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Royer Funeral Home, Oak Grove, MO (2025)

07/22/2025

Our sister in Christ, Cynthia Ann Gunn, returned to the care of Our Lord, on July 17th, 2025.

Cynthia was 70 years old, born on March 17, 1955 in Fyffe, Alabama. She resided in Independence Missouri.

Cynthia leaves behind her beloved husband Jerry Gunn, daughter JaCinda Brumfield, son Levi Gunn, sister Betty Smith, brother Joseph Waddell. In total there are ten grandchildren and great grandchildren that will miss their grandmother very much.

There are so many other wonderful people who loved Cynthia as we do and we count them all as family, wish we could name each one.

Family members gone ahead include father William Jr Waddell, mother Birthell (Gant) Waddell, brother Terry Waddell.

Graveside Services to be held at Royer’s New Salem Cemetery, Independence, Missouri on July 28, 2025 at 1:00 p.m.

Tootles toots……..later gator

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

07/22/2025

David Wayne Davis, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on July 4, 2025, at the age of 70. Known for his boundless curiosity, unwavering dedication, and deep love for his family, he leaves behind a legacy of strength, skill, and heart.
Born in Cheyenne, Wyoming, Dave graduated from Belton High School in 1972. He went on to attend Longview College, where he pursued his many passions, as well as completing Bible College as an ordained minister. He completed flight lessons at KC Airport, turning a lifelong fascination with the skies into a personal achievement. Whether soaring above the clouds or free-falling beneath them, skydiving brought him joy, matched only by the pride he took in his family.
He was a proud and dedicated member of the Local #3 Painters Union, where he worked tirelessly with integrity and craftsmanship. A master of every trade and hobby he explored, Dave had a rare gift for making the difficult seem effortless – whether fixing something, learning a new skill, or simply making those around him feel save and loved.
Dave found joy in many things – music that stirred his soul, golf on a sunny afternoon, the rush of the wind during a skydive – but nothing brought him more happiness than his role as a devoted husband, a loving father, and a cherished “Papa” to his many grandchildren. His family was the center of his world, and he gave them everything he had: his time, his wisdom, his laughter and his unconditional love.
He was preceded in death by his father Grover Cleveland Davis and his mother Crystal Gay Davis.
He is survived by his wife, Vana Marie Davis; brothers, Mike Davis and wife Robin, and Pat Davis and wife Angel; children: Carrie Akers, Corinne Riggs and husband Joey, Christina James and husband Travis, Cam Pearsall and husband Doug, Cabrielle Williams and husband James, Caleb Davis and partner Katie, Casey Davis and partner Angela, Courtney Simpson and partner Clinton, Cassidy Stanton and partner Josh, Chelsie Ferrarra, and Cleveland “Rolley” Davis; along with 41 grandchildren and 9 great grandchildren.
A celebration of Dave’s life will be held on July 26th at New Liberty Baptist church located at 32310 E. Colbern Rd. Oak Grove, Mo. 64075. Visitation will be held from 1 P.M. – 3 P.M. with the service following.
In honor of his adventurous spirit, generous heart, and love for music, donations can be made to Music Will to support music education in schools K-12.
Though he has taken his final flight, Dave soars on in the memory and hearts of all who knew and loved him.
Obituary submitted by the family.
Arrangements: Royer Funeral Home, Oak Grove, MO

07/21/2025

James Noel Chappell, known to family and friends as Jim or Starsky, of Napoleon, Missouri, passed away peacefully at Research Medical Center on July 19, 2025 at the age of 94. A visitation will be held on Wednesday, July 30th from 1-3pm, with a Celebration of Life to follow at 3pm, both at Royer Funeral Home in Oak Grove, MO. Interment will follow in Greenton Cemetery, in Odessa, MO.

