Martha Clare Breckenridge

Martha Clare Breckenridge, 85, of Overland Park, KS, passed away peacefully on Friday, May 15, 2026. She was born in Jefferson City, MO on January 16, 1941, as the daughter of Horace Bowman and Virgina (Hamilton) McKittrick. Martha graduated from Jefferson City High School in 1959 and went on to attend Central Missouri State University.

On July 17, 1965, Martha married the love of her life, Robert “Bob” Jerald Breckenridge in Kansas City, MO. Together, they built a life rooted in devotion, partnership, and enduring love.

Martha and Bob were blessed with two sons: Bruce Breckenridge, married to Tina Anderson, and Bill Breckenridge, married to Laura Murphy. After raising her two boys, Martha became a devoted preschool teacher at Rolling Hills Presbyterian Church, where she enjoyed great friendships and cared for young children as if they were her own.

Along with her husband, Bob, Martha was a member of The Church of the Resurrection. She appreciated the inspiration the church provided and was proud of her affiliation.

Her family was her greatest pride, and she took immense joy in each generation. She was a loving grandmother to seven grandchildren. Bruce and Tina’s children are Taylor McCallum (30), who is married to Mark; Abigail (28); Megan (26); and Anna Rose (24). Bill and Laura’s children are Hannah Diesel (27), who is married to Sean; Henry (25), married to Elle; and Nicholas (21). Martha was also blessed to become a great-grandmother last year. Taylor and Mark welcomed their son, Cooper, who brought her immense joy and represented the continuation of the family she cherished so deeply.

Martha loved her family more than anything and especially delighted in spoiling her grandchildren. She took great joy in outfitting her entire family, always ensuring everyone looked their best. Martha enjoyed hosting her children and grandchildren during summers at the Lake of the Ozarks, a place where she had fond memories from her own childhood. Going to the lake was a Breckenridge tradition.

Martha took much pride in her home of 50 years on Wedd Drive in Overland Park, KS. She had a talent for creating inviting spaces full of charm and comfort. She maintained an immaculate yard and loved tending to her impatients, roses and hostas during the summer.

She will be remembered as loyal, fierce, and determined - a woman who stood firmly by those she loved. She had many dear friendships and was a deeply loyal friend, nurturing lasting bonds with many acts of generosity. Martha was genuinely interested in the lives of others and had a remarkable gift for conversation and had a great capacity for remembering the details that mattered most to people. She never forgot a name, a birthday, or a special event, and these thoughtful gestures made those around her feel truly cherished.

As a little lady, she had a lot of physical strength. She loved to walk with friends and always maintained a healthy lifestyle, embracing activity and personal connections throughout her life. She had many “walking partners” throughout her life combining her love of activity and conversation.

Martha’s favorite color was yellow for the positive energy it represented. She loved walking on sunny days and cherished simple moments, often singing “You Are My Sunshine” to her grandchildren, an important memory for them.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Horace and Virginia McKittrick, and her twin brother, William “Bill” McKittrick.

She is lovingly remembered by her husband, Robert Jerald Breckenridge of Overland Park, KS; her sons, Bruce (Tina) of Leawood, KS and Bill (Laura) of Leawood, KS; her seven grandchildren; her great-grandson Cooper; her many cherished friends; and all who had the privilege of knowing her

At a date yet to be determined, the family will hold a private Celebration of Life.

Martha Clare Breckenridge was a truly genuine person. She was unique and true to herself. She had a zest for life and determination to live life to its fullest. Her loved ones are inspired by her energy and grit.