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Willetta Ann Empson of Garden City, Missouri was born May 27, 1936 near Creighton, Missouri the daughter of George Alexander and Bessie Lee (Huff) Ryberg. She departed this life Sunday, March 12, 2006 at Cass Medical Center, Harrisonville at the age of 69 years, 9 months and 15 days. On May 27, 1955, Willetta was united in marriage to Larry M. Empson in Creighton, Missouri.
Willetta was employed on the motor line for General Motors Leeds Plant, Kansas City, Missouri until her retirement on February 1, 1990. She was a member of the United Methodist Church, Creighton, Missouri, the UAW Local 93, Kansas City, Missouri, American Legion Auxiliary and the Order of the Eastern Star #340 both of Garden City. Willetta enjoyed so many things in life. She had an avid love for music, was an accomplished pianist, led the children's choir and was very active during her children's school time in the Sherwood instrumental and vocal music programs as well as being active in the Sherwood sport's programs. She loved spending time with her many friends and was never too busy to chat an afternoon away over coffee. She enjoyed bingo, bird watching, gardening, cooking, crocheting and spending much of her time with her children and grandchildren.
Besides her parents, she was preceded in death by her three brothers, George T., William M. and John L. Ryberg.
She is survived by two sons, Larry J. Empson and fianc Candace Fares, Grandview, Missouri; Martin D. Empson, Garden City, Missouri; a daughter, Carletta S. Hodges and fianc, Richard Cook, Garden City, Missouri; two grandchildren, Callie Joerene Bess Hodges and Jesse David Alexander Hodges; other relatives and many friends.
Cremation. A memorial service was held Wednesday, March 15, 2006 at the Dickey Funeral Home, Garden City, Missouri.
Family suggests memorial contributions may be made to the Cass Medical Visiting Nurses Association.