Jim was born on April 11, 1931 in Kansas City, Missouri, the only son of James and Treva (Gramling) Chappell. He gave his life to Jesus at age 12. Jim graduated from William Chrisman High School and was a member of the ROTC. He married Elizabeth “Betty” Striley on November 24, 1950, in Independence, MO. They lived in rural Napoleon, where they raised their two children, Jimmie “Taco” Lee & April Gail. Jim worked for P.I.E., Pacific International Express truckline, as a truck driver for 41 years before retiring in 1991. He will be remembered as being a “jack of all trades”. He completed many outdoor projects around their home that were enjoyed by an abundance of family and friends. He and Betty thrived being able to host social gatherings at their home, especially their annual P.I.E Picnic. He enjoyed going to antique engine shows. Jim and Betty traveled often and loved the outdoors.

Survivors include son Jimmie Chappell (Teresa) of Napoleon, MO; daughter April Stoenner (Mike) of Wellington, MO; four grandchildren: Brian Chappell (Megan) of Lexington, MO, Hollie Wallace (Kevin) of Napoleon, MO, Heather Kirchhoff (Jeremy) of Wellington, MO, and Jennifer Rusher (Charlie) of Brighton, MI; and seven great-grandchildren: Haleigh & Brooklyn Chappell, Levi & Kaden Wallace, Jocelyn & Brynlee Kirchhoff, and baby Rusher. Jim was preceded in death by his parents and wife.

In his memory, contributions are suggested to Tunnel to Towers Foundation or Hope of Lake Lafayette.

Arrangements: Royer Funeral Home, Oak Grove, Missouri

07/21/2025

Holly Renae Kellough, 35, of Odessa, Missouri, passed away on Thursday, July 17, 2025. Funeral services will be held at 3:30 p.m. on Thursday, July 24th at First Baptist Church of Oak Grove; burial in Oak Grove Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 1:30 p.m. until service time at the church. Memorial contributions may be made to KC Pet Project.

Born October 2, 1989, in Kansas City, Missouri, Holly was a beacon of hope in a world filled with darkness. She was a vibrant rainbow that shone brightly after every storm. With unwavering strength and poise, she carried the weight of the world on her shoulders, inspiring us all with her remarkable resilience. Holly had a heart of gold, always delighting in giving thoughtful gifts to her loved ones on birthdays, Christmas, Mother's and Father's Day. Her latest passion project was crafting beautiful bracelets for everyone, spreading joy and love wherever she went. With an infectious enthusiasm for life, Holly had a remarkable ability to transform every negative into a positive, and her love for adventure, being carefree, and making memories will be deeply missed. As our rock, our guiding light, Holly embodied the strength and solidity of an entire mountain. Her profound impact on our lives will forever be remembered. With a deep passion for the great outdoors and all its creatures, Holly's love for fishing, her cherished dog Buddy, and kitty Smokey was only matched by her tireless efforts to rescue and care for countless animals in need over the years. Family was everything to Holly, and she reveled in sharing new experiences, exploring uncharted territories, and creating lasting memories with her fiancé and bonus son.

Holly’s survivors include her dad, Mark Kellough (Renee); her mom, Shelly Murphy (Keith); her fiancé and stepson, Simon & Adrian Romero; brother, Adam Kellough (Jessie); daughter, Chloe Danielle; grandparents, Allen & Janice Kellough; six additional siblings; numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins; and her best friends, Sammie, Makayla, and Wyatt. She was preceded in death by her grandparents, Denise & Thomas Diffey, and great-grandparents, Ervin & Marie Schuster.

Arrangements: Royer Funeral Home, Oak Grove, Missouri

07/19/2025

Randy Isaiah Ehrhardt, 19, of Oak Grove, Missouri, passed away on July 10, 2025, in Oak Grove. A Celebration of Life service will be 3:00 p.m. Tuesday, July 29, 2025 at New Life Church 801 SW 1st St, Oak Grove, MO 64075.
Born on August 23, 2005, in Independence, Missouri, Randy brought light and joy to those around him from the very beginning. A 2024 graduate of Oak Grove High School, Randy was known for his vibrant personality and boundless energy. He had a passion for adventure and creativity that shaped every aspect of his life. Whether he was out fishing on a quiet morning, tearing through trails on his dirt bike, or sketching with focused intensity, Randy embraced life with enthusiasm and heart.

