Viola Ann Farris, 82, of Richmond, passed away Thursday, May 7, 2026, at North Kansas City Hospital.
Viola was born on February 26, 1944, in Stet, the daughter of Everett Price and Verna Elizabeth (McElwee) Roberts. She was united in marriage to Clarence “Marshall” Farris of Orrick on July 17, 1970; he preceded her in death on July 8, 2019.
Survivors include: son, Alan (Ivy) MaGruder of Fort Worth, TX; daughter, Tanya Manuel (John Ferguson) of Richmond; six grandchildren: Quentin MaGruder, Sara Rowe, Jesse Fidler, Cara Ford, Zacery Vidal, and Rachel Leeth; eight great-grandchildren: Olivia Fidler, Christopher Diaz, Jayceon Diaz, Camila Diaz, Aubrey Rowe, McKinley Miller, Harper Miller, and Aaliyah Vidal; and sister, Judy (Dale) Bruno of Raymore.
In addition to her parents and husband, Viola was preceded in death by three brothers, Gene, Donnie, and Floyd Roberts.
Viola was raised and educated in the small rural community she proudly called home and graduated from Stet High School. Born in 1944, she was part of a generation defined by hard work, resilience, and devotion to family. A dedicated housewife and homemaker, Viola devoted her life to caring for those she loved while also working full-time outside of the home to help provide for her family. Over the years, she worked at Price Candy and Orbseal in Richmond, but many will remember her most fondly as a beloved lunch lady for the Richmond School District, where her warm smile and caring heart made a lasting impression on generations of students.
Viola never shied away from hard work and was known for her strength, determination, and selfless nature. She was the kind of person who worried more about everyone else than herself and rarely complained, no matter the circumstance. When she wasn’t working, she enjoyed mushroom hunting, listening to Elvis, and cheering on Dale Earnhardt. Above all else, her greatest joy in life was her family, especially her grandchildren, whom she loved dearly. Viola lived her life with a servant’s heart, quiet strength, and unwavering love for her family and friends. True to her nature, she never said “goodbye,” only “see you later.” She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew her.
The family suggests memorial contributions be made to the donor’s choice in memory of Viola. They can be left at or mailed to Thurman Funeral Home, 507 East Main Street-P.O. Box 190, Richmond, MO 64085.
Cremation with celebration of life to be announced at a later date. Thurman Funeral Home in Richmond is in charge of arrangements. Please remember to share your memories of Viola with the family by visiting www.thurmanfuneralhome.com.
Source: KMZU, The Farm
