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Affordable Cremation Service, 2306 N. W. Vivion Road, Northmoor, MO (2026)

01/23/2026

Matthew Warren Walker

May 31, 1977-October 8, 2025

Matthew, beloved son of Beth and Larry, left this mortal coil unexpectedly on October 8, 2025, on a dark rainy street in New Orleans after a tragic accident. He was preceded in death by his father Larry Gail Walker. Larry so loved Matt and Matt so wanted to be a good son. Their time together on earth was too short. He was also preceded in death by his dear sister, Pamela Gail Wilson.

He is survived by his mother Beth Lois Walker, his remaining siblings, Kelli, Wendel, Seth, Amy and Jennifer, his many nephews and nieces, Mitch, Jolee, Blaire, Kirk, Whitney, Luke, Zeke, Hailey, Ella, Zola, Hunter, Memphis, X, and Johnny, and cherished family and friends across the country.

Matthew was born in Biloxi, Mississippi. He declared his siblings, Pam, Kelli, Seth, Amy and Jennifer, his five mothers because they all loved him so much. He moved to Atlanta when he was 12 to follow his favorite, Dale Murphy, of the Braves. There he attended Pace Academy where he met some of his most special and lifelong friends.

Matthew loved baseball and especially going to games. He and his mom traveled the country and visited every MLB stadium. He loved those girl singers with their sad songs. Like Sarah Berelis’, “I Want to See you be Brave” or “Who Died and Made You King?”. Or, May Erlewine’s “Love and Desire” Beth’s favorite is “Heaven”. Matt loved to travel and visited countries around the world. He loved films and pop culture and found the absurd in all of it. For example, the ever popular, Keanuthon. During which, he and whoever would join him, watched every single Keanu movie. He loved making every person in his life feel special. He made it his mission, and was happiest, when he was feeding and caring for those around him and in his community. Most recently, he worked tirelessly with All Souls Unitarian Church in Kansas City, Missouri. He was an outreach volunteer and was dedicated to feeding the houseless and those experiencing food insecurity.

He travelled and worked all over the country making many friends along the way. He was valued at various jobs due to his incredible dedication and high energy. He made everything better just by being there. He was one of a kind and he never felt the need to fit society's ideas of what he should do or who he should be. He showed this in the way he dressed colorfully, only wore flip flops, his irreverent humor, and his playful, fun spirit. Matt had a big heart and a contagious smile. He never gave up on friends, lovers or wife. He will be missed in our hearts and lives.

He wasn’t perfect but none of us are. He brought us great joy and incredible heartache. He is surrounded in love forever. Honor him by being a little more loving and kind to every person you meet. Plant a tree and let the wind do the rest.

“Heaven will just be a quiet place to heal my mistakes in and remember the good days when I let my love win.” -May Erlwine

There will be a graveside service to celebrate Matt, On February 5, 2026, at 2:00pm, at Arlington Memorial Park, 201 Mount Vernon Road NW, Atlanta, Georgia, 30327. “Don’t wear black unless it's your best outfit.” -Pam Walker

01/19/2026

In Memory of Patricia Jean Norwood
March 4, 1960 – January 2, 2026

Introduction
We are gathered here today to celebrate the life of a woman who was truly a light in this world—Patricia Jean Norwood. Known to many as a devoted mother, a talented artist, and a faithful servant of God, Patricia lived a life defined by kindness, an upbeat spirit, and an unwavering love for her family.

Her Roots and Faith
Born in Oxnard, California, Patricia found her true home here in Lawrence, Kansas. She was the beloved daughter of Virginia and Charles Ackman. Her life was firmly rooted in her Christian faith, and she found immense joy and community at Victory Bible Church. Her faith wasn't just something she practiced on Sundays; it was the foundation of her "upbeat" personality and the kindness she extended to everyone she met.

A Legacy of Love
Patricia’s heart was large enough to hold a vast and beautiful family. She leaves behind a legacy through her children: Sirita Etheridge, Cameo Howard, Derruis Wilson, and Ayesha Wilson. She also shared a special bond with Jason Duncan, whom she loved as her own.

Though she faced the deep heartbreak of losing her late husband, Lafayette Norwood, exactly five years to the day before her own passing, she continued to live her life to the fullest. She found her greatest pride in her grandchildren, ensuring that her last moments were filled with the warmth of family.

