Mary Frances Gillett

Mary Frances Gillett passed away on May 6th, 2023 at the age of 90 in Kansas City, Missouri. She was a beloved daughter, sister, wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother.

Mary was born on November 8th, 1932 in Stanberry, Missouri to William “Pap” and Leona “Fern” Shirrell, the oldest of five children.

Mary grew up in Stanberry and attended Stanberry High School. After finishing her education, she worked as a homemaker and later pursued a career as a school cafeteria worker for North Kansas City school district. Mary took great pride in her work and was known for cooking delicious meals that everyone enjoyed.

In her free time, Mary enjoyed watching the Kansas City Chiefs and Royals play their games. She was also an avid fan of game shows and could often be found watching the Game Show Network. Most important in her life was the time she spent with her family. As a young girl her father taught her how to play Russian Rummy, which she then passed on to her children and grandchildren. Playing Rummy was a highlight every Christmas and Thanksgiving.

Mary will be fondly remembered and greatly missed by her daughter, Jane (Danny) Taylor; grandson Robert (Stacia) Rueckert Jr.; granddaughter, Linda (Dennis) Wilson; granddaughter, Shannon (Wesley) Hollaway; great-grandchildren Jesse Rueckert, Tyler Wilson, Dylan Wilson, Colten Holloway, Chase Holloway; sisters in law, Jean Shirrell and Dixie Shirrell; and many nieces and nephews. She also leaves behind many great friends, like Pastor Harold Dinsmore, who will be officiating Mary’s funeral services; as well as his parents and longtime neighbors, Elmer and Bedonna Dinsmore.

Mary was preceded in death by her husband Gerald W. Gillett and daughter Marilyn S. North. Additionally her dog Brandy had passed away before her as well as siblings Carolyn Price, William Shirrell, Sharon Phipps, Jerry Shirrell.

Visitation will take place on May 12th from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM followed by a Memorial Service from 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM at Terrace Park Funeral Home & Cemetery located at 801 NW 108th St in Kansas City. Flowers are welcome and contributions are suggested to Wayside Waifs.

Mary's life was one that touched many people throughout the years with every interaction being one filled with kindness and warmth which will be missed by many who knew this wonderful person.