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The Excelsior Springs Standard publishes death notices free of charge as a public service. They are edited for length, clarity and conformity to style. An expanded obituary (indicated by an asterisk below) is available for a fee. Contact your funeral home for more information.)
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"Bill" Adams
Charles William "Bill" Adams, 72, Excelsior Springs, Mo., died Saturday, May 10, 2008, at St. Luke's Hospital in Kansas City, Mo. Mr. Adams was born March 14, 1936, in Ray County, the son of Jewell Thomas Adams and Mary Orilla Crouse Adams. He was first married to Bonnie Ruth Love; later he was married to Gala JoAnn Morrison, who preceded him in death in April 1999. He had worked as a farmer for Henry Schwarz for more than 40 years. He was of the Baptist faith. In addition to his wife and his parents, he was preceded in death by three brothers, Jimmy, Wayne and Bobby; two sisters, Naomi Johnson and Carol Dye; two daughters, Mary Opal Adams and Anita Faye Adams; and one son, Billy Jay Adams. Survivors include two sons, Bennie Jewell Adams and Charles William Adams Jr., both of Excelsior Springs; one daughter, Bonnie Jean Curtis, Santa Clara, Calif.; one stepson, Rex Morrison, Lawson; two sisters, Myrtle Pate and Woneta Malott, both of Excelsior Springs; one brother, Earl Ray Adams, Excelsior Springs; and three grandchildren. Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. Wednesday, May 14, in the chapel of Polley Funeral Home in Excelsior Springs. Burial will be in the Polley Cemetery. Visitation will be held after 1 p.m. Tuesday, May 13, with the family receiving friends from 6 to 8 p.m. Tuesday at the funeral home. Online condolences may be left at www.polleyfuneralhome.com.
Sandra Barclay
Sandra L. Barclay, 27, Excelsior Springs, Mo., died Thursday, May 22, 2008, at her home. Mrs. Barclay was born Oct. 27, 1980, in Kansas City, the daughter of Loretta (Wallace) Malone and Melvin R. Thompson. She was married to David Barclay on March 19, 2005. Survivors include her husband, David Barclay, of the home; sons, Kevin David Barclay and Damian Reese Barclay, also of the home; her mother, Loretta Malone, Parkville; her father, Melvin R. Thompson, Independence; brother, Melvin Thompson III, Independence; grandparents, Katherine S. and Kenneth Dye, Excelsior Springs; and other relatives. A memorial service was held after noon on Sunday, May 25, at the family home, 12943 Crowley Road, Excelsior Springs. Arrangements are through Polley Funeral Home in Excelsior Springs. Memorial contributions may be made to the Kevin and Damian Barclay Education Fund, in care of David Barclay.
Shellie Belben
Shellie Jeannette Belben, 49, Kearney, Mo., died Wednesday, May 28, 2008. Mrs. Belben was born Dec. 2, 1958, in Garden City, Kan., the daughter of Gilbert and Claradella Horton Widows. She worked as a waitress. She was preceded in death by her father and a sister, Della Raye. Survivors include her husband of 23 years, Chuck Belben, of the home; son, Adam Belben, Kansas City; daughter, Erin Belben, Kearney; mother, Claradella Widows, Garden City, Kan.; sisters, Jackie Widows and Sue Hahn, both of Garden City, Kan., and Joyce Roberts, Melvern, Kan.; and brothers, Les Widows, Garden City, Kan., and Thomas Widows, Hutchinson, Kan. Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday, May 31, at First Baptist Church in Kearney; burial in Fairview Cemetery. Friends may call from 6 to 8 p.m. Friday, May 30, at Fry-Bross & Spidle Funeral Home in Kearney. The family is forming a memorial fund.
Joanna Bittiker
Joanna C. Bittiker, 78, Excelsior Springs, Mo., died Friday, May 16, 2008, at North Kansas City Hospital in North Kansas City, Mo. Ms. Bittiker was born April 9, 1930, the daughter of Maude (Jonniber) and Charles B. Bittiker. She was a high school graduate and spent most of her time in Excelsior Springs. Survivors include a nephew, Stephen B. Bittiker, Bayonet Point, Fla. Cremation. No services are scheduled. Arrangements are through Polley Funeral Home in Excelsior Springs.
Marie Brown
Marie F. Brown, 86, Liberty, Mo., died Thursday, May 29, 2008, at Ashton Court Care Center. Ms. Brown was born Sept. 10, 1921, in Lexington, Ky., the daughter of Price and Grace Durbin Flannery. She was married to Milton Brown on July 29, 1941. They lived for a short time in St. Joseph, then lived in Liberty for the past 50 years. She was a meat wrapper for United Foods and Commercial Workers Union #576 for 25 years before she retired in 1986. She was a member of St. James Catholic Church. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Milton Brown, on March 13, 2008; and 10 siblings. Survivors include a daughter, Phyllis Creco, Ft. Myers, Fla.; a son, James Brown, Suwanee, Ga.; a sister, Virginia Simson, St. Joseph, Mo.; two brothers, Milton Flannery, Richmond, Ky., and Robert Flannery, Winchester, Ky.; two grandsons; and seven stepgrandchildren. Funeral services were held at 10:30 a.m. Monday, June 2, at St. James Catholic Church in Liberty; burial in Resurrection Cemetery in Kansas City. Friends were invited to call from 10 a.m. until the time of the service Monday at the church. Memorial contributions may be made to St. James Catholic Church for the Prayer Garden.
