John Arthur Shaw
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- Published: 01 February 2022
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JOHN ARTHUR SHAW
John Arthur Shaw of Kansas City, KS, age 91, died Friday, January 28, 2022, at the Healthcare Resort of Kansas City. He was born in Batson, TX, to John Q. and Georgia Eason Shaw on July 13, 1930. He married Lavella Wagner on March 13, 1952, in Roswell, NM, while serving in the Air Force. He was a loving husband, devoted father to his only child, fun-loving grandfather, game-playing uncle and faithful church member of Gospel Light Baptist Church in Kansas City, KS. He was known as Johnny, Arthur, Uncle Ottie, Uncle Shaw, PaPa, Great Shaw to name a few.
After his school days, he worked in the oilfield industry for a time and then joined the U.S. Air Force in September 1950. Airman First Class Shaw served in the Air Police Squadron in various places until September 13, 1954. Trying to find his way in this world after military service, he was a delivery driver for Culligan Water, service station owner/attendant and oilfield worker. In April 1957, he found his niche at Southwestern Bell Telephone (AT&T). During his 30 years there, he was a lineman, frameman and plant assigner. After retirement, he and his spouse cared for his ailing father until his death. He then secured part-time employment with Allison Funeral Home in Texas and, later with Roller Funeral Homes in Arkansas.
He was preceded in death by his spouse of nearly 68 years; his sisters, Marie Dodd, and Nelda, (a few hours after birth); his brothers, Alton E., “Little” Harold (at age 3), Robert C and Ronald E. Shaw; great-grandson, Joshua Shipman; and 9 nephews.
He is survived by his daughter, Lorita Shaw Shipman and husband, Darvin; grandchildren, Jared & Stephanie Shipman of Kansas City; Aaron & Amanda Shipman of Odessa, Texas; Caleb & Christal Shipman of Mineral Wells, TX; Seth & Breena Shipman of Dupont, WA; Joy & Ric Houghton of Schererville, IN; and Liza Wood of Wichita Falls, TX; 24 great-grandchildren, 5 great-great grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.
LEONARD "BRAD" KIRBY
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- Published: 25 January 2022
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Carl David Henson III
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- Published: 24 January 2022
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CARL DAVID HENSON III
Carl David Henson III excited this world for fishing waters yet to be explored on Sunday morning at home January 16, 2022. Carl was born in Paola, KS on October 12, 1958. He is survived by 3 sisters Cynthia Sullivan of Eaton, CO, Celia Henson of Overland Park, KS and Melissa Brown of Lenexa, KS. Brother in law Douglas Brown of Lenexa, KS. Nephews Cody Sullivan and Andrew Brown. Niece Mallory Brown. Great nephews Declan Sullivan and Elliott Brown and great niece Cora Sullivan.
Being an uncle brought Carl much joy, but fishing and lake life were his passions. Carl spent many hours on Lake Perry fishing and boating. Carl had many interests being a shade tree mechanic, arm chair politician, and a purveyor of 'priceless' junk (unable to ever pass up an auction) were among favorite activities.
He worked many different jobs thru out his life honorably discharged from the United States Navy, construction, and over the road trucking. Carl's most satisfying and accomplished job was being owner of Heritage Livery transportation service for many years. Transporting countless patients to KC Rehabilitation Institute (now known as Ability KC). He developed many friendships with patients and staff. The world will miss his generosity to those in need. He worked many years to help those who could not help themselves. Carl's body was donated to Midwest Transplant Team where he has gone on to help dozens of other recipients in need.
There will be a small private family service to distribute his ashes at a later date.
Carl was proceeded in death by his parents, grandparents, his beloved dog Baylor and lake pet Pete the Pelican.
So Carl's work on earth is done. He leaves us for fishing holes unexplored. God bless you, Carl. You've been a friend to many. God speed.
In lieu of flowers donations may be made to KC Rehabilitation Institute (now Ability KC) 3011 Baltimore, KCMO 64108 (816-751-7700) https://abilitykc.org/give/
or a charity special to you.
Earl Raymond Banks
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- Published: 20 January 2022
- Hits: 783

EARL RAYMOND BANKS
Earl Raymond Banks was born on October 30th, 1956, at Walter Reed Army Hospital in Washington D.C. He was the fifth child of Edra Marie (Spencer) and Earl Richard Banks. When he was two years old, he lived in Germany where his father was stationed with the Army. His elementary school years were spent in Springfield, MO. By junior high and high school Earl lived in DeWitt, IA where he attended DeWitt Central Community High School and graduated in 1974. That same fall, he began attending the University of Iowa and graduated in December 1978 with a bachelor’s degree in General Science.
