The Richmond News, May 15, 2026

Viola Ann Farris, 82, of Richmond passed away Thursday, May 7, 2026, at North Kansas City Hospital.

Viola was born Feb. 26, 1944, in Stet, the daughter of Everett Price and Verna Elizabeth (McElwee) Roberts.

She was united in marriage to Clarence “Marshall” Farris of Orrick on July 17, 1970. He preceded her in death on July 8, 2019.

Survivors include her son, Alan (Ivy) MaGruder of Fort Worth, Texas; and daughter, Tanya Manuel (John Ferguson) of Richmond. Other survivors include six grandchildren: Quentin MaGruder, Sara Rowe, Jesse Fidler, Cara Ford, Zacery Vidal and Rachel Leeth.

She also is survived by eight great-grandchildren: Olivia Fidler, Christopher Diaz, Jayceon Diaz, Camila Diaz, Aubrey Rowe, McKinley Miller, Harper Miller and Aaliyah Vidal. Her sister, Judy (Dale) Bruno of Raymore, survives as well.

In addition to her parents and husband, Viola was preceded in death by three brothers, Gene, Donnie and Floyd Roberts.

Viola was raised and educated in the small rural community she proudly called home and graduated from Stet High School. As someone born in 1944, she was part of a generation defined by hard work, resilience and devotion to family.

A dedicated housewife and homemaker, Viola devoted her life to caring for those she loved while also working full time outside of the home to help provide for her family. Over the years, she worked at Price Candy and Orbseal in Richmond, but many will remember her most fondly as a beloved lunch lady for the Richmond R-XVI School District, where her warm smile and caring heart made a lasting impression on generations of students.

Viola never shied away from hard work and was known for her strength, determination and selfless nature. She was the kind of person who worried more about everyone else than herself and rarely complained, no matter the circumstance.

When she wasn’t working, she enjoyed mushroom hunting, listening to Elvis and cheering on Dale Earnhardt. Above all else, her greatest joy in life was her family, especially her grandchildren, whom she loved dearly.

Viola lived her life with a servant’s heart, quiet strength, and unwavering love for her family and friends.

True to her nature, she never said “goodbye,” only “see you later.” She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew her.

The family suggests memorial contributions be made to the donor’s choice in memory of Viola. They can be left at or mailed to Thurman Funeral Home; 507 E. Main St.-P.O. Box 190; Richmond, MO 64085.

Cremation with celebration of life to be announced at a later date. Thurman Funeral Home in Richmond is in charge of the arrangements.

Please share your memories of Viola with the family at www.thurmanfuneralhome.com.