Shirley “Darleen” (Peters) Knapp, 82, of Lexington, Missouri, passed away Friday,
November 28, 2025, at Centerpoint Medical Center surrounded by family.
Darleen was born on April 4, 1943, in Thurmont, Maryland, to Vacil and Charlotte
(Weller) Peters. She graduated from William Chrisman High School in Independence,
Missouri in 1961. Following graduation, Darleen worked as a receptionist for the
Vendo and Stephenson-Yost Steel companies. She met her husband of 61 years on a
blind date in February of 1963. On December 28, 1963, Darleen was united in marriage
to Thomas “Tom” Knapp in Independence, Missouri. They moved to Lexington in
1976.
Darleen was an active member of First Baptist Church and in her community. She
served in various roles at church, which included Chairman of the Memorial Fund and
Young at Hearts, and assisting with Children’s Worship, Sunday School and Vacation
Bible School. In the community, she worked part-time at the Lexington Newspaper and
Chamber of Commerce, and at one time had a consignment booth in a store on Main
Street.
Darleen’s greatest joy in life was her family. She was involved and present in her
children’s lives, attending their countless number of activities. Her love and support
continued for her three grandsons and two great grandchildren. Darleen always “lit up”
when she was in their presence. To all of them, she was their biggest cheerleader and
fan.
Darleen touched the lives of many with her caring, compassionate, and sweet spirit that
brought joy to those who were blessed to be a part of her life.
Darleen is survived by her husband Tom Knapp of the home; two children, Shari
(Ryan) Steinbecker of St. Joseph, MO, and Danny (Melinda) Knapp of Liberty, MO;
three grandchildren, Jakob (Paige) Steinbecker of St. Joseph, MO, Mikhai and Cruz
Knapp of Liberty, MO; two great-grandchildren, Cooper and Leighton Steinbecker;
three sisters, Linda (Rusty) Wilson, Annette Kaushal and Robin Usher; two brothers,
Gene (Elaine) Peters and Bobby (Lisa) Peters.
Darleen was preceded in death by her parents and two sisters, Sharon Vandaveer and
Margaret Pontalion.
Visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., Saturday, December 13, 2025, at
First Baptist Church, 525 S. Business Hwy 13, Lexington, Missouri, 64067. A
Celebration of Life will follow immediately after visitation.
In memory of Darleen, memorials may be made to the First Baptist Church Memorial
Fund. Memories of Darleen and condolences for her family may be left at
www.LedfordFamilyFH.com or on our Facebook Page. Arrangements have been
entrusted to the Walker-Nadler-Fuller Funeral Home, 1720 South Street, Lexington,
Missouri, 64067, 660-259-2245.
Source: KMZU, The Farm
