Jess "Chuck" Barbosa

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Jess Barbosa, who departed this life on October 15, 2025, at the age of 92. Born on March 26, 1933, Jess grew up on the west side of Kansas City with his five brothers and two sisters.

At just 18 years old, Jess enlisted in the United States Navy, where he served aboard the USS Rochester, a heavy cruiser deployed during the Korean War. From 1951 to 1953, Jess completed two Pacific tours. In his first, he served as a sight setter, providing critical naval gunfire support to troops ashore. On his second tour, he took on the role of ship's cook, a position that would unexpectedly spark a lifelong passion and career in the culinary arts.

After returning home, Jess brought his discipline, attention to detail, and love of service into the kitchen. He would go on to become a cornerstone of Kansas City’s culinary community. As a founding member of the Greater Kansas City Chefs Association (GKCCA), Jess was not only a respected chef, but a mentor, leader, and advocate for culinary education.

He was honored with the American Academy of Chefs (AAC) Lifetime Achievement Award, recognizing his decades of dedication to the craft and his commitment to raising the standards of the profession. His legacy continues through the Jess Barbosa Memorial Scholarship, which supports aspiring culinary students — a testament to his belief in nurturing the next generation.

Jess was known for his quiet strength, his generosity, and the care he showed both in and out of the kitchen. Whether guiding young chefs, cooking for community events, or supporting fellow veterans, Jess embodied humility, service, and excellence in everything he did.

Jess is survived by his wife of 68 years, Virginia Barbosa (Castro), daughter Vicki, son Charles, five grandchildren David, Geoffrey, Joseph, Ashtyn, Jacob and three great grandchildren. He will be dearly missed by his family, his many culinary colleagues, students, and friends across the region.

A visitation will be held at White Chapel Funeral Home, located at 6600 NE Antioch Rd, Gladstone, MO 64119, on October 23, 2025, from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm.

The Mass of Christian Burial will take place at St. Andrew the Apostle Parish, located at 6415 NE Antioch Rd, Gladstone, MO 64119, on October 24, 2025, from 10:30 am to 11:30 am.

The committal service will follow at Newcomer's White Chapel Funeral Home & White Chapel Cemetery, also at 6600 NE Antioch Rd, Gladstone, MO 64119, on October 24, 2025, from 11:30 am to 12:00 pm.

Fair winds and following seas, Jess. Your legacy lives on in every life you touched and every kitchen you helped shape.