“Becky” Lurlene Rebecca Smelley Coleman, 94, of Overland Park, died Feb. 16, 2021. She was born Jan. 4, 1927, to Howard and Pearl Rogers Smelley in Lula, Georgia, and grew up in rural Georgia. She received her Bachelor of Arts from North Georgia College in Dahlonega.
She married Jack Coleman in 1946 in Atlanta. After spending time in Florida, the family moved to Kansas City in 1953. When her daughters were growing up, friends and neighbors flocked to her home. A special treat was when she made homemade ice cream. Every kid in the neighborhood would show up to take turns hand cranking the ice cream maker.
Becky was always dressed in stylish outfits. She maintained her friendly Southern charm and hospitality throughout her life. She was a member of The Temple, Congregation B’nai Jehudah and its sisterhood. She played Mah Jong, Pan and other games several times a week.
Becky was preceded in death by her husband of 54 years; daughter Donna Eileen Ruiz; son-in-law Joseph Crossley; granddaughters, Jacquelyn Suzanne Crossley and Kaycie Johnson; and her long-time partner Victor Siegel.
She is survived by daughters, Laurie Coleman Weintrub (Hal) and Karen Suzanne Crossley; granddaughter Brooke Nicole Johnson (Lucus); grandsons, Kevin Ruiz of Chicago, Brian Ruiz of Olathe and Benjamin Weintrub of Berlin, Germany; and great-grandchildren, Jaden Nicholas Johnson and Riley Nicole Johnson.
The family wishes to give special thanks to Dr. Donald Cohen for his excellent care and kindness. A celebration of her life will be held when it is safe to do so. The family suggests contributions to the Susan G. Komen Foundation.
Online condolences for the family may be left at louismemorialchapel.com.
Arrangements entrusted to The Louis Memorial Chapel, 816-361-5211.