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Royer Funeral Home, 101 S. E. 15th Street, Oak Grove, MO (2025)

12/19/2025

Kara S. Johnson, 71, of Oak Grove, MO, passed away on December 17, 2025. A graveside inurnment service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, December 23rd at Oak Grove Cemetery in Oak Grove, MO. In lieu of flowers, the family encourages memorial contributions to the University of Nebraska Foundation, P.O. Box 82555, Lincoln, NE 68501-2555; please notate: Intestinal Rehabilitation Program.

Kara was born December 24, 1953, in Independence, Missouri. She retired from AT&T in 2009. Kara was an accomplished lover of music, having gone to school at the UMKC Conservatory. She was a talented singer and piano player and went on to teach piano lessons to multiple children. Like her parents before her, Kara was a member of the Stone Church Community of Christ in Independence, MO. She was dedicated to Jesus and served in the church office for many years. Kara is most known for her love and dedication to her family. While she often referred to her family as a “balm to her soul”, her fierce and steadfast love will be terribly missed by all who’ve been so blessed to have known her.

Kara leaves behind her loving husband, Charlie Johnson of the home; daughter, Kari Ann Dausey of Nine Mile Falls, WA; daughter, Krystal Dawn Johnson of Kansas City, MO; son, Aaron Allen Johnson of Platte City, MO; four granddaughters, Izabel, Paige, Gracey, and Emma; one grandson, Nathaniel; one great-granddaughter, Iyla; and many other extended family members. She was preceded in death by her parents, Fred M. and Betty Allen of Independence, MO.

Arrangements by Royer Funeral Home in Oak Grove, Missouri

12/19/2025

Carl Lee Stevens, of Independence, Missouri, passed away on Monday, December 15th.

He was preceded in death by his father, Lee Stevens, and his wife, Christine Stevens.

Carl is survived by his loving family: his daughter Stephanie and her husband Mike, his son Eric and his wife Angelina, six cherished grandchildren, two precious great-grandchildren, his mother Jane, and his sisters Christine and Cheryl.

Carl was known for his easygoing nature, and he was liked by nearly everyone he met. An avid Hot Wheels collector and lifelong classic muscle car enthusiast, Carl found joy in the simple things. He also loved spending time fishing and visiting the casino, enjoying each moment at his own relaxed pace.

Carl’s warmth and laughter will be deeply missed. He leaves behind a legacy of quiet strength and will be forever remembered by all who knew and loved him.

Obituary submitted by the family.
Royer’s New Salem Funeral Home ~ Independence, MO (816) 796-8600

12/19/2025

Phillip “Dale” Robinson 80, Odessa, Missouri, passed away peacefully on December 16, 2025.

Visitation will be held from 2:00 to 3:00 p.m. on Saturday, December 27, 2025, at Greenton Baptist Church in Odessa, Missouri, with funeral services immediately following at 3:00 p.m.

Dale was born on August 29, 1945, in Odessa, Missouri, to Walter and Martha (Baker) Robinson. He was a graduate of Wellington-Napoleon High School and spent his life rooted in the community he loved. Dale was a part-time farmer and a full-time babysitter, a role he embraced with patience, humor, and deep devotion to his family. On April 7, 1979, Dale married Linda Parker at Greenton Baptist Church. Together they built a life centered on faith, family, and home. Dale raised his children in the very house where he himself was born, creating generations of memories under one roof. Dale knew Jesus and faithfully taught his family to know Him as well. He was a devoted member of Greenton Baptist Church, where his quiet kindness and gentle spirit were evident to all who knew him. Soft-spoken and thoughtful, Dale was mechanically gifted and enjoyed tinkering, always finding satisfaction in fixing and creating.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his daughter, Rachel; his sisters, Isabelle Wilson and Jean Wright; his brothers, Donald and Arthur Robinson; and his son-in-law, Peter Rozenberg.

Dale is survived by his loving wife, Linda Robinson; daughters, Megan (Brian) Chappell and Brooke Rozenberg; grandchildren, Makayla Tomlinson, Clayton Tomlinson, Abigail Rozenberg, and Riley Rozenberg; brother-in-law, Robert Wright; and several nieces and nephews.

