Mary Joyce O'Connor

Dece worked at Norm’s Zesto Burgers at age 14 like most of the neighborhood kids. She married Ronnie Thomas and had two beautiful children. She then married Rick Beery and had 3 more beautiful children. She worked at Legg’s Florist from 1978-1998. “Best job ever!” After retiring, she became a fence builder for 11 years and built and painted many, many miles of fence. Dece moved to Florida with her daughter, Lichell, in 2006 and was a private duty care giver until she officially retired and was a stay-at-home Grammy. Dece was an active member of the Port Charlotte Florida American Legion, Post 110. She had a passion for volunteering and supporting our veterans.

Dece attended Our Lady of Perpetual Help, K-9th Grade, Loretto Academy, Bishop O’Hara High School, and De La Salle High School (where she was the first female graduate).

Dece is preceded in death by her parents Paul and June Smith, brother David Smith, nephew Kyle Smith and cousins Carol Sweeney and Rob Sweeney.

She is survived by her 5 Children – Patti (Rick) Gonzales, Fred (Rebecca) Thomas, Lichell (Victor) Canales, Rick (Lauren) Beery, Raymond (Tara) Beery; 16 Grandchildren – Ricky (Caroline), Andrew (Kylie) and Raiden; Dyllian, Drake, Derric, Brooke, Gracie Mae and Leland; Lola, Layla and Dominic; Jaidyn and Julian; and Lane and Rayce; 4 Great Grandchildren – Scarlett, Hazel, River, Drayton, and 1 on the way. 7 Brothers and Sisters – Terry (Rich) Carroll, Donna (Jim, dec) Crahan, Paul (MaryAnn) Smith, Mark (Jean) Smith, Cis (John) Thum, Joannie (Richard) Ackland, Judy (Bruce, dec) Larsen; and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Dece suggested any contributions be made to the American Legion for our veterans in need, who have made our Country!

The visitation will start at 12:00 pm followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 1:00pm on September 29th at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Church (Redemptorist), 3333 Broadway Boulevard, Kansas City, MO 64111. Burial will be October 24th, with her brother David, at Calvary Cemetery, 6901 Troost Avenue, Kansas City, MO 64131.