APRIL 1, 1930 ~ SEPTEMBER 13, 2020
Genevieve “Genny” T. (Fessler) McGraw passed away peacefully at home on Sunday, September 13, 2020, with her family by her side. Genny was born on April 1, 1930 in Wien, MO to Anton and Anna (Palms) Fessler. She graduated from Bucklin High School in Bucklin, MO. After high school, she moved to Kansas City, MO and worked for Black Sivalls & Bryson and AT&T before marrying Donald McGraw on September 5, 1959 at St. Mary’s of the Angels Catholic Church in Wien, MO.
After marrying Don, they settled in Raytown, MO and had two daughters, Mary and Theresa. They were very active members of St. Bernadette’s Catholic Church. Genny spent countless hours volunteering at church and the school, even serving as the school librarian for many years.
Genny was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, sister, cousin, aunt and friend. She was known for her love of family and friends, which she demonstrated by cooking, baking and keeping track of everyone’s favorite meals and desserts. Her faith was very important to her and she spent time in daily prayer, praying for others and saying rosaries.
Genny and Don moved to Lee’s Summit, MO in 1994 and later became active members of Our Lady of the Presentation Catholic Church. Genny was a member of the St. Joseph’s Guild and enjoyed volunteering for funeral dinners, the Tuesday Donut Group, and Holy Hour. Genny and Don were also longtime volunteers with One Good Meal. She enjoyed reading, sewing, and was happiest spending time visiting with her family and friends, especially her beloved granddaughter, Hannah.
Genny is proceeded in death by her parents, six brothers, two sisters, and her devoted husband Don (who passed away on January 22, 2016). She is survived by her daughters, Mary McGraw of Leawood, KS and Theresa (Kevin) Tarwater and granddaughter Hannah Tarwater, all of Lee’s Summit, and many nieces, nephews, cousins and good friends.
Genny’s family would like to thank Home Instead of Lee’s Summit, Visiting Nurse’s Association (VNA) Home Health/Hospice of Kansas City and her beloved neighbors in Cedar Creek Village. Your TLC for mom (and us) will never be forgotten.
Due to COVID-19 restrictions and at mom’s request, her funeral service will be a private family gathering but will be live streamed for all to join. Please join us at 11am, Thursday, September 17, 2020 on the McGilley Sheil Facebook page to participate in Genny’s Mass.
In lieu of flowers, mom requested donations to the St. Joseph’s Guild at Our Lady of the Presentation Catholic Church, 130 NE Murray Road, Lee’s Summit, MO 64081; One Good Meal , P.O. Box 2222, Lee’s Summit, MO 64063; or VNA Hospice of Kansas City, 1500 Meadow Lake Parkway, Kansas City, MO 64114.
Arrangements by: McGilley & Sheil Chapel, 11924 E. 47th St., Kansas City, MO 64133 www.mcgilleysheil.com