Dale will be remembered for his steady faith, gentle heart, and unwavering love for his family.

Arrangements: Royer Funeral Home Grain Valley, MO 64029 816-847-4441

12/18/2025

Sarah Louise Rist, 46, of Independence, Missouri, passed away on Thursday, December 4, 2025. Visitation will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Friday, December 19, 2025, at Royer Funeral Home in Grain Valley, Missouri, with service following at 2:00 p.m.

Sarah was born on September 24, 1979, in Independence, Missouri, to Terry Lee Mallett and Janet Loraine Ford. She was preceded in death by her parents and her paternal grandmother, Dorothy Mallet.

Sarah was well known for her compassion, wearing her heart out on her sleeve and all-around old soul that was fierce and tough as nails. She was a wife who shared thirty-three beautiful years with her high school sweetheart, Patrick Rist Sr. They worked hard alongside to build a life and family she was profoundly proud of. She was deeply devoted to God all while being a member of Abundant Life Church, as well as treasuring the time she spent on earth with her family, especially her grandchildren. Her presence brought a ray of sunshine to those who loved her, something that will never be forgotten. Her passing has left a void in our hearts, but we find comfort in knowing that her light and love will forever guide us. We ask that you remember her for her loving spirit and warmth that she shared.

Sarah is survived by her husband, Patrick Rist Sr., of the home; her two sons, Patrick Rist Jr. (Victoria Morrow) and Christain Rist, both of Independence; and her five beloved grandchildren: Patrick III, Kobe, Sonny, Paris Louise, and Evalette. She is also survived by her three sisters, Tammy Mallet of Oak Grove, Missouri; Jennifer Mallet of Kansas City, Missouri; and Heather Nyhart of Sugar Creek, Missouri.

Sarah will be remembered for the love she held for her family, the devotion she showed to her children and grandchildren, and the bonds she shared with her sisters. Her presence will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.

12/17/2025

Keeyon Ne’yel Incle, age 28, of Blue Springs, Missouri, passed away on December 12, 2025, in Kansas City, Missouri.

Keeyon was born on February 10, 1997, in Independence, Missouri, to his mother Kimberly Incle and was lovingly raised alongside his stepfather, Lonnie Alexander. He grew up in Blue Springs, Missouri, where he made lifelong friendships and memories. Keeyon graduated from Blue Springs South High School, Class of 2015, where he proudly participated in football, track, and basketball. His love for football continued into college as he attended Pittsburg State University, where he earned his Bachelor’s degree in General Business in 2019. Keeyon had a true entrepreneurial spirit. He loved to talk and could sell ya anything! His Aunt Kisha proudly owns solar panels thanks to him, and his Mom receives more magazine subscriptions each month than she can count. Keeyon was truly the life of the party—lighting up every room he entered. He loved to dance, sing, create art, entertain, and spend time celebrating life with his friends. Keeyon was known for his big hugs, each one filled with love. His embrace spoke volumes, communicating care and warmth without words. He had a rare gift of making everyone feel seen and valued. He never met a stranger, and could walk into a room full of unfamiliar faces and leave with a room full of friends. Above all, his family will deeply miss the love he showed them every single day.

Keeyon was preceded in death by his grandparents, Harry and Wanda Incle, and his uncle, Camario Incle.

He is survived by his mother, Kimberly Incle; his father, Lonnie Alexander and Rodney Ray; grandparents, Vanette and Alfred Malone; siblings, Kariel, Ke’yona, Ryan, Giuliana, Nya, and Omar; aunts, Edith, Kisha, Chala, Tammy, Gwendolyn, Kristen, Bonnie, Tameka, Vicky, and Brandy; uncles, Kidron, Chris, Kamron, Anthony, Paul, John, and Ryan; along with a host of cousins and several great-aunts and great-uncles; and his bonus family, the Smith Family; and the love of his life, his dog Jordan.