While attending his first year at U of I, he met his wife Anne-Marie Melinda Manz and they were married on March 31st, 1979, after she completed a nursing program in Clinton, IA. Earl worked various jobs and completed a computer maintenance program at Indian Hills Community College in Ottumwa, IA in 1984. After being hired by Data General, Earl and Anne-Marie relocated to Overland Park, KS in March of 1985. By November 24th, 1985, they became parents to twins: Melinda Elizabeth and Earl Randall. In 2006 Earl decided to make a career change and became a Financial Advisor for Waddell and Reed. Following marriages of his children, he became the grandfather (better known as “G-Daddy”) to Nolan Alexander and Bryden Dawson Brown as well as Liliana JoMarie and Liam Earl Banks.
In November of 2020, Earl was diagnosed with stage four pancreatic cancer. In the 14 months he battled cancer, he retired and was able to check off going to the Grand Canyon from the top of his bucket list. He even created a spreadsheet to make sure he taught his wife how to pay the bills. He was able to reach his goal of enjoying all the holidays in 2021. On January 13th at 7:20 pm Earl his struggle was over while being surrounded by his wife and children. Earl made sure to prepare for the inevitable while maintaining a positive attitude and thinking about everyone but himself. In the end, his cancer did not define him.
Earl and Anne-Marie were together for 47 years and married for 42. Earl enjoyed collecting McCoy pottery, coins, and memories with his family. Over the years Earl enjoyed hunting, fishing, playing cribbage and euchre, and boy’s night out on Wednesday nights throwing horseshoes and playing cards. Earl always made sure everyone was having a good time and had a plethora of jokes to make people laugh. Earl’s favorite holidays were Halloween and the 4th of July, where he really liked to blow things up. The holidays will not be the same without him around.
He is preceded in death by his father Earl (1992), mother Edra (2019), sister Carol (2012), and most recently his brother Robin (2021). He is also preceded by his Sister-in-law Marji Klingaman (2012), his mother-in-law Marjorie Grace Manz (2012), and his grandson Dawson Earl Brown (2012). He is survived by his wife Anne-Marie, daughter Melinda Ebenstein, husband Robert and their children: Nolan & Bryden Brown/ Owen & Camron Ebenstein; his son Earl Randall Banks, wife Amanda and their children: Liliana and Liam Earl Banks. He is also survived by his brother Richard Banks and sister Barbara Brock.
The memorial service for Earl to follow at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the American Red Cross or the City Union Mission of Kansas City, MO
Nancy Lou Cooper
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- Published: 20 January 2022
- Hits: 478

NANCY LOU COOPER
Nancy Lou Haughawout Cooper was born April 3, 1923 to parents Claude and Gertrude Haughawout. After graduating from Webb City School in 1941, she met Leo F. Cooper in the church choir, then married for 63 years until Leo's death in 2006.
They raised two sons in Roeland Park and Prairie Village while Leo finished medical school and established a family practice.
Nancy was an avid bridge player, member of Homestead Country Club, playing tennis with the 'Rowdy Infighters'. She was a voracious reader and accomplished poet.
After Leo's retirement in 1985, they moved to their Drexel, Mo. Farm 'Bluegrass Acres', where family and friends loved to visit.
Nancy was preceded in death by her parents, spouse Leo, and beloved sister Suzy Smith(Paul). Survivors include sons Michael (Kendall), David (Beckie) grandchildren, Kim Irwin (David), Michelle Lecuru (Todd), Courtney Cooper, Cobey Cooper; and great
grandchildren Henry and Lucy Irwin, Sophia and Olivia Lecuru, Cooper and Carson Holmes; and nieces Sally Smith and Carol Thompson (Brian).
Services to be held Saturday April 2, 2022 at the Village Presbyterian Church, 6641 Mission Rd., Prairie Village, KS, 66208 at 2pm. In lieu of flowers, Nancy requested that donations be made to the Village Presbyterian Church.
Talaine A. Smart
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- Published: 17 January 2022
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Talaine A. Smart (“Tally”)
Tally was born during the waning stage of WW2. After the untimely death of Tally’s father, Capt. Charles Mrazek, USA, Tally’s mother brought two-year-old Tally and her baby sister, Tricia, to Chicago to live with Tally’s grandparents.