*Vena Mae Brown
Vena Mae Brown, of St. George, Utah, went to be with her Heavenly Father on Saturday, May 3, 2008. Vena Mae was a loving mother, wife, grandmother and great grandmother. She was born July 5, 1912, in Excelsior Springs, Mo., to the late Sultana Sue and James Davidson. She graduated from Fort Hays State and became an educator. She was a retired educator from the Kansas City, Mo. School District. She also taught in Pony Rock and McPherson, Kan., and served on the school board in McPherson. After her retirement from teaching, she was an active volunteer for the Election Board, Pilot Club, Country Club Methodist Church and her PEO chapter in Kansas City, Mo. She was president of her PEO chapter and honored as a 50 year member. Vena Mae was an active swimmer, golfer and loved to play bridge. Vena Mae relocated to St. George, Utah, in April 2006. She was preceded in death by her brother and sister-in-law, Vester and Bert Davidson; and her uncle, Allen Smith. Survivors are her sons, Rice (Jan) of Hurricane, Utah, Ron (Elizabeth) of Louisville, Ky., and Jim (Linda) of Houston, Texas; niece, Joan Stoneking; and her beloved 11 grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren. Vena Mae was an exceptional mother-in-law and endeared herself to all who knew her. Funeral services will be held at 10 a.m. Friday, May 9, at Bross and Spidle Funeral Home, 217 W. Broadway, Excelsior Springs, Mo. There will be a visitation from 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday, May 8, at the funeral home. Interment will take place at the New Garden Cemetery, Excelsior Springs, Mo. Arrangements are through Spilsbury Mortuary in Utah. Expressions of sympathy may be made at www.spilsburymortuary.com.
*Elizabeth Bryant
Elizabeth Ann Bryant, 69, Excelsior Springs, Mo., passed away Monday, May 19, 2008, at her home. Elizabeth was born on Feb. 2, 1939, in Athelston, Iowa, the daughter of Edward Howard and Vivian Hortence (Arnold) Parker. On Jan. 12, 1957, she married her husband of 51 years, Jimmy A. Bryant. She had worked for Lee Clothing Manufacturing in Kansas City, Mo., and then worked for Whitaker Cable in Excelsior Springs for several years. Elizabeth enjoyed quilting and had made beautiful hand-sewn quilts. She also enjoyed canning, but most of all loved doing for others. In addition to her parents, Elizabeth was preceded in death by one sister, Fern Clark. Survivors include her husband Jimmy A. Bryant, of the home; one son, Donnie Bryant and wife, Kathy, of Bagdad, Ky.; one daughter, Becky Snow, of Excelsior Springs, Mo.; two sisters, Sue Ward, of Mound City, Mo., and Norma Wilson, of Jonesboro, Tenn.; two brothers, Bud Parker, of Holly Springs, Miss., and Danny Parker, of Adrian, Mo.; and four grandchildren, Chip Snow, Chelsie Snow, Amber Bryant and Kaitlyn Bryant. Funeral services will be held at 4 p.m. Thursday, May 22, at Polley Funeral Home in Excelsior Springs, Mo. The family will receive friends from 6-8 p.m. Wednesday, May 21, at the funeral home. Graveside committal services will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, May 23, in Athelstan, Iowa. On-line condolences may be left at www.polleyfuneralhome.com.
Hazel Bush
Hazel E. Bush, 86, Lawson, Mo., died Monday, May 26, 2008, at Liberty Hospital in Liberty, Mo. Ms. Bush was born Dec. 1, 1921, in Lawson, the daughter of George and Mabel (Borgmier) Teegarden. She was married to Robert Bush on Nov. 26, 1938. She was a homemaker. She was a member of Lawson Baptist Church. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Robert Bush; one brother, Jim Teegarden; and two grandsons, Nicholas Bush and Matthew Covey. Survivors include four sons, Martin Bush and Darold Bush, both of Lawson, Ronald Bush, Livingston, Texas, and Daniel Bush, Richmond; one daughter, Eleanor Covey, Richmond; one brother, Donald Teegarden, Pleasant Hill; 12 grandchildren; 30 great-grandchildren; and nine great-great-grandchildren. Funeral services were held at 10 a.m. Thursday, May 29, at Lawson Baptist Church; burial in the Teegarden Cemetery near Knoxville. The family received friends from 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, May 28, at Polley Funeral Home in Lawson.
Clara Carter
Clara B. Carter, 80, Richmond, Mo., died Friday, May 9, 2008, at her granddaughter's home. Graveside services were to be held Tuesday, May 13, at Oak Hill Cemetery in Houston, Mo. Friends were invited to call from 6 to 8 p.m. Monday, May 12, at Thurman Funeral Home in Richmond. Memorial contributions may be made to the Clara B. Carter Memorial Fund.
"Yogi" Clark
Dennis L. "Yogi" Clark, 46, Richmond, Mo., died Wednesday, May 14, 2008, at St. Luke's Hospital in Kansas City, Mo. Mr. Clark was born Dec. 4, 1961, in Richmond, the son of John W. and Helen (Cox) Clark. He was a member of Painters Union Local 881. He was preceded in death by his mother, Helen; and three sisters, Darla, Judy and Joyce. Survivors include his father, John "Jay" Clark, Richmond; his wife, Mary Clark, of the home; three children, Cassie Clark, Lesa Dunnwoodie and Dennis Clark II; two brothers, John Clark, Orrick, and Arthur Clark, Richmond; four sisters, Helen Whitworth, LaPointe, Texas, June Whitworth, Polo, Nancy Baker, Richmond, and Arlene Karr, Independence; and five grandchildren. Funeral services will be held at 2:30 p.m. Saturday, May 17, at Polley Funeral Home in Richmond; burial will be in Evergreen Cemetery in Braymer. The family will receive friends from 6 to 8 p.m. Friday, May 16, at the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be made to the funeral home to help with final expenses.
