Mary Paula Lederer, Age: 77
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Nov 11, 1948---May 07, 2026

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Mary Paula Lederer, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend, who passed away peacefully at Kansas City Hospice House on May 7, 2026, at the age of 77.

Paula was born on November 11, 1948, in Jacksonville, Florida, to the late Paul and Lucille Bernardi. In 1949, her family moved to Kansas City, Missouri. She graduated from St. Teresa’s Academy and went on to earn her Licensed Practical Nurse degree from Research Medical Hospital.

On August 31, 1968, Paula married the love of her life, Greg Lederer.  They shared 57 wonderful years of marriage.

Paula’s family was her world, and she was the heart of it. Her joy knew no bounds when she was surrounded by those she loved. Each of her grandchildren and great-grandchildren held a special place in her heart, and she adored them beyond measure.

A woman of remarkable style, Paula was proudly Italian and never shied away from expressing her vibrant personality. She had a fondness for everything pink, glittering, and adorned with rhinestones, bringing a sparkle to everything she touched. Her love language was gift-giving, whether through a beautifully wrapped present or a simple act of kindness. Each gesture reflected her generous spirit.

Paula was preceded in death by her parents, Paul and Lucille Bernardi, and her brother, Charles Bernardi.

Paula is survived by her devoted husband, Greg Lederer; her daughters, Becky Lederer Wade (Mike), Amy Lederer Smotherman (Neal); her grandchildren, Ashley Vallandingham (Tracy), Alex McCowen (fiancée, Amie), Julia Long(fiancé, Dylan), and Isaiah Smotherman; and her great-grandchildren, Easton and Luca Vallandingham, and Adalynn McCowen.

In honoring Paula’s memory, may we celebrate a life lived with elegance, kindness, laughter, and an abundance of love. Though she no longer walks among us, her spirit will continue to shine brightly in the hearts of all who loved her.

In leiu of flowers the family suggests memorial contributions to the Kansas City Hospice & Palliative Care.

Funeral Services

Funeral Mass will be held on Wednesday, May 13, 2026, at:

Holy Spirit Catholic Church

11300 W. 103rd Street
Overland Park, KS 66214

Visitation: 9:30 a.m.
Funeral Mass: 10:30 a.m.
Luncheon: Immediately following Mass at the church

 

A graveside service will follow at 1:30 p.m.

Leavenworth National Cemetery
150 Muncie Road
Leavenworth, KS 66048


Condolences

Don Laytham May 09, 2026

Co-worker of Greg. ,Lenexa ,Kansas

Greg and family, Jenne and I Don Laytham family express our condolences for your loss. Thank you Greg and your lovely wife for your service to community and country.

KARREN SHARP May 09, 2026

Friend ,SHAWNEE ,Kansas

Paula was my dearest and closest friend for over 50 years. We shared our lives through the years and talked by phone often. We knew each other like a book! We shared the raising of our children, our Husband's railroading careers, our children's graduations, weddings, child births, stories of military reunions, quotes from her friend Earnie, our love of politics and the Bible. Our calls often started with "Hello, did you hear" or Hi, I have a question for you" and usally ended with Paula saying "well I won't keep you". We couldn't keep you my friend but, I will get back to you on the other side! I love you like a sister and will miss you so much.

Jesse & Donna Cabral May 09, 2026

Manchu Friends ,Brea ,California

Dear Greg & Family, Please accept our deepest & heartfelt condolences for the passing of lovely Paula! We remember the time we met Paula at our first Manchu reunion! She was so welcoming to us! Outgoing, with a dry sense of humor , just a breath of fresh air! We always looked forward to seeing both of you at every reunion! May your memories of Paula bring you and your family some comfort! God Bless! Love, Jesse & Donna Cabral. 💐❤️

Steve clampitt May 09, 2026

Friends ,Bentonville ,Arkansas

She was a wonderful person and so much fun to be around.

Ronald Burnley May 09, 2026

wife of friend, fishing buddy & fellow employee ,Paola ,Kansas

Greg.....Quite a shock! So full of energy and Life. My condolences to you and family

Laura Ivan May 09, 2026

Great niece ,Pacific ,Missouri

So very sorry to hear of Paula’s passing . My prayers to family

Services

Event:
Visitation
Location:
Holy Spirit Catholic Church
Address:
11300 W. 103rd St.
City:
Overland Park
State:
Kansas
Zip Code:
66214
Date:
May 13, 2026
Time:
9:30 AM
Google Map:
Click Here to see Location on Map
Event:
Funeral Mass
Location:
Holy Spirit Catholic Church
Address:
11300 W. 103rd St.
City:
Overland Park
State:
Kansas
Zip Code:
66214
Date:
May 13, 2026
Time:
10:30 AM
Google Map:
Click Here to see Location on Map