Philip E. Needles, 76, Kansas City, Mo., died January 10, 2008, at St. Luke's Hospital, KCMO. A memorial visitation will be held from 9:30 to 11 a.m. with service to follow at 11 a.m. Wednesday, Jan. 16, at St. John's United Methodist Church, 6900 Ward Parkway, Kansas City, MO 64113. Prior to the memorial service, a private committal service will be held at Mt. Washington Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to St. John's UMC or to Spofford (Children's Services), 9700 Grandview Rd., Kansas City, MO 64134. Phil was a loyal United Methodist Minister who served a number of churches including: Longview UMC of which he was the founding Minister, St. John's UMC, First UMC of Maryville, Mo., and First UMC of Warrensburg, Mo. Phil attended William Jewell College where he was a member of the Lambda Chi Alpha Fraternity. Phil received his Doctorate of Theology from Boston University. He enjoyed antiquing with his wife Elva, as well as spending time with his friends. Phil is survived by his wife of 52 years, Elva E. (Sutton) Needles; daughter, Diane Gaston; three granddaughters, Ami Caswell, Michele Timmons and Dena Sheehan; six great-grandchildren; one sister-in-law, Pat Needles, Columbia, Mo.; and one nephew, David Needles, Glendale, Calif. Arr.: Speaks Suburban Chapel (816) 373-3600.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Kansas City Star from Jan. 12 to Jan. 13, 2008.

Memories and Condolences
for Philip Needles

10 Entries

barbara larsen

January 31, 2008

Dear Elva,

We were so sorry to hear of Phil's passing. He was the reason that we joined St. John's. You and your family are in our prayers.

Barbara & Larry Larsen

Penny Jones Selle

January 15, 2008

Dear Elva,

I have such fond memories of you and Phil from the St. John's era. I was so proud the day he asked me to come on staff and work with the youth and young adults, and loved house sitting for you at the big ante-bellum homestead, with the invisible cat. Please know you are in my thoughts and prayers. Much love your way in this difficult time.

Ron Lotz

January 15, 2008

Elva,
We were sorry to hear of Phil's passing, and regret not being able to attend his service. You and Phil were an important part of our dealer friends at the many shows we attended over the years. I miss our lively political discussions, but know he will be watching over me this next year. We think of the good times as we should and will miss him.
Ron and Charlene Lotz

January 15, 2008

Elva:
Please accept our deepest Sympathy.
You are in our thoughts and prayers
at this time.
Love,
Your former P.E.O. Sister's
Chapter L, Maryville Mo. 64468

pat rutherford

January 14, 2008

Reverend Needles will never be forgotten by me. For 2 years he administered to Paul before his death in 1993. Such a kind and gentle soul. You are in my prayers and he will be greatly missed.

Susan Belger Angulo

January 14, 2008

Elva,
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Phil was an wonderful man.

Marge Ballew

January 14, 2008

With sympathy in the death of Phil Needles, former pastor here at First United Methodist in Warrensburg. Phil was an important part of my early faith development, especially sponosoring me at Cursillo MUMC#1. His encouragement and gentle nudges caused me to grow in my spirituality. Our church was blessed to have him as pastor.

James A. Steen

January 13, 2008

James A Steen

Eldon & Pat Steen

January 13, 2008

Rev. Needles has always been close in our hearts. He is one of the best ministers we've had & we appreciated his good teachings and
guidance. Our love is with you Elva & your family.

Phil and Warren on our wedding day - August 22, 1964

Evelyn & Warren Steen

January 13, 2008

Phil meant more to us than we can say. He was our friend and advisor when we were teenagers...He performed our wedding ceremony nearly 44 years ago...He christened our two children and our first grandchild. Phil and Elva have always been dear to us. We are grateful to have known him and feel confident that he is with the Lord and free of pain. Elva, you have been so strong. Please know we love you.
Warren & Evelyn

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