts, uncles and cousins.
John is survived by his wife, Carol Conran, of the home; six children, Michael L. Conran and wife, Maureen, Overland Park, Kansas, Diane L. Etzkorn and husband, Richard, Olathe, Kansas, Patrick N. Conran, Harrisonville, Timothy A. Conran and wife, Rhonda, Harrisonville, David B. Conran and wife, Nancy, St. Louis, Daniel R. Conran and wife, Erika, McKinney, Texas; Carol’s Children, Donald V. Ritchie and wife, Laurie, and Diane M. Ritchie, all of Kansas City; 15 grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren; two sisters, Shirley Parrott, Lenexa, Kansas, and Joyce Morgan, Mission, Kansas; other relatives and many friends.
A funeral mass was Dec. 4 at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church, Harrisonville. A graveside service was Dec. 4 at the Mt. Olivet Cemetery, Kansas City, with military honors.
The family suggests memorial contributions to the MDS Foundation.
Funeral arrangements were under the direction of the Dickey Funeral Home, Harrisonville.
Thomas A. Dayringer
April 28, 1940 – Nov. 20, 2020
Tom Dayringer, 80, Drexel, died Nov. 20 at his home in Drexel. Thomas Alvin Dayringer was born April 28, 1940, in Jackson County, the son of Ray Edwards and Gertrude Fansler Dayringer.
He served in the United States Army, Navy and Marines and was a member of the Adrian VFW. Tom was also an avid hunter and fisherman that loved to spend time with his family.
Tom was preceded in death by his parents and wife, Connie Dayringer.
He is survived by his wife Kathy Dayringer; sons, Steve, Ryan and Matt; daughter, Heather; grandchildren, Clay, Brad, Jake, John, Ashley, Reagan, Emma, Mackenzie, Michael, Ethan, Triton, Ellyana and Ryker; and great-grandchildren, Oakly, Rose, Ava and Teagan.
Graveside services, along with military honors, were Dec. 4 in Sharon Cemetery, Drexel.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Dayringer family.
Arrangements were under the direction of the Mullinax Funeral Chapel, Butler.
Ralph L. Fidler, Sr.
Oct. 17, 1936 – Nov. 30, 2020
Ralph LeRoy (Lover) Fidler Sr., Harrisonville, was born Oct. 17, 1936, in Kansas City, the son of Ralph E. Fidler and Josephine M. (Walker) Fidler. Ralph died Nov. 30 at his home surrounded by the love of his family.
Ralph was a 1955 graduate of East High School, Kansas City. During school, he worked for The Kansas City Star. After graduating, he worked for the local 101 construction. A few years later Ralph went to work for GM Leeds in Kansas City.
Nov. 17, 1956, Ralph married his high school sweetheart, Patsy Jo Penniston.
Ralph enjoyed life to the fullest. In 1969, he bowled a perfect 300 game as his family watched him on TV receiving trophies, a 300 diamond ring and cash.
He also enjoyed hunting, fishing, trap shooting, playing golf and most of all coaching his grandsons John’s and Anthony’s baseball team. For several years he also enjoyed helping his son, Ralph, in the hay fields. Ralph and Patsy enjoyed spending summer time with Anthony and John taking trips to the lake and Branson.
Later in life they took their two great-grandchildren, Camryn and Cole Purtle, on summer fun trips too. Ralph also loved making wine and got very good at it.
Once he set his mind to do something, he never stopped until he mastered it.
One of Ralph’s other hobbies was electrical. He was always ready to help someone wire a house or just run a light. He truly enjoyed helping people.
After 30 years at GM, he retired and started a small engine repair shop at home and enjoyed living on their farm, spending time with his family and many friends. Ralph, along with Patsy, enjoyed volunteering at Golden Valley Hospital in Clinton, where they volunteered for several years.
Ralph attended the First Baptist Church of Creighton and enjoyed his involvement and taking his great-grandchildren, Camryn and Cole, for Bible school every summer. He really loved his church family.
After 43 years of farm life, they decided to move to Harrisonville where they began traveling, taking cruises to the Panama Canal, Hawaii, to the New England states and into Canada. Not to mention many road trips and spending lots of time in Branson with their daughter and son-in -law, Tracye and Artie. They took a trip last year to Florida with their grandson, Anthony, and his daughter, Skylar.
Oct. 13, 2019, he completed his bucket list. He went skydiving in Clinton at 83 years young and aced it. He had the time of his life too. One of Ralph’s proudest moments is being married to the love of his life “Shorty” for 64 years.
