Ardyth Joyce Spry

Our precious momma & “Gram”, Ardyth J. Spry, 84, passed peacefully on Thursday, September 1st at Liberty Hospital. God graciously called her home when no one was watching just as she wished. No fanfare, no weeping – she simply slipped away so as not to bother the nurses or any family member. She didn’t even wait for her daily delivery of LaMar’s donut holes from her favorite (and only) son-in –law, Kelly.

Ardyth was born March 9, 1932 in Kansas City, Missouri and was adopted by Clifton & Myrtle Smith. She proudly claimed that she was chosen over the red-headed boy. During her childhood, she and her parents resided in the Brookside area, but later moved to Independence where they opened a bakery.

After attending William Chrisman High School and later receiving her GED, she married the love of her life, Duane L. Spry on June 4, 1950. He supposedly proposed to her on their first date, but she demanded a few more auditions before accepting the proposal.

The following year she gave birth to Steven Duane Spry. Steve remained an only child until a decision was made to adopt a baby girl instead of buying a boat. On September 3, 1959, Lesa Annette Spry was brought home and welcomed into the fold.

Ardyth considered it a privilege to be a devoted wife, mother and homemaker. Nothing could top that billing until she added the title of grandmother. Her two blessings, Kami & Shea, provided her many years of pure joy. She spent countless hours traveling to and sitting at their sporting events in all kinds of weather. She was their biggest fan & cheerleader. “Gram” also used her talent as a seamstress to sew beautiful dresses with matching hats for her granddaughter’s. Upon request, she could whip up a fun Halloween costume as well.

In a nutshell, Ardyth’s life was exemplified by her huge servant heart. She was always doing for others and not wanting anything in return. Whether it was taking care of family or friends, or even rocking babies in the church nursery, she found deep purpose & satisfaction in serving others.

Ardyth leaves to celebrate her life: Daughter, Lesa (Kelly) Groom of Liberty, Granddaughters Kami Groom of Somerville, MA, and Shea Groom of Liberty, Grand-dogs Kona and Bullet, brother-in-law Daryll (Barbara) Spry, best friend and cousin Nova (Bob) Carleton, fellow nursery workers at Pleasant Valley Baptist Church, and numerous friends and extended family.

She is preceded in death by her parents, her beloved husband of 45 years, Duane and her son Steve.

Visitation will be on Friday, September 9, 2016 at 9 am; Funeral Service at 10 am, at Newcomers Noland Road Chapel located at 509 S. Noland Rd, Independence, MO. Burial to follow at Woodlawn Cemetery at 701 S. Noland Rd.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions to Pleasant Valley Baptist Church (nursery) located in Liberty, Missouri.