Kansas City Funeral Directors

04/03/2026

RITA M. O'CONNOR
Rita began her journey on September 6, 1947 in Ottawa, KS. Her family often stated that she enjoyed life to the fullest and was full of humor, a quality that defined her throughout every aspect of her life.

Rita was the fourth to youngest child of seven and was raised primarily by her mother after her father's unexpected passing in 1959. Harold and Cleo Hensieck were her "adoptive" parents and involved in helping raise her during her teenage years while also employing her in their store.

Rita attended schools in Ottawa and Paola KS.

She was a bartender at the Elks for 21 years and approached her work with determination and quickly becoming known for her wit. Her customers often spoke of her toughness and sense of humor, which not only led to lifelong friendships but also inspired those around her to live their lives lightheartedly.

Rita loved being around her family, Patrick Mahomes, The Chiefs, The Royal Family, action and horror movies, and dogs (she may not have admitted it, but she loved them). She, without fail, would watch her soaps, The Bold and The Beautiful as well as The Young and The Restless and loved to talk to her kids and grandkids about her "shows". She would stare out the window and watch the birds and the squirrels at the feeders. She loved KFC and BBQ ribs. And looked forward to trips to Walmart and Dollar General.

Throughout her life, Rita was known for her sarcasm, stubbornness and straightforward approach. Whether it was cooking for family or being a shoulder for them to cry on, she consistently demonstrated her commitment to those she loved. Rita touched the lives of all she met through her ability to make people smile, leaving an indelible mark on all those who were allowed to know her.

As we reflect on Rita's life, we see a tapestry rich with familial love. From her early days in Ottawa to her final moments surrounded by those who she raised or loved in some way or another. Rita lived a life that was filled with children, grandchildren and great grandchildren.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Lawrence and Cecilia Reyes, brothers Victor, George and Larry Reyes, sister Loretta and infant son, Christopher O'Connor. She is survived by sisters, Virginia Thompson (Ed), Andrea Reyes and Liz Teter. As well as daughters; Debbie Lee, Gina Brinson and Michelle Dean. Grandchildren, Crystal Kay (Jeremy), Jonathon Hake (Theresa), Christopher Thornton (Chelsea), Alexus Brinson, Julia Brinson, Austin Dean and Macy Dean. And great grandchildren, Issac Engelby, Justyn Kay. Henry, Ceciliana, Joseph, Anthony and Peter Hake. Ryleigh, Kayla, Paisley, Lakyn and Jordan Thornton. And was expecting her first Great great grandchild, Lilyanna Engelby.

Today, we remember Rita not just for her life accomplishments, but for the positive impact she had on all of us. Her legacy lives on in the stories and memories (some inappropriate) that we will carry in our hearts forever. As we move forward, let us carry with us Rita's spirit of openness and lightheartedness, ensuring that her influence continues to shape our world for the better.

A Celebration of Life will be held at the Fraternal Order of Eagles, 524 E 15th St, Ottawa, KS. on Sunday, April 12th from 1 to 3pm.

04/02/2026

HAROLD D. DOTY
Harold D. Doty, 81, of Olathe, KS, passed away unexpectedly in his home on March 12, 2026. Harold was born September 9, 1944 in Kansas City, MO to Harold and Frances (Gueutal) Doty.

Harold is survived by his daughter, Diane Macdonald (Chuck) of Jensen UT; son, Keith Doty (Risa) of Linn Valley, KS; son, David Lawson (Rebecca) of Fort Smith AR, and son-in-law, Russ Saner of Key West, FL. He is also survived by 11 grandchildren, 8 great grandchildren, many nieces, nephews, cousins, and great friends!!

