obituaries

The multi-genre vocalist and musician was known for her expansive vocal range, and was a longtime presence in the Kansas City music scene. Keller performed with the Grammy Award-winning Kansas City Chorale, the Kansas City Civic Opera, newEar and The James Ward Band.

Family said movies weren't the draw for “Wes” Neal, the longtime owner of the Boulevard Drive-In Theatre. He connected with the drive-in's attendees, who have left hundreds of comments sharing memories after an announcement of his passing.

The longtime activist and community leader spent his life fighting to improve the lives of Mexican American residents in the Westside neighborhood, and was a force of nature who “transformed the community at the sociopolitical, cultural and educational levels.”

Herzog led the Royals to their first ever playoff appearances and three straight American League West titles. In St. Louis, the Hall of Fame manager launched the Cardinals to a World Series championship.

Reyes trabajó en muchas organizaciones comunitarias de Kansas City y se dedicó a cerrar la brecha entre los residentes hispanohablantes y anglosajones. Sus hijos se dedican a continuar su legado.

Reyes served in many Kansas City community organizations and was dedicated to bridging the gap between its Spanish- and English-speaking residents. Her children are dedicated to continuing her legacy.

Sister Berta Sailer, one of Kansas City's greatest advocates for disadvantaged chidlren, died last week at 87. In the 1960s, she opened an at-home day care that eventually grew to become Operation Breakthrough. Plus: A rural Missouri school district is one of the first in the U.S. to receive electric buses from a new EPA program.

Tyler joined the local arts scene more than 20 years ago, and worked to form links between artists and the organizations supporting them. The Kansas City arts community he helped build is now mourning his death.

Taylor remains one of the franchise's most captivating offensive players. After his career as a player ended, Taylor made Kansas City his permanent home.

McBeth, who died Wednesday at age 70, was known for her captivating stage presence and deep, commanding voice. She was a mentor and role model for younger generations of Black women coming up in the Kansas City jazz scene.

Ida McBeth started her career as a teenager singing at the Playboy Club in downtown Kansas City. She went on to earn mayoral proclamations and a lifetime achievement award from the American Jazz Museum.

Former Chiefs' head coach Marty Schottenheimer died earlier this week, but his legacy lives on in the players he coached.