Randy's love for dirt bike riding was more than just a hobby it was a true passion that gave him freedom and joy. His artistic side found expression through drawing, where he poured imagination onto paper with skill and emotion. But above all else, Randy cherished time spent with his family. His presence brought laughter and warmth to every gathering.

He was a beloved son to Andy Ehrhardt and Kimberly Alvarez; a cherished stepson to Heather Ehrhardt; a devoted brother to Andrew Ehrhardt, Layla Smith, John Smith, and Dominic Ehrhardt; a caring stepbrother to Tessa Sims; and a proud uncle to Dokota Sims. His family remembers him as courageous and ambitious a young man who dreamed of seeing the world and lived each day with a purpose.

Randy's smile could light up any room. He had an extraordinary ability to make others feel loved and seen. Those who knew him will forever carry the memory of his kindness, his laughter, and the way he made life brighter simply by being himself.

Service information for Randy will be at a later date.

Arrs: Royer Funeral Home 101 SE 15th Street, Oak Grove, MO, 816-690-4441

07/18/2025

Charles Robert “Chuck” or “Bob” Harris of Independence, Missouri, passed away peacefully on Monday, July 7, 2025, at North Kansas City Hospice House due to complications from COPD.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, July 19, 2025, from 1:00 to 5:00 PM at the Fraternal Order of Police #1 Lodge Hall, 18300 MO-78, Independence, MO 64057. All are welcome to attend and share memories. A video from his surprise retirement party in 2001 will be shown.

Memorial Contributions: Please ask Shannon Harris about donations to the helmet artist project.

Born and raised in Kansas City, Missouri, Chuck graduated from high school there and began his life of service early, first as a Boy Scout and then in the U.S. Navy. He completed two tours, beginning in Vietnam as a reconnaissance helicopter photographer aboard the USS F.D. Roosevelt. Later, he served as a Navy flight simulator technician and trainer, honorably discharged in July 1979 at the rank of E-4.

Chuck proudly served the Independence, Missouri Police Department for 30 years, from June 1970 until his retirement in February 2001. He held roles as an accident investigator, patrolman, and beloved motorcycle officer. Deeply committed to his department and community, he was instrumental in helping bring the first K-9 officers to the IPD. He also served in numerous leadership positions within the Fraternal Order of Police Lodge #1: National Trustee (1973–1977), Secretary (1985–86), Vice President (1975–76, 1982–83, and 1986–87), and President (1983–84).

Outside of his work, Chuck enjoyed bass fishing — especially at Bull Shoals Lake along the Arkansas-Missouri border — boating, casino trips, and playing Texas Hold 'Em. He loved organizing poker tournaments with fellow officers and retirees. A fan of sci-fi classics like Star Trek and Stargate, Chuck also spent time gaming, golfing, bowling, and reminiscing with friends over coffee. Nothing brought him more joy than time with his son Shannon and loyal Japanese Terrier, Stetson.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Lawrence “Pappy” Harris and Alice Bullock Harris; and brothers Dan and Richard Harris.

Chuck is survived by his son, Shannon R. Harris; daughter Shelby Ann; grandson Victor Elton Anderson; brother Larry Harris; and twin sisters Becky and Betsy and their families.

Chuck Harris was a devoted public servant, a loyal friend, and a deeply loved father, grandfather, and brother. His presence made a difference — in his community, on the road, and in the hearts of those who knew him. He will be greatly missed.

Please come share your stories and celebrate his life with us on July 19.

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

07/15/2025

Merrily Ann Christensen passed away at her home in Grain Valley on July 10, 2025. She was born on April 11, 1934, to Lester and Claudia Scott in Springfield, Missouri. As an Easter baby, she was affectionately nicknamed “Bunny” — a name that stayed with her for most of her lifetime until she joyfully embraced the title “Granny” with the arrival of her grandchildren.