Visitation will be from 4:00p.m - 5:30p.m; Funeral services will begin at 5:30 p.m. on December 21, 2025, at Blue Springs Christian Church in Blue Springs, Missouri. Memorial contributions may be made in Keeyon’s honor via Venmo or Cash App $Kiminc

Submitted by family
Arrangements: Royer Funeral Home Grain Valley, MO 64029 816-847-4441

12/17/2025

Lo**ta Ledbetter, 94, of Independence, Missouri passed away Monday, December 15, 2025. Services will be held at 12:00 p.m. Tuesday, December 23, 2025 at Royer’s New Salem Funeral Home, Independence, Missouri; burial will follow at Old Salem Cemetery, Independence, Missouri. The family will received friends from 11:00 a.m. until service time at the funeral home.

Lo**ta was born on February 8, 1931 in St. Louis, Missouri to Claude and Mildred (Smith) Cooper.

Lo**ta devoted her life to caring for her family. She especially loved baking for her children when they were young, often making their favorite banana or pumpkin bread. She cherished time spent with her grandchildren and had a gift for making everyone feel welcome. She often opened her home and her heart, taking others in when they needed a place to stay. Walking was one of her greatest joys, and she did it faithfully for as long as her body allowed. Lo**ta had a fondness for all things sparkly, whether clothing, jewelry, or accessories, which reflected her bright and joyful spirit.

She was preceded in death by her parents, loving husband, Ernest and her children: Susan Kay Ledbetter and Stephen Ledbetter.

Lo**ta is survived by her daughters: Marilyn Wood and Trudy (Curtis) Atherton; her grandchildren: Michael, Jason, Joshua Atherton and Tiffany (Justin) Chrip; and many beloved great-grandchildren.

Royer’s New Salem Funeral Home ~ Independence, MO (816) 796-8600

12/16/2025

Alta Joan “Jo” Williams, age 94, of Blue Springs, MO, passed away peacefully on Friday, December 12, 2025, at Wilshire - Lakewood Rehab Center in Lee’s Summit, MO. Funeral services will be held Friday, December 19 at First United Methodist Church of Blue Springs, 301 SW Woods Chapel Road, Blue Springs, MO 64015, with visitation at 1:30 p.m. and funeral at 2:30 p.m. Burial will follow in the Oak Grove Cemetery in Oak Grove, MO. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the First United Methodist Church of Blue Springs Music Program or to Children’s Mercy Hospital.
Jo was born May 5, 1931, in Garden City, MO to Chester and Grace (Jackson) Mainard. She graduated from Oak Grove High School in 1949 and attended Kansas City Business College. In 1951, Jo married Harold “Johnny” Williams. They moved to Lake Tapawingo in 1961 to raise their children and then remained in the area. She had been a lifelong member of the First United Methodist Church of Blue Springs. Her vibrant spirit was evident through her love of music, singing and playing keyboard instruments. She also enjoyed watersports, traveling and spending time with family and friends.
Preceding Jo in death were her parents; her husband Johnny Williams; four brothers: Chet, Gary (Juanita), Kenny (Jeanie), and Doug Mainard; and companion, Pete Shelton.
Her survivors include two sons, Steve Williams (Carmen) of Vail, AZ, and Randy Williams (Penny) of Blue Springs, MO; three grandchildren: Jeff Williams of Chickasaw, AL, Brad Williams (Jessica) of Grain Valley, MO, and Kristy Simms of Lake Lotawana, MO; six great-grandchildren: Riley Williams, Gage Williams, Stella Simms, Sebastian Williams, James Phillips, and Sophie Phillips; two sisters-in-law, Terri Mainard and Patty Mainard; and many nieces, nephews and extended family members.
Arrangements provided by Royer Funeral Home in Oak Grove, Missouri.

12/16/2025

Michael Harold Wilper “Papa”, 74, of Oak Grove, MO passed away December 9th, 2025 at Centerpoint Hospital.

Mike was born September 25th, 1951 in Buford, South Carolina to Harold and Mary (Rue) Wilper. He graduated from East High School in 1969, where he met the love of his life, Helen. They were married for 50 years. He was proud to have served in the United States Armed Forces as a member of the Army. Mike was an avid hunter, fisherman, and outdoorsman. He cherished his time supporting Little League sports and coaching his kids.

