Clyda Stark

In 1945, she met and married the love of her life, James Thomas Stark, at church camp. Together, they shared 71 years of marriage.

Clyda began her career teaching in a one-room schoolhouse in Turney, Missouri, where she taught all twelve grades. After raising her children, she went to work as a switchboard operator for the Morrison & Hecker law firm before retiring in April 1986 to devote herself to being a full-time grandmother—a role she cherished deeply.

She enjoyed crocheting, reading, and working puzzles, and always kept her Bible close for prayer and devotion. Above all, Clyda loved her family and friends and found joy in serving and helping others wherever she could.

She was preceded in death by her husband (James), her parents, Clyde and Beulah (Moody) Christopher, and her sisters, Zola Mae Vanderau and Lois Sumpter.

Clyda is survived by her children: Gregory Thomas Stark (Jean) of Bolivar, MO, Gloria Dianne Geist (John) of Kansas City, MO

Grandchildren Amy Stark Uchtman (Brandon) of Fordland, MO, Lisa Dianne Green (Jason) of Bentonville, AR, Tina Grauerholz (Zach) of Olathe, KS, Trisha Miller (Jerome) of Zumbrota, MN, James Geist (Megan) of Liberty, MO, Jonathan Geist (Brandy) of Kansas City, MO and 18 great grandchildren.