Lance Maurice Guess

Lance Maurice Guess, affectionately known as “T.D.,” was born on February 3, 1950, in Kansas City, Kansas. He was the fifth of sixteen children born to Dickie Guess Sr. and Margaret (Fort) Guess. He was preceded in death by his parents; his sisters, Bobbie Lavendar and Glenda White; his brothers, Reginald Guess, Dickie Guess Jr., and James Guess; two nephews and one niece; his godmother, lovingly known as “Ms. Juanette”; and his close friend and brother in spirit, Charles “Boomber” Littlejohn.

Lance accepted Christ at an early age and became a devoted member of Mt. Zion Baptist Church in Kansas City, Kansas, under the pastoral leadership of Reverend Dr. C.L. Bachus. He remained a faithful member for more than 60 years. During his time at Mt. Zion, he served diligently on the usher board and was a proud member of Sunday School “Class #5,” where his beloved teachers were Dr. C.L. Bachus and Brother Doug Bolden.

Later in life, Lance transitioned to Memorial Church International under the leadership of Apostle Larry B. and Pastor Olivia Aiken. There, he was appointed as a deacon and continued to serve with dedication, humility, and steadfast faith until his final days.

Lance received his education through the Kansas City, Kansas Public School District, attending several schools throughout his childhood, including Abbott Elementary and later Northwest Middle School. He went on to become a proud Bulldog, graduating from Wyandotte High School with the Class of 1968—fondly recalling the motto, “’68, the year that was great!” Following high school, Lance continued his education at Donnelly Community College.

While at Donnelly Community College, Lance began his career at Hallmark, but shortly afterward he answered the call to serve his country when he was drafted into the United States Army in August 1969. He proudly served until July 1971 as a Radio Teletypewriter Operator. Following his service, Lance returned to Hallmark, where he worked faithfully as a Press Operator for 41 years until his retirement.

A devoted and diligent worker throughout his life, Lance held many jobs even from a young age—cutting yards, working at AT&T Grocery Store, removing snow, and delivering goods to widowed women and single mothers well into his middle years. Lance’s strong work ethic, steady spirit, and unwavering willingness to serve others were hallmarks of the man he was.

Lance met the love of his life, Grace, in 1990 while attending a black rodeo in Oklahoma. From that moment on, the two were inseparable. If you saw Lance, you saw Grace—always side by side, always united. They were well known for their matching outfits, a sweet tradition they carried proudly throughout their entire 35 years together, even up to his final day on earth. Their love was unmistakable, unwavering, and beautifully shared with all who knew them.

Lance’s greatest pride in life was his family. He was the one everyone could depend on—the person so many called in times of need—and he always showed up without hesitation. His love for each person ran deep, and he poured himself into being an exceptional father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend. Whatever he could do to bring joy or comfort to his loved ones, he would do, even if it meant giving his very last. His generosity, reliability, and unwavering devotion defined the man he was.

Lance was a man of many passions and a heart full of love. He enjoyed playing basketball, horseshoes, running, tennis, and football—always finding joy in staying active and surrounded by others. He loved playing cards and dominoes, and for Lance, most people were easy competition; his quick wit and sharp memory made him hard to beat, while his playful spirit made every game unforgettable.

He also had a true gift for cooking—famous for his unforgettable spaghetti, his delicious meatloaf, and for grilling meats seasoned with his signature touch. Lance loved opening his home to others, never asking anyone to bring a thing, only wanting to bless them with a good meal and an even better time.

It became well known that most people would ride past 33rd Street just to see if Lance was home or out on the grill. And sure enough, you’d look up and before long he would have a crowd gathered—neighbors, family, and friends—drawn by his warm spirit, his good food, and the joy he created. He welcomed everyone with open arms, always ready to entertain, to feed, and to make every moment feel like home.

Lance had a genuine passion for travel, delighting in every opportunity to see more of the world. Many of his favorite adventures were shared with a special group of friends he proudly called “The Crew.” Lance was also an extraordinary giver. Every Friday, without fail, he would pick up stacks of Call newspapers and deliver them to family and friends, simply to share and stay connected. Giving came naturally to him, and he embraced every opportunity to pour into the people he loved.

Lance’s life is witnessed, celebrated, cherished, and deeply treasured by his loving family. He leaves to carry on his legacy his devoted wife, Grace Guess, and his three children: sons Lance Guess Sr. and Maurice Guess, and daughter Kiarra Richardson, all of Kansas City, Missouri.

He is lovingly remembered by his five grandchildren—Tyric Guess of Atlanta, Georgia; Lance Guess Jr., Anaya Guess, Aaliyah Guess, and Arrison Garner, all of Kansas City, Missouri—each of whom brought him great joy and pride.

Lance is also survived by five brothers: Nathaniel, Roger D. Sr., Michael Sr. (Yolanda), and Mario (Stephanie), all of Kansas City, Kansas; and Keith O. Sr. of Dallas/Fort Worth, Texas. His five sisters—Saundra K. Guess and Wanda S. Davis (Jerry), both of Kansas City, Kansas; Rita N. Thomas (Frederick) of Overland Park, Kansas; Pamela V. Guess of Lake St. Louis, Missouri; and Michelle Fernandez (Gil) of Kansas City, Missouri.

He is further remembered by his last living aunt, Ollie V. Fort of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, along with his two God-children, Lance Lavendar Jr. and Iris Vaughan. He also leaves behind a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and many cherished relatives and friends.