Harold was preceded in death by his parents, Harold and Frances Doty; his beloved wife, Monica J Doty; a daughter, Kira Lynn Saner; a sister and brother-in-law, Beverly and Bud (Edgar) Forbes; a nephew, Scott A Forbes; and nephew-in-law, Phil Jennings

He enjoyed bowling, softball, and shooting an occasional game of pool in his younger days. After retiring from Black and Veatch in 2002, he enjoyed traveling with his wife Monica and relaxing in his recliner watching his favorite sports teams, The Chiefs & Royals

Although Harold wasn't much of a cook, he sure did love to eat out! He especially enjoyed dining with the September Birthday Club of family and friends. He will be missed by all who loved him.

Services will be held at St Paul Catholic Church, April 08 at 21650 W 115th Terr. Olathe, KS at 11am. Burial to follow at Resurrection Cemetery, 8300 Quivira Rd. Lenexa, KS

A luncheon will be provided at St Paul’s Catholic Church around 12:30pm

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the American Heart Association www.heart.org
or the American Diabetes Association. https://diabetes.org

04/02/2026

Barbara Jean Biondi

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Barbara Jean Biondi,73, of Gardner, KS. She was a loving mother and grandmother, a remarkable woman with a bright smile and generous spirit. Barbara passed peacefully, surrounded by loved ones, on March 27, 2026.

Born October 31, 1952, in Kansas City, KS to Clarence and Geraldine (Steel) Williams, Barbara attended Argentine High School. As a young mother she worked many jobs to make ends meet. Eventually landing at Boilermakers Union Hall in 1983 in a position
that allowed for much professional growth. From there she went on to Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kanas City where she retired from in 2013.

Barbara faced many challenges thrown her way from a young age but showed grit a resilience through it all. She was tiny but mighty. Known for her warm and caring personality. She had a generous heart and was always ready to lend a helping hand to those in need. Her kindness and compassion touched the lives of many, and she will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her. As an avid pet lover, she donated money and time to the rescue of these beloved animals, and the cause was near and dear to her heart.

Barbara is lovingly remembered by her children Brian Freeman (Liz Freeman), Sarah Hoffman (Brad Hoffman), and Mikah Biondi. Along with her cherished grandchildren, Haley Young (Cole Young), Tyler Freeman, Eva Hoffman, and Sam Hoffman Also survived by Elmer Biondi, a loyal friend, former spouse, and father of her daughters,
stepchildren Kimberly Adkins, Kevin Adkins (Jennifer Adkins), as well as her beloved pets Nickel and Trouble. She was preceded in death by her parents, Clarence Williams and Geraldine (Steel) Williams, and siblings Donald Williams, Robert Williams, and
Sharon Grisham.

A memorial service to celebrate Barbara’s life will be held at 10am Wednesday, April 8th at Grace Baptist Church in Gardner, KS. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to Animal Rescue in Kansas City | Always & Furever Midwest Animal Sanctuary or Animal Services Kansas City, Kansas Police Department.

04/01/2026

FREDRIC EUGENE CLARK
Fredric Eugene Clark, 95 of Lenexa, KS, passed away on Monday, March 30th at his home.

Fred was born on November 13th, 1930, in Savannah, MO to Floyd and Ella Clark. He grew up in Elsmore, Kansas and attended Elsmore High School. Fred graduated from Washburn University in 1954. He graduated from the UMKC School of Dentistry in 1957. He completed his master’s degree in Oral and Maxillofacial surgery in 1960. He practiced in Topeka from 1960 to 2000.

Fred was a member of Omicron Kappa Upsilon honorary fraternity, Kansas Dental Association, American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons, Past President of Kansas Oral and Maxillofacial surgeons and staff volunteer at the Marion Clinic in addition to the Veterans Administration Hospital in Topeka.

He had a passion for family, loved playing golf and was a fan of our local sports teams. His humor was subtle and his demeanor engaging.

Fred is survived by his wife of 31 years Kay, his three sons Alan Clark ( Renee ), Sam ( Casey ), Cooper ( Susan ), four stepchildren, Lori Davey, BJ Magistro ( Mandy ) , David Magistro ( Meghan ), Maggie Magistro and 11 grandchildren , Jeremiah Clark, Alex and Max Clark, Zoe and Sophia Clark, Christian, Louden, and Cameron Davey, Braden Magistro, Harper and Griffin Magistro.
Fred was preceded in death by parents Floyd and Ella Clark, siblings Betty (Clark) Price, Dorothy (Clark) Harp, Roberta (Clark) Holt, Donald Clark, and Bill Clark

A celebration of Life will be held on Thursday, April 9th, 2026, at 10:00am at Kaw Prairie Community Church 9421 Meadow View Dr. Lenexa Kansas.

