Beloved Burla Hoffman Lilley, 107, of Independence, MO died peacefully September 11, 2020. She is remembered for her zest for life, enterprising mind, fashionable taste, and fierce love for her family, and passed on incredible work ethic to generations of family.
Burla was born June 2, 1913 in Macks Creek, MO. She was preceded in death by her mother and father, Drury and Sophie Williams; sisters, Alta Phillips, M. Berthina “Bertie” McCasson, Bonnie Williams, E. Lorene Heath, Pauline Williams Kay; brothers, Roy Williams, Leonard Dean Williams, Bobbie Williams; husband, Leroy Ross; children, Bonnie Spencer, Kenneth Ross; son-in-law, Ted Spencer; daughter-in-law, Margaret Ross; grandson, Dennis Michael Ross; husband, Leo Hoffman; husband, Jim Lilley.
She is survived by her son Charles Nickerson and his wife Pam of Independence, MO; grandchildren, Debbie Smith of Fordland, MO, Brenda Evans and her husband Joe of Lathrop, MO, Marsha Dotson of Lathrop, MO, Sandy Hart and her husband Roger of Lathrop, MO, Melissa Meyer of Independence, MO, Michael Nickerson and his wife Lilliana of Oxnard, CA; step-grandchild, Laura Warren of Louisburg, MO; plentiful great grandchildren, great-great grandchildren, nieces, and nephews.
Burla was an early female entrepreneur. She opened and managed restaurants across the Kansas City metropolitan area, investing in one of the region’s first soft serve ice cream machines at T’s Drive-In in Lee’s Summit. She lived surrounded by friends, family, music, dancing, and laughter.
B., Burla, Mom, Grandma, Aunt, Neno, GoMo — we love you a bushel and a peck and a hug around the neck.
Celebration of Life pending.
Friend ,Independence ,Missouri
My world was a little more colorful from meeting Burla.❤️ I can see her laughing, dancing and entertaining the Angels in heaven 💃🏿
I had the absolute pleasure of sitting with Burla, and my father at their meal table every day, in her last year. She was an woman of many thoughts and always a joy. Some days she was hilarious and others, thought provoking. One of the last things she told me was, "Every job is important, always be kind to everyone." I wholeheartedly agree. 💜🌼
Long time friend ,Grain valley ,Missouri
I loved Burla since the moment I met her. She was always filled with great happiness, smiles and love for all. Burla was a great blessing in my life. I have and always will thank God for Burla! Carolyn Dyer My husband Larry and I thought the world of Burla!
