Eugene Harvey Leiss

Eugene "Gene" Harvey Leiss, 86, of Sedalia, MO, passed away on Sunday, December 22, 2024, at Sylvia G. Thompson Residence Center in Sedalia. He was born on March 19, 1938, in Greensburg, KS, the son of George Sidwell Leiss and Velma Grace (Richardson) Leiss, who preceded him in death.

On September 8, 1963, in Greensburg, KS, he was united in marriage to Sheila Kay Woods, who resides in the home.

Gene was a 1956 graduate of Greensburg High School. After graduating, he attended technical school in Wichita, KS, and Emporia State University. Later, he spent time in California before going into business with his father, running cattle. Gene served his country honorably in the United States Army Reserve for six years after returning to Kansas. Gene was a member of First United Methodist Church, where he taught the Senior High School kids Sunday School for a number of years, as well as being active in Boy Scouts and served on several church committees. He worked at Panhandle Eastern Pipeline Company as a Superintendent/Supervisor at the Houstonia Station for many years until he was disabled due to a birth defect.

In his spare time, Gene enjoyed woodworking, ancestry, watching the KC Chiefs football, working outside, spending time with his sons, grandchildren and visiting with his neighbors. Gene especially enjoyed raising his black angus cattle with his dad.

Gene leaves behind his loving wife of 61 years, Sheila Kay Woods, and three sons, Eric Eugene (Frankie) Leiss, of Nixa, MO, Brian Keith Leiss, of Blue Springs, MO, and Michael Allen Leiss, of Sedalia, MO; as well as three grandchildren, Gavin, Evan and Alannah Leiss; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

In addition to his parents, Gene was preceded in death by two sisters, Joyce Kennedy and Jo Hutchinson, and one brother, Gary Leiss.

A memorial service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Monday, December 30, 2024, at Rea Funeral Chapel, with Pastor Candace Fowler officiating.

The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the chapel.

Burial will be held at a later date at Fair View Cemetery, in Greensburg, KS.

Honorary pallbearers will be Cliff McBride, Willis Charles, Darren LeFevers, Brian Walker, Archie Shireman, Jim Woodall, and Dale Shull.

Memorial contributions may be made to Tunnels to Towers, 2361 Hylan Blvd., Staten Island, NY 10306, or St. Jude's Children's Hospital.

Arrangements are under the direction of Rea Funeral Chapel.