A Life of Passion
Patricia was never one to stay still. In her retirement, she turned her creativity into a business, sharing her "beautiful" spirit through her custom, handmade jewelry business that she shared with her dear friend Helen Barbee. She was also an adventurer at heart who loved to travel, seeing the beauty in the world just as clearly as she saw the beauty in the people around her.

Closing
Patricia Jean Norwood taught us that life is meant to be lived with joy, creativity, and faith. While we will miss her deeply, we take comfort in knowing she is at peace, perhaps traveling new horizons and reunited with those she loved who went before her.

Rest in peace, Patricia Jean Norwood.

01/15/2026

It is with profound sadness that we announce the unexpected passing of our cherished son, Damont Antonio Richardson, 30, on January 8, 2026, in Kansas City, Missouri. Born on December 7, 1995, to Michael Richardson and Natisha Gibson, Damont was a man of deep passions and quiet strength. He loved music, dancing, and anime. Damont was known for his keen intellect, adventurous spirit, artistic talent, and unwavering loyalty to his friends and family. He is survived by his love Alyssa Peck, his sons Davian and Dakari, his parents, his sister Kori, brothers Desmond and Michael, and his beloved grandmother, Joyce. Rest well son.

01/15/2026

Cynthia Louise Hopkins passed away on December 31st 2025 in North Kansas City Missouri at the age of 68. Born June 23rd 1957 in South bend Indiana she brought warmth and joy to those around her throughout her life.

Cynthia found happiness in life's simple pleasures, she enjoyed bowling with her siblings and spending time outdoors hunting and fishing. Among her greatest joy's was being a grandmother, a role she held close to her heart.

She is lovingly remembered by her longtime boyfriend Robert Threlkeld, her children Jamie Hopkins, Rebecca Toney, and Brian Hopkins, her grandson Jordan Guinn and his partner Alexis Graves, her siblings Greg Bosworth, Tommy Bosworth, Connie Bosworth, Mike Bosworth, and David Bosworth, and many nieces and nephews who will carry forever her memories.

Cynthia now joins in rest her parents Richard and Waunita Bosworth, her sister Kathy Miller, brother Rick Bosworth, and sister Patty Iske.

Memorial donations may be made in Cynthia's honor to the University of Kansas cancer center.

May Cynthia's memory bring comfort to those who knew and loved her.

01/12/2026

Conan L. Schartz
December 5, 1953 - January 11, 2026

On January 11, our beloved friend went to his eternal resting place where he was welcomed with wide open arms by his children, Michael and Toni, while his daughter Sheila sat with him until those gates opened.

Conan was born December 5, 1953 in Great Bend, Kansas to Aubrey and Bonnie Schartz. He was a GBHS Graduate, class of 1971. He went on to be the best bodyman/autobody painter after high school. Conan took pride in his work and always loved to play any type of cards and pool with his friends and family, which is why he moved to Las Vegas, Nevada from 1983-1994. He made friends wherever he went. He always had a laugh, joke, and a life lesson for everybody he encountered.

Conan is preceded in death by his parents, 2 children, and lots of other family.

Conan is survived by brothers, Dennis (Berneice) and Glen (Debbie), sisters; Poellen (Larry) Anderson, JoAnna S., Zeta (Stan) Boese, daughter, Sheila *Schartz* Watkins, son Jeffrey Borders, grandchildren, Lachlan & Brock Watkins, and Taylor Swensen, his good friend Brooklyn, and many others.

Conan's Final Party will be February 1, 2026 at McKenzies Body Shop located at 45 Kansas Ave, South Hutchinson, at 1:00pm. Please bring photo's and memories.

01/12/2026

Ronda Charlene Marek, 62, of Platte City MO, passed away peacefully Wednesday morning, January 7th, 2026, in her home with family by her side. Ronda was born December 29, 1963, in Kansas City, MO, to Ronald and Charlene Shadwick.

Ronda graduated from Englewood Christian Academy in Kansas City, MO and attended college at the University of Central Missouri State in Warrensburg. She married Michael Marek in Kansas City, MO in 1987. They moved to Platte City where they started their family. Ronda dedicated her time early as a stay-at-home mom for years before she began working at the West Platte School. Ronda loved her job as a cook, and this gave her the opportunity to spend more time with her children and watch them grow. Ronda worked for 24 years before she retired as a valued member of the West Platte School District. She enjoyed spending time with her children and grandchildren. She loved all animals. She opened her home to many animals who needed a family.

