Laura “Eileen” Carmichael, 83, of Richmond passed away unexpectedly, Saturday, May 2, 2026, at North Kansas City Hospital.
Eileen was born on December 31, 1942, in Pittsburg, KS, the daughter of Samuel and Lauriane (Clark) George. She was first united in marriage to H. Dennis Mathes in 1962. She was later united in marriage to Kenneth Garland “Toby” Carmichael on March 20, 1982; he preceded her in death on June 27, 2009.
Survivors include: three daughters: Karen Mathes of Richmond, Donna (Kenny) Baker of Hardin, and Penny Carmichael of Knob Noster; eight grandchildren: Christopher (Amanda) Carmichael, Jessica (Mikey) Pearson, LaQuisha (Erin) Sapp, Chelsea (Chris) Burstert, Aaren (Rachel) Mathes, Joel Baker, Kiersten Burnett, and Stormie Shockey; 13 great-grandchildren: MaKenna, Elinore, Bailey, Braydon, Jyelle, Miken, Clair, Kaylee, Oliva, Everett, Zoey, Russell, and Joey, Jr.; and sister, Diana Thorton of Joplin.
She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, son, Larry Mathes, three great-grandchildren, and brother, Charles George.
Eileen dedicated many years of her life to serving her community through her work. She was employed by the Richmond School District as a cafeteria cashier for ___ years, where she enjoyed visiting with students and staff alike. She also worked for ten years at Walmart and spent over thirty years at Dotty Labs as a chemist, a role that reflected her intelligence, dedication, and strong work ethic.
Above all, Eileen found her greatest joy in her role as a grandmother and great-grandmother. Being a grandma and great grandma was her crowning achievement, they brought immense joy to her life, and she treasured the time they shared together.
Cremation with a celebration of life to be announced at a later date. Private family inurnment will be held at a later date in Woodland Cemetery, Richmond. Thurman Funeral Home in Richmond is in charge of arrangements. Please remember to share your memories of Eileen with the family by visiting www.thurmanfuneralhome.com.
Cremation with a celebration of life to be announced at a later date. Private family inurnment will be held at a later date in Woodland Cemetery, Richmond. Thurman Funeral Home in Richmond is in charge of arrangements.
Source: KMZU, The Farm
