Matha Marie Parton

Matha Marie Parton, born December 4, 1943, in Ottumwa, Iowa to Leonard, Sr. and Velma McKim Elliott, passed away on November 22, 2023, after a brief battle with heart and COPD issues. She was a beloved sister to L. Clark Elliott and Gerald Dean Elliott and a proud graduate of Ottumwa High School, Class of 1962.

Matha had a successful career in accounting at PAR-A-Graphics, North Kansas City, Missouri. She was married to John Harward and later to Ivan Parton. She was a loving mother to Kevin J. Harward, Jeffrey L. Harward, Timothy M. Harward, and Katherine J. Harward. The loss of three of her children deeply affected her, yet she showed remarkable resilience, continuing to live her life with grace and joy.

Matha leaves behind her husband, Ivan; a son, Timothy M. Harward; her BONUS children, Eugenia (Tim) Jeffery, Tim Parton and Melanie (Harold) Penniston and several grandchildren.

Matha had a passion for music and dancing, often traveling with Ivan to share their love for music. She was an active member of the Senior Dance group in Kearney, Missouri and HABOT (Heart of America Bluegrass and Old Time). She was also an active member of the Kearney Christian Church.

Her hobbies included crocheting, watching football (GO CHIEFS!), and spending time with friends and family.

A memorial service will be held on Friday, December 1, 2023, at Newcomer's White Chapel Funeral Home, (6600 NE Antioch Rd, Gladstone Missouri 64119). The service will begin at 10 AM, followed by visitation from 10:30 - 11:30 AM.

Matha's spirit, resilience, and love for life will be remembered and cherished by all who knew her. Her legacy will continue to live on in the hearts of her loved ones.