Gaye McMichael

Verla “Gaye” McMichael, age 82, passed peacefully on November 30, 2025, surrounded by the love and presence of her family and dear friends. Her life was one with grace, generosity, and unwavering devotion to those she cherished most.

Gaye was born on April 17, 1943, in Springfield, Missouri, to Verl and Norma Nickles. Her early years were touched by loss when her mother passed away when Gaye was just two years old. In time, her father married the loving Bette Janiece, who embraced Gaye and her sister, Patricia, as her own. Gaye was blessed to grow up next door to her paternal grandparents, who played a deeply meaningful role in her upbringing and helped shape the woman she would become.

Her childhood in Springfield was rich with friendships—many of which lasted a lifetime—and it was there she met the love of her life, Jackie Dean McMichael. Gaye and Jack married on October 10, 1959, beginning a partnership marked by loyalty, humor, and deep affection. Their journey soon led them to Kansas City, where Jack began his career with Western Electric and where Gaye, too, built a long and rewarding career. Along the way, she gathered countless friends, drawn effortlessly to her warm heart and joyful spirit.

Gaye and Jack made their home in Grandview, Missouri, where they raised their three beloved children—Greg, Doug, and Julie. Gaye retired in 1996, but retirement did nothing to slow her down. Her most cherished role soon followed: caring for her grandchildren, a job she embraced with delight. She also worked part-time at the Jones Store and later in the bakery at Sam’s Club, where her kindness and easy smile made every shift brighter.

Family was the center of Gaye’s world. She found joy in the simple and meaningful moments—cooking for those she loved, reading, shopping, sharing laughter with friends, and, above all, attending every activity, performance, and milestone her grandchildren celebrated. Her presence was a constant gift in their lives.

A woman of deep faith, Gaye was an active member of Grandview Methodist Church, where she volunteered in various roles and offered her time, energy, and heart whenever needed. She had an extraordinary gift for caring—always ready to help a neighbor, a friend, or even a stranger she met at one of her many garage sales. Her compassion was instinctive, her selflessness sincere, and her kindness endless.

Preceded in death by her parents Verl, Norma and Bette, husband - Jackie Dean McMichael, and son Gregory Dean McMichael

Gaye is survived by her sister Patricia Ellis- son Douglas (Janice), daughter Julie Ardito (Vince), - six grandchildren - Cody(Kelsey), Chase(Jasmyne), Aleigh(Terrence), Delaney(Corey), Grant (Tanna), and Jack - and ten great grandchildren - Mylee, Brynlee, Karlee, Taylee, Dougie, Ellie, August, Kapone, Praisen, and Terrence Jr.

Her legacy will live on in their laughter, their deep connections, and the kindness they share with others.

She will be profoundly missed and forever remembered.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate and honor Gaye’s life on Saturday, December 6, 2025, at Longview Funeral Home, 12700 Raytown Rd., Kansas City, MO 64149. Visitation will be held at 9:00 a.m., the funeral service at 10:00 a.m., and the graveside service at 11:00 a.m.