Charlotte Lee Thomas

Charlotte Lee Thomas, 92 of Kansas City, Missouri, passed away on June 22, 2026. Born on May 13, 1934, Charlotte was the daughter of Milton and Florence (Oliver) Long and the youngest of their two children. She grew up on a farm in Grand Pass, Missouri, graduating from high school in 1952 before beginning clerical work at the local MFA.

Charlotte’s working life reflected both steady determination and a gift for connecting with people. After part-time work with several women’s clothing retailers, she took a bold step in 1977 and purchased her own shop, Elegant Alley at Antioch Shopping Center. She loved her store and had a remarkable talent for sales—an ability made all the more memorable by her straightforward honesty, warm humor, and the generous spirit she brought to every conversation.

On October 31, 1954, Charlotte married Clyde Thomas. Together they welcomed one son, Michael Thomas, and raised him in the North Kansas City area. Charlotte’s devotion to family also shone brightly in the bond she shared with her sister, Virginia—one of her favorite people in the world. The two spent countless hours together, shopping, laughing, and staying involved in their church community, a place where Charlotte’s faithful heart found both purpose and joy.

A lifelong reader, Charlotte enjoyed being part of a book club, always ready with a thoughtful perspective and a grin at just the right moment. She also had a deep love for children and helped raise her next door neighbor’s son, Jacob, who remained a very special part of her life all the way to the end. Their days together were often filled with simple, sweet traditions—especially baking cakes and cupcakes—small acts of care that spoke volumes about the kind of love Charlotte gave so freely.

Charlotte believed in showing up for others. She supported fundraising efforts through groups such as Soroptimist International and PEO for women’s causes, and she was also very active in her church, First United Methodist of North Kansas City. Whether through service, friendship, or a well-timed laugh, Charlotte had a way of lifting the people around her and making community feel like family.

Charlotte was preceded in passing by her parents, her husband, and her sister, Virginia Smith. Charlotte is survived by her son, Michael, and his wife, Wendy; her niece, Debbie, and the Miller family.

The family would like to thank the staff and community at McCrite Plaza for their love, care, and friendship.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made to the Special Olympics program in her honor.

A visitation will be held at McGilley Antioch Chapel, 3325 Northeast Vivion Road, Kansas City, MO 64119, on June 29, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m., followed by the Funeral Service at 11:00 a.m. The Committal Service will take place in Waverly Cemetery, 118 W Pine St, Waverly, MO 64096, on June 29, 2026, at 1:30 p.m.