The Richmond News, Sept. 19, 2025

Evelyn Plonski

Evelyn Gladys Plonski, 73, of Henrietta passed away Wednesday, Sept. 10, 2025, at her home. Evelyn was born Dec. 8, 1951, in Kansas City, the daughter of Melvin and Martha Frances (Baldwin) Roark. She was first united in marriage to Gerald Lee Thornberry of Kansas City. He preceded her in death in 1979.

She was then united in marriage to Anthony Thomas Plonski Jr. of Henrietta on Oct. 31, 2001. He preceded her in death on June 3, 2003.

Survivors include her three sons, Christopher (Cindy) Thornberry of Richmond, Anthony T. (Courtney) Plonski III of Hardin and Sundown (Kasey) Plonski of Richmond; and four daughters, Sherry L. (Daniel) Gilbert of Richmond, Karolyina Plonski (Robert Gross) of Richmond, Dusty (Roy) Gardner of Henrietta and Wendy Thornberry of Henrietta.

Other survivors include her 18 grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; brother, Stanley Roark; and five sisters, Diona Sims, Deborah Schnoover, Brenda Taylor, Carol Wetzel and Donna Crenshaw. Many friends and extended family members also survive.

In addition to her husbands, she was preceded in death by her parents; daughter, Patricia Marie Plonski; grandson, Zane Thornberry; infant granddaughter, Emma Grace Plonski; brothers, Richard Jones, Marvin Jones and Melvin Roark; and sisters, Theresa Davis and Frances Maxwell.

Evelyn was raised and educated in Kansas City. In addition to being a devoted housewife and homemaker raising her family, she also worked outside the home at Orbseal, Henkel, Concordia Foods and the KC Market.

She was the true matriarch of her family, someone who not only raised her own children, but also seemed to take in and nurture everyone else’s as well. It was common for the kids to gather at her home – a place filled with warmth and love. Evelyn especially enjoyed hosting family gatherings, always preferring that they be held at her house, so she didn’t have to leave her comfort zone.

She found great joy in raising flowers and birdwatching, two of her favorite pastimes. Evelyn’s love and companionship also were shared with her faithful canine companions, Betty and Baby, who remained by her side.

The family wishes to thank Shirkey Hospice for all their help and compassion.

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

Visitation and funeral services will be held Friday, Sept. 19, at Thurman Funeral Home in Richmond, with visitation beginning at 10 a.m. and services to follow at 11. Graveside services will follow at 2 p.m. in Agency Cemetery.

Please share your memories of Evelyn by visiting www.thurmanfuneralhome.com.