Thomas Corley
Thomas Leroy Corley, 82, Perrin, Mo., died Monday, May 19, 2008. Mr. Corley was born Sept. 20, 1925, in Sedalia, the son of Austin and Helen (Fletcher) Corley. He was a member of St. Munchin Catholic Church in Cameron. He was a mail carrier before he retired. He was preceded in death by a grandson, William "Billy" Cox. Survivors include his wife of 47 years, Joy L. (Beeler) Corley, of the home; two sons, Steven Moore, Grandview, and Gary Corley, Kansas City; four daughters, Jeanie Cox, Grain Valley, Marvina Haslett, Lawson, Connie Youngblood, Hobe Sound, Fla., and Renee Smith, Grandview; 21 grandchildren; and 12 great-grandchildren. Mass of Christian Burial was held at 11 a.m. Thursday, May 22, at St. Munchin Catholic Church in Cameron. A Rosary was said at 6 p.m. Wednesday, May 21, at Poland-Thompson Funeral Home in Cameron, where visitation was held from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Wednesday. Burial in Perrin Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the church or to the Alzheimer's Association.
"Jim" Duncan Jr.
James Patrick "Jim" Duncan Jr., 79, Liberty, Mo., died Saturday, May 3, 2008. Mr. Duncan was born Sept. 4, 1928, in Topeka, Kan., the son of James Patrick Sr. and Christine Pecenka Duncan. His family moved to Kansas City when he was three years old. He was married to Sue Taylor on April 4, 1959. He was an insurance broker for more than 50 years. He organized and operated the Preferred Physicians Mutual Insurance Group for the past 15 years, retiring in June 2007. He was an active member of St. James Catholic Church in Liberty. He was preceded in death by his parents. Survivors include his wife of 49 years, Sue Duncan, of the home; a son, James Patrick Duncan III, Kansas City; three daughters, Stephanie Duncan and Angela Laughman, both of Liberty, and Michele Wilt, Blue Springs; four sisters, Rose Huffman, Sugar Creek, Patricia Duncan, Kansas City, Jake Welch, Sugar Creek, and Phyllis Hanes, Independence; 10 grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren. Funeral services will be held at 1 p.m. Thursday, May 8, at St. James Catholic Church, 309 S. Stewart Rd., Liberty; burial in Resurrection Cemetery. Friends may call from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, May 7, at the church. Arrangements are through Fry-Bross and Spidle Funeral Home and Cremation Service in Kearney.
Sharon Elliott
Sharon K. Elliott, 69, Lawson, Mo., passed away Monday May 26, 2008, at her home. Mrs. Elliott was born Jan. 22, 1939, in Kansas City, the daughter of Daniel T. and Louise K. (Frazier) Gryder. She was married to Lowell 3Buck2 Elliot on Oct. 24, 1955, in Excelsior Springs, Mo. She had been the co-owner of Care-a-lot day care. She had also worked as a school secretary and counselor. She was a member of the Lawson Baptist Church. Survivors include her husband, Lowell "Buck" Elliott, of the home; daughter, Sherrie Silvey, Lawson; three sons, Casey Elliott, Scott Elliott and Corey Elliott, all of Lawson; one sister, Donna Lea Hanks; one brother, Daniel F. Gryder; 15 grandchildren; and seven great grandchildren. Funeral services were held at 6 p.m. Wednesday, May 28, at Lawson Baptist Church in Lawson, with the family receiving friends one hour prior to the services at the church. A tea and fellowship followed the services at the church. Arrangements are through Polley Funeral Home in Lawson. Memorial contributions may be made to Lawson Baptist Church for the preschool fund.
Florence Farrell
Florence L. Farrell, 95, Liberty, Mo., died Monday, May 19, 2008, at Liberty Terrace Care Center in Liberty. Mrs. Farrell was a member of Birmingham Baptist Church, and had attended Liberty Manor Baptist Church. She was primarily a homemaker, but had worked during World War II and later worked for National Bellas Hess. She was preceded in death by her husband, John M. Farrell; a daughter, Betty Oldham; her parents, Jesse and Mamie Tesh Cox; a brother, Albert Cox; and two sisters, Berniece Hamilton and Freda Cella. Survivors include a son, John S. 3Steve2 Farrell, Lee's Summig; a sister, Opal McLear, Oakview; three grandchildren, Adam Farrell, Linda Oldham Wenner and Glenn Oldham; and two great-grandchildren. Graveside services were scheduled for 11 a.m. Friday, May 23, at White Chapel Memorial Gardens in Gladstone. Arrangements are through D.W. Newcomer's Sons Church-Archer-Pasley Funeral Home in Liberty. Memorial contributions may be made to the American Heart Association or Liberty Manor Baptist Church.
