Geraldine Sykes

Geraldine Sykes - age 90 of Independence, Missouri passed away Friday afternoon, September 27, 2024, at Centerpoint Medical Center in Independence, Missouri. Geraldine was born on December 8th, 1933, in Jamesport, MO to Elmer and Dora (Dryer) Stretch, where she was one of seven daughters.  She graduated from Gallatin High School in 1951. She married Edwin Letellier on August 2nd, 1953, and they were married for sixteen years.  They had one daughter, Connie, in 1954.  Geraldine married John Sykes on July 27, 1972, and they remained married until his passing in 1990.  Geraldine worked for Business Men’s Assurance for 25 years before retiring and moving to Mulberry, Arkansas for many years before returning to Independence, MO where she worked for the Independence School District.  She later reconnected with her high school sweetheart, Edwin Colwell and they enjoyed each other’s company for over 20 years.

Geraldine was preceded in death by her parents; husband, John; sisters, Helen, Doris, Bonnie, Hope and Peggy and one granddaughter, Breeona Gilbert.  Survivors include her daughter Connie (Lee) Mills of Independence, MO; stepson, Mike (Nancy) Sykes of Lee’s Summit, MO; sister, Vivian Jones of Lawson, MO; grandchildren, Lisa Mills of Blue Springs, MO, Brian (Heather) Mills of Lee’s Summit, MO, Joshua Mills and Erica Hahn of Independence, MO and Kevin Sykes of Kansas City, MO; 15 great-grandchildren also survive.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are suggested to Old Scotland Cemetery in care of the funeral home. Graveside services will be held at 3 PM, Thursday, October 3rd, 2024, at Old Scotland Cemetery, near Jameson, MO. There is no scheduled visitation. Arrangements entrusted to the care and direction of Stith Funeral Home in Gallatin. (660) 663-2117. Online guestbook at www.stithfamilyfunerals.com

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