Mary "Opal" Barnhart

Mary Opal Barnhart (Bates),100, born in Brunswick, Missouri, on August 7, 1919; she went to be with the Lord on Tuesday, March 3, 2020.

Opal, as she was known by everyone, was the third child of Catherine A. Bates (Unternaehrer) and Arthur B. Bates. Her beloved siblings were Helen Johnson (Hank), Inez Neet (Harold), and Roy Bates (Vera).

After graduating from Northeast High School, Class of 1936, she worked at National Belles Hess, Sears Roebuck, and Western Auto Warehouse. In 1939, Opal married the love of her life John W. (Jack) Barnhart. She worked with her husband in their family business Barnhart Bros. Builders.

Opal and Jack had two sons, Jeff and Bruce. Opal and Jack loved the Lord, their family, and community. They enjoyed traveling, fishing, time with family & friends, the KC Royals, and the KC Chiefs. Opal and Jack were devoted to each other and had a wonderful life together for over 60 years until Jack’s death in 2000.

Opal was a member of First Baptist Church, Independence and Blue Springs. She was involved in Young Matron’s of Indep. She enjoyed golfing and was an excellent bowler. She was a wonderful cook and host. She always made everyone feel important and loved.

Survived by her son, Bruce Barnhart and wife Jan of Grain Valley, MO; daughter-in-law, Karen Barnhart of Lee’s Summit, MO. Five grandchildren: Todd Barnhart and wife Michelle of Grain Valley, MO; Brian Barnhart and wife Jennifer of Stilwell, KS; Kirk Barnhart of Lee’s Summit, MO and Rikki Mishler; Clint Barnhart of Blue Springs, MO; Jennifer Parish and husband Michael of Blue Springs, MO. Twelve great-grandchildren: Taylor Green, Jackson Green, Ashley Barnhart, Nicole Barnhart, Sheridan Barnhart, Brady Barnhart, Cayla Barnhart, Jacquelyn Barnhart, Tyler Luke, Lillie Barnhart, Kai Barnhart, and Joseph Parish.

Opal was preceded in death by her husband, John W. Barnhart, and by her son Jeffery L. Barnhart.

Opal was loved by all. She had a great sense of humor, was tough but tender, wise, intelligent, kind, and generous.

Memorial Contributions may be made to the City Union Mission or Charity of your choice.