Leona McMillen, whose infectious smile brightened everyone who came to see her, passed away peacefully with her family on January 4, 2024. Though she is gone, her spirit lives on in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.

Leona was born December 20, 1931, in Galena Missouri where she lived until age 12. Then the family moved to Greenfield, Missouri, where her parents owned and operated the Hotel and Restaurant. Leona often told tales of eating a slice of pie for breakfast, made fresh by the restaurant’s cook. Leona was the seventh of seven children. She learned the importance of hard work and family early on, values that would carry her through life's many challenges. After graduating from Greenfield High School in 1949, Leona moved to Kansas City with her parents. Later in life she worked for AT&T, eventually relocating to Atlanta to fulfill her dream of retirement so she could return to Missouri and spend more time with family.

Family. Leona’s heart belonged to her family. Her daughters, Pam, Susan and Marly, and her grandchildren were her greatest joys. Leona loved hosting family dinners, her kitchen a symphony of warm smells as she created each dish from scratch.

Sports. From cheering on the Royals, the University of Missouri Tigers, the KC Chiefs, to college basketball, Leona found great joy watching sports. And she enjoyed even more sharing these moments with her loved ones. She would even watch tennis matches with her daughter, Marly. Leona shared many fond memories watching Chiefs games with family — giving grins and high fives when they scored a touchdown. She would call Marly to remind her to watch the MU Football game coming on at 1 pm. And she always had to have the printout of the March Madness bracket so she could follow along.

Strength. Leona's strength extended beyond family. She faced many difficulties with unwavering determination, her faith in God a guiding light even in the darkest moments. Often found reading the Bible or devotional books, Leona's spirit touched all who knew her with its grace and compassion.

Even in the last year and a half, residing at Beehive Homes of Grain Valley, Leona's kindness and sweet smile shone through. The staff loved her gentle nature and playful giggles, memories Susan and Marly will cherish forever.

Leona was more than just a sister, aunt, mother and grandmother (including great and great great grandchildren). She was a pillar of strength, a beacon of faith, and a source of boundless love. She leaves behind a legacy of laughter, resilience, and unwavering devotion to her family and her faith. While she will be deeply missed, her memory will continue to inspire and comfort those who knew and loved her.

Leona was preceded in death by her son, Alan Ray McMillen; her sisters Ruth Hyde Barnes, Frances Hyde Whited (Harry), and Mary Hyde Crimm (Willard); and brothers Tom Hyde (Grace), Phil Hyde (Maxine), and George Hyde.

Leona is survived by her daughters Susan Madsen and husband Mark Madsen, Marly McMillen Beelman and husband Shawn Beelman, and Pam McMillen Hogan; Grandchildren, Angela Parker, Eric Davis, Jamie Hogan, Anna Hogan, Laura Hogan, John Powell, Russell Powell, Philip Powell, and Adee Dancy; Great Grandchildren, Mahayla Lane, Maria Powell, Marissa Parker, Christopher Parker, NiYa Davis, Zaire Davis, DaKota Powell, Gracie Powell, Liam McIntyre, and Ryden McIntyre Powell. Great great grandchildren: Brandt McGlaughlin, and Addicus Lane; sister-in-law Betty Hyde. And many beloved nieces and nephews.

A memorial service will be held at the First Baptist Church of Buckner, Missouri, 131 S Hudson Street, Buckner, MO on Saturday January 13, 2024. A visitation will occur from 10 - 11 am, followed by a service at 11.

Memorial donations in honor of Leona can be made to the Alzheimers Research Association. If you’d like, you can notify the family of donations by indicating Marly McMillen, 4016 NE Woodridge Drive, Lee’s Summit, MO 64064 on the online form.

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