Alice Elizabeth Terrill, beloved mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother passed away peacefully, surrounded by loved ones on December 7, 2024 at the age of 93. She was preceded in death by her loving husband, Raymond Terrill, who passed away in 2016.
Alice Elizabeth Kirchner was born on October 22, 1931 in her family’s farmhouse in Kahoka, Missouri to Herbert and Louise Kirchner. She was the oldest of four children. Alice graduated from Kahoka High School in 1949 and from Kirksville Cosmetology School in 1951.
Alice and Raymond’s love story started when Alice was 16 years old with a candy dish full of chocolate. They were married on March 23, 1951 and celebrated 65 years of marriage. They were both from Kahoka, Missouri and moved to Kansas City for Raymond’s job in 1964.
Alice's greatest joy was her family. She was a devoted mother to four children, a proud grandmother to 18 grandchildren, and a great-grandmother to 31 great-grandchildren. Known affectionately as “MeeMee,” she was a constant source of love, wisdom, and warmth. Her family meant the world to her, and she found deep fulfillment in the milestones of their lives. Her legacy of love and devotion will live on in each of them.
A dedicated member of Bethel United Church of Christ for 60 years, Alice found spiritual fulfillment and a deep sense of community there. Her faith was a constant guide in her life, and she treasured the friendships she made within her church family. She also spent her time volunteering at Clay County Clothes Closet and cutting hair at the senior center.
Alice was also a successful businesswoman, owning and operating Terrill’s Groceries with Raymond in Kahoka in addition to a beauty salon. Once living in Kansas City, she owned another salon and worked alongside her dear friend Rhoda Vernassie, who was like a daughter to her. Alice gave countless haircuts to friends and family members over the years.
Beyond her family and work, Alice found joy in the simple pleasures of life. Raymond and Alice treasured their RV travels. Alice also loved her monthly card games with friends and enjoyed spending time with car club members.
Alice found peace in quilting daily, a craft that allowed her to express her creativity and share her warmth through the handmade quilts and gifts she lovingly gave to family and friends. Another long time hobby was gardening, with a special fondness for the roses she carefully tended to in her yard.
Alice is survived by her four children, Cherlyn Hansen (Douglas), Joedy Terrill (Brenda), Jeffrey Terrill (Brandy) and Chella Lauer (Fred), her grandchildren and her great-grandchildren. Alice is also survived by her two sisters, Evelyn Baker (Bill, deceased) and Dorothy Clough (Harold).
Alice is preceded in death by her parents, Herbert and Louise Kirchner; as well as her brother, Wayne, and beloved pet dog, Becky.
Visitation is from 6:00 – 8:00 PM Tuesday, December 17, 2024 at the McGilley Antioch Chapel, 3325 NE Vivion Road, Kansas City, MO 64119. Funeral services are 10:30 AM Wednesday, December 18th at Bethel United Church of Christ, 4900 NE Parvin Road, Kansas City, MO 64117. A visitation in Kahoka, MO is scheduled from 1:00-2:00 PM Friday, December 20th at the Wilson & Triplett Funeral Home. Burial will follow at 2:30 PM Friday at the St Paul Cemetery, Kahoka, where Alice will be laid to rest next to her husband, Raymond.
Memorial donations may be given to Bethel United Church of Christ, 4900 NE Parvin Road, KC MO 64117 (www.bethelUCCKC.com)