Merrily shared 64 years of marriage with her husband, Ric Christensen, until his passing in 2016. Together, they built a life filled with love, laughter, and family. She is lovingly remembered by her three children: Scott (Virginia), Randi (Jay Hart), and Carissa (Tim Crabtree); her seven grandchildren; and her eight great-grandchildren, who were the light of her life. She is preceded in death by her brothers John William (Bill/Bub) and Lester (Ronnie).

Bunny enjoyed an idyllic childhood as the daughter of a respected police officer and cherished her many friendships. She was active with the “Kilties” and graduated from Springfield Central High School in 1952. Throughout her life, she was a devoted mother and grandmother, always supporting her family’s dreams and celebrating their every accomplishment. Her greatest joy came from simply being together with the ones she loved most.

Merrily spent many years working in the Truman High School cafeteria before beginning a career at The Independence Examiner, where she advanced from advertising clerk to overseeing newspaper layout. In her later years, she found delight in her beloved pets, tending her garden, watching the birds outside her window, and enjoying her favorite shows — Family Feud, Wheel of Fortune, and Antiques Roadshow.

Known to all as Merrily, Bunny, or Granny, she brought warmth, kindness, and joy to everyone she met. Her gentle spirit and unwavering love will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

Services are pending.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Merrily’s memory to The Humane Society of Greater Kansas City, 5445 Parallel Parkway, Kansas City, KS 66104, or online at www.hsgkc.org.

Obituary submitted by family
Arrangements: Royer Funeral Home Grain Valley, MO 64075 816-847-4441

07/14/2025

Gordon Mann Waddell, 68, of Wellington, Missouri passed away on July 10, 2025 at Centerpoint Hospital. Visitation will be 3:00 p.m. Wednesday, July 16, 2025 at Royer Funeral Home, Grain Valley, Missouri. Funeral service will follow at 4:00 p.m. at the funeral home.

Gordon was born in Kansas City, Missouri on July 18, 1956, His parents moved from the city to rural Oak Grove, Missouri in 1958 when he was 2 years old along with his younger brother, Dennis. His two sisters Audrey and Kathie were added to the family shortly after. Gordon attended and also graduated from Grain Valley Schools in 1974. He then went to work at Langley Optical and married in 1976. He had two children. His daughter Tracy, and his son Jason. After his divorce he met Kelly Brown and her 3-year-old son, Charlie. They moved to Tarsney Lakes, Missouri where they lived together, until they decided to move to Arizona in 1994. While in Arizona, Gordon worked for a company that installed fire safe entry doors. In the early 2000’s the family moved back to Missouri where Gordon then started to work at Lake City Army Ammunition Plant. He retired after 18 years of service in August of 2021. Gordon had hobbies he enjoyed in his free time and after he retired. You could find him often making shelves and small cabinets, because he enjoyed wood working. Some of his other hobbies he enjoyed were s***t shooting and hunting. He especially loved going fishing for catfish.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Gerald and Mary Lou Waddell; and his longtime girlfriend, Kelly Brown.

Gordon is survived by his daughter, Tracy Waddell; son, Jason Waddell; his four grandchildren: Sophia, Nicholaus, Makenzi and Emily; seven great-grandchildren: Adrianna, Camilla, Grayson, Jaxon, Gauge, Knoxx and Wren; one brother, Dennis Waddell (Deena); sisters: Audrey Barney, Kathie Selvey (Larry); and many nieces and nephews. He will be greatly missed.

Obituary submitted by family
Arrangements: Royer Funeral Home Grain Valley, MO 64075 816-847-4441

07/14/2025

Melinda Joyce (Adams) Brumley, 72, passed away on July 8th, 2025. A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, August 9th, at 2 p.m. at 508 S Broadway, Oak Grove, Missouri.

Melinda was born on March 20th, 1953, in Independence, Missouri, to Joseph and Mary (Jimmerson) Adams. She graduated from Oak Grove High School, Class of 1971. Melinda was a force to be reckoned with, even as a young child. She was a lover of animals and took pride in the many animal charities she was involved with.
Melinda loved to sing and often performed solos at church and school. She loved her family as it was never a dull moment when she and her beloved sisters got together. She also never turned down an opportunity to brag about her grandchildren.

