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Jane was born September 2 nd , 1936 in Aullville, Missouri. She passed away peacefully on September 4th , 2026. She had ...
09/06/2026

Jane was born September 2 nd , 1936 in Aullville, Missouri. She passed away peacefully on September 4th , 2026. She had just celebrated her 90 th birthday with her family.
Jane was the middle child of nine children to August and Marseline (Duffy) Borgstadt. She was baptized in the Baptist faith and attended the Aullville Baptist Church, where she taught Sunday School.
Jane attended school in Aullville at the two-room schoolhouse until 8th grade, when her formal education ended. When she turned 16, she began working at the shoe factory in Odessa with her sisters. She was proud to be earning her own money. She met Albert Wayne Reves through friends. They were married in the Higginsville Baptist Church parsonage on June 22, 1957. They enjoyed 56 years of marriage. After marriage, they moved to Little Rock, Arkansas, where Albert was employed by the Missouri Pacific Railroad as a telegrapher. They moved to Judsonia, Arkansas to start their family. They had three daughters, Debbie, Becky, and Pat. In 1972, when Albert was transferred to Kansas City, the family moved to Oak Grove, Missouri. Jane was very involved with the girls’ school activities. When the girls graduated high school, they moved to Aullville, Missouri. She began working at Unitog in Concordia. She loved being closer to her family.
Albert’s assignment changed with Union Pacific. They moved to Nebraska and then to the St. Louis area until his retirement. They moved back to Aullville to retire. Jane loved flowers. She enjoyed the birds and butterflies they attracted. She particularly enjoyed
feeding the hummingbirds and orioles every year. Jane and Albert enjoyed traveling in retirement. Their favorite destination was wherever their grandchildren were. She dearly loved her grandchildren and great grandchildren.
After Albert’s death in 2013, Jane lived on her own until briefly before her death. She was an avid reader and an expert on current events. She was very good at Jeopardy, too. Jane was self-sufficient and a hard worker. She loved visits from her daughters, grandchildren, and great grandchildren.
Jane was preceded in death by her husband and siblings: Eugene “Sonny” Borgstadt (Mary), Leslie “Fatty” Borgstadt (Judy), Alice Johnson, Barbara Harp (Richard), F.D. Borgstadt (Louise), Doug Borgstadt (Beverly), Richard “Dickie” Borgstadt (Carol), and Sue Brooks (John).
Jane is survived by her daughters: Debbie Reves (Pam Adcox), Becky Glodosky (John), and Pat Albrecht (Bruce), her grandchildren: Betsy Glodosky, Hank Glodosky (Paula), Sally Kalso (Reed), Kevin Albrecht, Jenny Leddy (Mike), and her great grandchildren: Marley Kalso, Booker Kalso, Lorelai Glodosky, and Jackson Glodosky.
She is also survived by her sisters-in-law Beverly Borgstadt and Carol Borgstadt and brother-in-law John Brooks. Jane is survived by many nieces and nephews who she loved very much.
To honor Jane’s love of reading and reading to children, donations in her memory can be made to Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library at imaginationlibrary.com.
The family will receive friends from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM on Wednesday, September 9, 2026, at Stewart-Hoefer Funeral Home, 1600 Main St., Higginsville, Missouri.
A funeral service follows at 11:00 AM on Wednesday, September 9, 2026 at Stewart-Hoefer Funeral Home.
Burial will follow in the Higginsville City Cemetery.