Mike is survived by sons: Scott Wilper and wife Amy, Keny Wilper and Boozer (dog son), Jeff Wilper and wife Shea, and Charlie (dog son); brother Kenneth (Chandra) Wilper; sister-in-law, Christine (Doug) Roberts; grandchildren: Ashley (Tony), Adella (Gavin), Abigail, Allison, Johnny, and Bodie; great-grandchildren Alexzander and Andrew.

Visitation will be held at Royer Funeral in Oak Grove, MO on Saturday December 20th from 11am to 1pm. Service and military honors to be held at 1pm. Luncheon to follow at New Life Church – Oak Grove.

Arrangements: Royer Funeral Home, Oak Grove, Missouri

12/15/2025

Donna Mae Stegemann, 96, of Oak Grove, Missouri, passed away on Tuesday, December 9, 2025, at Aspire Senior Living in Oak Grove. No services will be held.

Donna was born on March 28, 1929, in Truro, Iowa, the daughter of Leo Dennis and Bessie Berneice (See) Beeler. She was a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother.

Donna was preceded in death by her husband, Gillis Stegemann; her parents; sister, Phyllis Ward and husband Ira; brother-in-law, Syl Stegemann and wife Lucy; and sister-in-law, Deloris Isenberger and husband Jack.

Her survivors include her son, Dave Stegemann (Mickey) of Oregon; her daughter, Susan Gleckler (George) of Missouri; and granddaughters: Rebecca Reimer (Robert) of Arizona, Corly Kallin (Kevin) of Missouri, Jessie Manson (Ryan) of South Dakota, and Megan Santi (Barrett) of Tennessee.

Arrangements by Royer Funeral Home in Oak Grove, Missouri

12/15/2025

Kristina Ione Thompson, 25, of Independence, Missouri, passed away at home, on Thursday, December 11, 2025.

A visitation and service will be held from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. on December 18, 2025, at Royer Funeral Home, located at 1823 N. Blue Mills Road, Independence, Missouri.

Kristina was born on September 26, 2000, in Blue Springs, Missouri. Kristina was first and foremost, a beautiful soul inside and out. She was a fighter, she overcame each obstacle and conquered every challenge she faced. She was positive, strong, clever, and quick witted. You never knew what she may say. She had a funny, sassy attitude that always kept us on our toes, she was patient and had a large love for family. Kristina was proud to be an aunt, sister and cousin. She was proud of her strength, she loved her family and friends that became her family with her whole heart. She had a large love for Taylor Swift, the Chiefs, butterflies, dolphins, Penguins, and board games. Nothing gave her greater joy than someone sitting down and playing a board game with her. She looked forward to watching her favorite shows on FaceTime with her best friend. She loved being spoiled with her favorite foods, knowing they were made with her in mind. We can thank God daily for gifting her to us, and allowing her to show us love, strength, and what each day really means to live in the moment.

Kristina was preceded in death by her great-grandparents Ted Branson Sr., Ruth Yoakum, Carroll Dabbs, and Dollie Boyer; grandparents Marvin Thompson, Norma Thompson, and Harold Dawson Sr.; great-aunt Shelly Dabbs; great-uncle Roy Boyer; uncle James Middleton; and cousin Patricia Spinler.

She is survived by her parents, Bruce Thompson, and Harold and Jennifer Dawson; grandparents Ted and Sharyl Branson Jr. and Janice Dawson; great-grandmother Mildred Branson; siblings Samantha (Donovan) Florio, Hunter (Julia) Thompson, Brayden Dawson, Kayce Dawson, Kamryn Dawson, and Wyatt Dawson; along with many beloved aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends who became family.

Submitted by family
Arrangements: Royer Funeral Home Grain Valley, MO 64029 816-847-4441

12/15/2025

Jeffery Scott Nunn passed away on December 5th, 2025, at The St. Luke’s Hospice House in Kansas City at the age of 45.

