June 25, 1937 ~ March 17, 2020

Ernest Lee Paris, 82, of Lee’s Summit, MO died March 17, 2020 at the Brookdale Shawnee Care Center. Ernie was born in Kansas City, MO on June 25, 1937 to Ulysses N. and Hazel Paris. He was the youngest of five boys and one girl who all preceded him in death.

Ernie graduated from East High School in 1955 and continued his education at CMSU where he earned his B.S., M.S., and EdS. degrees in education and administration. He was a member of Tau Kappa Epsilon (TKE) fraternity and a sprinter for the Mules’ track team. Ernie married his lifelong sweetheart, Sondra Kiser, in 1960, and they enjoyed 49 years together until her death in 2010.

Ernie’s respect for education led to his career as a teacher and coach and administrator at multiple schools, including Westport and Central High Schools, Center High School, and Lee’s Summit High School. He loved helping kids find success, and he sang the praises of the staff members with whom he felt fortunate to work. He enjoyed playing sports throughout his life and had lots of good stories to share. Golf became his favorite hobby, and he and Sondra were able to travel and play golf frequently once they retired.

Ernie is survived by his children: Eastin(Bill) Pecota of Lee’s Summit, MO; Bill (Danielle) Paris of Summerfield, FL; Jennifer(Michael) Cunningham of Flowery Branch, GA; six grandchildren: Brandon(Laura) Cunningham, William Pecota, Lindsay Cunningham, Nick Pecota, Nate Pecota; one great-grandson, Vadyn Pecota; his sister-in-law, Doloris Paris; and numerous nieces and nephews and dear friends.
Memorial Contributions
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Children’s Mercy Hospital Cancer Center, 2401 Gillham Rd., K.C., MO 64108 or St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN 38105.

Cremation Center of Kansas City (913) 384-5566