Vicki Maness

Vicki Maness, age 63, of Jefferson City, Mo., passed away Tuesday, December 23, 2025 at her home.
She was born on July 23, 1962, in Jefferson City, the daughter of Donovan Victor and Juanita "Ruth" (Surface) Engelage.
Vicki attended Jefferson City High School before continuing her education at Nichols Career Center, where she earned her LPN. Nursing wasn't just a career for Vicki, it was something she seemed born to do. She worked for the Missouri Department of Corrections as a nurse at Church Farm Prison and Tipton Correctional Center, later serving at the Harry S. Truman Veterans Hospital in Columbia, Missouri, and eventually transferring to the Veterans Hospital clinic extension in Jefferson City. No matter the setting, Vicki naturally stepped into the role of caretaker, offering steady compassion, competence, and care to everyone who crossed her path.
At home, her caregiving instincts didn't clock out. Lovingly (and accurately) described by her family as a "crazy cat lady," Vicki had a heart for animals, especially cats. Her home was well known among neighborhood cats and even a particularly savvy local raccoon as a place where a delicious meal and warm place to sleep were always available. She even made a bed outside specifically for stray cats.
Vicki adored children and had a wonderfully silly sense of humor, earning her the cherished title of "everyone's favorite aunt." She had an eclectic and curious mind, reflected in her love of art, particularly Salvador Dalí and M.C. Escher. With her unmistakably witchy vibe, it's no surprise that Stevie Nicks was her favorite artist. She also loved a good mystery novel or crime show, always ready to dive into a puzzling plot.
Vicki will be remembered as loving, kind, giving, caring, quirky, and unapologetically herself. She took care of anyone who needed a little extra love, humans and felines alike. Her humor, warmth, and unique spirit will be deeply missed by all who knew her.
Survivors include: her son, Brent Maness of Jefferson City, Mo.; two siblings, Gary Engelage and Sharon Hibdon (John) all of Jefferson City, Mo.; three grandchildren, Geneveve Maness, Sophia Steinbeck, and Rozlyn Maness; two great grandchildren, Jasper and Alice; one niece, Sara Hibdon (Jesse); one nephew, Matt Hibdon (Maryna); and numerous great nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents.
Private services will be held for the family.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are suggested to the Friends of the Jefferson City Animal Shelter, PO Box 105932, Jefferson City, MO 65110.
Funeral arrangements are under the care of Freeman Mortuary.