"Rick" Gallagher
Thomas Richard "Rick" Gallagher, 56, Liberty, Mo., died Sunday, May 11, 2008, at Liberty Hospital. Mr. Gallagher was born Dec. 27, 1951, in Memphis, Tenn., the son of Thomas Francis and Verne Bullington Gallagher. He was reared in Upland, Calif., by his stepfather and mother, Victor and Verne Mistretta. He worked most of his life as an auto mechanic, and moved to the Kansas City area in 1995. In addition to his stepfather, he was preceded in death by a brother, Kenneth Gallagher. Survivors include his wife, Phyllis Jean Gallagher, of the home; three sons, Thomas Daniel Gallagher, Thomas Matthew Gallagher, and Thomas Patrick Gallagher, all of Liberty; his mother, Verne Mistretta, Liberty; a brother, John Lawrence Gallagher, Upland, Calif.; a sister, Linda Marie Lawson, Long Beach, Calif.; two stepsisters, Fawn Clayton, Chandler, Ariz., and Bambi Stevens, Liberty; two grandchildren; and four stepgrandchildren. Cremation; a memorial service will be held at 7 p.m. Wednesday, May 28, at Fry-Bross & Spidle Funeral Home in Kearney.
Patricia Good
Patricia Lynn (Downs) Good, 44, Orrick, Mo., died Monday, May 12, 2008, at her home. Mrs. Good was born Feb. 12, 1964, in rural Orrick. She was employed as a secretary at S&K Industries for more than 25 years, and later worked for Cross Roads Conoco in Orrick. She was a member of Orrick Baptist Church. She was preceded in death by her father, Bob Downs. Survivors include her husband, Ralph Good, of the home; two sons, Steven Good and Travis Good; her mother, Virginia Downs, Orrick; one brother, Bill Downs, Orrick; three sisters, Debbie Good, Pam Misner and Terri Clark, all of Orrick; and two stepsons, Derrick Good and Dwane Good. Funeral services were scheduled for 1 p.m. Friday, May 16, at Orrick Baptist Church; burial in South Point Cemetery, rural Orrick. Visitation was held from 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday, May 15, at Gowing Funeral Home in Orrick. Memorial contributions may be made to the Ray County Relay For Life.
"Bob" Goodman
Robert E. "Bob" Goodman, 61, Kearney, Mo., died Monday, May 12, 2008, at his home. Mr. Goodman was born Jan. 26, 1947, in Ironton, the son of John and Loretta Mann Goodman. He lived in Bakersfield, Calif., for 25 years before moving to Kearney in 1966. He was a commercial and residential painter for more than 30 years. He was preceded in death by his father, John Goodman, in 1999. Survivors include his mother, Loretta Goodman, of the home; one son, Jeff Goodman, Kansas City, Kan.; one daughter, Sherri Belt, Basehor, Kan.; one sister, Patsy Cantrell, Kansas City; and five grandchildren. Funeral services were held at 10 a.m. Thursday, May 15, at Fry-Bross & Spidle Funeral Home in Kearney. Graveside services were held at 1:30 p.m. Thursday at Leavenworth National Cemetery in Leavenworth, Kan. Friends were invited to call from 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, May 14, at the funeral home.
Cletus Groner Sr.
Cletus Theodore Groner Sr., 87, Raytown, Mo., died Sunday, May 4, 2008, at his home. Mr. Groner was born Jan. 21, 1921, in St. Thomas, Mo. He was a mechanical engineer. He was a longtime parishioner of St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church. He was preceded in death by his wife of 60 years, Erna Helen Groner; two sisters; five brothers; and two infant grandchildren. Survivors include two sons, Cletus T. Groner Jr., Lawson, and Richard Paul Groner, Kansas City; three daughters, Shirley Ann Schaper, St. Louis, Mary Louise Kazemi, Raytown, and Janice Elizabeth Cummings, Buckner; 11 grandchildren; and 10 great-grandchildren. Visitation will be held from 6 to 9 p.m. Wednesday, May 7, at Muehlebach Funeral Home in Kansas City, where the Rosary will be prayed at 7 p.m. Wednesday. The Requiem Mass will be celebrated at 10 a.m. Thursday, May 8, at St. Vincent de Paul Church in Kansas City. Burial with military honors will be held in Mt. Olivet Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made as Mass offerings.
Sondra Grosko
Sondra Gene Grosko, 66, Holt, Mo., died Sunday, May 18, 2008, at Liberty Hospital in Liberty, Mo. Mrs. Grosko was born Nov. 25, 1941, in Russell, Ark., the daughter of Arnold D. and Sadie B. (Miller) Birmingham. She was married to Stephen Allen Grosko on Dec. 7, 1984; he survives. She was employed by St. Regis Paper Company, T-Pack and Permatex for 13 years before retiring in 1985. She was preceded in death by her parents; three brothers, J.V. Birmingham, Arnold Birmingham Jr., and Tommy Birmingham; and three sisters, Leta Johnson, Geraldine McCreary and Dottie Sue Birmingham. In addition to her husband, survivors include one daughter, Cyndi Taylor, Kansas City; two brothers, Stanley Birmingham, Purdin, and Roger Birmingham, Lawson; one sister, Vera Brickles, Holt; three step-daughters; two grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; and nine step-grandchildren. Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, May 23, at Polley Funeral Home in Lawson. Burial will be in the Lawson Cemetery. Visitation will be held from 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday, May 22, at the funeral home, Lawson. On-line condolences may be left at www.polleyfuneralhome.com.
