Laveta Rae Sterrett

LaVeta Rae Stuckey, 83, also known as “Sis” and eventually “Mom,” arrived in this world as the daughter of Roy A. and Loretta M. Stuckey on July 17, 1941 on a farm near Harper, Kansas.

She was preceded in death by her parents; and her husband, Lynn Sterrett. She is survived by her brother, Mervyn Stuckey (wife Karyle); her two sons, Patrick Sterrett (wife Tracy) of Raymore, Missouri, and Bradley Sterrett (wife Annie) of Lenexa, Kansas; and her granddaughter Ava Sterrett.

Her childhood was spent on the farm in the Star Center community northeast of Harper. She was active in 4-H and music – she played the French horn – and won numerous contests in spelling. She graduated from Harper High School in 1959 and then studied at the University of Kansas for a few years before enrolling in Nursing School at Wesley Medical Center in Wichita, where she graduated in 1965. She was very proud to be a Registered Nurse and would devote almost forty years to nursing with a specialty in gerontology. She had a generous spirit and loved caring for others.

In 1967 she married the love of her life and soulmate, Lynn Sterrett. They enjoyed living life and being with family and friends. Two sons, Patrick and Bradley, were born to this union, of whom she was very proud. The family enjoyed annual vacations, especially in the outdoors, although she often said her favorite tent was a hotel room. Sadly, Lynn died in 1986. She said Lynn was always the only one for her, and she never dated or remarried after his death.

LaVeta retired from nursing in 2003, and shortly thereafter moved to Derby, Kansas. She enjoyed retirement with one of her favorite companions, Bailey, an adorable and playful Lhasa Apso. Sewing and puzzles became her favorite activities. In 2014 she moved to Foxwood Springs, a retirement community in Raymore, Missouri, to spend more time with the families of her two sons. She was living there when she died peacefully on November 14, 2024.

The family wishes to thank the staff of Foxwood Springs for all the wonderful care and love during her final years. She made many wonderful friends amongst residents and staff, and was happiest with her friends and family.

Visitation: Wednesday, November 20th, 2024, from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm and Funeral Service: 1:00 pm, Thursday, November 21st, 2024 both at Smith Family Mortuary Chapel 1415 N. Rock Rd. Derby, Kansas 67037. Interment to follow at Resthaven Gardens of Memory.