It is with heavy hearts that we share the passing of Larry George Greife, a devoted husband of 56 years, and a beloved f...
08/31/2026

It is with heavy hearts that we share the passing of Larry George Greife, a devoted husband of 56 years, and a beloved father, who lost his battle with cancer on August 29th, 2026.
Larry was born in Higginsville, MO, to parents Hazel and Fred Greife. And his humble beginnings, country upbringing, and deep-rooted belief in family, instilled values that were a cornerstone of how he lived his life.
Larry taught his family patience, the true value of honesty, and what it meant to live a trustworthy life. He was the ultimate provider and the security he offered his wife and two loving children, through his hard work and day-to-day dedication, created a strong family circle that endured all life's challenges. Larry had an incredible calming presence that could make even a stranger feel at ease! He could hold a conversation with not only intellect and quick wit, but also with a genuine interest that made anyone feel special.
Larry's hard work and ambition started at a young age on a farm near Higginsville. And that work ethic continued throughout his career. From beginning in the grocery business at 16 as a sacker/stocker, working his way up to assistant manager, and later becoming store manager for some of the most successful stores in the city, Larry was a natural leader. And later in life, when he wanted to transition careers, he took an entry level job with Gale Communities and in a short time had worked himself into a Superintendent role. Throughout his work life, Larry's hard work, ambition, dedication, and loyalty were always on full display, providing a solid example for anyone he worked alongside or managed.
Larry will be remembered for his love of all living creatures, especially the four-legged best friends he had in his life over the years. He often recalled stories of each one, instantly bringing a smile to his face and a twinkle in his eye. And Larry spoiled each one in his own unique way.
Larry loved to vacation with his family and always made time in his busy work schedule to get away. He gave his family a life that most would be envious of with vacations that included simple weekend trips to the lake, long weeks relaxing on the beach in Gulf Shores, AL, and cross-country treks that would make even Clark Griswold jealous. But as long as he was with family, he was right where he needed to be. Larry also loved the outdoors and enjoyed camping, spending time in the woods hunting with his son and friends and wetting a line with his son-in-law.
Larry is survived by the love of his life, Shari Greife, his devoted wife of 56 years. And their two children, Todd Greife and Rebecca Phillips. As well as their son-in-law Chet Phillips and daughter-in-law Shanna Greife. And he is preceded in death by his son Matthew Greife, parents Hazel and Fred Greife, and sister Delma Giger.
The family will receive friends from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM on Saturday, September 12, 2026, at Stewart-Hoefer Funeral Home, 1600 Main St., Higginsville, Missouri.
A celebration of life follows at 11:00 AM on Saturday at Stewart-Hoefer Funeral Home.
Memorials may be made to Whispering Willows Senior Dog Sanctuary 22051 Old 64 Hwy, Hermitage, MO 65668. https://www.whisperingwillowsseniordogsanctuary.com/

Antonio Lamont Hayden, 51, of Kansas City, Missouri, passed away on Monday, August 24, 2026, at his home.Antonio was bor...
08/28/2026

Antonio Lamont Hayden, 51, of Kansas City, Missouri, passed away on Monday, August 24, 2026, at his home.
Antonio was born on March 11, 1975, in Kansas City, Missouri, the son of the late Tommie Lipsey Jr. and Willa Mae Hayden. He grew up in Kansas City and attended Central High School.
Antonio was an incredibly hard worker who took great pride in everything he did. Whatever the job, he could always be counted on to give it his all and was known for being one of the hardest workers in the group. His strong work ethic and determination were qualities that followed him throughout his life.
Outside of work, Antonio had a love for cooking and especially enjoyed preparing meals for the people he cared about. For him, good food was even better when it could be shared with family and friends. He also had a passion for making music and enjoyed expressing himself through the music he created. Music was an important part of his life and something that brought him great enjoyment. He also enjoyed traveling, seeing new places, having new experiences, and making memories along the way.
Antonio had an outgoing personality and a good-natured spirit that made him a joy to be around. Often the life of the party, he loved to laugh, have a good time, and bring laughter to those around him. He was affectionate, warmhearted, and caring, and he wasn't afraid to let the people closest to him know how much they meant to him. His welcoming nature made it easy for others to feel comfortable in his company.
Above all, Antonio will be remembered for his hardworking nature, his sense of humor, and the genuine love he had for the people in his life. The laughter, memories, and love he shared with his family and friends will remain with them for years to come.
Antonio is survived by his significant other, Jennifer Butler of the home; his brother, Anthony; two sisters, Leslie and Antoninette; and many cousins, aunts, uncles, extended family members, and friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Tommie Lipsey Jr. and Willa Mae Hayden

