The Richmond News, Nov. 1, 2024

Jeff McGill

Jefferey Scott “Jeff” McGill, 53, of Richmond passed away Saturday, Oct. 26, 2024, at NorthCare Hospice House in North Kansas City. Jeff was born June 8, 1971, in Lexington, the son of Terry Ray and Pamela Jean (Schreier) McGill. He was united in marriage to Serena J. Motley of Richmond on April 25, 1992. She survives of the home. Additional survivors include his mother, Pamela Jean Lewis (Tim Ekern) of Orrick; three children, Zach McGill of Richmond, MacKenzie (Kody) Rinne of Higginsville and Nathan McGill of Richmond; three grandchildren, Brody Rinne, Brooks Rinne and Bristyl Rinne; mother-in-law, Janet (Ora) Eaton of Hardin; and sister-in-law, Julie Mc-Gill of Orrick. Numerous uncles, aunts, nephews and cousins also survive.

In addition to his father, Jeff was preceded in death by his brother, Brian “Boo” McGill.

Jeff was raised and educated in Orrick, where he graduated with the class of 1989. From an early age, he developed a strong work ethic and valued having his own earnings, working night shifts at American Wilcon during high school.

He soon moved into construction, working alongside his grandfather, Bobby Schreier, at Clarkson Construction. For the past 22 years, Jeff dedicated himself to his role as a machine specialist at Lake City Arsenal, where he worked until just two weeks ago.

Known affectionately by family and friends as “Top Chef,” Jeff had a remarkable talent for cooking and barbequing. His culinary creations, especially his barbeque, were in high demand locally. His family often marveled at his pecan cheesecake, which they described as “wow.”

Jeff had a special love for Camaros, especially his yellow 1978 Z-28, which he took great pride in. A true sports enthusiast, Jeff was an avid fan of all sports, especially football and baseball. He was constantly watching games and had an impressive knowledge of players and stats that kept him connected to the sports world.

Music was another great passion for Jeff, and he expressed it in a unique way, with a tattoo reading, “Music is life and that’s why our hearts have beats.”

One of the most memorable moments in his life was serving as a guardian for his father-in-law on an honors flight to Washington, D.C. There, Jeff experienced a profound connection to his family’s military legacy, seeing the monument commemorating the Iwo Jima flag-raising – a tribute to the brave actions of one of his relatives.

Jeff’s dedication to his family, work and passions left a lasting impression on all who knew him. He will be deeply missed and remembered for his big heart, strong character and incredible cooking. Jeff was – and always will be – the best, the silly, goofy Papa.

The family suggests memorial contributions be made to NorthCare Hospice House. They can be left at or mailed to Thurman Funeral Home; 507 E. Main St.-P.O. Box 190; Richmond, MO 64085.

Visitation with memorial services will be held Saturday, Nov. 2, at Thurman Funeral Home in Richmond, with visitation beginning at 9:30 a.m., followed by the services at 10:30. Inurnment will follow the services in Cravens Cemetery, south of Richmond.

Please share your memories of Jeff with the family by visiting www.thurmanfuneralhome. com.