Jeanne S. Edwards

Jeanne S. Edwards, 83, of Holts Summit, passed away Wednesday, May 31, 2017, at Villa Marie Skilled Nursing Facility in Jefferson City, surrounded by her children. She was born March 31, 1934, in Garland, Tennessee, a daughter of the late Guy Y. and Ethel M. (Gookin) Smith. She was a 1952 graduate of Munford High School in Munford, Tennessee. On May 25, 1956, Jeanne was united in marriage in Hernando, Mississippi to James L. Edwards, who preceded her in death on February 28, 2005. Jeanne is survived by two sons: Mike Edwards, and wife Susan of Kansas City; Mark Edwards of Holts Summit; one daughter: Missy Bonnot, and husband Keith of Jefferson City; six grandchildren, Drew Edwards, Kara Kliethermes, Cameron Edwards, Connor Edwards, Gabe Marcantonio and Anna Marcantonio. Jeanne was also preceded in death by seven siblings: Ruey Guy Smith, Peggy Cullum, Scottie Smith, Virginia Hoy, Marie Frank, Eugene Sarten, and Murray Sarten. Jeanne's friendly and engaging personality helped her to become the ultimate salesperson. While her children were growing up, she started her own business selling Avon and specialty advertising, something that gave her the flexibility to be home when her children were. Later, when she decided to resume her career, she sold print advertising for the Jefferson City Weekly Shopper. Ultimately, she found her perfect job as "Queen of Sales" for Check Office Equipment, a position she held until her retirement in 1997. Jeanne knew all of her customer's family members and any activities in which they were involved. She was a strong advocate for her customers, and they appreciated the extra effort she gave them. Because of the strong personal connection she had with her many customers, most became good friends away from work. Jeanne was also active in her community. She was a tireless worker who donated many hours to the New Bloomfield Band and Athletic Booster Clubs, the Holts Summit Civic Association, and the Lake MyKee Board of Directors. She also was a charter Board Member of the Summit Bank, and a choir member of the New Bloomfield United Methodist Church. Other than her family, one of Jeanne's biggest passions was playing bridge. Over the years, she organized and participated in numerous bridge clubs in the area and later taught bridge to other residents of Heisinger Bluffs Senior Living Community. Jeanne was an avid reader and lifelong student. After retirement, she wanted to learn more about investments, and was a driving force behind the formation of both The MyKee Investment Club and the Fab Femmes Investment Club. Friends will be received from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Monday, June 5, 2017, at the Houser-Millard Funeral Home. Funeral Services will immediately follow at 1:00 p.m. Monday, June 5, 2017, at the Houser-Millard Funeral Home, with Chaplain Jim Mueller officiating. Interment for the family will be held at Riverview Cemetery at a later date. Expressions of sympathy may be made to the New Bloomfield Band or Athletic Boosters. Arrangements are under the direction of HOUSER-MILLARD Funeral Directors, 2613 West Main Street, Jefferson City, MO 65109. (573) 636-3838. Condolences may be left for the family online at www.millardfamilychapels.com