Ralph was preceded in death by his father, Ralph E. Fidler; mother, Josephine Fidler; two sons, Ralph L. “EO” Fidler 3rd, Peter S. “Cornflake” Fidler; a sister, Bessie Mae Fehring; and a brother, Edgar W. Fidler.
Ralph is survived by his wife, Patsy Fidler, of the home; his baby girl, Tracye Famuliner and Artie, Harrisonville; daughter-in-law, Charlene Fidler, Creighton; 11 grandchildren, Anthony Fidler, Lee’s Summit, John Purtle and Sarah, Harrisonville, Michelle Welsh and Todd, Freeman, Tammy Wuerfele and Cory, Amity, Scott Hook and Sandy, Garden City, Brooke Lutz and Ryan, Olathe, Kansas; 13 great-grandchildren, Camryn Purtle, Cole Purtle, Avery Purtle, Skylar Fidler, Zachary Purtle, Jacob Wuerfele, Sidney Wuerfele, Zeb Love, Jasper Love, Paiten Hook, Samatha Hook, Lillian Lutz and Blayne Lutz; other nieces, nephews, and many friends.
He will be truly missed by his family and friends.
A celebration of life service was Dec. 4 at the Dickey Funeral Home, Harrisonville.
The family suggests memorial contributions be made to the ALS Foundation or to the American Cancer Society.
Arrangements were under the direction of the Dickey Funeral Home, Harrisonville.
R. LeRoy Helt
July 14, 1955 – Nov. 29, 2020
LeRoy Helt, 65, died Nov. 29 at Centerpoint Medical Center in Independence.
Graveside services were Dec. 2 at Orient Cemetery, Harrisonville.
LeRoy was born July 14, 1955, in Kansas City, the son of Ralph E. and Velma L. (Lynn) Helt.
He was a resident of Higginsville Rehabilitation Center in Higginsville.
LeRoy was preceded in death by his parents; a sister, Barbara Helt, in 1941; and a brother, Sam Helt, in 2016.
LeRoy is survived by his sister-in-law, Sue Helt, and a nephew, Shawn and Michelle Helt, all of Pleasant Hill; a niece, Shanda and Quentin Lawrence; great nephews and nieces; other family members and his rehabilitation center family.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Higginsville Rehabilitation Center Parents’ Association.
Arrangements were under the direction of the Atkinson Funeral Home, Harrisonville.
Graden E. Hudson
June 18, 1943 – Nov. 25, 2020
Graden Eugene “Gene” Hudson, 77, Pleasant Hill, was born, June 18, 1943, in Parthnon, Arkansas, the son of John G. “Bull” and Anna B. (Stevens) Hudson. He died Nov. 25 at his home surrounded with love and family.
Gene was a 1962 Lee’s Summit High School graduate and was a Vietnam War veteran of the United States Army.
Aug. 31, 1968, he married Marlene Maria (Erbe) Brown in Kansas City. They enjoyed more than 52 years of marriage.
In 1968, Gene went to work for Plastic Enterprises. He started working there as a truck driver, later moved to a maintenance position, eventually to plant manager and back to maintenance before retiring in 2004 after working 35 years for the company. He and his sons also owned and operated a tree trimming service on the side.
He was a member of the Amazing Grace Lutheran Church, Pleasant Hill, and was a member of the Bass Pro Fishing Club. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, bowling and golfing. He especially enjoyed woodworking with his best friend, Terry Sells.
He was family oriented and cherished time spent with his family.
Gene was preceded in death by his parents; a brother, Don Hudson; a sister, Colleen Hudson; and an infant sibling.
He is survived by his wife, Marlene of the home; three children, Kenny Hudson, Kansas City, Kimberly and Eric Crofut, Grandview, and David J. Hudson, Pleasant Hill; two stepchildren, Jeannie M. and George Schwagerman, Lee’s Summit, and Randy A. Brown, Joplin; 11 grand-children, Rachel and Andrew Pollock, Jordan and Nicolette Crofut, Nikole and Marcus Gates, Kyle Hudson, Hannah and Taylor Christmas, Erika Crofut, Kalah Hudson, Jessica Brown, Johnathon Brown, Celina Brown and Ryan Brown; 10 great-grandchildren; two brothers, Jim and Linda Hudson, Kidder, and Larry and Brenda Hudson, Newtown; six sisters, Stella Christ, Leavenworth, Kansas, Louise Bonderer, Cameron, Glenda Hudson, Platte City, Donna Hudson, Harrisonville, Barbara and Dennis Barton, Grandview, and Elizabeth Hudson, Independence; sister-in-law, Toddy Hudson, Lake Elsinore, California; other relatives and friends.
