Vivian Rea Spurgeon, 97, of Belle, passed away Wednesday, Oct. 25, 2023.
She was born Feb. 26, 1926, a daughter to the late George and Nannie (Monroe) Kemple in Osage County.
She was united in marriage to Milford Paul Spurgeon, Nov. 23, 1944, and enjoyed 71 years together. Milford preceded her in death in 2016.
Vivian was a 1943 Linn High School graduate. She was a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother, an active, long-time member of Community of Christ Church and later attended Bland Christian Church.
Vivian began her working career immediately out of high school teaching in a one-room rural school. She continued her working career in several local factories. She had many interests and hobbies throughout her life including working hard for the Lord at church in any and all capacities, reading the Bible, traveling, sewing and crafting, woodworking with Milford, fishing, and most recently, puzzling with family and friends.
She was preceded in death by parents, George and Nannie; husband, Milford; two sons-in-law; brother, Glenn; and sisters, Mary, Marjorie, Kay, and Carol.
Vivian is survived by children, Ronnie Spurgeon and wife Vivian of Union, Kathy Smith and husband Eddie of Camdenton, Ed Spurgeon and wife Mary of Owensville, Sam Spurgeon of Mission, Kan., and Bonnie Elrod and husband Jim of Belle; 13 grandchildren, 21 great-grandchildren, and seven great-great-grandchildren; sister, Nancy Ford and husband Pat of Victoria, Texas; and brother-in-law Roger Spurgeon and wife Phyllis of Waterloo, Ill.
Funeral services were held Saturday, Oct. 28, at the Bland Christian Church with nephew Larry Banks officiating. Interment was at the Community of Christ Cemetery near Linn.
Expressions of sympathy may be made to Community of Christ Cemetery Fund.
Arrangements are under the direction of Sassmann’s Chapel, Belle.
