Fonda Rae Shipp

Born and raised in Kansas City, Kansas, Fonda lived a life centered around family, friendship, and joy. She shared 50 beautiful years with her devoted husband, Steve Shipp, and was the proud and loving mom to Tara Shipp (spouse Danna Gilbert) and Kelsie Bice. Her role as “Grandma” to Ashton, Shea, Kaiden, Addi, and Jasmine was the one she cherished most—her grandkids were truly the light of her life. She is also survived by her sister, Carole Naylor, and sister-in-law Judy Welch, along with many dear friends she considered family.

Fonda was preceded in death by her mother Dessie Winfrey, father Robert Teters, stepfather Joe Winfrey, and brother-in-law Ray Naylor.

Fonda worked a few jobs prior to having children, then chose to stay home to raise her daughters. While at home, she was also a top selling Avon representative, proudly delivering products and visiting with neighbors and friends. She later worked for Kenton Brothers, where she eventually retired. She approached every job and every person she met with kindness and care.

In her younger years, she loved volleyball and skiing, and as the years went on, she found joy in traveling with Steve and friends, taking memorable trips to Cancun and enjoying multiple cruises. She also enjoyed going on motorcycle rides with Steve, cherishing the freedom and adventure of the open road. She was an avid Words With Friends player, forming genuine friendships with people all over the world through the game.

Fonda had a special gift for making gatherings warm and memorable, and she especially loved hosting Christmas and Thanksgiving celebrations for her family. She also had a passion for decorating her home for Christmas, creating a festive and welcoming atmosphere that brought joy to everyone who visited.

She was known for her kindness, her loyalty, and her gift for making people feel special. She was a wonderful wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend—and she will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.

A Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, August 23, at 2:00 PM at Chapel Hill – Butler Funeral Home, 701 N. 94th St., Kansas City, Kansas 66112.