Darl Harold Mattson, 79, of Higginsville, Missouri, departed this life Saturday, August 15, 2026 at Research Medical Cen...
08/16/2026

Darl Harold Mattson, 79, of Higginsville, Missouri, departed this life Saturday, August 15, 2026 at Research Medical Center in Kansas City, MO.
He was born on Sunday, November 20, 1946, in Red Oak, Iowa, to the late Carl Mattson and the late Lenore (Swanson) Mattson. He graduated from Stanton High School in Stanton, IA.
Darl began his career with West Central Electric in 1966 as a laborer. Through many years of hard work and dedication, he worked his way up within the company and retired in 2002 as Manager of Operations after 36 years of service.
Darl was a man who enjoyed staying busy and spending time outdoors. He took great pride in his yard and garden and could often be found mowing, gardening, or working in his shed. He enjoyed caring for his Banana Trees and Cannas. Even during the winter months, Darl found plenty to keep himself occupied, whether he was brush burning or snow blowing. In his younger years, he especially enjoyed fishing.
Golf was another favorite pastime of Darl's, and he spent many enjoyable hours on the golf course. His love for the game was evident to anyone who knew him, and golf balls were never in short supply around Darl.
Darl was a faithful member of St. Mary's Catholic Church. He was also a longtime member of the American Legion, proudly maintaining his membership for 54 years. His Catholic faith was important to him, and in 2022, he became a Fourth Degree Knight of Columbus.
Above all, Darl cherished his family and the life he and his wife, Ann, built together throughout their 57 years of marriage. He was proud of his children and grandchildren and especially enjoyed watching his family grow. Darl was blessed to become a great-grandfather and was looking forward to welcoming another great-grandchild into the family.
Survivors include his wife of 57 years, Ann (Thaller) Mattson of Higginsville; one son, Daren Mattson of Higginsville; one daughter, Debbie Chapman (Ricky Butler) of Corder, Missouri; One sister, Mary Ann (Jim) Welsch; five grandchildren, Blake Mattson, Lily (Zac) Conner, Adi Mattson, Jessica Chapman, and Braden Chapman; one great-grandson, Blake Mattson Jr.; and a great-grandchild, Baby Conner, on the way.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Carl and Lenore Mattson; and his sister, Carol Hinesly.
A Rosary will be recited at 8:30 a.m. on Saturday, August 22, 2026, at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Higginsville, Missouri.
The family will receive friends from 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, August 22, 2026, at St. Mary's Catholic Church.
A Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 10:00 a.m. at St. Mary's Catholic Church. Inurnment will follow at 11:00 a.m in the St. Mary’s Cemetery in Higginsville.
Memorials may be made to Lafayette County Cancer Coalition PO Box 88
Higginsville, MO 64037 or Rheumatoid Arthritis Foundation 8815 Conroy Windermere Rd. Suite 309 Orlando, FL 32835 https://www.helpfightra.org/donations/

Roger Warren Erdman, age 94, peacefully passed into new life on Friday, August 14, at Meyer Care Center in Higginsville,...
08/15/2026

Roger Warren Erdman, age 94, peacefully passed into new life on Friday, August 14, at Meyer Care Center in Higginsville, Missouri.

Roger was born on August 8, 1932, on the Erdman family farm north of Alma, Missouri in Lafayette County, the son of Bessie and Gilbert Erdman. The youngest of three boys, Roger was preceded in death by his mother and father, and brothers Howard and Donald Erdman of Alma.

Roger spent his youth on the farm with his parents and brothers and attended the Catron rural elementary school and later graduated from Alma High School in 1950.

Upon graduation he worked for Mr. William Steffens, an Allis Chalmers farm implement dealer in Higginsville, Missouri. There, Roger was able to use his talent for machinery and equipment to build a career that would last until his retirement in 1999. During this time, he met Mathilda (Tillie) Stumpenhaus of Corder, Missouri who he would later marry.