Ronda was quite the jokester. Often, she found satisfaction scaring her coworkers, children or grandchildren. Chances are if you knew Ronda, you would recall a moment or two when she got you good. She was always laughing and playing pranks on friends and family. She also loved to be at home with all her animals while watching the Hallmark channel and the Game Show Network. Very rarely could you visit Ronda and not see a Hallmark movie on, or reruns of her favorite games shows. Ronda was very loved and will be missed by many.

Ronda was preceded in death by her parents, Ronald and Charlene Shadwick; and her sister Jennifer Shadwick. Ronda is survived by her husband Michael Marek; daughter, Hannah (son-in-law Justin) Shirley, son, Kurt Marek (girlfriend Kayla Abell); grandchildren, Aiden, Hadley, and Kacey; sisters Cindy (Gerald) Kretzschmer, and Melinda Snyder; brother, Thomas Shadwick; many nieces and nephews; extended family, friends, and pets.

01/07/2026

James, (Jamie), (JJ) Johnson passed away on January 1, 2026. He was born on October 15, 1973 and was a long time resident of Oskaloosa, Kansas. He is preceded in death by his dad James Brese Jr. and is survived by his mom Julie Warden of Grandview, MO., his son Cody Johnson, his sister Jackie Garrison-Shields of NY, his sisters Lori and Kiley of KS, his brothers Jimmy and Greg of KS. and his step-mom Sherry of KS. He also had several lifelong friends who will miss him very much. If you ever met my brother, he was most likely holding a guitar. I will forever remember him sitting in a chair with his long skinny legs, hair down to his butt and his arm over a guitar, playing something really loud and beautiful. He was talented and funny and he loved his music.
I hope peace and a guitar were waiting on you brother. You were loved.

Mama, she has taught me well
Told me when I was young
Son, your life’s an open book
Don’t close it ’fore it’s done
The brightest flame burns quickest
That’s what I heard her say
A son’s heart’s owed to mother
But I must find my way

“Rebel,” my new last name
Wild blood in my veins
Apron strings around my neck
The mark that still remains
I left home at an early age
Of what I heard was wrong
I never asked forgiveness
But what is said is done

Mama, now I’m coming home
I’m not all you wished of me
A mother’s love for her son
Unspoken, help me be
I took your love for granted
And all the things you said to me
I need your arms to welcome me

Let my heart go
Let your son grow
Mama, let my heart go
Or let this heart be still

"Mama Said"
Metallica

12/29/2025

Jacob Keith Whitworth 1987 - 2025

Jacob was born in Kansas City, Missouri on April 6th, 1987 to Teresa and Jeff Whitworth. Jacob grew up in the Park Hill School District, graduating from Park Hill High School in 2005, then joined the military in 2008.

A proud Veteran, Jacob served 6 years and 1 month in the Army as a (MP) Military Police, attaining the rank of Specialist. He was stationed at Fort Riley Military base (2008-2012) where he served a 1 year tour in Afghanistan (04/23/10-04/22/11). He was then transferred to Fort Bliss, Texas (2012) where he served at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba (06/08/13-03/04/14) and received his Honorable Discharge on 03/11/2015.

Jacob is survived by his son, Jackson Whitworth, his daughter, Lena Whitworth, his sister, Tiffany Barklage, and his mother and father, Teresa and Jeff Whitworth.

A Celebration of Life service will be held on Saturday, January 10, 2025 at Hillside Christian Church located at 900 NE Vivion Rd, Kansas City, MO 64118. Visitation begins at 11:00am, service begins at 12:00pm.

12/29/2025

Wendy Jo “WoJo” (Benson) O’Hara
September 26, 1959 – December 16, 2025

Wendy Jo “WoJo” (Benson) O’Hara was born on September 26, 1959, in Salt Lake City, Utah, and passed away on December 16, 2025, in Roeland Park, Kansas, after a brief period of health challenges.

She is survived by her younger sister, Melinda (Peixhot) Jurs, and countless others whose lives were deeply touched by her and who will miss her greatly.

WoJo lived in full color—bright, bold, and impossible to ignore. She brought warmth, humor, and fearless honesty into every space she entered, leaving a lasting impression on all who knew her.

Her life’s mission was serving others. Through her compassion, strength, and lived example, she helped thousands find a life worth living in sobriety. She continues that mission of service through the gift of organ donation.

