Alison Leigh Gerken (Barner)

Alison Leigh Gerken, of Greenwood, Missouri, passed away on Monday, April 17, 2023. She was 59 years old.
Alison was born on May 27, 1963, to Myron and Frances Barner in Odessa, Missouri. She attended Odessa High School and went on to complete two years of higher education at University of Central Missouri. While she was at university, she unintentionally met the love of her life, James, upon accepting a dinner invitation from a friend (who would later become her sister-in-law). The chemistry she and James shared was both undeniable and pleasantly unexpected. In 1989, James vowed his love and devotion to Alison, and from their union came four incredible children.
Alison had a beautiful soul and was an extraordinary mother- not limited to her own children. She was always sure to be Room Mom during her kids’ time in primary school and was very active in PTA. Alison was a friend to everyone she met and possessed one of the purest, kindest hearts. If you needed help, she was there, regardless of your gender, race, or species. She rescued, loved on, and fostered lizards, dogs, and all kinds of critters both big and small. Her display of empathy, generosity, and unconditional love was unmatched and immensely admirable. She was a true leader and shone a loving light on each life she touched. Though her memory and legacy will continue to live on, she will be so dearly missed.
She is preceded in death by her parents; Frances Mae Barner and Myron Dey Barner. She is survived by her husband; James, her four children; Britney, Cortney, Conor, and Casidae, her two brothers; Alan and Bryan, her two sons-in-law; Caleb and Garrett, and her three grandsons; Cameron, Emmett, and Ari.
A celebration of life will take place at 11:00am on Saturday, April 22, 2023 at Odessa Community of Christ. Family will begin greeting guests at 10:00am. Condolences can be made at www.speakschapel.com.