03/25/2026

Delores (De) R. Smalley

Delores (De) R. Smalley, 68, passed away peacefully on March 21, surrounded by her loving family. She was preceded in death by her parents, Elmer and Ruby Smalley, and her infant son, Matthew James Smalley.

De will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by her children, Susie Shockley (Robert), Anthony “TJ” Smalley, and Jesse Smalley; her 11 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren, who brought her so much joy; her siblings, Michael Smalley, Vickie Larson, and Twila Blanz; along with many cherished nieces and nephews.

A service to celebrate De’s life will be held on April 1, 2026, at Abundant Life Church, 112 West 23rd St. S, Independence, MO 64055.

Family visitation will take place from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m., with friends welcome from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. A fellowship luncheon will follow.

She will be remembered for the love she gave so freely and the lives she touched so deeply.

03/25/2026

DAVID "DAVE" M. CONCANNON
David M. “Dave” Concannon, 81, passed away on March 8, 2026. Born on February 22, 1945, to Lloyd and Ada (Isabell) Concannon, Dave lived a life defined by hard work, craftsmanship, and deep devotion to his family.

Dave began his career with Kansas Power & Light in June 1966, where he worked faithfully until his retirement. Known for his strong work ethic and steady presence, he built not only a career but lasting relationships along the way.

A man of many talents, Dave was a remarkable carpenter, baker, and craftsman. Whether building something with his hands or creating something in the kitchen, he took pride in doing things well and sharing those creations with others. He especially loved his cats and cherished the time he spent with his family.

Dave was preceded in death by his parents; his beloved wife, Cheryl; his sister, Judy; and his son, David C. Concannon.

He is survived by his daughter, Angela Smith; his sister, Brenda; his brothers, Dennis and Terry; daughter-in-law Annie; five grandchildren; four great-grandchildren, all of whom will carry forward his legacy of love, skill, and quiet strength.

03/24/2026

Cynthia Jane Newcomb

Cynthia Jane Newcomb was born on July 9, 1953, in Kansas City, Missouri. On March 7, 2026, she passed from this life and entered eternal rest, where we trust she was welcomed by loved ones who had gone before her.

Cynthia was preceded in death by her parents, Gabriela and Jose Luis Carrillo; her husband, Robert Newcomb, Sr.; and her infant daughter, Mary Villa.

She is survived by her children, Tina Martinez and Robert Newcomb, Jr.; her grandchildren, Frederick Meyer, Jasmine Meyer, Isaiah Byrd, and Angelique Byrd; and two great-grandchildren. She also leaves behind her sisters, Gloria Zavala, Yvonne Carrillo, and Ursula Carrillo; her niece and nephews, Salina Renteria, Christopher Zavala, Joseph Zavala, and Guadalupe Zavala; and her great-nieces and nephews, Santana Renteria, Olivia Renteria, Jaeson Villa, Emiliano Zavala, Salvador Zavala, and Cataleya Zavala. Cynthia will also be remembered by many aunts, uncles, cousins, and extended family and friends. She is further survived by her lifelong friends and companions, Paul Dmitruk and Jean Dmitruk.

Known to family and friends as Cindy, she was the eldest sister and an important part of her family. From birth, Cindy lived with epilepsy and throughout her life faced significant health and mental health challenges. Despite these difficulties, she continued to persevere and work toward building a life of her own. Cindy found happiness in activities that brought her a sense of belonging and joy, especially bowling and participating in the Special Olympics. These experiences provided her with many meaningful
moments and opportunities to share in community and friendship.

