Mary Frances Alkire

Mary Frances Alkire, 64, of Sedalia, MO, passed away peacefully on Saturday, November 2, 2024, in Sedalia. She was born on August 24, 1960, in Leavenworth, KS, to Irvin Fredrick Thompson and Margaret A. (Welch) Thompson, who both preceded her in death.

On April 6, 2019, Mary was united in marriage to Billy Ray Alkire, who survives her at their home in Sedalia.

Mary graduated from Leavenworth High School in 1979. She went on to earn her certification as a Medical Technician and spent many years providing compassionate care as an in-home healthcare provider. Mary's nurturing spirit extended beyond her professional life-she had a deep love for her family and cherished the time spent with her children and grandchildren.

A talented seamstress, cook, and outdoors enthusiast, Mary enjoyed many simple pleasures, especially fishing with her husband, Ray. Her Native American heritage was a source of great pride, and she loved visiting Oklahoma to see the buffalo and attend Indian Pow-Wows. Above all, she treasured her family and the memories they created together.

Mary is survived by her loving husband, Billy Ray Alkire, and six children: Justin Taber (Cristina) of Pensacola, FL; Angie Brusca (Scott) of Sedalia, MO; Shaun Taber (Melissa) of Smithton, MO; Samuel Taber of Sedalia, MO; Brandon Alkire of Pawhuska, OK; and Jeffrey Alkire (Tina) of Denton, NC. She also leaves behind nine grandchildren: Cameron, Aiden, Lizbeth, Cristina, Ashton, Devon, Christopher, Cailey, and Alanah; as well as four great-grandchildren: Paislee, Raelyne, Zayne, and Willow Alkire.

Mary is also survived by two brothers, Gary Thompson and Larry Thompson, both of Leavenworth, KS; two sisters, Ellen Dotson (Jerry) of Leavenworth, KS, and Barbara Vandergriff (Eric) of Chalmette, LA; along with numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and extended family members.

In addition to her parents, Mary was preceded in death by her brother, James Thompson, and her maternal grandparents, Mary and Frank Welch.

A service to celebrate Mary's life will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, November 8, 2024, at Rea Funeral Chapel, with Pastor Rusty Thomas officiating.

The family will receive visitors from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Thursday, November 7, 2024, at the funeral chapel.

Burial will follow the service at Crown Hill Cemetery in Sedalia, MO.

Serving as pallbearers will be Shaun Taber, Justin Taber, Samuel Taber, Cameron Taber, Aiden Taber, and Scott Gier.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society in care of Rea Funeral Chapel.