Adara Guthrie
Adara Guthrie, 81, Richmond, Mo., died Tuesday, May 27, 2008, in Raytown, Mo. Ms. Guthrie was born Oct. 13, 1926, in Muskegon, Mich., the daughter of Io Foote Hicks and Norman B. Lyng. She was married to Lowell Guthrie in 1949. She lived most of her life in Richmond, and was an active member of Hickory Grove Baptist Church. She also donated much of her time to the Salvation Army as a volunteer. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband and an infant son Donald Dewayne Guthrie. Survivors include two sons, Larry Guthrie, Independence, and Norman Guthrie, Ft. Worth, Texas; four daughters, Mary Guthrie, Quartzsite, Ariz., Susan Cropley, Independence, Hazel Vroom, Blue Springs, and Ruth Ann McFee, Raytown; one brother, Norman Lyng, Pearland, Texas; one sister, Norma McEowen, Clinton; 16 grandchildren; and 13 great-grandchildren. Funeral services were scheduled for 11 a.m. Friday, May 30, at Polley Funeral Home in Richmond. A visitation was to be be held one hour prior to the services, also at the funeral home. Burial was to take place at Hickory Grove Cemetery in Richmond. Memorial contributions may be made to Hickory Grove Baptist Church in Richmond.
Juanita Harmon
Juanita May Harmon, 98, Richmond, Mo., died Thursday, May 22, 2008. Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, May 31, at Henrietta First Baptist Church, with visitation from 10 to 11 a.m. Saturday. Burial in Richmond Memory Gardens. Arrangements are through Thurman Funeral Home in Richmond.
Ami Helden
Jeanie Gholson
Ami Melissa (Rose) Helden, 32, and Jeanie Marie Gholson, 11, died Saturday, May 3, 2008, due to injuries sustained in a car wreck in Ray County. Mrs. Helden was born March 27, 1976, in Enid, Okla. Her daughter, Miss Gholson, was born March 28, 1997, in Blackwell, Okla. Mrs. Helden was preceded in death by one sister, Nellie Mae (Rose) Harris, and paternal grandfather, Elton Leroy Rose. Mrs. Helden's survivors include her husband, Russell Helden, of the home; children, Hollie Gholson, 15, Corrie Gholson, 14, Melissa Starks, 9, William "Willie" Starks, 8, stepsons, Justin Helden, 13, Nicholas Helden, 12, Craig Helden, 11, stepdaughters, Cynthia Helden, 18, and Rachael Helden, 23, and one stepgrandson, all of the home; mother and stepfather, Rose and Allen Lee of Richmond; father and stepmother, Vernon Sr. and Sally Rose, Texas; sister, Lenessia (Lisa Rose) Rowland, Excelsior Springs; brother, Vernon Rose Jr., Louisiana; and stepbrothers, Allen Jr., Mark, David, Chris and Curtis Lee. The family will receive friends and family from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Thursday, May 8, at Polley Funeral Home in Richmond. Memorial services will immediately follow from 7:30 to 8 p.m.
Rev. Donald Helfrey
The Rev. Donald C. Helfrey, 77, Cathedral Towers, Kansas City, Mo., died Tuesday, May 20, 2008, at Kingswood Retirement Community. Fr. Helfrey was born July 6, 1930, in Emporia, Kan., the youngest child of Joseph and Ellen (Renyer) Helfrey. He was a priest for 40 years, serving the Roman Catholic Diocese of Kansas City/St. Joseph. The St. Ann Parish in Excelsior Springs was one of the parishes with which he worked. Survivors include a sister, Jean Dickenson, Manhattan, Kan.; a brother, Richard B. Helfrey, Dallas; and nieces, nephews and cousins. Visitation and prayers were held from 5 to 7 p.m. Thursday, May 22, at Our Lady of Peace in Kansas City. Mass of the Resurrection was set for 10 a.m. Friday, May 23, at the church; burial in Mt. Olivet Cemetery. Arrangements are through Sheil Colonial Chapel in Kansas City. Memorial contributions may be made to the Diocese for the Priests' Permanent Retirement Fund or to Catholic Charities.
Peggy Hiles
Peggy Hiles, 74, Kearney, Mo., died Tuesday, May 6, 2008, at her home. Ms. Hiles was born Jan. 23, 1934, in Fulton, the daughter of John Henry and Eula Virginia Ruth Musgrove. She was married to Mason Mitchell Hiles on Jan. 21, 1953, and they lived in Kansas City. After her husband died in 1995, she moved to Kearney. She had been employed by the food service department of the Kansas City School District, working in the cafeteria at Northeast High School for more than 30 years before she retired in 1996. In addition to her parents and her husband, she was preceded in death by one brother and one sister. Survivors include two sons, Mitchell "Mike" Hiles, Kansas City, and Mark Hiles, Kearney; two daughters, Wendy Burnett, Kearney, and Marilyn VanBoening, Paris, Mo.; a brother, Delbert Musgrove, Stover; nine grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren. Funeral services were set for 10 a.m. Friday, May 9, at Fry-Bross and Spidle Funeral Home in Kearney; burial in Mt. Washington Cemetery in Independence. Friends were invited to call from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Thursday, May 8, at the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be made to Liberty Hospital Hospice.
