Blanche L. Anderson

Blanche Leona Anderson, 89, of Independence, MO, passed from this life to a better one on Wednesday, January 18th at Rosewood Health Center, where she has resided since May, 2003. Graveside services will be 11:00 a.m. Saturday, January 21st at Ozark Memorial Cemetery in Joplin, MO. Visitation will be 6-8:00 p.m. Friday, January 20th at Speaks Suburban Chapel. In lieu of flowers contributions may be made to the City Union Mission or the Salvation Army. Mrs. Anderson was born on August 17, 1916 in Webb City, MO to the late Clinton and Golda Mae (Winter) Talbot. Blanche grew up in Webb City, graduating from Webb City High school in 1934. She attended Joplin Business College in the late 1930�s and was employed as a legal secretary for a short time. She married Ferrell J. "Andy� Anderson on March 15, 1941. They were married 37 years when Ferrell left this life in March of 1978. Both were former members of First Baptist Church of Joplin, MO. Mrs. Anderson was a longtime resident of Joplin until moving to Independence in 1989. She was a current member of Noland Road Baptist Church. Mrs. Anderson is survived by her two sons, Mike Anderson of Olathe, KS and Todd Anderson of Independence, MO; 3 grandchildren, Nathan Anderson, Karen Shields and Barry Anderson; 7 great-grandchildren, Jessica Shields, Ethan, Kira and Isaac Anderson and Trinity, Christian and Alexander Anderson; two nieces and many friends over her lifetime. Blanche was preceded in death by her parents, a sister, Evadean Craig of Overland Park, KS; a son, Gary Anderson, formerly of Joplin, MO; and two grandchildren, Molly Anderson of Independence, MO and Colin Anderson of Overland Park, KS. Blanche was a wonderful mother and full of kindness to those who knew her. She loved the Lord and always had a heart for those who were less fortunate - displaying that gift of mercy throughout her life. She will be greatly missed by all and will be kept alive in their hearts and memories.