Roberta "Jeannie" Taylor, 82, passed away on February 17, 2025, in Lenexa, Kansas.  Born Roberta Jeane Shutt on December 21, 1942, in Kansas City, Kansas, she lived a life marked by warmth, humor and an unwavering love for connecting with others.

Jeannie never met a stranger.  Whether in an elevator, at the grocery store or sitting around a campfire, she could strike up a conversation with anyone.  She loved hearing people's stories and learning about their family.  Her sense of humor was ever-present.  She often used humor to lighten up even the most serious of moments.  

Jeannie's passions included cooking and camping. She was known for preparing large meals that exceeded what the gathering required. Even while camping, she loved to create meals using whatever cooking methods were available. Her children especially remember the cookies she baked for every trip. They were so delicious that they rarely lasted through the weekend.

Jeannie graduated from Shawnee Mission North High School in 1960 where she participated in clubs for typing and shorthand.  These skills led her to obtain a variety of secretarial jobs.  After several years, Jeannie decided to switch to in-home day-care and lovingly worked at this job for a number of years.  Her two oldest grandchildren are among the many children who passed through her care.  During this time she also became a Tupperware salesperson.  Jeannie was so successful that she earned the reward of a minivan. Her family calls this era the "Tupperware years" as she frequently gave the latest, greatest Tupperware piece as gifts.  

Jeannie lived in the Kansas City area for most of her life except for 14 years when she lived in the Eagle Rock, Missouri area.  Along with husband Tom and son Chris, they moved to be closer to Roaring River State Park, where they had spent many years camping.  They were truly happy in the community and enjoyed its vast beauty.  Sadly, both Tom and Chris passed away within a few years of moving.  Although these were the darkest days of her life, Jeannie decided to remain in Eagle Rock and eventually opened Jeannie's Cafe in Cassville, Missouri, in the summer of 2000. Jeannie had worked for two years as a waitress under the previous owners and loved her connection with its customers.  When the restaurant was being sold, she decided to buy it so she could maintain those relationships.  She could often be found visiting with the many regulars who frequented the restaurant. 

In 2008, Jeannie moved back to the Kansas City area where she lived the rest of her life.  She resided in an independent living community in Olathe for over 10 years, actively taking on the role of president of the resident's association.  She was very involved in planning numerous events to bring the residents together for fellowship and fun and she loved being in the middle of the action. 

In recent years, Jeannie found happiness and companionship within the communities of Vintage Park and Westchester Village, both located in Lenexa.  The friendships she formed there brought her comfort and a sense of belonging during the final chapter of her life.  Her family is deeply grateful to all who welcomed Jeannie into their lives with kindness, love and support.  

Though cancer brought many challenges in her later years, Jeannie remained resilient.  Her love for family and friends never wavered, and she continued to find joy in their company until the end.  

Family was at the heart of Jeannie's world. She is lovingly remembered by her daughter, Connie Batchelder and husband Dave; her son, Ron Buxton and wife Kim; her grandchildren Robert and Garrett Buxton (Garrett's wife Dani), Christie Batchelder Ihnen (husband Josh), and Kyle Batchelder (girlfriend Megan Snyder); and her great-grandchildren Aspen and Archer and one great-grandchild on the way. She was preceded in death by her son, Chris Brewster and her husband, Tom Brewster

She will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.  The family will be hosting a Celebration of Life service and picnic in May.  If you are interested in attending, please reach out to the family for further information.

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