Tommy Jamison
Tommy C. Jamison, 77, Braymer, Mo., died Wednesday, May 7, 2008. Mr. Jamison was born Sept. 26, 1930, in Parkville, the son of Jesse and Effie Jamison. He was a postal worker for 30 years. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Ethyl L. Jamison; and one daughter, Johnna D. Butler-Harp. Survivors include two sons, J.W. Butler III and Thomas Jamison, both of Excelsior Springs; and one brother, Paul Jamison, Excelsior Springs. Cremation. Services will be held at 7 p.m. Friday, May 23, at First Baptist Church in Braymer. Arrangements are through Bross & Spidle Chapels in Excelsior Springs. Memorial contributions may be made to the First Baptist Church Parking Lot Fund, P.O. Box 186, Braymer, Mo. 64624.
Sherry Lane
Sherry Lee Lane, 50, Kansas City, Mo., died Sunday, May 11, 2008, at St. Luke's Northland Hospital in Kansas City. Ms. Lane was born April 8, 1958, in Oakland, Calif., the daughter of Patrick E. and Norma J. (Thayer) Lane. She was employed in nursing at Children's Mercy Hospital for 18 years, and later worked at UMB Bank in Kansas City until becoming disabled. She was a member of the Evangelistic Center Church since 1964. She was preceded in death by her grandparents. Survivors include her parents, Patrick E. and Norma J. Lane, Lawson; her brother, Joe Lane, Kansas City; and other relatives including her Aunt Maxie, Lawson. Funeral services were scheduled for 11 a.m. Friday, May 16, at the Evangelistic Center Church, 1024 Truman Road, Kansas City. Interment was to follow in East Slope Cemetery in Riverside. The family received friends from 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday, May 15, at the church. Memorial contributions may be made to the Sherry Lane Memorial Fund, in care of Polley Funeral Home, P.O. Box 271, Excelsior Springs, Mo. 64024.
Fern Lillard
Fern Lillard, 77, Excelsior Springs, Mo. (formerly of Richmond, Mo.), died Friday, May 16, 2008, at her home. Ms. Lillard was born July 18, 1930, in Camden, the daughter of Oscar and Veta (Booth) Yallaly. She was married to Morris 3Bud2 Lillard on Oct. 9, 1948; he died Jan. 7, 2002. She was a member of Richmond First Baptist Church. She was a homemaker, and also worked in the Richmond School District, Ray County Circuit Clerk1s Office, Lake City Arsenal, Sears in Kansas City and National Bellas Hess. In addition to her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by one son, Morris Brent Lillard; and one brother, Harold Yallaly. Survivors include one son, Paul Brian Lillard, Warrensburg; two daughters, Brenda Sue Kelley, Excelsior Springs, and Peggy Diann Snyder, Godfrey, Ill.; two brothers, Ralph Yallaly, Smithville, and Doris Yallaly, Lexington; two sisters, Kathleen Spor, Prathersville, and Betty Gowing, Richmond; eight grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren. Funeral services will be held at 10 a.m. Tuesday, May 20, at Richmond First Baptist Church; visitation was held from 7 to 8 p.m. Monday, May 19, at Thurman Funeral Home in Richmond. Burial will be in Richmond Memory Gardens Cemetery in Richmond. Memorial contributions may be made to Richmond First Baptist Church or First United Methodist Church of Excelsior Springs.
Lewis Lyle
Lewis Winford Lyle, 70, Lathrop, Mo. (formerly of Excelsior Springs, Mo., and Kansas City North, Mo.), died Saturday, May 10, 2008. Mr. Lyle was born Feb. 6, 1938, in Vibbard. He owned and operated Lou's Barbershop, first on Chouteau Trafficway and then in Gladstone, and later worked for Mid-Continent Public Library. Survivors include his wife, Janet Lyle; son, Philip Lyle, sister, Janice Kay Denyer; and two grandchildren. Visitation will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday, May 17, at the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah's Witnesses in Lathrop, followed by services at 11 a.m. Arrangements are through Park Lawn Lathrop Chapel.
Marguerite McCanless
Marguerite N. McCanless, 99, Richmond, Mo., died Tuesday, May 13, 2008, at Ray County Memorial Hospital in Richmond. Ms. McCanless was born March 14, 1909, in Orrick, the daughter of Septia (Elliot) and Daniel Mayers. She was married to Isaac "Ike" McCanless on June 15, 1929, in Excelsior Springs. She attained the Deacon Emeritus title at Richmond Christian Church. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband; one brother; three sisters; and son, John Estill McCanless. Survivors include her daughter, Marsha Mae Young, Richmond; son, Ronald David McCanless, Independence; 10 grandchildren; 30 great-grandchildren and 13 great-great-grandchildren. Funeral services were held at 2 p.m. Thursday, May 15, at the United Christian Presbyterian Church in Richmond. Visitation was held during the hour before the funeral, also at the church. Burial took place at Richmond Memory Gardens immediately following the funeral service. Arrangements are through Polley Funeral Home in Richmond. Memorial contributions may be made to the church.
Jessica McCormack
Jessica F. McCormack, 59, Excelsior Springs, Mo. (formerly of Kansas City, Mo.), died Friday, May 23, 2008. Ms. McCormack is survived by her husband, David Cantrell; three sons, Shawn, Robert, and Raymond; daughter, Nikki; nine grandchildren; one great-grandchild; and other family members. A memorial service will be held at 1 p.m. Saturday, May 31, at the Good Samaritan Center, 108 S. Thompson Ave., Excelsior Springs. Arrangements are through Cremation Society of Kansas and Missouri.
