Betty Ann (Hickman) Reece, 82, of Harrisonville, Missouri, a beloved mother, grandmother, wife, and friend, passed away on Friday, October 30, 2026, after a courageous battle with Parkinson's disease at Menorah Medical Center in Overland Park, Kansas. Funeral services were held on Wednesday, November 4, 2026, at First Baptist Church in Harrisonville, MO. Interment in Orient Cemetery in Harrisonville. Contributions may be made to The Parkinson's Foundation, The Parkinson's Foundation/ or sent to the Atkinson Funeral Home, 600 West Wall, Harrisonville, MO 64701.
Born on October 26, 1944, in Kansas City, KS, Betty was the beloved daughter of Charles (Bud) and Katie (Wyman) Hickman. Betty spent her formative years in Kansas City before moving to Harrisonville, MO, where she made lasting memories and lifelong friendships. In 1962, Betty graduated from high school and soon began a beautiful love story with her high school sweetheart, Richard "Dick" Reece. Engaged that summer at the Mugs-Up Root Beer at Truman Corners, they were united in marriage on December 15 of the same year at Harrisonville First Baptist Church, officiated by Brother Charles Sutton. Together, they welcomed their daughter, Cynthia, and sons, David and Stuart, expanding their family and deepening their love.
Betty embraced her role as a homemaker with enthusiasm, dedicating herself to her children's educational journeys as a volunteer. She later became a health room aide at the local elementary school before finding her calling as the administrative assistant for the high school guidance counselors, a role that brought her immense joy until her retirement from Devry, where she served as the executive administrative assistant to the dean.
In retirement, Betty's spirit of service only intensified. She volunteered with the Cass Regional Hospital auxiliary as a patient advocate and earned the position of president, further extending her caring presence. As she transitioned to Golden Years, she continued her advocacy as the resident council president, enriching the lives of those around her.
Her faith was a cornerstone of her life, as she was deeply involved in the Harrisonville First Baptist Church, fostering connections through nursery care, Vacation Bible School, and singing in the church choir. Betty's harmonious spirit resonated through special music alongside friends, Katrine Cummins and Kathy Purkey, particularly during the cherished Christmas Cantata. Her unwavering faith nurtured her resilience as she navigated life's challenges.
Betty's love extended to her grandchildren, who fondly remember her spoiling them and sharing heartfelt conversations. Her passion for reading transcended generations-no one could read "Fox in Socks" quite like Grandma. In her nurturing hands, she lovingly crafted scrapbooks chronicling her grandchildren's milestones, preserving memories that will be treasured for years to come.
A lover of celebrations, Betty transformed birthdays into unforgettable festivals, complete with homemade cakes and joy-filled gatherings. The magic of Christmas was particularly close to her heart-decorating, giving, and receiving gifts brought her immense joy. She often found pleasure in the little things, like hosting cookie decorating parties that filled her home with laughter and love.
Betty was a warrior in every sense. She approached life with grace and determination, surviving challenges with a positive spirit that left a lasting impact on all who knew her. Colleagues, friends, and caregivers alike described her as a "sweet, precious woman," highlighting her genuine interest in their lives.
Betty is preceded in death by her parents; her son, David Reece; her sister, Mary Lou Minich Davis; and her brothers, John Hickman and James Hickman. She is survived by her beloved husband, Richard "Dick" Reece, of the home; her daughter, Cynthia Reece, of Kansas City, MO; her son, Stuart (Rebekah) Reece, of Lee's Summit, MO; her 4 grandchildren: Michael Reece (fiancee, Moustapha), Julia Reece Leslie (Logan), Elizabeth Reece, and Katie Reece; her sister, Phyllis Davis, of Stamford, Texas; and many extended friends and family. Her legacy of sweetness, compassion, and generosity will live on in the hearts of many.
Betty Reece-sweet, caring, generous, nurturing-will be profoundly missed but fondly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing her.
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