She leaves behind her loving husband of 52 years, Jack Brumley; her son, Casey Brumley; her daughter, Courtney Sears (Jared); and her grandchildren, Noah, Grace, Bailey, and Lili. She is also survived by her sisters, Nancy Honda (Bob) and Phyllis Rogers (Mark); her brother, Johnny Adams (Rose); her sisters-in-law, Jerry Varner (Tom), Peggy Howard, and Rita Robinson (Jesse); and her longtime best friend, Vicky Ogden (Gary). She also leaves behind many nieces and nephews who she adored. Melinda had many friends throughout her life, all of who she held close to her heart.

Melinda was a fighter and as tough as they come. She battled MS for 47 years, and she is now finally at peace.

Obituary submitted by the family.
Arrangements: Royer Funeral Home, Oak Grove, Missouri

07/11/2025

JoAnn Simpson ,69, of Independence, MO passed away on July 2, 2025.
Joann was the daughter of Marie and Joseph Staples.
She attended Lillis High School in KC and later Job Corps. She worked at ATT for 22 years.
She enjoyed her family, cooking and scrapbooking and crafting.
She is survived by her Husband, Terry Simpson. Son, Michael (Kristen) Simpson of Union, MO and Daughter Amanda (James) Davis of Independence , MO. 5 grandkids she loved dearly. Kaden, Evan, Maddy, Vivi and Amari. Sisters Patty (Louis) Mulvey of KCMO and Dorothy Weston of Clinton, MO as well as many nieces and nephews.
She is preceded in death by mother and father and sister Elaine. She will be sorely missed.
Services will be announced at a later date.

Obituary submitted by the family.
Arrangements: Royer Funeral Home, Oak Grove, Missouri

07/11/2025

Helen Loene Gale Fischer passed away peacefully on July 7, 2025. She was born November 20, 1939 in Elk City, OK, as the only child of Russell and Estella Gale.
Helen spent her childhood growing up in Leedey, OK, surviving a deadly tornado that wiped out much of the town on May 31, 1947. She graduated from Leedey High School in 1958 and attended University of Oklahoma, where she developed her lifelong love for the Oklahoma Sooners. She then moved to Kansas City, MO, where she met William Patrick “Pat” Fischer, whom she married January 11, 1963. Helen and Pat had two children, Allyson and Mike. In 1967, she moved with her husband and children to the (then) small town of Blue Springs, MO, where she lived the rest of her life. She worked for the First National Bank and Bank of America, and retired in 1994 Despite spending the majority of her life in Missouri, Helen always considered herself an Oklahoman at heart. In her retirement, Helen was a committed volunteer for hospice and the Bingham Wagner House. Wherever she went, she made friends easily, and she delighted in lunch or tea with them. She was an avid local sports fan, and enjoyed game time with the family. She loved dogs and welcomed many into her home, over the years. Helen enjoyed traveling to see her family in various places, including California, Washington, Virginia, and Victoria, BC. Her granddaughter Leila was born in 2002, and she cherished her days as “Grandma Sooner”.
She is preceded in death by her husband, William P. Fischer. She is survived by her daughter Allyson Fischer (Blue Springs), her son Patrick “Mike” Fischer (Weston, OR), and her granddaughter Leila Fischer (Tucson, AZ).
Visitation: 2-3:30 pm, Thursday, July 17, 2025 at Royer Funeral Home, Grain Valley, MO.
Above all, Helen believed in boldly living life. Please wear something fun as we honor her spirit and celebrate her life!
Obituary submitted by family
Arrangements: Royer Funeral Home Grain Valley, MO 64075 816-847-4441

07/09/2025

Jerilynn Elizabeth Brown, 13, of Buckner, Missouri passed away on Friday, July 4, 2025. Service to be held at a later date.

Jerilynn was born July 26, 2011 in Independence, Missouri to Jerry Lynn Brown Jr. and Julia Elizabeth Stephens.

Arrangements: Royer Funeral Home Grain Valley, MO 64075 816-847-4441

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