Due to weather, services will be held at a later date.

In her honor, live in color, spread some sparkle, and leave the world better than you found it.

As WoJo would say, “Ciao, Bella!”

12/22/2025

Luella “Luddie” Mae Henson (Moore)
February 26, 1937 – December 14, 2025

Luella “Luddie” Mae Henson, lovingly known as “Luddie,” was born on February 26, 1937, in Chillicothe, Missouri, the fifth daughter of William and Ethel Moore.

Luddie dedicated her life to caring for children, providing childcare to countless families throughout the Kansas City metro area. For over 60 years, her passion for nurturing young lives touched thousands of hearts. Her unwavering love and commitment created a legacy of kindness and compassion that will live on for generations.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Phil “Honey” Henson; her son, Robert “Donnie” Henson; her four cherished sisters, Dorothy, Beulah, Pauline, and Phyllis; and her parents.

Luddie is survived by her two daughters, Deborah McCarthy, and Deena Kennedy; seven grandchildren; twenty-four great-grandchildren; four great-great-grandchildren who all called her "Granny"; and her brother, J.D. Pittman.

Her life was a testament to love, service, and devotion to family and community. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who were blessed to know her.

12/22/2025

David Bruton Rothwell (Davey when the girls were little)
Age 72, DOB 6/26/1953 Born in Columbia MO. Died 12/15/25 unexpectedly in Independence, MO.
He was the fourth child of five to Larry and Mary Ann Rothwell . He is survived by his sisters, Linda Rothwell and sister Abby Leonard. He was proceeded in death by his brother Jack Rothwell(1982) and Sandy Eldridge (1996)
David had a hard childhood but even still he tried to focus on the good. He spoke fondly of a neighbor who taught him how to play the piano. When he was around 12 years old, he moved in with his Aunt Dorothy and her husband John and their children. He enjoyed his cousins. He attended high school at Shawnee Mission Northwest.
After high school David enlisted in the Navy. Because of that he was able to travel the world to the Philippines, Korea, China, and Vietnam.
After his service in the Navy, he worked at KU med Center as a CNA and that is when he met one of his best friends Pat Balke. At that time, he became a Christian and started attending Calvary Bible College. He met his other best friend there Phil Thorson. He received his bachelors degree in counseling, and that was one of the greatest highlights of his life.
A few years after college, he moved in with his sister Linda and her twin girls Jessica and Janelle. He stepped in and helped raise them. He was a wonderful loving father figure. David and Linda bought a home in Overland Park, KS and lived there together for several years raising the twins and also his nieces daughter for a period of time, Kelsey. In that time span he worked at Menorah as a Psych Tech, he found that job to be very fulfilling . He also completed his Masters in counseling at that time.
After the girls were grown, David bought a house with his sister Linda in Independence, Missouri. They lived in that house for 8 years until they lost their house due to a fire. At that time they moved in with Larry Mannering and he stayed there until his death.
David enjoyed several hobbies.
He loved gardening. He loved the arts. He loved dancing. He sang in the choir at his church. He played the piano. He enjoyed Fellowship and going out to eat with friends and family. He had a wonderful wit about him and saw things in a humorous way. He was a person who had a lot of depth, he was an encourager and he cared so much about people. David Your life was a blessing, your memory a treasure. Until we meet again!

There will be a celebration of life on January 17th at 7pm. Please contact Janelle Larkin janelle.adjar@gmail.com for further details.

12/15/2025

Michael McCollum, born on October 19, 1950, in Brookfield, Missouri, passed away on December 1, 2025, at the age of 75.

Michael grew up as one of eight boys in a close-knit family. In his early years, he lived what he often called the "bad boy" Lifestyle, but one day he made a life-changing decision to turn things around. From that moment forward, Michael became an inspiration to many. He devoted his life to encouraging others who were still lost, reminding them that life was brighter on the other side.

Known for his big heart and generous spirit, Michael loved wholeheartedly and would give the shirt off his back to anyone in need. His kindness and unwavering support touched countless lives, and his words of encouragement brought hope to those who needed it most.

He is survived by one brother and his cousin, Joe McCollum. Michael's legacy of love, redemption, and compassion will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

A Celebration of Life will be held by his closest friends that he called family to honor Michael's life. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you share an act of kindness in his memory.

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