Jeff was born on April 3, 1980, in Salem, Oregon. He is the son of Ralph and Susan Nunn. He attended and graduated high school from Center Place Restoration School in Independence, MO. In the summer of 1998, he enjoyed being a part of the Book of Mormon Internship. Jeff graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Music with emphases in Piano Performance and Church Music from William Jewell College in Liberty, MO. On November 20, 2005, Jeff married Rebecca Knoch. Their son, Alex, brought tremendous joy into Jeff’s life. For several years he enjoyed teaching piano lessons in his home. He worked as an accompanist for local school districts and churches in the area. His role as choir and music director for North Oak Christian Church for over 15 years was a ministry to many. Recently Jeff was the accompanist for The Salem Lutheran Church in Overland Park, where he found purpose and a loving family. Throughout his life his laughter, love for all people and tender heart touched countless lives. His passion for playing the piano brought purpose, joy and fulfillment to him and others. Jeff’s belief in Jesus Christ was the anchor during his journey here on earth. Jeff’s love for nature started at a young age. He enjoyed family vacations, fishing, waterfalls and the Oregon coast. He had a special connection with his favorite pets Keyla, Shadow and Camillia. He longed to own a therapy dog. Jeff enjoyed attending music concerts, plays and theater productions. His favorite basketball team was the University of Kansas Jayhawks, who he fervently cheered for year after year.

Jeff was preceded in death by his grandfather and grandmother, Herbert and Luella Hawley and his grandfather, Robert L. Nunn.

He is survived by his son Alex. Also living are his parents, Ralph and Susan, his brother, Chris, his grandmother, Wilma Nunn, his ex-wife, Rebecca and a host of aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the organization of your choice.

A memorial service will be on Friday evening, January 2, 2026, starting at 6:30 at The Church of Jesus Christ Colbern Road Restoration Branch, 9525 Lake Lotawana Rd., Gate 2 Lee’s Summit, MO 64086. There will be light refreshments following the service.

Submitted by family
Arrangements: Royer Funeral Home Grain Valley, MO 64029 816-847-4441

12/11/2025

Matthew David Ewald, 38, of Blue Springs, Missouri, passed away, surrounded by his family, on Wednesday, December 10, 2025. A Visitation will be held at 3:00 p.m. on Saturday, December 13, 2025, at First United Methodist Church in Blue Springs, followed by a Celebration of Life at 4:00 p.m. In Lieu of flowers, donations may be made to a custodial account set up for his daughter, Makenzie. https://venmo.com/u/Jocelyn-Ewald

Matthew was born on April 28, 1987, in Sedalia, Missouri, to Larry and Debra (Popp) Ewald. He married Jocelyn (Clubine) Ewald on June 18, 2011, in Liberty, Missouri—a partnership marked by deep love, laughter, and shared adventures.

A 2005 graduate of Oak Grove High School, Matthew went on to earn a B.S. in Business Management from the University of Central Missouri in 2009. He built a well-respected career with QuikTrip, where he was known as a dedicated and beloved manager, earning “Best of the Best” honors at two different stores in the Kansas City region.

Matthew lived life with a joyful spirit. He loved both watching and playing sports, especially golf, and he rarely missed a chance to cheer on K.U. or the Kansas City Chiefs. He felt most at home outdoors—on his boat, on vacation, or anywhere the sun was shining. Above all else, his daughter, Makenzie, was his greatest pride and joy, the light of his life.

Friends and family knew Matthew for his fun-loving personality. He never took life too seriously and had a gift for making people laugh. His kindness, warmth, and easygoing nature drew people to him effortlessly. Matthew was a Christian with a strong and steady faith, one that guided him and comforted those who knew him. In his passing, he continued his legacy of generosity as an organ donor, offering hope and life to others.

Matthew is survived by his wife, Jocelyn Ewald, and daughter, Makenzie Ewald, both of Blue Springs, Missouri; his brother, Aaron (Sarah) Ewald of Shawnee, Kansas; his parents, Larry and Debbie Ewald of Oak Grove, Missouri; his father and mother-in-law, Randy and Phyllis Clubine of Liberty, Missouri; his brother and sister-in-law, Jeffery and Jennifer Blevins of Smithville, Missouri; and his beloved dog, Cinnamon. He is also cherished by numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, friends, co-workers, and so many others whose lives he touched.

Matthew lived fully, loved deeply, and brought joy wherever he went. His memory will remain a blessing to all who knew him.

Arrangements: Royer Funeral Home Grain Valley, MO 64029 816-847-4441

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