In 1952, Roger joined the U.S. Army during the Korean conflict and was stationed in Japan where his mechanical experience would be put to good use by the Army during the U.S. occupation of Japan. While away in the Army, he stayed in close touch with Tillie who worked in Lexington, Missouri. Roger served two years returning home in 1954, going back to work at the implement dealership in Higginsville.

In February of 1955 on a rainy weekend, Roger married his sweetheart Tillie at the St. Paul’s United Church of Christ in Blackburn, Missouri, and lived in Higginsville for the rest of his life. They were the proud parents of their son, Warren Keith Erdman and their daughter Brenda Ann Erdman.

By 1956, Mr. Steffens was ready to retire and sold the dealership to Roger and his partner, G.J. “Babe” Busch of Higginsville where they operated it as Busch and Erdman Implement Company, moving it to a new building at the corner of Missouri Highway 13 and Truman Road and until 1965 when Roger bought out Busch and renamed the business Erdman Implement Company.

For 43 years, Roger and Tillie operated Erdman Implement as a team, providing outstanding service to customers in west central Missouri. During that time, Roger was a member of the Allis Chalmers Dealers Circle recognizing their best dealers, its national dealers council, and was a member of the Western Implement Dealers Association serving on its board of directors and as its president.

Roger also was committed to his church and community serving on the Salem United Church of Christ council, on its stewardship committee, and as its president. He was also president of the Higginsville Jaycees and later, on the board of the Higginsville Country Club where he served as president during the rebuilding of its clubhouse. He finished his business career as a member of the local U.S. Bank advisory board of directors.

As an Army veteran, he served in retirement as a member of the American Legion and its Honor Guard playing taps for countless fellow veterans at their internment and was chairman of its membership committee. Roger was recognized at a surprise recognition for his years of service with the Honor Guard.

Roger loved to play golf at Higginsville Country Club where he made a hole-in-one, and pool on the 1928 table he acquired in a farm implement sale. That table was where Roger and his many friends enjoyed playing together many evenings, telling stories and enjoying life together. It is now a cherished family heirloom at the lake home of Jenny and Warren Erdman.

Roger turned 94 on August 8 and was celebrated by around 30 of his local, morning coffee friends at Meyer Care organized by dear family friend John Campbell. It was a wonderful day that he enjoyed so much when he got to be with his best friends one last time. Our deepest thanks to John for that and all the support he has given the family.

Roger Erdman was known across the region as an honest, good man who cared for his family, his fellow citizens, and enjoyed life to its fullest. He always had a smile, never knew a stranger, was quick with a funny story or joke, and above all, dedicated to Jesus Christ.

Roger is survived by his wife of 71 years, Tillie, son, Warren (Jenny), daughter Brenda Dion (Matt) and his four grandchildren, Meagan Dion (Nik), Ross Dion, August Erdman, and Audrey Erdman, and other beloved extended family. They will miss him terribly but are grateful for the life he lived and the many blessings he brought to them and everyone he touched.

We give thanks to God for the life of Roger, a beloved son, brother, husband, father, grandfather, businessman, community leader, neighbor, and friend to all who knew him.

A viewing/social hour will occur from 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m. on Monday, August 24, 2026, at Salem United Church of Christ, located at 1500 N. Main St., Higginsville, MO 64037. A funeral service will follow at 1:00 PM at Salem U.C.C. Burial will follow at Missouri Veterans Cemetery in Higginsville.

Casket Bearers: August Erdman, Ross Dion, Matt Dion, Nik Svendsen, Darold Erdman, Russell Erdman
Honorary Casket Bearers: Audrey Erdman,Meagan Dion, John Campbell, Kenneth Rinne, Stanton Thompson, Darrell Williams.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorial contributions be made to Salem United Church of Christ, 1500 N Main Street, Higginsville, Missouri 64037, https://onrealm.org/SalemUnitedChur90896/give/now; or the Lafayette County Cancer Coalition, PO Box 88, Higginsville, Missouri 64037, https://lafcocancer.org/.

