Elizabeth Ann Matthews (Spencer), 84, of Kansas City, Missouri, passed away peacefully at her home surrounded by family on December 17, 2022.
Elizabeth was born on July 29, 1938 in Carthage, Missouri, to Cleo and Valeda Spencer, who both preceded her in death. She was also preceded in death by her sister, Sandra, and her infant daughter, Sherrie. She is survived by her children, Mark Cordell, Kansas City, Missouri, Lari Getzelman (Jonathon) of Carthage, Missouri, and Stephanie McMillen of Columbia, Missouri. She is also survived by two sisters, Barbara of Virginia and Mary (David) of Texas, numerous nieces and nephews, six grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren.
Elizabeth graduated as a Registered Nurse from St. John’s Hospital School of Nursing in 1959. She worked in the Operating Room of Baptist Medical Center until it’s closing in 2006. She also had a great love of working in her gardens, and every year from first thaw to first freeze, she could always be found outside. Her great love of plants led her to graduate with honors from Longview Community College in 2002 with an Associate’s Degree in Botanical Studies. After her retirement from Baptist Medical Center, she used her degree to share her love of plants with others by helping with landscaping designs and care of their gardens.
Elizabeth also had a passion for animals and ensuring their safety and care. In lieu of cards or flowers, the family requests a donation be made to your local chapter of the ASPCA. Services will be held privately at a later date.
