Sara Irlene Overton Anderson, age 89, a resident of Gladstone, Mo., passed on Sunday, Jan. 21, 2024, at NorthCare Hospice House, North Kansas City, Mo.
Sara was born Aug. 9, 1934, the daughter of Doris and Frances (Wood) Overton, in Cainsville, Mo. She was a life-long learner and firm believer in the power of education. She received her bachelor’s degree, master’s degree and ED specialist degree from Northeast Missouri State University. She taught school in Trenton and Smithville, Mo., for over 30 years. She was also the summer school principal for several years.
Sara was president of the International Reading Association. She instilled in her children that they would get a good education. She always said that was something that no one could take away from them, and the only way to better themselves and provide a better life for their families.
Sara was an avid fan of all sports, especially the Kansas City Chiefs. She was very competitive, having played tennis well into her 80s. She had a passion for music, dancing, travelling and experiencing a full and abundant life. If there was a party going on, she was going to be there and most likely among the last to leave.
Sara loved and adored her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She would often drive great distances to watch ball games, school programs and dance recitals. She took many trips with her grandchildren through the years. Sara also instilled in them a love for education.
She is survived by one daughter, Michelle Anderson (Jack), of Coppell, Texas; two sons, Gene Anderson Jr. (JoEllyn), of Omaha, Neb., and Brad Anderson (Connie), of Bentonville, Ark.; daughter-in-law, Cherry Anderson (Neil), of Savannah, Mo.; seven grandchildren, Justin Anderson (Danielle), Jennifer McWilliams (Chris), Megan Sherling (Danny), Melanie Baer (Jake), Matthew Anderson, Melissa Mattson (Jake) and Mindy Anderson; nine great greatgrandchildren; one sister, Reva Thomp- son (Keith) of Lutz, Fla.; special friend, VR Barnhouse of Tustin, Calif., and several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents; ex-husband Gene Anderson; brother, Gene Overton; and son Neil Anderson.
Her funeral service was held on Thursday, Jan. 25 at Lindley Funeral Home, Chillicothe, Mo. Burial was in Resthaven Memorial Gardens, Chillicothe.
Memorial contributions may be made to NorthCare Hospice House and/or Reading is Fundamental and may be left at or mailed to Lindley Funeral Home, PO Box 47, Chillicothe, MO 64601. Online condolences may be made at www.lindleyfuneralhomes.com.
