Blanche Underwood

Anna Blanche Beasley Veach Underwood, 88, of Pleasant Hill, was born Sunday, October 7, 1923, in the same house her father was born southeast of Strasburg, the daughter of John Russel and Mabel Claire (Hobbs) Beasley. She departed this life early Saturday morning August 11, 2012 at her home near Pleasant Hill, surrounded with love and family.

On October 7, 1942, she was united in marriage to Clarence Edward Veach in Olathe; he preceded her in death on June 21, 1981. She married James Maxwell Underwood on April 17, 1982, in Pleasant Hill; Max preceded her in death on March 21, 2012.

She was a 1941 Pleasant Hill High School Graduate. Following high school she went to work for Hallmark Cards in Kansas City. From June 1965 to June 1988 Blanche was the Executive Secretary to Glenn Stahl of Stahl's Specialty Company in Kingsville.

Blanche was past president of the Lone Jack PTA, while filling in that capacity she was presented a life time membership in PTA; a charter member of the Lone Jack Saddle Club where she also served as secretary and treasurer; a member of the Pleasant Hill BPW where she also served as president, secretary and treasurer; a member of the Elizabeth Randolph Chapter of DAR of Holden where she also served as secretary; member of the Veach, Veech, Veitch, and Veatch Historical Society, where she served two terms as secretary; and the Ladies Auxiliary to VFW Post #3118. She was also an active and faithful member of the Lone Jack Christian Church and served there as elder for many years.

She was also preceded in death by one son Eddie Lee Veach; he died two days after birth in September 1943, one brother Edwin Beasley, and one sister Bessie Neff. Blanche is survived by her daughter and son-in-law Marianne (Veach) and Lyle Seelinger of Pleasant Hill; other relatives and friends.

Funeral services were held Tuesday, August 14, 2012, at the funeral home. Reverend Michael Stephens of the United Church of Christ, Raytown officiated. Ms. Marlene Beasley rendered the music. Interment was in the Strasburg Cemetery. Casket bearers were Kent Adkins, Bob Farmer, Tim Flagler, Harold Hackler, Robert Lyons, and Wayne Miller.

Memorial contributions are suggested to the Lone Jack Christian Church and may be sent in care of the funeral home.