Funeral services were Dec. 3 at the Stanley-Dickey Funeral Home, Pleasant Hill. The Rev. Robert Malone officiated and Marshall Bonderer rendered the eulogy.
Burial was in the Pleasant Hill Cemetery with full military honors by the United States Army and the VFW Post No. 3118 Honor Guard. Casket bearers were Jason Barton, Jeff Barton, Brad Bonderer, Mike Bose, Jennifer Hudson and Kyle Hudson. Honorary casket bearers were Jordan Crofut and Jon Smith.
Memorial contributions are suggested to VFW Post No. 3118 Veteran’s Relief Fund and may be sent in care of the funeral home.
Arrangements were under the direction of the Stanley-Dickey Funeral Home, Pleasant Hill.
Paula A. Long
March 25, 1943 – Dec. 1, 2020
Paula A. Long, 77, Harrisonville, died Dec. 1 at Research Medical Center, Kansas City.
She is survived by her husband, David Long, of the home; three daughters, Cindy Copeland, Harrisonville, Karrie Barreras, Brooking, Oregon, and Tracey Cousin; eight grandchildren; several great-grandchildren; a brother, Sal Ferla, and a sister, Bernice Chance, both of Connecticut; other relatives and friends.
Cremation. No services scheduled at this time.
Funeral arrangements were under the direction of the Dickey Funeral Home, Harrisonville.
Phyllis M. McGhee
July 12, 1930 – Nov. 27, 2020
Phyllis M. McGhee, 90, Harrisonville, died Nov. 27 at her home in Harrisonville. Phyllis was born July 12, 1930, in Pembine, Wisconsin, the daughter of John Maurice and Lillian (Mickelson) Leach.
Phyllis grew up in the Kansas City area and was a 1948 graduate of Raytown High School. She married Herbert McGhee July 21, 1951, and they lived in Raytown before moving to Harrisonville in 1963.
Phyllis worked at Western Electric/AT&T in Lee’s Summit as an inspector-tester for 22 years before her retirement in 1985.
She was a charter member of Faith Baptist Church in Harrisonville and a member of the Women’s Auxiliary at Cass Regional Medical Center.
She enjoyed taking cruises and traveling, having visited Peru, Germany, New Zealand, Italy, Greece, Australia and Israel.
Phyllis was instrumental in incorporating Walnut Grove Rural School No. 66 into the Harrisonville School District, allowing children living in that area to attend Harrisonville schools.
Phyllis was preceded in death by her husband, Herbert, in 1988.
She is survived by three sons, Steve McGhee and Kathy, Riverside, California, Mark McGhee, Mack’s Creek and Ron McGhee and Phyllis, Harrisonville; a daughter, Melody McGhee and Don, Drexel; a brother, Gerald Leach, Merritt Island, Florida; a sister, Margaret Marshall, Chillicothe; eight grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren.
A memorial service was Dec. 4 at the Atkinson Funeral Home in Harrisonville.
Arrangements were under the direction of the Atkinson Funeral Home, Harrisonville.
Debra K. Mosbauer
Aug. 13, 1960 – Nov. 29, 2020
Debra Kay Mosbauer, 60, Garden City, died Nov. 29 in her home surrounded by her loving family.
Debra was born Aug. 13, 1960, the daughter of Nancy Kay (Johnson) and Richard J. Mosbauer in Independence.
After high school, Debra worked various jobs, however what she loved most was her time spent as a veterinarian technician with South Port Animal Hospital as her love for animals was endless.
In life she was blessed with two children, Joseph and Amanda. She enjoyed swimming, taking vacations to the coast, traveling to Sturgis, South Dakota, for the motorcycle rallies, watching Joel Osteen on Sunday mornings and cheering on her Kansas City Chiefs.
Above all, she loved her grandchildren and spending as much time with them as she could.
Debra was preceded in death by her husband, Jim Tharp; maternal grandparents, Vada and Frank Johnson; paternal grandparents, Martin and Vera Mosbauer; and brother, Christopher J. Mosbauer.