Howard Pavelsek
Howard Fossell Pavelsek, 82, Liberty, Mo., died Saturday, May 17, 2008, at Liberty Hospital in Liberty, Mo. A memorial service will be held at noon Friday, May 30, at Church-Archer-Pasley Funeral Home in Liberty. Visitation will be held from 11 a.m. to noon Friday at the chapel. Inurnment in New Hope Cemetery in Liberty. Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society.
Dorothy Pike
Dorothy N. Pike, 92, Richmond, Mo., died Tuesday, May 20, 2008, at Shirkey Nursing & Rehabilitation Center in Richmond. Memorial graveside services will be held at a later date. Arrangements are through Thurman Funeral Home in Richmond.
"Ruth" Pittsenbarger
Virginia "Ruth" Pittsenbarger, 75, Liberty, Mo., died Saturday, May 17, 2008, at her home. Visitation will be held from 6 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, May 20, at Church-Archer-Pasley Funeral Home in Liberty. Memorial contributions may be made to Liberty Hospital Hospice.
*Eugene Post
Eugene C. Post, 85, Excelsior Springs, Mo., died Wednesday, May 14, 2008, at Liberty Hospital in Liberty, Mo. Eugene was born Sept. 17, 1922, in Paradise, Kan., the son of Clarence Lee and Della Virginia (Dolan) Post. He served in the U.S Navy During WWII. On Feb. 4, 1955, he married his wife of more than 57 years, Phyllis (Wright) Post. He retired from Knappco in Riverside, where he worked as a foreman, after 39 years of service. He then was co-owner, with his son, of Gene and Calvin's Muffler Shop in Excelsior Springs. He attended Salem Christian Union Church in Excelsior Springs. Gene truly enjoyed bowling and football. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by two brothers, George Post and Woodrow Post. Survivors include his wife, Phyllis, of the home; one son, Calvin Lee Post and wife, Tara, Kansas City; one daughter, Lisa Jean Martinez and husband, Arturo, Rayville; one sister, Virginia Tomkins and husband, Paul, Independence; and eight grandchildren, Josh, Jason and Brandon Post, Brianna Blackmon, and Natasha, Vanessa, Antonio and Jason Martinez. Funeral services will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday, May 17, at Polley Funeral Home in Excelsior Springs. Burial will be in Hillcrest Cemetery in Excelsior Springs. Visitation will be held from 6 to 8 p.m. Friday, May 16, at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions be given to Salem Christian Union Church.
Mary Rhodus
Mary E. Rhodus, 58, Excelsior Springs, Mo., died Saturday, May 24, 2008, at Liberty Hospital in Liberty, Mo. Mrs. Rhodus was born Dec. 14, 1949, in Excelsior Springs, the daughter of Garland Estel and Hazel (Manley) O1Dell. She was married to Danny Rhodus on Nov. 28, 1968. She was a homemaker. Survivors include her husband, Danny Rhodus, and her mother, Hazel Maharg, of Excelsior Springs. Graveside services will be held at 11 a.m. Wednesday, May 28, at Crown Hill Cemetery in Excelsior Springs. There is no scheduled family visitation, but friends may call anytime from noon to 8 p.m. Tuesday, May 27, at Polley Funeral Home in Excelsior Springs.
Austin Schupman
Austin Roger Schupman, 26, Kansas City, Mo., died Saturday, May 3, 2008, as a result of injuries sustained in a car accident. Graveside services will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday, May 10, at White Chapel Memorial Gardens Funeral Home and Cemetery in Gladstone.
Lowell Summers
Lowell G. Summers, 81, Excelsior Springs, Mo., died Thursday, May 15, 2008. Mr. Summers was born April 22, 1927, to Milo and Anna Smith Summers. He spent his entire life in Excelsior Springs except for his time in the Navy during World War II. He worked for JI Case Co. and farmed. He was preceded in death by his parents. Survivors include his wife, Marilyn Summers, of the home; and nieces and nephews. Funeral services will be held at 10 a.m. Monday, May 19, at North New Garden Primitive Baptist Church near Excelsior Springs, with burial to follow in the North New Garden Cemetery. Friends may call from 6 to 8 p.m. Sunday, May 18, at Bross & Spidle Chapel in Excelsior Springs. Memorial contributions may be made to the North New Garden Primitive Baptist Church Memorial Fund.
*Donald Thurmon
Donald Cecil Thurmon, 83, Lawson, Mo., passed away Friday, May 30, 2008, at the Excelsior Springs Medical Center. Donald was born on May 3, 1925, near Wellington, Mo., the son of Cecil Alexander and Eunice Moore (Larkin) Thurmon. On March 27, 1964, he married Mary Elizabeth Dolley. He served in the U.S. Navy as a 1st Class Petty Officer during both World War II and the Korean Conflict. He worked as a construction inspector for the Missouri Department of Transportation, retiring after 37 years of service. He was a lifetime member of V.F.W. Post #4052 of Lexington, Mo., where he held various offices. He was a member of American Legion Post #0134 of Wellington, Mo., and I.O.O.F. #460 in Excelsior Springs, Mo., where he went through all of the chairs. He was a former Rotarian. He was a lifelong member of the Lawson United Methodist Church. He was also very involved with the Boy Scouts of America, where he had been a campsite commissioner, a merit badge counselor, and was a Sachem in the Tribe of Mic-O-Say. Survivors include his wife, Mary Elizabeth Thurmon, of the home; two sons, John Patrick Thurmon and wife, Kristine, of Colorado Springs, Colo., and Charles William Thurmon and wife, Mary Kay, of Edmond, Okla.; one brother, John A. Thurmon and wife, Mary Lou, Wellington, Mo.; one sister, Patricia Thurmon, Wellington, Mo.; grandchildren, Carly, Edmond, Hannah, and Alexander Thurmon; and several nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. Funeral services were set for 10 a.m. Tuesday, June 3, at the Lawson United Methodist Church. Burial with military honors will be held in the Wellington City Cemetery, Wellington, Mo. The family received friends from 6 to 8 p.m. Monday, June 2, at Polley Funeral Home in Lawson, Mo. Memorial contributions may be made to the Boy Scouts of America Scholarship fund.
