Reta Clementine Byers Hans, a woman of style, grace and elegance, passed away peacefully in her sleep on Aug. 19. She was 93 years old.
Born on Jan. 6, 1932, in Kansas City, Missouri, to Harry and Esther (Rubin) Byers, Reta lived a rich and full life marked by her sophistication and grace.
She enjoyed an idyllic childhood on Morningside Drive with her siblings, Connie Reitzes, Paul Byers and Robert Byers, each of whom predeceased Reta. As the third of four children, she grew up in a loving and lively household that shaped her appreciation for family and tradition. She remained close with each of her siblings throughout their entire lives.
She attended Border Star Elementary, Southwest High School and the University of Illinois.
At Oakwood Country Club, Reta met the love of her life, Richard Franklin Hans. Together they built a marriage full of shared adventure, happy times and a devotion to family. Their four sons — Michael (Wendy), Steven, John and Bill (Jennifer Greenstreet) — were the center of her world and her proudest accomplishment. Reta poured her heart into raising her boys, guiding them with care, high expectations and encouragement. She delighted in their achievements and cherished the men they became.
She was also a loving grandmother to Whitney Wendel, Collin Wendel and Tiernan Hans, who brought her great joy in her later years.
Reta was also very close with many of her nieces and nephews.
Reta was deeply engaged in her community and gave her time generously. She served as president of the Menorah Hospital Auxiliary Board and the Briarwood Elementary and Meadowbrook Junior High PTAs. She was also a lifelong member of The Temple, Congregation B’nai Jehudah, to which she generously volunteered her time over many years. She later shared her creativity through a custom stationery business with her dear friend Cecille Silverman. In every role, she brought her signature energy and style.
Reta and Richard were members of Oakwood Country Club in Kansas City, Missouri, and The Boulders Club in Scottsdale, Arizona. Reta enjoyed playing tennis and mahjongg throughout her life.
Those who knew Reta will remember her presence, impeccable sense of style and ability to elevate every occasion. She carried herself with elegance, confidence and charm, leaving a lasting impression wherever she went. Her legacy lives on in the family she raised, the community she enriched and the example she set of a life lived with beauty, grace and purpose.
A private funeral service for family members celebrating Reta’s life was held at Louis Memorial Chapel. The family request that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions be made to one of Reta’s favorite charities, Just Like You Films (justlikeyoufilms.org).
Reta will be deeply missed and forever remembered.
Online condolences for the family may be left at louismemorialchapel.com.
