E.J. “Jani” Reeder, 78, of Henrietta, passed away at Centerpoint Hospital in Independence, Missouri Monday, Jan. 20, of complications from cancer. 

Reeder was born in Omaha, Nebraska, Dec. 1, 1941; graduated High School in Excelsior Springs, Missouri, in 1960 and lived most of her adult life in Alaska, where she graduated from the University of Alaska in Fairbanks and then lived in Anchorage, Juneau, Sitka, and Nome before returning to live in Missouri several years ago.  A fitting epitaph for her: “She was a friend to many and a lover of books.” 

Reder will be greatly missed by friends and family alike for her wit, warmth and many kindnesses to friends and strangers alike.

Reeder’s remains were cremated.