Marie Ann Neece, 75, of Garden City, MO, passed away on Wednesday, July 16, 2025, at Research Medical Center in Kansas City, Missouri, surrounded by her loving family—who cherished her more than she may have ever known in this life. Funeral services were held  on Saturday, July 19, 2025, at the Atkinson Funeral Home in Harrisonville, MO.  Burial  in the Peculiar Cemetery in Peculiar, MO.

Born on November 27, 1949, in Kansas City, MO, Marie lived her life with an infectious joy. Her laughter could light up a room, offering comfort, warmth, and a reminder of life's simple pleasures. Those who knew her will always remember her radiant smile and the sound of her laugh—bright, sincere, and unforgettable. Marie was a devoted daughter, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend. Family meant everything to her. She especially treasured her time at her sister Mary's cattle farm, where she happily pitched in—whether it was hay season or tackling thistles. She loved being useful, and she loved being with her people. Marie never met a stranger. Her stories—often told more than once—were shared with delight, and her generosity knew no bounds. She would have gladly given her last dollar to someone in need. That's just who she was.

Music was her life and was to the end of her days here on earth. From a young age, she found her place in the spotlight, gracing the world with a voice that was both beautiful and unforgettable. She sang whenever she could— music was her peace, her strength, and the gift she gave so freely to others. She also found great joy in playing the guitar, piano, and harmonica, each note an extension of her spirit. Marie also had a deep love for art. She found joy and expression in drawing and painting, often losing herself in the colors and strokes that brought her imagination to life. Her creativity knew no bounds, and through her art, she shared pieces of her heart with the world. She found beauty everywhere, especially in flowers and rocks. If there was an empty patch in the yard, Marie would make sure a flower or tree was planted there. She also deeply loved animals, especially her dogs, Jake and Patty. Marie took great pride in her academic achievements. She graduated from Cass-Midway High School, earned her associate's degree from Longview Community College, and completed her bachelor's degree in liberal arts from the University of Missouri–Kansas City. She encouraged everyone she met to pursue their education and never stop learning.

Marie often spoke of the peace she felt and her readiness to go home. At 4:22 a.m. on July 16, 2025, she did just that—she went home to be with her God. Marie's spirit, love, and legacy will live on in the hearts of all who were blessed to know her.

Marie was preceded in death by her parents, George "Tuck" and Amelia Smith; two brothers, Melvin Taylor and Roy Lee; and three sisters: Linda Chamness, Lillian Carlin, and Nancy Franklin. She is survived by one son, Robert (Freida) Neece III, Ramsuer, NC; one daughter, Barbara Neece, Garden City, MO; two brothers: Lawrence (Dolores) Taylor, Garden City, MO; and Earl Smith, Tallahassee, FL; two sisters: Amelia Masters, Grimesland, NC; and Mary Flanigan, New Lancaster, KS; five grandchildren: Michael (Sarah) Neece, Kyle Neece, Kelly Neece, Tyler (Kaitlyn) Giddings, and Blake Giddings; and one great-grandchild, Charlotte Neece.