Our beloved wife, Mother, grandmother passed away peacefully in the home of her daughter on September 15th, 2024. Her family were all gathered by her side. For those of you who knew her and for those of you who didn’t, we feel it difficult to find enough words to describe such an amazing woman, but we’re going to give it our best try. Mom was the most gracious, kind-hearted, thoughtful, selfless, loving woman. Her generosity to others was exemplified through her laughter and her loving ways. When she connected with you, you felt right at home. In life and in dying, she had a way of making people feel a part of her family.
Mom was born on May 22, 1935 in Holden, MO. What a glorious day that must have been. God lent us his favorite Angel. Here parents were Lewis and Kathryn Canaday, loving members of the Holden Community. Kathryn, also a member of the Schmidtlein clan of Topeka, KS. Mom had such love for her many Aunts and Uncles on both sides. We all fondly recall the large Schmidtlein family reunions. And we mean large!
She attended the University of St. Mary and graduated in 1957. Back then it was St. Mary College and women only. She gained friendships there that lasted a lifetime; both with her loving dorm mates and the Sisters that taught her. Mom loved her school so that she volunteered for many, many years with school fundraisers and they were always so special to her.
Mom married dad, Robert P. McGeary (Bob) of Salina, KS on May 9, 1959. They had 65 years together and as Bob said; “There’s not enough pen and paper to write…...” all the things I want to say. They were blessed with four beautiful children; Robb, Ann (deceased), Mary Kathryn & Patty.
Robb married his precious wife Alice and have two children Anna and Jack. Mary Kathryn (MK) has two handsome sons Noah and Gabriel. Mom absolutely cherished every moment with each of her grandchildren. The way her eyes would light up in their presence was magical. They were truly, truly her heart.
Mom worked from home until the kids all left grade-school. For a while she was the girls’ Brownie and Scout Leader. A job she may or may not want to take on again. We were a handful. After a short stint in the finance office at the Westin Crown Center, she found her home at Andrews McMeel Publishing in Kansas City, MO. She was the Executive Assistant to the CFO. But let’s face it, she ran that place 😊. Again, she made so many friends there and truly cherished each of them. She loved her work and talked about it with such pride. She even got Patty to work with her for a summer doing data entry and Patty can attest to the joy Mom felt working with such a wonderful group of people.
During our care for her over these past six years, we have truly learned the meaning of unconditional love. Until we meet again Mom, you will be our Guradian Angel. Thank you for showing us how to be loving, kind, brave and strong. We hope to master these in your honor! Love you Mom/Momma/Grandma!
Donations lovingly accepted at University of St. Mary, Leavenworth, KS where Shirley attended college. This Angel Fund helps students with financial need to bridge the gap and achieve their educational dreams. Please donate in honor of Shirley Canaday McGeary, class of ’57!
If you would like to donate in Shirley’s name, please click on either organization below:
https://www.supportusm.com/angel-fund-gift/
https://act.alz.org/site/SPageServer?pagename=donate