Later, when Tally’s mother, then Marjory Mrazek, began dating her dentist, Perry Alexander, six-year-old Tally got straight to the point, telling Dr. Alexander, “If you marry my mama, you can be my daddy.” He took her up on that! He adopted Tally and Tricia after marrying Marjory. Two more siblings were born, Leilani and Perry (Jr.), rounding out the Navy family of six who went on to have many adventures together. Tally would often fondly recount stories involving trips in a Volkswagen bug, camping trips, and bears!
Tally attended Pomona College, studying mathematics and music. There the trajectory of her life changed unexpectedly. Through a meeting she attended at the urging of her sister Tricia, she discovered that Jesus’ death was truly in her place, so that she could have forgiveness of her sin, and that He rose from the dead to declare His victory. When she understood she could become God’s daughter though receiving Him and His offer of forgiveness and new life, she joyfully embraced this reality and all that it meant for her. Tally found great hope in her new understanding of His promise that He would never leave her nor forsake her. Impacted by this new reality, Tally followed the loving guidance of God, including the major realignment of her priorities and post-college plans.
After college Tally spent two years in Columbia, Missouri, involved with campus Christian ministry with CRU. During that time, she met an MU law student, Jim, who went on to become the man she loved and admired more than anyone else in the world.
After their wedding in Virginia, Tally and Jim were stationed at Fort Riley, KS, for four years with the US Army JAGC, and subsequently moved to Jim’s home town, Kansas City. God gave them a daughter and son, and this family of four also had many camping trips, hikes, and canoeing adventures together!
Tally was a natural teacher and poured her heart into preparing her children for life in all aspects including academics, practical skills, and faith in the Creator that she loved so much. She had an amazing capacity to love people she had just met – even the repairmen who came to the house. She wanted them to find the same joy that she had found in Jesus.
In 1997 Tally began to battle with chronic illness greatly limiting her ability to do the things she normally loved to do. Those limitations only enhanced her capacity to inspire so many of us. Even through the worst of times, Tally continued trusting the Lord. She had a joy that was mind-blowing to anyone who met her.
Tally treasured the love of friends who prayed for her and supported her over the years. She took great delight in her husband and her family. She deeply loved her siblings Tricia (Rich), Leilani, and Perry, her six nephews and two nieces, and her cousins. She loved spending time with Jim’s sisters, Sharon and Sally. She dearly loved her children LoriAnne and Madison, and her daughter-in-law Lane. And she adored (and still adores) her four grandchildren Bella, Tenley, Hudson, and Lila. (Tally’s love is not stopped by her move to heaven!)
Tally went to be with the Lord at age 77 on January 11, 2022, after 51 years with Jim by her side. Her mind had grown increasingly confused by the ravaging forces of dementia, but the day before her death she still knew she was in God’s hands, saying to her doctor, “I just pray that the Lord will take me home when it’s His time.”
Tally and Jim were grateful that they could live together at Kingswood Senior Living before her passing on, where they resided in assisted-living under the care and help of a very kind and thoughtful staff, and where they now have many friends.
Graveside services will be held at 12:00 noon on Thursday, January 20, at Mount Washington Cemetery, 614 S. Brookside Ave, Independence, MO 64053.
The Memorial service will be conducted Saturday, January 22, at the church building of Westbrooke Church, the loving church family of Jim and Tally for 35 years. The service will begin at 6:00 PM. The address of Westbrooke Church is 9777 Antioch Rd, Overland Park, KS 66212. Before the service begins, the family plans to be available in the church parking lot between 5:00 and 6:00 PM to greet and receive the arrivals who wish to personally express their condolences with them. There will be no formal receiving procedures in the church building either before or after the service.
The family is requesting that those who attend the memorial service on Saturday will wear a mask while inside the building and take any other reasonable precautions to protect the vulnerable.
Orphans and disadvantaged children were a special concern of Tally’s. Memorial donations may be made to the Global Orphan Project, 3161 Wyandotte Street, Kansas City, MO 64111 (with designation to the One Family Orphanage and School in Haiti), or Grace Missions, a ministry to children in Mali, Africa, 8330 Foster, Overland Park, KS 66212, or any other loving Christian outreach to vulnerable children.
