Fernella Caryl (Coombs) Guthrie

Fernella Caryl (Coombs) Guthrie, born November 14, 1930, passed away peacefully on July 7, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family. Fern was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Don Guthrie; her son-in-law, Rick Doak; and other cherished family members. She is lovingly survived by her children, Beth (Gary) Maggert, Donnell Doak, and Don Guthrie; her grandchildren, Donald Guthrie, Meaghann Maggert, and Kimberlee (Corey) Jackson; her two great-grandchildren; and many extended family members and dear friends whose lives were forever touched by her kindness. As the only daughter in her family, caring for others came naturally to Fern. That compassionate spirit stayed with her throughout her life and touched everyone who knew her. When Don was serving in the Army, Fern followed him to Alaska, where they were married before Alaska became the 49th state. They later made their home in the Kansas City area, where they raised their family. Fern had a creative spirit and a heart for making memories. She and Don spent years creating together and sharing their handmade creations at craft shows. They also enjoyed square dancing, taking bus trips, and exploring the world together. Fern loved painting, stained glass, sewing, baking, and getting lost in a good book, but her greatest joy was sharing those passions with her family. Many treasured afternoons were spent crafting together in her basement, making memories that her family will cherish forever. After all that crafting, she was lucky to have the very best taste-testers for everything she baked. Fern loved a good bargain almost as much as she loved chocolate. Her penny-pinching became part of the family’s favorite stories, while chocolate became one of her favorite daily treats. In her later years, her family faithfully kept her candy bowl full, and she looked forward to sharing an afternoon chocolate bar with the nurses and staff at Alto. The saying, “To know Fern was to love her,” couldn’t have been more true. She made everyone feel like family and never wanted anyone to feel left out. If she invited you somewhere, she’d often add, “Unless you get a better offer,” with a smile. She never meant it because she didn’t want you there; quite the opposite. She simply wanted the people she loved to be happy and live their fullest lives. Her kindness, creativity, and unconditional love will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew her. Though she will be deeply missed, the memories she created, the traditions she shared, and the love she gave so freely will remain with her family for generations to come. The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the compassionate caregivers and staff at Alto by Allegro Senior Living and to the hospice team at Brighton Hospice for the exceptional care, comfort, and kindness they provided Fern and her family. A Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday, July 19, 2026, from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. at Meet Me on Main, 515 Main St., Belton, MO 64012. Fern believed life was just a little sweeter with chocolate. We hope you’ll enjoy a piece in her memory.

Fernella Caryl (Coombs) Guthrie

November 14, 1930 - July 7, 2026