She is survived by her two loving children, Joseph S. Craig and Amanda N. Thurman; son-in-law, Steven Thurman; mother, Nancy Kay Carter; father, Richard J. Mosbauer; sister, Michele D. Sherrow; and three grandchildren, Zachary L. Thurman, Michael C. Thurman and Joseph R. Craig.
Debra’s family would like to extend sincere gratitude for the care from her Heartland Hospice team, especially Marcy Ann. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are suggested to Heartland Hospice, 601 W. Nursery St., Butler, MO 64730
A funeral service was Dec. 4 at Cullen Funeral Home, Raymore.
Arrangements were under the direction of the Cullen Funeral Home, Raymore.
Norman P. Roach
July 5, 1932 – Nov. 29, 2020
Norman Perry Roach, 88, Harrisonville, died Nov. 29 at Research Medical Center in Kansas City. Norman was born July 5, 1932, in Atherton.
He married Julia Wilson Aug. 23, 1963.
Norman worked as an ironworker for multiple companies before retiring in 1988. He was a member of the New Covenant Fellowship in Garden City. He enjoyed spending time with his family and his grandchildren.
Norman is survived by his wife, Julia; a son, Gerald Roach and Danelle; a daughter, Glenda Field and Mark; and four grandchildren, Kaylie Roach, Kendra Roach, Kellon Roach and Danielle Field.
Graveside services were Dec. 5 at the Orient Cemetery in Harrisonville.
Arrangements were under the direction of the Atkinson Funeral Home, Harrisonville.
Bessie Smelser
Oct. 4, 1925 – Nov. 28, 2020
Bessie David Smelser, Harrisonville, was born Oct. 4, 1925, in Linn Creek, the daughter of James Mason and Nettie Ann (Mattox) Calton. She died Nov. 28 at Menorah Medical Center, Overland Park, Kansas, surrounded by love and family at the age of 95 years, 1 month and 24 days.
Bessie loved to dance, bake, sew quilts and spend time with her family and friends.
Besides her parents, she was preceded in death by her first husband of 38 years, Gilbert Gordon David; her second husband of 26 years, Adam Smelser; two sons, Gilbert Gordon David, Jr., and Gary Lee David; a granddaughter; Lorie Lynne Wimsatt McGee.
Bessie is survived by her companion of two years, Charles Uchtman, of the home; three daughters, Mary Ellen Prettyman, Harrisonville, Rose Marie Drury, Archie, Julie Daniels and Jack, Harrisonville; four granddaughters; five grand-sons; 12 great-grandchildren; a great-great-grandson; other relatives and a host of friends.
Graveside services were Dec. 4 at the Clearfork Cemetery, Garden City.
The family suggests memorial contributions to the Bessie Smelser memorial fund (please make checks out to Julie Daniels) and may be sent in care of Dickey Funeral Home, P.O. Box 432, Harrisonville, MO 64701.
Arrangements were under the direction of the Dickey Funeral Home, Harrisonville.
Ricky W. Wallace
Aug. 9, 1963 – Nov. 28, 2020
Ricky William Wallace was born Aug. 9, 1963, in Independence and departed this life suddenly Nov. 28 at St. Luke’s East Hospital, Lee’s Summit.
He was the son of Gary Richard Wallace and Beverly Faith (Cantin) Wallace.
Ricky spent his younger years in the Kansas City area, graduating from William Chrisman High School in 1980. After graduation, he attended Longview Community College on a baseball scholarship.
While at Longview, Ricky was drafted by a minor league baseball team in St. Louis. He moved to St. Louis and played baseball there. Later, he tried out for the Kansas City Royals, but a severe injury ended his hope of a Major League baseball career.
After his baseball career ended, Ricky held various jobs before declining health forced an early retirement.
Ricky enjoyed hunting, fishing and playing pool, but what he enjoyed most in life was spending time with his grandchildren.
Ricky was preceded in death by his father, Gary Richard Wallace and his mother, Beverly Faith (Cantin) Wallace.
He is survived by his three sons, Paul William Wallace, Pleasant Hill, Travis Lee Wallace and wife, Amanda, Harrisonville, and Richard Shane Wallace and fiancée, Jade Nicole Baughman, Oak Grove; a daughter, Amber Joy Gregg and husband, Preston Gene, Gunn City; two brothers, Randy Wallace and wife, Brenda, Independence, and, Corey Wallace and husband, James Wright, Lee’s Summit; his girlfriend, Patricia James, Pleasant Hill; 10 grandchildren; other relatives and many friends.
