The Richmond News, Dec. 5, 2025

Carolyn Zeller

Carolyn Ann Waller Zeller, 75, a resident of Richmond, passed away Friday, Nov. 28, 2025, at her home, surrounded by her loving family. Carolyn was born Sept. 2, 1950, the daughter of Jack and Mable (Dreves) Waller. Carolyn is survived by her husband, Edward “Ed” Zeller; daughter, Becky (Justin) Zeller of Richmond; and two sons, Randy (Alicia) Zeller of Lee’s Summit and Daniel (LeaAnn) Zeller of Smithville. Other survivors include her two brothers, Bob Waller and Jim Waller; four grandchildren, Maddy (Garrett) West, Jack Gogue, Izzy Zeller and Malina Zeller; and two great-grandchildren, Banks and Nash West.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Jack and Mable Waller.

Carolyn graduated with the class of 1968 from Richmond High School, where she proudly marched with the Spartan band and was a member of the pep squad. Following graduation, she spent a year at Central Methodist College in Fayette before beginning her career.

In her early working years, Carolyn was employed at INA in downtown Kansas City. During her lunch hours, she was a Monza model at Top of the Towers; and in 1970, she was named runner-up for Miss Kansas City, a title that reflected the grace and beauty she carried throughout her life.

On Nov. 27, 1971, she married the love of her life, Edward “Ed” Zeller. Together, they built a beautiful life in Richmond, never living anywhere else during their 54 years of marriage.

For nearly four decades, Carolyn served as a dedicated partner of Waller Truck Co., taking immense pride in the family business she helped grow and sustain.

Carolyn was a faithful, lifelong member of the Richmond United Methodist Church, where her presence was felt in the pews and at gatherings.

She found joy in the creative and the hands-on – painting the walls, inside and out, of every home she ever loved; and sewing countless Raggedy Ann and Andy dolls that delighted children all over town. But her greatest joy was her family. Carolyn was never happier than when she was cheering – often as the loudest voice in the stands – for her children, grandchildren and greatgrandchildren at games, recitals and every milestone in between. To them she was simply “Nanu,” a name spoken with love in three generations of little voices.

She is survived by a wide circle of extended family and friends who will miss her laughter, her fierce love and the way she made everyone feel like they belonged.

She leaves behind a legacy of faith, family, hard work and an unmistakable spirit. Richmond won’t be the same without her.

A visitation will be held at 11 a.m. until the funeral services at noon Friday, Dec. 5, at the Richmond United Methodist Church. Burial will follow in Richmond Memory Gardens.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Richmond United Methodist Church. They can be left at or mailed to Thurman Funeral Home; 507 E. Main St.-P.O. Box 190; Richmond, MO 64085.

Please visit www.thurmanfuneralhome.com to leave memories of Carolyn for the family.