Kathleen L. Gantney

Kathleen L. Gantney, 73, passed away at home surrounded by loved ones on October 16, 2026. Born on February 11, 1953, Kathy lived a life centered on family, friendship, and service to the community she loved.

For more than 20 years, Kathy worked as a bar manager at Moose Lodge #1513 in St. Charles, Missouri, where she became a familiar and valued presence to many. She was also a member of the St. Charles VFW and the St. Charles American Legion. Kathy brought energy and heart to the things she cared about. She enjoyed crafting, planning parties and gatherings, and watching NASCAR. Holidays held a special place in her heart, especially Christmas, Easter, and the Fourth of July. She loved parades and took an active role in decorating the float and organizing children’s parties, plays, and activities for the Moose Lodge. She also enjoyed going to lunch with family and friends, making time for the people who meant so much to her.

Above all, Kathy was most proud of her family and cherished every moment she was able to spend with them, especially her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Her family was the center of her life, and being surrounded by them was deeply important to her. During her final week, her family and those closest to her were able to be with her, and her bravery was evident through her last moments.

Kathy is survived by her sons, Kurt Allen (Leslie) Bayless, and Kevin Lee (Monica) Bayless. She also leaves behind her beloved grandchildren, Victoria (Adam), Taylor, Chelsea (Stephen), Tyler (Brittany), and Josh, and her great-grandchildren, Emmitt, Camilla, Korben, and Wesley. She is also survived by her stepmother, Sandra Sue George; her sisters, Sandra (Aaron) Gilbert, and Debra Burton; her brothers, Earl (Jeania) Burton, and Jimmy George; along with a host of other family members and friends who will remember her with love.

She was preceded in death by her loving and dedicated husband, Terry Gantney; her father, Arnold Sunny Burton; her mother, Collette Burton; and her sisters, Beverly Ann Burton and Lisa Elaine Higgenbotham.

Kathy will be remembered for her warmth, her dedication to family, her community spirit, and the joy she found in bringing people together. Her memory will live on in the many lives she touched and in the family she loved so deeply.