Cindy shared a particularly close bond with her mother, and her family finds comfort in believing they have now been reunited in heaven.

Though her life included many challenges, Cindy’s life was meaningful and deeply valued by those who loved her. She will be remembered as a beloved sister, mother, grandmother, and friend whose place in the hearts of her family will always remain.

Memorial Service will be from 5:00 ~ 7:00 PM on Thursday, March 26th at Kansas City Funeral Directors, 4880 Shawnee Drive, Kansas City, Kansas 66106.

May she rest in peace.

Eternal rest grant unto her, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon her.

03/24/2026

CONNIE JO (WALLS) GROSS
Connie Jo (Walls) Gross, age 68, formerly of St. John, Kansas, passed away on March 12, 2026, in Independence, Missouri. Connie was born on January 10, 1958, in Stafford County, Kansas, to George Walls and Helen (Tubbs) Walls.

Connie attended Barton County Community College and later earned her insurance license through the State of Kansas. She built a successful career in the insurance industry, working across multiple states and forming many lasting friendships along the way.

Above all, Connie was deeply devoted to her family. While her children were growing up, she was actively involved in their lives—serving as PTA president, coaching basketball and softball, and always being a supportive and present mom. In her later years, she found joy in living on her home place, tending to her garden, watching her dog play with the goats, and especially caring for her beloved chicken, Frieda.

She adored her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, often giving them special nicknames. Being “Nana” was what she cherished most.

On August 10, 2015, she married Timothy L. Gross in Kansas City, Missouri, surrounded by all of their children from their blended family.

Connie is survived by her husband, Tim, of Independence, Missouri; her son, Scott Adams (Jerri) of Lenexa, Kansas; daughter, Morgan Anderson (Stewart) of Fonda, Iowa; combined family sons ,Geoff Gross (Vanessa) of Jacksonville, Florida, and Garrett Gross (Sabrina) of Harlem, New York; combined family daughter, Becca Leal (Christian) of Raymore, Missouri; sister, Judy Staub of Wichita, Kansas; sister-in-law, Maryl Chain of Independence, Missouri; birth brother, Blake Eaton (Peggy) of Wilburton, Oklahoma; and birth sister, Julia Johnson (Jeff) of Belton, Missouri.

She is also survived by her 10 grandchildren: Kelli Adams of Lenexa, Kansas; Jonathan Anderson of Fonda, Iowa; Annabelle, Harris, and William Gross of Jacksonville, Florida; Havyn, Aspyn, and Knox Leal of Raymore, Missouri; Danny Bruggeman (Meghan) of Eau Claire, Wisconsin; and Stephanie Winzer of Overland Park, Kansas; as well as two great-grandchildren, Micah Bruggeman of Eau Claire, Wisconsin, and Jenesis Winzer of Overland Park, Kansas. She also leaves behind a special aunt, Irene Walls, along with many cousins and dear friends.

Connie was preceded in death by her parents, George and Helen Walls; her brother-in-law, Kenny Staub; and others.

Her sister Judy, whom Connie visited the day before her passing, shared a special message: "We will be together soon. I miss you. Love, Judy.”

A Celebration of Life will be held on April 4, 2026, from 1:30 to 3:00 PM at the St. John Homecoming Hall and Museum, 304 N. Main, St. John, KS, 67576.. Guests are invited to share their memories of Connie during the service.

A private family gathering will follow for the spreading of Connie’s ashes, and a memorial stone will be placed at her parents’ gravesite.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Connie’s name to the Shriners Children's Texas https://shrinerschildrens.org/en/locations/texas

or the Ronald McDonald House Charities of Greater Houston/Galveston. https://rmhchouston.org

03/18/2026

Miguel Angel Ramirez Salinas

Miguel Ángel Ramírez Salinas, de 38 años, residente de Kansas City, Kansas, falleció inesperadamente el 7 de marzo de 2026 en Kansas City, Kansas.