Cremation has been accorded. A memorial service in memory of Ricky William Wallace was Dec. 4 at the Wallace Funeral Home in Pleasant Hill. Randy Wallace officiated.
Arrangements were under the direction of the Wallace Funeral Home, Pleasant Hill.
Gary L. Brown
July 15, 1951 – Dec. 3, 2020
Gary Brown, 69, Rich Hill, died Dec. 3 at his home in Rich Hill. Gary Lee Brown was born July 15, 1951, in Kansas City, the son of Dennis Roy and Rose Bernice McDermott Brown.
He attended and graduated from the Ruskin High School in Kansas City. Gary worked for more than 30 years as a custodian in the Hickman Mills School District in Kansas City before retiring and moving to Rich Hill. He then began working as a dishwasher at Southside Cafe in Butler.
Gary was known as a lovable little guy with a heart of gold. He was a hard worker, but loved his time with family and friends, especially his great-nieces and nephews. He also enjoyed the Kansas City Royals and Chiefs.
Gary was preceded in death by his parents; a brother, Louis Brown; a sister, Cathy Swezy; a brother, John Francis; and a nephew, Kenneth Miller, Jr.
He is survived by his sister, Lois Miller and her husband Kenneth; his brothers, Lee and Tom Francis; and by many nieces, nephews, extended family members and friends.
A private graveside service was in Oak Hill Cemetery, Butler.
Memorial contributions may be made to the family c/o Mullinax Funeral Home, Butler.
Arrangements were under the direction of the Mullinax Funeral Home, Butler.
Billie M. Dines
Aug. 26, 1933 – Nov. 27, 2020
Billie M. Dines, 87, Butler, died Nov. 27 at her home in Butler. She was born Aug. 26, 1933, the daughter of Mayburn and
Esther Haile Epperson in Pleasant Gap.
She was preceded in death by her parents; a daughter, Kristen Dines, in 1975; husband, Marvin Dines, in 2010; and brother, Fred Epperson.
Billie is lovingly survived by two sons, Dale Dines and wife, Michelle, Butler, and Duane Dines and wife, Ivy, Statesboro, Georgia; a daughter, Annette White, Butler; a sister, Mary Mae Lewis, Butler; three sisters-in-law, Joan Epperson, Kansas City, Vesta Limpus, Adrian, and Marcella Dine, Butler; nine grandchildren, Rick Dines and partner Steve Henry, Melinda Satcher and husband Shawn, Rachel Johnston and husband Jeffrey, Kirsti Shephard and husband Nick, Jeffree Dines and wife Rachel, Jason White and wife Chelsea, Crystal McGrath and husband Drew, David White and partner Crysta and Caleb White and wife Grace; and seven great-grandchildren, Holden White, Lola White, Olivia McGrath, Amelia McGrath, Roe White, Bear White and Kayson Shephard.
Funeral services for Billie M. Dines were Dec. 1 at the Schowengerdt Funeral Chapel, Butler. Burial was in Oak Hill Cemetery, Butler.
Contributions are suggested to Smile Train or National Right to Life.
Arrangements were under the Schowengerdt Funeral Chapel, Butler.
Jimmy E. Vaughn
June 18, 1940 – Dec. 3, 2020
Jimmy Elvin Vaughn, 80, Urich, died Dec. 3 at Truman Lake Manor in Lowry City. He was born June 18, 1940, the son of Raymond Arlo and Zora Mildred Murr Vaughn in Vinita, Oklahoma.
He was preceded in death by his parents; two brothers, Eugene and Bobby; son-in-law, Glenn Cubley; and grandson, Matthew Cubley.
Jimmy is survived by his wife, Wanda Vaughn, Urich; three sons, Michael Vaughn and wife Diane, Grandview, David Vaughn and wife Brenda, Urich, and Jimmy Vaughn and wife Shelly, Harrisonville; two daughters, LaDonna Cubley, Grandview, and Janet Glover and husband Ed, Clinton; a brother, Glenn Vaughn and wife Jean, Prescott, Kansas; a sister, Arlene Seitz and husband Bob, Chugiak, Alaska; 15 grandchildren; 32 great-grandchildren; and a large extended family and host of friends.
Funeral services for Jimmy Vaughn were Dec. 9 at Calvary Baptist Church in Adrian. Burial was in Prescott Cemetery, Prescott, Kansas.
Contributions are suggested to Calvary Baptist Church.