Robert Lee “Bobby” Gibler, 74, of Higginsville, Missouri, passed away at his home on Sunday, August 9, 2026. He was born...
08/12/2026

Robert Lee “Bobby” Gibler, 74, of Higginsville, Missouri, passed away at his home on Sunday, August 9, 2026. He was born on June 5, 1952, in Lexington, Missouri, to Robert and Mabel (Parker) Gibler.
Bobby was raised in Mayview, Missouri, and graduated from Odessa High School in 1970. Throughout his life, he held different jobs and worked for several businesses owned by his parents. It was through those early working years that Bobby met the love of his life, Debbie. They were married on September 19, 1980, and built a life and family together filled with love, hard work, laughter, and countless memories.
Bobby was known for his strong work ethic and spent the majority of his career as a commercial truck driver. He took great pride in his work and in the life he built, but nothing made him more proud than his family. Over the past few years, he began slowing down from work and cherished many memories made with his family. Nothing brought him more joy than being a Papa to his grandchildren.
Bobby was a man of faith and carried that faith with him throughout his life. He was also a man who never knew a stranger. He was known for his one of a kind sense of humor, often being the only person laughing at his own jokes, but that was Bobby, and it was one of the many things he was loved for. He had an incredibly generous heart and would do anything for anyone; the kind of man who really would give you the shirt off his back.
Outside of work, Bobby enjoyed spending time outdoors, tinkering on projects, and traveling with Debbie. They enjoyed countless vacations and cruises with family over the years. He had an especially tender heart for animals and spent his life giving a warm home to many critters.
However, nothing compared to the love he had for his chickens. His love for animals was just another reflection of the caring heart he carried throughout his life.
Bobby was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend. He leaves behind his beloved wife of nearly 46 years, Debbie Gibler (Hartwig) of Higginsville; his children, Heather (Mike) Stephens of San Francisco, California, Donnie Gibler of Higginsville, Jarrod Gibler of Higginsville, and Lauren (Wade) Nevels of Higginsville; his forever daughter-in-law, Tina Gibler of Higginsville; his grandchildren, Micah Gibler, Henry Hurshman, Lila Kessler, and Charli Nevels. He is also survived by his sister, Peggy (Tommy) Clemmons of Higginsville, and was loved by his many nieces and nephews.
Bobby was preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Mabel (Parker) Gibler; his brother, Donald Gibler, who lost his life serving in the Vietnam War; and his sister, Tena Duensing.
Bobby leaves behind a legacy of hard work, faith, generosity, laughter, and, above all, love for his family. He was immensely proud of the life he built and the family he and Debbie created together. His smile, laugh, and big heart will be deeply missed.
Visitation will be held Monday, August 17, 2026, from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. at Stewart-Hoefer Funeral Home in Higginsville, Missouri. A funeral service will follow from 2:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Casket bearers: Donnie Gibler, Jarrod Gibler, Mike Stephens, Wade Nevels, Michael Clemmons, Tommy Clemmons
Honorary: Micah Gibler and Henry Hurshman
In honor of Bobby and his love for animals, memorials can be made to Friends of the Friendless Animal Rescue and Risen From the Ashes.

Fredrick Milton Smith, 89, of Higginsville, Missouri, passed away on Saturday, August 1, 2026, at Centerpoint Medical Ce...
08/04/2026

