Bernice E. Claypool

Bernice E. Claypool, age 95, formerly of Nevada, passed away on Saturday, March 13, 2004, at the Cass County Medical Center in Harrisonville following a short illness. She was born on Dec. 21, 1908, in Grandin, Mo., to Finis S. and Laura M. Sharp. She was married to Joseph Ward Claypool of Richards, Mo., in 1930, in Frontenac, Kan. He preceded her in death in 1967.

Bernice came with her family to Nevada at a young age. She graduated from Nevada High School in 1927. Following her marriage she and her husband lived in the Richards area and operated the Bank of Richards. Then they moved to Bates county for a number of years. They later lived in the Kansas City area for a time before moving to Drexel, Mo., where they operated the Bank of Drexel. Following the death of her husband, she came back to live in Nevada in 1968. She had spent the past 10 years in Harrisonville.

Bernice was a longtime member of Pine Street Baptist Church in Nevada, the Missouri Pacific Women's Club and the Order of the Eastern Star.

Survivors include two sons Jay W. Claypool, Harrisonville, and James A. Claypool, Excelsior Springs; three grandchildren, James D. Claypool, Excelsior Springs, Michelle Murphy, Parkville, and Joseph W. Claypool, Richards; seven great-grandchildren, David and Brian Claypool; Jordan, Allie and Madison Murphy; and Jesse and Peyton Claypool.

In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by two brothers, Finis S. Sharp, Jr., and Ray Sharp; and one sister, Lois M. Yingst.

Funeral services were held at 2 p.m., on March 16, with Pastor Lennie McCay officiating. Soloist was Melinda McCay. Musical selections were "The Old Rugged Cross" and "Amazing Grace." Organist was Betty Seitz. Pallbearers were Joseph Claypool, James Claypool, Tom Claypool, Roy Claypool, Bob Claypool and Travis Claypool. Interment followed in Newton Burial Park. Those who wish may contribute to the Pine Street Baptist Church. Arrangements by Ferry Funeral Home.