Obituary published on Legacy.com by Watkins Heritage Chapel - Kansas City on Oct. 1, 2025.
Herman Wallace Lovett was born on January 25, 1940, to Ozell Grissom and Herman Lovett in
Kansas City, Missouri.
A well-educated and driven gentleman, Wallace began his schooling at St. Monica's grade school and attended high school at De La Salle Military Academy from 1954-1958. His commitment to learning continued throughout his life, earning his Bachelor's degree from Rockhurst University, graduating class of 1984; and his Master's of Science in Business Administration & Management from Central Michigan University, graduating class of 1990.
Wallace bravely and proudly served his country in the United States Air Force from 1958-1962, including his service during the Cuban Missile Crisis.
On June 13, 1959, he married Annie Marie Hill. From this union came his cherished daughter, Burnetta.
Wallace was a dedicated manager at Amoco Oil Company for 23 years, retiring in May 1991. In August of 1991 he accepted a position as an Academic Advisor at Webster University and served there until he retired in 2014.
He was known for his love of bright, bold coordinated fashion and Wallace always dressed to impress, matching from head to toe.
He also loved sports and was a life-long devoted Kansas City Chiefs fan. For 35 years, he hosted and watched football with his favorite nephew Jason, making it a treasured family tradition. In recent years, the game day tradition moved to his daughter and son-in-law's home and expanded to include his grandchildren and great-grandchildren where spending time with family and cheering for the Chiefs still remained the highlight of his week.
A beloved husband, father, brother and uncle, Wallace peacefully passed away August 6, 2025, at the Kansas City Hospice House.
He was preceded in death by his mother, Ozell Johnson. His love for his mother was unmeasurable. There will always be fond memories of them dancing to their favorite blues song.
He also is preceded in death by his brother Calvin Lovett, his "Big Mama" and his uncle Joe, with whom he shares the same day of passing - August 6th (1991).
He leaves to treasure loving memories, his wife Annie Lovett, daughter Burnetta Burtin (Eric); grandchildren: Lynnette Williams (Lex), Maya Burtin, Telitra Burtin-Johnson (Josh), Eric Tyrice Burtin (Julie); and four great-grandchildren: Avery Williams, Landon Williams, Tessa Burtin, Micah Burtin. Siblings: Darlene Johnson, Charles Smith, Larry Johnson (Jeanette), Eileen Johnson, Deborah Kelly (William). A special niece Tamika Nelson, along with a host of nieces, nephews, extended family, and countless friends who loved him like family.
Wallace's legacy will be remembered for his love & laughter of family gatherings, the cheers on game day, his generosity, his sharp style, and his joy for life. He will truly be missed but never forgotten.
Funeral Services will be held Saturday August 16, 2025 10:00 am at St. Monica Catholic Church. Interment Forest Hill Cemetery. Visitation 9:00am-10:00am at the church. Arrangement entrusted to Watkins Heritage Chapel. Condolences may be shared on our website.
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