Fredrick Milton Smith, 89, of Higginsville, Missouri, passed away on Saturday, August 1, 2026, at Centerpoint Medical Center in Independence, Missouri.
He was born on Monday, June 21, 1937, in Higginsville, Missouri, to the late Vernon Smith and the late Dorothy (Johnson) Clemons. Fred was a proud graduate of Higginsville High School and, shortly after graduation, answered the call to serve his country by enlisting in the United States Army. Following his military service, he began a long career at the Lake City Ammunition Plant in Independence, Missouri.
Fred was a familiar face throughout Higginsville and was known for his kind heart, outgoing personality, and gift for conversation. He truly never met a stranger and could strike up a conversation with anyone, quickly turning acquaintances into lifelong friends. Whether he was sharing stories, reminiscing about old times, or making someone laugh, Fred had a way of making everyone feel welcome.
A passionate horseshoe player, Fred traveled across the country competing as a professional, earning the respect and friendship of fellow competitors wherever he went. He took great pride in the sport and the many memories and friendships it brought him over the years.
Above all, Fred will be remembered for his genuine kindness, his love of people, and the lasting impact he made on everyone fortunate enough to know him. His presence in the community will be deeply missed, and his memory will be cherished by family and friends for years to come.
Survivors include his three daughters, Sonja Downton of Higginsville, Missouri, Stacy Wilson-Smith of New Jersey, and LaToya Nicole Williams of Grain Valley, Missouri; seven grandchildren, Carla Conaway, Jason Wilson, Janelle Wilson, Taneece Alexander, Zane Williams, Mary Young, and Michael Young; six great-grandchildren; and many dear friends.
He is preceded in death by his parents.
The family will receive friends from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. on Friday, August 7, 2026, at Stewart-Hoefer Funeral Home, 1600 Main Street, Higginsville, Missouri.
A funeral service will follow at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, August 7, 2026, at Stewart-Hoefer Funeral Home. Interment will follow at Missouri Veterans Cemetery in Higginsville, Missouri. Repast will follow at 1pm at the Benton Hall.
Casket bearers will be Aaron Haynes, Elgin Nichols, Cordel McDaniel, Zane Williams.
Memorial contributions may be made to the family.

Brian Preston Cooper, 60, of Higginsville, Missouri, passed away peacefully at his home on July 26, 2026.He was born on ...
07/28/2026

Brian Preston Cooper, 60, of Higginsville, Missouri, passed away peacefully at his home on July 26, 2026.
He was born on June 10, 1966, in Lexington, Missouri, to Charles "Ray" Cooper and the late Glenda (Delana) Cooper. Brian was a lifelong resident of the area. He attended Wellington-Napoleon Schools from kindergarten through graduation before living in Napoleon and Richmond, eventually making his home in Higginsville. He was a devoted Christian of the Baptist faith.
Brian found joy in the simple things in life. He loved caring for plants, raising and watching birds—including chickens, geese, doves, pigeons, and cockatiels—and enjoyed visiting theme parks, listening to bluegrass music, and crocheting. His favorite place was the river, where he spent countless hours fishing with his grandfather, creating memories he treasured throughout his life.
Above all else, Brian loved his family. He cherished his children and grandchildren and was always ready to share a story, bringing laughter and memories to those around him. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.
Survivors include his wife, Linda (Johnson) Cooper of the home; his daughters, Lauren Oster of Higginsville and Bailey (Kaleb) Cooper-Gremmel of Lexington; his grandchildren, Lexi Oster, Chloe Oster, Kaden Oster, Peyton Gremmel, Elliana Gremmel, and his namesake, Preston Chad Oster; his father, Charles (Linda) Cooper of Napoleon; many nieces and nephews; and an acquired daughter, Hanna (Tim) Dunn, along with their children, Zoe, Kylee, and Kenzie.
He was preceded in death by his mother, Glenda (Delana) Cooper, and his brother, Chad Cooper.
The family will receive friends from 12:30 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. on Friday, July 31, 2026, at Stewart-Hoefer Funeral Home, 1600 Main Street, Higginsville, Missouri.
A funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, July 31, 2026, at Stewart-Hoefer Funeral Home, 1600 Main Street, Higginsville, Missouri. Interment will follow at Greenton Cemetery in Odessa, Missouri.
Casket Bearers: Drew Johnson, Adam Johnson, Kevin Loges, Kaleb Gremmel, Clayton Wieligman, Tim Dunn, Lawrence Johnson III, Jake Manley, Caleb Moore, Jacob Knoche, Tristan Wick. Honorary Casket Bearers: John Dobson, Mike Williams.
Memorials may be made to the American Heart Association or the American Foundation for the Blind.

