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Sara Whyzmuzis Obituary
Blow out the stars, sweep away the warmth. Allow the night to swallow the sun and what is left is my broken heart. Heaven has gained what I have lost; God has taken my mother home with Him. In the tired hours of the night, Sara Whyzmuzis passed away on March 17, 2013.
She was born on February 10, 1948 to Norene and Oscar Lee, the founders of the Plaza Shoe Store in Springfield Missouri. At an early age she understood the concept of hard work and helped her parents with the business. She eventually left Springfield to attend Stephens College and the University of Paris-Sorbonne achieving a degree in Political Science. She would meet her future husband Robert Whyzmuzis in the Bahamas, marrying him on December 26, 1977. They began their lives together in Chicago, where she would excel in Public Relations for advertising firms including one that Ridley Scott was working for. She later gave up her management position for her favorite career: being a mother to her children, Ashley and Adrienne. Outside of her family she enjoyed creating fundraisers for schools as well as teaching Sunday School (PSR).
Her life wasn't without its shadows though. Her husband suffered with brain cancer leaving the family with no income for years. She also buried her son less than two years ago due to diabetes. Through her pain she placed her faith in God and continued on each day with a smile. As a mother she wiped away the tears, as a friend she brought comfort, and as a stranger she gave warmth. Her humor and simple joy made life bearable and she will be terribly missed.
Sara is survived by her heartbroken family; her daughter and her husband. She will be missed most of all by the last Amigo who will always remember her poem about "Cabbages and Kings".
Funeral mass will be Monday, March 25, 2013 at 10 a.m. in Holy Trinity Catholic Church, under the care of Gorman-Scharpf Funeral Home. No visitation is planned. Burial will follow at Resurrection Cemetery.
Memorials may be made to the Children's Miracle Network, 3525 S. National Ave. # 203, Springfield, MO 65807.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Sara Whyzmuzis
Michael Evans
February 1, 2017
I still think about the Whyzmuzis family quite a bit. They were always welcoming and were there when you needed comfort or a good conversation. I am grateful I had the opportunity to have them in my life. If you read this Adrienne, I hope things are going well for you and that I wish you the best with your journey in life. I hope you achieve all the dreams you ever want. Take care.
-Mike
March 26, 2013
Sara befriended me all through my high school years. While she was somewhat older than I was we became really good friends. She took me to visit Stephens, hoping that it would inspire me. It did. I too majored in Political Science. Sara was one of a kind and the world was richer for her life.
Lyn McCullough
March 25, 2013
I worked with Sara at the"Wonderful" THE PLACE. she was so Pretty, fun,and creative. She will be sorely missed. I remeber when she came to the store one day and said she had met her future husband.She had the love of good people all around her.
Nancy Breuer
March 25, 2013
Sara and I grew up together going to Sunshine Elementary. Her birthdays, celebrated at the Tower Movie Theatre were always a real highlight for us all. I grieve with and for you all. Sara was a lovely lady.
Jean Underwood Bradley
March 24, 2013
I remember seeing your mom modeling on the Commercials for "The Place" years ago. Much later we were in PTA together and she had a little get together for my birthday at your house. She was a sweet lady and I know you will miss her.
Sue (Cook) Blades
March 23, 2013
I knew Sara from our days at Parkview Highschool. We had some classes together. She was always a sweet lady with a smile on her face. To her family I'm so sorry for your loss. God bless you and ease your pain.
Michael Evans
March 22, 2013
Adrienne,
I am lost for words. Once in a great while, we are given wonderful, wise people that change the world with their heart of gold. I am sad that things have come to be the way they have. I am grateful that I have had the honor of growing up with your family. Your mother was always there and I am privileged to have had her be a part of my life.
Jean-Ann Barrera
March 22, 2013
I will always remember being taught the art of Bridge by a very patient Sara -- what great fun we had. You were loved,you will be missed.
Karen Yancey
March 22, 2013
I will miss the fun we had and the laughter and friendship. I'm so sorry about this Adrienne. Sara will send you strength and love.
Karen Yancey
March 22, 2013
Sara, I'll miss the laughter, the friendship and your caring personality.
Much sympathy to you Adrienne.
Susan Hart
March 22, 2013
I remember Sara from Parkview High School and the shoe store. PR would have been the perfect career for her. My condolences to the family.
Becky Lee Calvin
March 22, 2013
Dear Adrienne,
I am so so sorry to hear about your Mom. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Mike McTague
March 22, 2013
I, along with her Parkview classmates of the class of '66 will truly miss her. May she light the way for us!
Claudia (Bruer) Campbell
March 22, 2013
I am so sorry to hear of Sara's death. I knew Sara from Parkview High School and the wonderful Plaza Shoe Store. In school I remembered her as the most stylish girl in our class and very smart and out going with a great big smile! May God be with her loving family!
Sonya Lee
March 22, 2013
You we're nothing but kind to me! You will be missed! <3 <3 <3
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