Joseph Earl Sturgess

left us on February 17th, 2024 following a battle with chronic kidney disease.

He was preceded by his mother and father, and his two eldest sisters, Launa and Janelle.

He is survived by: His sisters; Valita, Charlene, Chaitanya, Jan, and Terry

His two children, son Theron Sturgess and daughter Emily Sturgess-Cleek

And three grandchildren, Kelyn Sturgess and Ella and Launa Cleek.

Joe was born in Shepherdsville Kentucky 20 miles south of Louisville.

From there, his family moved to Kansas City, Missouri where his father became the founding minister at the John Knox Presbyterian Kirk. His mother supported the development of the Kirk while raising four daughters, a son and fostering three young ladies who would become part of the family.

The Sturgess family moved to south Kansas City where Joe would begin 7th grade.

Joe tells the story of his life in his own words in a bio he wrote for his Ladd Elementary group:

"After Ladd elementary, I attended Center School District from grade 7 through graduation in 1963. Great high school classmates and experiences. I went to Westminster College and ended up teaching social studies and coaching football, wrestling and track for fourteen years in Fulton, Missouri.

I bought a Cessna Skyhawk with three friends and it was the best recreational money I have ever spent.

I have a son and daughter, two granddaughters and a grandson; all of whom are the joy of my life.

I have served as a school administrator in Fulton, Missouri, Ruskin High School, Leavenworth, Kansas, Harrisonville, MO, Marion, MI and Scottville, MI.

I retired in 2009. I am currently working as a security officer in the Ray/Pec School System.

I have lived alone for some time and do whatever I want."

Joe was a son, brother, husband, father, and grandfather. Professionally, he had several interesting jobs ranging from a short stint as Pinkerton Detective to a licensed Stock Broker. Most notably his academic focus and professional career of focus was that of teacher, coach, and school administrator. He touched many lives with his sincerity, kindness of spirit, generosity, and personal instructional style.

Joe Sturgess will be remembered with fondness and love. He will be greatly missed.