Paula Caruthers
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- Published: 03 January 2022
- Hits: 493

Paula Caruthers was born on July 31st, 1956 and passed away on December 15th 2021. She was at KC Hospice house surrounded by family. She was born in KCK to Mary Barbara Billups mother and Stanley P. Billups father. Paula delivered the KC Star for many years and her true passion was being a mom not just her own but many nephews and nieces and her children friends. Paula was a role module to many people by not letting her handicap get her down.
She taught a lot of people how a poor person can live like a queen and never miss a meal. Paula Caruthers is proceeded with n death by bother parents, 2 sisters Mary Hamilton, and Pixi Billups. Also three brothers Rick Billups, David Billups, and Daniel Billups. She is survived by 3 daughters Barbara Dillon, Jenifer Caruthers, and Erica Caruthers and two sons Lance Caruthers and Daniel Caruthers. Also one sister Nancy Tibbetts and two brothers Pat Billups and Mark Billups. And so many Grandkids, great grandkids, niece's, and nephews who were more like her own. Paula was loved and will be dearly missed.
Memorial will be January 8th 2022 at 11am following service at 12pm at Abundance Harvest Church, 4830 Shawnee Dr, Kansas City, KS 66106. Lunch will be provided at Roe Community Center 4850 Rosewood Dr, Roeland Park, KS 66205. Family suggest if sending flowers please have them at church by Friday January 7th 2022.
Elizabeth Ann Hansen
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- Published: 15 January 2022
- Hits: 549

Elizabeth “Liz” Ann (Green) Hansen 1944 - 2022
On the evening of January 12, 2022, Liz passed away after a three year battle with cancer. Liz, 78, was
surrounded by family at Villa St. Francis Catholic Care Center in Olathe, KS.
Liz is preceded in death by her husband, William “Bill” Christopher Hansen II, her sister-in-law Kathy Green, and her father & mother James H. Green and Helen I. (Glenn) Green. Liz was born in Emporia, Kansas on January 7, 1944. She graduated from Bishop Miege High School.
Liz and Bill were married on February 16, 1966 at Guardian Angels Church in Kansas City, MO, and they were married for 54 years until Bill’s death in 2020. Liz is survived by her sons Chris (Melissa) of Overland Park, KS, Brian (Sheila) of Shawnee, KS, Kevin (Pam) of Lexington, TN, and Darin (Kara) of Lenexa, KS. Liz was a proud “Grammy” to Cal, Libby, Emma, Clare, Hannah, Drew, Hank, Jett, and Luke. She is also survived by her siblings, Mary (Jim) Farrar, Joe Green, Dennis (Pat) Green, Carol Czarnecki, and Steve (Kim) Green.
Liz was the epitome of a homemaker. She was famous for her frosted sugar cookies, and her sewing skills led to the creation of countless Halloween costumes, altered hems and reupholstered furniture In addition to raising her four sons, she cared for countless children through her in-home daycare and was lovingly remembered by the families she cared for long after her retirement. She doted on her grandchildren and considered her family to be her life’s accomplishment.
Liz was active throughout her life, enjoying bowling, softball, and indoor soccer into her early 50’s, and she and Bill enjoyed traveling in their retirement. Liz and Bill were long-time members of St. Agnes Catholic Church in Roeland Park, Kansas. Liz’s faith was an important part of her life, sustaining her most especially during the challenges of her final years on this earth.
Liz’s family is eternally grateful to the nurses, doctors and staff at the University of Kansas Cancer Center, Addington Place of Prairie Village, Catholic Community Hospice, and Villa St. Francis for their care and support.
If you will be attending any of the services, please wear a mask. Funeral services will be held at St. Agnes Catholic Church, Roeland Park, KS on Tuesday, January 18, 2022. A rosary will be offered at 8:45 am, visitation will begin at 9:00 and the funeral Mass is at 10:00. Burial is to follow at Resurrection Cemetery, Lenexa, KS. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Agnes Catholic Church in Liz’s memory.
Peter Edwin Shirey
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- Published: 28 December 2021
- Hits: 519

Peter was born on October 22, 1946 to Frances Louise Shirey and Alfred Edwin Shirey in Little Rock, Arkansas. He was raised in Chicago and graduated from Foreman High School. He graduated at Kansas University with a bachelors in business administration. He enjoyed model railroading, reading and family game nights.
Peter is survived by his wife of 52 years, Carole; his children Joel Shirey (T'nisha) and Sarabeth Hirth (Dillon), as well as his brother George Shirey. He was preceded in death by his parents and brother Troy Shirey. He also leaves behind 2 grandchildren, Xzavier Shirey and Zayn Shirey.