Kansas City Funeral Directors

03/25/2026

Dolores (De) R. Smalley

Dolores (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!

03/10/2026

DARREN L. POWELL
12-11-78~02-22-2026

Darren (47) passed away unexpectedly in his home on February 22, 2026. He was the son of Victor D. Powell and Kathy A. Powell (Earl) of Atchison. He went to Trinity Lutheran school.

Darren married Candi A Powell (McNeely) on October 12, 2012, who survives of the home. He is also survived by his mother Kathy A Powell (Earl); one sibling Shawn Powell of Atchison; grandparents Kenny & Jackie Bowen of Atchison and 2 uncles. Darren was preceded in death by his father Victor D Powell of Atchison.

Darren loved to go fishing, metal detecting and anything to do with the outdoors.

A celebration of life will be held at Jackson Park (Atchison), 1500 S 6th Street on Saturday March 21, 2026, at 2pm. Family and friends are invited to share memories. ***Weather permitting***

03/09/2026

PATRICIA "PAT" CAROL (HELMS) PFEIFFER
Patricia “Pat” Carol (Helms) Pfeiffer beloved wife, mother, sister, aunt and nana passed away peacefully March 4th, 2026.

Pat was born on February 3,1945 with a birthday she was always happy to share and people could easily remember 2/3/45. She was born in Kansas City, Missouri to Joseph Donald “Don” Helms and Julia Florence (LeCluyse) Helms. Pat spent her early years in Kansas City, Missouri being cared for by her maternal grandparents (Charles and Cora LeCluyse) after a sudden loss of her mother as an infant.

Once her father remarried, Betty Deloris (Austin) Helms, she rejoined the family. A loving family with which she had very many special childhood memories of riding horses, the cabin at Lake of the Ozarks, and playing billiards. The family spent time in Warrensburg Missouri before moving to K**b Noster Missouri where her grandfather was a mailman. There are fun stories of her and her brother Joe riding along delivering the mail.

Pat moved to Sedalia for her senior year and graduated from Smith Cotton HS where she excelled as a student with a love for learning. She had fond memories of riding the train into Kansas City to be picked up by her grandparents at Union Station.

After graduating from high school, she attended Central Missouri State University where she worked for the radio station, was able to attend The World Fair in New York City and became a regional billiards champion. Pat graduated from CMSU with a teaching degree in just three years and it was there that she met her husband of 58 years, Robert “Bob” E. Pfeiffer while playing cards with friends. They married on April Fool’s day 1967. Which has always humored the family. Pat worked as a high school English teacher in Freeman Missouri before they moved to Kansas City and began their family.

She balanced raising four children while working part-time telemarketing and at The Sun Newspaper. Pat helped establish a vacation bible school program at Cure’ of Ars which her children enjoyed being involved with every summer. Later in life she went back to teaching and worked for several years at Ozanam Home for Boys where she was named basketball coach of the year.

Pat ended her career as a middle school teacher in the Grandview school district where she enjoyed teaching keyboarding.

Upon retiring, she and Bob enjoyed traveling and being snowbirds that spent many months each year at their condo in Corpus Christi. A huge loyal fan of the Royals and the Chiefs. She loved celebrating all the holidays with festive sweater vests and socks. Pat taught numerous people how to play mahjong, including all the retired teachers, which she preferred to bunko. She was a lover of games and crossword puzzles. She made friends everywhere she went and maintained lifelong friendships. Her family was always the center of her life with lots of pool and lake time with her grandchildren.

Pat is survived by her husband, Robert E. Pfeiffer of Prairie Village, Kansas, a brother, Joseph Donald Helms Jr. of Lee’s Summit Missouri, four children Staci McKenna and husband, Mike, of Leawood, Kansas, Julie Elliott and husband, David, of Overland Park, Kansas, Michael Pfeiffer and wife, Puhn, of Siem Reap, Cambodia, and Tammy Medlock of Adrian, Missouri. She leaves behind five grandchildren, Steven Minor (Sara), Josie Stern (Jackson), Garin McKenna (Caitlyn), Ryan Medlock, Brennan McKenna, eight great grandchildren, along with a host of nieces and nephews.

She always said there is nothing more important than being nice. A sentiment that she exemplified. She will be remembered for her kindness and a life devoted to learning and teaching. Every time we see a full moon, we will be thinking of Nana.

Cremation is planned. Her funeral will be held at Cure’ of Ars sometime this summer. (Check back here for updates)

Mass Intentions and prayers are requested by the family.

Memorials can be made to:

Ozanam school:
A nonprofit dedicated to partnering with children and families to build safe and healthy communities.

www.cornerstonesofcare.org/donate

Lead to Read KC

www.leadtoreadkc.org