Nació el 10 de abril de 1987. Se graduó de la preparatoria Bishop Ward en 2005. Miguel fue un hijo, hermano, padre, tío, primo y amigo muy querido. También lo recuerdan con cariño muchos tíos, tías, primos y demás familiares que guardarán su recuerdo en sus corazones.

Le sobreviven sus padres, Miguel A. Ramírez e Irene Ramírez; sus 4 hijas e 1 hijo; Natalie Ramírez, Melina Ramírez, Ariana Ramírez, Amaris Ramírez y Evelyn Ramírez; su hermana, Perla Ramírez; y su hermano, Óscar Ramírez. Sus sobrinos y sobrinas; Julián Ramírez, Ángel Ramírez, Gianni Reyes, Ace Reyes, Óscar Ramírez y Eva Ramírez.

La Misa esta a la 11:00 19 de Marzo del 2026 en All Saints Catholic Church, 811 Vermont Ave, Kansas City, Kansas.

03/18/2026

Miguel Angel Ramirez Salinas

Miguel Angel Ramirez Salinas, 38, of Kansas City, Kansas passed away unexpectedly on March 7, 2026 in Kansas City, Kansas.

He was born on April 10, 1987. He graduated from Bishop Ward High School on 2005. Miguel was a loving son, brother, father, uncle, cousin and friend. He is also lovingly remembered by many aunts, uncles, cousins, and extended family members who will hold his memory close to their hearts.

Miguel is survived by his Parents, Miguel A. Ramirez & Irene Ramirez, 5 children, Natalie Ramirez, Melina Ramirez, Ariana Ramirez, Amaris Ramirez & Evelyn Ramirez, Sister, Perla Ramirez and brother, Oscar Ramirez. Nieces/ nephews, Julian Ramirez, Angel Ramirez, Gianni Reyes, Ace Reyes, Oscar Ramirez, Eva Ramirez.

Mass will begin at 11:00 AM, March 19, 2026, at All Saints Catholic Church, 811 Vermont Ave, Kansas City, KS 66101.

03/18/2026

03/16/2026

Phillip (Phil) Darrell Fox

Phillip (Phil) Darrell Fox, 74, gained his heavenly wings on March 8, 2026, at his home in Basehor, KS. Phil was born on August 16, 1951, in Gary, Indiana to Dorothy and Morris Fox. Dorothy later remarried Norman Owens, whom Phil deeply cherished and talked about often as a wonderful man, Dad, and mentor.

Phil worked for and retired from the Department of Corrections in 1995 where he was a 1st Sgt. At Lansing Correctional facility. During his career at the prison, he also worked as a Bouncer at Ma’ Belle’s. After retirement, he then went to work as a bouncer for Triple Tree bar and grill. He also started a small detailing business where he became known as Mr. Clean. He later worked security for Hollywood Casino and Nebraska Furniture Mart before deciding to fully embrace retirement.

Phil met Pam at Ma’ Belle’s in 1994, and after 34 marriage proposals, they were married on September 11, 1999. Together, they enjoyed spending time riding their Harleys or driving around in their classic 67’ Camero. Phil enjoyed playing pool, fishing,
riding his Harley, the beach, making people laugh, and having a cold bear with friends. But most of all, he enjoyed spending time with his wife, Pam.

Phil is survived by his wife of nearly 32 years, Pamela Fox, two daughters, Brandi Fox and Krista (Shawn) Howard, three grandchildren, Ethan Howard, Nathanial Howard, and Elizabeth Howard, one sister, Pam (Bill) Derzinski, numerous nieces and nephews, countless cherished friends and his beloved Dog, Bofus.

He was preceded in death by his parents Dorothy and Norman Owens and Morris Fox, three brothers, Butch Owens, Bob Owens, Lee Owens, and one sister, Sam (Morrine) Filley.

Please join us for a Celebration of Life honoring Phil (or as he used to say, It’s Phil, leave off the lip) on Saturday, April 4th, 2026, at 1pm, at the Tonganoxie VFW, 910 E. 1st St. Tonganoxie, KS 66086. Pictures and stories of Phil are as welcome as you are!