Arrangements were under the Schowengerdt Funeral Chapel, Butler.
Jack Willerton
June 25, 1949 – Dec. 1, 2020
Jack Willerton, 71, Archie, died Dec. 1 at his home. Jack was born June 25, 1949, in Corpus Christi, Texas, the son of Commander Vincent L and Elizabeth (Allen) Willerton.
At the age of 7, the family moved to a farm outside of Archie. Jack attended Crescent Hill School through the eighth grade and then attended Adrian High School where he excelled as a student and a star athlete. He graduated in 1967 with multiple scholarships and records. He still holds the long jump record after all these years.
In May 1968 Jack married Peggy Moles. They had two children. Jack also enlisted in the Navy in 1968.
He worked at Anaconda and Whitaker Cable, where he met his wife, Kathie. Jack and Kathie were married May 11, 1985. Jack then began his career as a stone mason with Kathie as a masonite.
In 1995, Jack started an underground construction company. He retired in 2010 and was able to live the rest of his years on his farm with Kathie doing what he loved.
Jack was also a Mason for close to 50 years. His passions were hunting, fishing, working outside and spending time with family. He had a deep faith in God and loved sharing his beliefs. He was a very strong and loving friend to all who knew him. He will be missed deeply.
Jack was preceded in death by his parents, Commander Vincent L. and Betty Willerton; and a sister, Elizabeth Courcy.
He is survived by his wife, Kathie Willerton; daughter, Jackie Enlow and Jeff; son, Jesse Willerton and Lynn; son, Derald Lammers; daughters, Dana Lammers and Amy Guynn and Dan; nephew, Patrick White; other nieces and nephews; 16 grandchildren; and 12 great-grandchildren.
Memorial services were Dec. 7 at the Atkinson Funeral Home in Adrian, with masonic services.
Memorial contributions may be made to Heartland Hospice.
Arrangements were under the direction of the Atkinson Funeral Home, Adrian.
Mildred M. Wood
July 22, 1922 – Nov. 22, 2020
Mildred Maxine Wood, 98, Warrensburg, died Nov. 22 at Wildwood Rehabilitation in Joplin. Mildred was born July 22, 1922, the daughter of Harley and Oisee (Icy) Johnson in Adrian.
She grew up on the family farm west of Adrian and attended Fairview Country Grade School. She graduated from Adrian High School in 1940. After graduation, she moved to Butler to start working.
Nov. 8, 1941, she married Glenn L. Borum and they had two sons, Glenn and Richard.
In 1953, Mildred and son, Glenn, were baptized and became members of the First Christian Church of Butler. She was a member of the nonpareil class for more than 60 years. She was also a very active member of CWF in the church. She was a deacon for several years and helped with almost all church activities.
She joined the Warrensburg First Christian Church after moving from Butler to Warrensburg.
In 1960, Mildred married Dean Wood. A few years later, she began working in the office of Dr. A.L. Hansen of Butler. She worked for him for 20 years until he died in an airplane crash.
She then retired from working in 1983 and began to volunteer for various causes. One of her favorite places to volunteer was a nursing home where she led the residents in many different games for five years. After that she and her husband, Dean, began to take many bus tours all over the United States. She was afraid to fly, but did get the courage to fly to Hawaii and visit all the different islands.
Mildred enjoyed traveling, shopping and being with friends and family. She especially enjoyed doing things with her grandson, Jeffrey, and watching him play soccer, football, basketball and baseball.
She also took great delight in cooking for the entire family, especially on holidays and birthdays.
After selling her home in Butler in 2011, she moved to Warrensburg to live with her son, Glenn. They enjoyed going to church and UCM athletic events, walking at the multipurpose center and eating and visiting with their friends at the Warrensburg Senior Center.
Mildred was preceded in death by her parents; a sister; and husbands, Glenn L. Borum and Dean Wood.
She is survived by her sons, Glenn Borum, Warrensburg and Richard and Susan Borum, Joplin; a grandson, Jeffrey and Anya, Joplin; a great-grandson Carter, Joplin; and several cousins.
Funeral services were Nov. 27 at Sweeney-Phillips & Holdren Funeral Home. Interment was in Crescent Hill Cemetery near Adrian.
Memorial contributions are suggested to the First Christian Church or the Warrensburg Senior Center and can be left in care of the funeral home.
Arrangements were under the direction of the Sweeney-Phillips & Holdren Funeral Home, Warrensburg.