Elizabeth A McClure

Elizabeth Ann McClure (Liz) of Independence, MO died peacefully at home on Wednesday September 7, 2026 after a 4 year battle with ovarian cancer. She was the oldest child of Eugene and Amelia Hill born March 28, 1951. Elizabeth attended St. Ann’s Grade School and graduated from St. Mary’s High School in 1969. After graduation she attended the Conservatory of Music at UMKC and graduated in 1973 with a Music Education Degree.

Music was always a large part of her life and brought her much joy. She performed with the USO in 16 countries as a member of the UMKC Swinging Choraliers and Accordionaires. After college she joined the Classmen a local band and did two more USO tours. Her proudest moment was when she and her son Todd, played together in the Multiple Piano Festival at the RLDS Auditorium.

On October 21, 1977, she married Gary A. McClure and they enjoyed a wonderful marriage lasting 2 weeks shy of 49 years. In October 1980 they welcomed their only child Todd A. McClure.

Liz was active in her community. From 1973 – 1980 she worked at the Independence Chamber of Commerce as the festival coordinator for Santa-Cali-Gon. From 1983-1990 she was secretary to Mayor Barbara Potts and later worked for former mayor Dick King in his law office. After 26 years, from 1994 until her retirement in 2020 she enjoyed a successful career as program and donor relations officer for the Truman Heartland Community Foundation (THCF) and helped develop the annual banquet that recognizes individuals and businesses for their philanthropic endeavors. She truly enjoyed this position the most as she was able to see how philanthropy could help others.

She was a dedicated 30 year member of the Independence Junior Service League and developed lifelong friendships with members. She also served on the boards of Music/Arts Institute and Drumm Farm Center for Children and was appointed by the Mayor of Independence to serve on the Health Forward Foundation Community Advisory Board. In 2024 Liz received the Women of Distinction Lifetime Achievement Award for her years of community service. She was a 42 year member at Messiah Lutheran Church where she served on the Alter Guild for many years. In 2023 she and Gary received the Community Services League Legacy Award.

Liz is survived by her husband Gary, son Todd (Ginger) and granddaughter Georgia (who was born on Liz birthday). She also leaves behind her brother Tom (Janice) Hill and sister Molly (Dennis) Livingston and a host of nieces and nephews.

Donations can be made to the Truman Heartland Community Foundation Unrestricted Grantmaking Fund or Music Arts Institute Scholarship Fund.

Visitation will be held at Messiah Lutheran Church, 613 S Main St, Independence, MO 64050, US, on October 17, 2026, from 1:00 pm to 2:00 pm.

A Funeral Service will be held at Messiah Lutheran Church, 613 S Main St, Independence, MO 64050, US, on October 17, 2026, from 3:00 pm to 4:00 pm.

A family burial will take place at the Corder, MO Cemetery.