Beverly Ann Riccardi

Beverly passed away peacefully at her home on April 19, 2020. She was born in Independence, MO on August 3, 1935 along with her twin sister Betty, to parents Charles H. and Evelyn Rinehart. Beverly was married in 1959 to her husband of 39 years, James Riccardi II, who preceded her in death in 1999 and is survived by her three sons, James, Gerald, and Daniel, and Daniel’s wife Elmarie.

Beverly and twin sister Betty grew up in Independence, MO. Graduating from William Chrisman High School, they earned their degrees in nursing from Avila University in Kansas City, MO. and both entered the nursing profession. They were both well known in the profession where Betty devoted her life becoming an educator and published author in the field. They shared the same last name throughout their life as they married brothers James O. II and William G. Riccardi. Her husband, James, was a well-known Kansas City auto dealer throughout his life and, at one time, a Ford dealer for 12 years.

As well as her devotion to her husband, children, and nursing career, Beverly had another passion and that was for horses and the world of the equestrian. She soon introduced her children to the sport in 1969 and became a well-known and very active sponsor, public relations spokesperson and generous philanthropist for horse-related activities in the region for the rest of her life. She strongly believed in the importance of showcasing young riders’ horsemanship and knowledge of the sport, and she became one of the longest standing sponsors and volunteers of the Mission Valley Pony Club (MVPC) the Kansas City affiliate of the United States Pony Clubs, a cherished equestrian organization for young people. She loved the American Royal and was involved as a Governor, an organizer of the Concert for Champions, historian, and acquisitioner for the American Royal Museum in Kansas City. She loved the American Royal Parade and was responsible for the MVPCs participation in it even winning first place a few times. Her sister Betty’s daughter, Kristen, was a BOTAR. Realizing the importance of training grounds for future MVPC riders, to excel in combined training, show jumping and dressage, she was involved with the creation of the Longview Horse Park in Lees Summit. MO. She served on the Board of Directors for Longview Horse Park from 1980 until her retirement. Her son, Daniel, has devoted his life to horses as a rider, trainer, and breeder to this day.

Beverly was a special lady to many. Those who knew her loved her. She will be laid to rest at Forest Hill Calvary cemetery 10AM Friday May 1st.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be sent in her memory to the Mission Valley Pony Club at missionvalley.ponyclub.org