Mary Lorene (Gerkey) Fisher passed away peacefully on Wednesday, July 22, 2026, at 4:17 a.m.Mary was born in Clinton, Mi...
07/26/2026

Mary Lorene (Gerkey) Fisher passed away peacefully on Wednesday, July 22, 2026, at 4:17 a.m.
Mary was born in Clinton, Missouri to John and Mary Francis Gerkey on October 6, 1939. Mary met the love of her life, Raymond, while they were still in elementary school. Their childhood friendship grew into a lifelong love story, and together they built a beautiful life, raising their three sons, Kenneth, Allan, and Lester.
Mary proudly supported Raymond throughout his 20-year career in the United States Air Force. Their military journey took them from Missouri to France, Virginia, Germany, California, and South Dakota, with several returns home to Missouri along the way. During Raymond's deployment to Vietnam, Mary remained in Higginsville, lovingly raising their boys with the support of family. Following Raymond's retirement from the Air Force, they returned to Missouri, where they made their permanent home.
Throughout her life, Mary worked in several different occupations. During high school, she worked at Galloway's Jewelry in Higginsville and later at the Higginsville Garment Factory. While living in California, she earned her cosmetology license. Above all, however, Mary considered being a wife, mother, and farm wife to be her greatest calling. She concluded her working career at the Lake City Army Ammunition Plant in Independence before retiring.
Mary had many talents and hobbies. She loved cooking and baking and was known for preparing gourmet dishes inspired by recipes she learned while living overseas. She was an excellent seamstress and enjoyed crafting and working with ceramics. She loved listening to old country music and hymns, enjoyed RV trips into Canada with Raymond, and found great joy in spending time outdoors, especially taking walks.
More than anything, Mary cherished her family. She loved being at home surrounded by those she loved and adored her grandchildren, Jeremy, Ryan, Michelle, Raymond, Kaleb, and Chad. She was also blessed with nine great-grandchildren, each of whom held a special place in her heart.
A few years after Raymond's passing, Mary moved into Magnolia Manor, where she enjoyed the friendships and community she found there. She dedicated much of her time to serving others through Vacation Bible School, the Food Pantry, Meals on Wheels, the Classic Shop, and Sunday School. Mary had a servant's heart and was always willing to care for neighbors, friends, family members, or anyone in need.
As her health began to decline and she struggled with memory loss, Mary eventually became a resident of a nursing home, where she received compassionate care. Throughout her life, she remained a faithful Baptist all her life. She rarely missed a worship service and especially treasured her Ladies' Bible Study classes. For many years, Mary quietly served her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, through her kindness, generosity, and unwavering faith. Her gentle spirit, loving heart, and example of selfless service will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.
She was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 56 years, Raymond Lee Fisher; her son, Kenneth Lee Fisher; her parents, John and Mary Francis Gerkey; and her brother, Daryl Gerkey.
She is survived by her sons Allan (Mary) Fisher, Lester (Reba) Fisher; four brothers, John (Val) Gerkey, Bill (Ruby) Gerkey, Jerry (Billie) Gerkey, Jim Gerkey;
The family will receive friends from 10AM-11AM on Saturday, August 1, 2026 at First Baptist Church in Higginsville, Missouri. A funeral service will follow at 11AM at First Baptist Church. Interment will follow in City Cemetery. Casket bearers: Jeremy Fisher, Ryan Fisher, Will Herron, Kaleb Clater, Tray Herron, Zayden Fisher.
Memorials may be made to Alzheimer Foundation of America.
Online condolences may be made to the family at www.stewarthoeferfuneralhome.com

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1600 N. Main Street
Higginsville, MO
64037

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