Terry Tice Sr.
Terry Gene Tice Sr., 49, Polo, Mo., died Saturday, May 17, 2008, at Cameron Regional Medical Center in Cameron, Mo. Mr. Tice was born Jan. 11, 1959, in Truman, Ark. He lived most of his life in the Polo area. He was an auto mechanic. Survivors include his wife, Rochelle Marie (White) Tice, Polo; two sons, Terry Tice and Jeffrey Tice, both of Polo; his parents, Jerry Gene Tice, Winona, and Ruby Mavine McAfee, Birch Tree; his brothers and sisters, Ricky Tice, Lawson, Sherry Lorang, Columbia, Jeffery Tice, Winona, Chrystal Eggert, Winona, and Stephanie Prewitt, Winona; and three grandchildren. Services were set for 11 a.m. Tuesday, May 20, at Bailey & Cox Family Funeral Service in Polo; interment in Prairie Ridge Cemetery in Polo. The family was to receive friends one hour prior to the service at the funeral home.
Donald Unger
Donald Ben Unger, 75, died Friday, May 23, 2008, at Good Samaritan Hospital in Corvallis, Ore. Mr. Unger was born in October 1932 in Excelsior Springs, Mo., the son of Ben and Louise Unger, and had one sister, Benna. He attended Excelsior Springs High School, and also attended the University of Kansas, William Jewell College, and the University of Oklahoma, where he earned a BS in physics, an MA in philosophy, and an MLS degree. Don worked as an aerospace engineer, and later as a librarian at Oregon State University1s Kerr Library. Survivors include his son, Geoffrey; and his sister, Benna.
"Sonny" Wilson
Charles E. "Sonny" Wilson, 75, died Saturday, May 10, 2008. Mr. Wilson was born Oct. 8, 1932, in Macon, Mo., the son of Charles Harry and Edrea E. (Gladfelder) Wilson. He was married to Norma E. Hills on June 22, 1951. He was an aviator, obtaining all his licenses except amphibian, and he was a hot air ballooning instructor. He had worked at the airports in Excelsior Springs, Mo., Independence, Mo., and Lawrence, Kan. He was a pilot examiner for the FAA for 17 years. He retired from the Liberty School District after 10 years of service. He was a member of Liberty Christian Church. He was preceded in death by his parents. Survivors include his wife, Norma E. Wilson, of the home; a sister, Bobbie Jo Lear, Sedalia; and other relatives. Funeral services were set for 2 p.m. Tuesday, May 13, at Church-Archer-Pasley Funeral Home in Liberty; burial was to follow in Glenridge Cemetery in Liberty. Visitation was held from 6 to 8 p.m. Monday, May 12, at the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society of Odyssey Hospice.
Inez Wolfe
Inez Wolfe, 83, Kearney, Mo., died Tuesday, May 6, 2008. Ms. Wolfe was born April 30, 1925, in Geary, Okla., the daughter of Frank and Ester Bouche Terneus. She was married to A.D. Wolfe on May 28, 1943. From 1968 to 2006, she lived in Fredonia, Kan., where she and her husband had business interests in Fredonia Drapery, Quail Creek Industries and Dirty Dad1s Carwash. She was a member of Arley United Methodist Church. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband of 55 years, A.D. Wolfe, on Dec. 31, 1998; and three sisters, Verna Ramer, Ruth Williams, and Billie Shearer. Survivors include a daughter, Letha Hebb, Tyler, Texas; a son, Dean Wolfe, Kearney; five grandchildren; and seven great-grandchildren. Funeral services were scheduled for 2 p.m. Friday, May 9, at Arley United Methodist Church, 174113 C Hwy., Kearney. Friends were invited to call from 1 p.m. until the time of the service Friday at the church. Burial will take place Saturday, May 10, in Fredonia, Kan. Memorial contributions may be made to Arley United Methodist Church.
Charles Worden
Charles G. Worden, 77, Liberty, Mo., died Wednesday, May 7, 2008, at Ashton Court Care and Rehabilitation Center in Liberty. Mr. Worden was born Feb. 28, 1931, in Orrick, the son of Jesse Grover and Dolly Maude (Coleman) Worden. After the death of his father, Charles moved from the farm to Liberty, where he lived until his death. He was employed by William Jewell College for more than 40 years. Charles was a member of the Second Baptist Church in Liberty. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by one sister, Ellen Beasley, California. Survivors include his nephew, Jesse Ousley, and Jesse's wife, Theresa, Holt. Graveside services and interment were set for 11 a.m. Friday, May 9, at Providence Baptist Church Cemetery, 12206 N. Stark Avenue, Kansas City. There is no public visitation. Arrangements under the direction of Polley Funeral Home in Excelsior Springs. Memorial contributions may be made to the American Diabetes Association.
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