Sara Irlene Anderson

Sara Irlene Overton Anderson
Sara Irlene Overton Anderson, age 89, a resident of Gladstone, Missouri, passed on Sunday, January 21, 2024, at NorthCare Hospice House, North Kansas City, Missouri.

Sara was born August 9, 1934, the daughter of Doris and Frances (Wood) Overton, in Cainsville, Missouri. 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, Missouri and Smithville, Missouri 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 80’s. 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, Nebraska, and Brad Anderson (Connie), of Bentonville, Arkansas; daughter-in-law, Cherry Anderson (Neil), of Savannah, Missouri; seven grandchildren, Justin Anderson (Danielle), Jennifer McWilliams (Chris), Megan Sherling (Danny), Melanie Baer (Jake), Matthew Anderson, Melissa Mattson (Jake) and Mindy Anderson; nine great grandchildren; one sister, Reva Thompson (Keith) of Lutz, Florida; special friend, VR Barnhouse of Tustin, California, and several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents; ex-husband Gene Anderson; brother, Gene Overton; and son Neil Anderson.

Funeral services will be held at Lindley Funeral Home, Chillicothe, Missouri, on Thursday, January 25, 2024, at 2:00 p.m. A scheduled visitation will be held at Lindley Funeral Home, Chillicothe, on Thursday, January 25, 2024, from 1:00 p.m. until 2:00 p.m. Friends may call at Lindley Funeral Home on Wednesday, January 24, 2024 from 11:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. Burial will be at the Resthaven Memorial Gardens, Chillicothe, Missouri. 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, Missouri 64601. Online condolences may be made at www.lindleyfuneralhomes.com .

Arrangements are under the direction of Lindley Funeral Home, Chillicothe, Missouri.