Anna Marie Champ

Anna Marie Champ was born on April 15, 1934, to Harold Luster and Lee Esther Manning. She was the oldest of three children. Anna accepted Christ at an early age and was baptized. She later joined Salem Baptist Church under the leadership of Pastor Charles Bailey, where she remained a faithful member until her passing.

Anna received her education from the Kansas City, Kansas, Public School District. She attended her senior year at Sumner High School. She went on to further her education by attending cosmetology school, becoming a beautician. Following in the footsteps of her favorite aunt, she often had her friends' and family's hair looking great.

In the spring of 1955, Anna was blessed to meet the love of her life, Robert Champ Sr. In the fall of that same year, he proposed to her. He always called her "Pretty Marie." They were united in Holy Matrimony on October 24, 1955. Anna stayed by his side, just as she promised, until death did them part after over 55 years of marriage.

Anna loved the holidays, especially Christmas. She enjoyed decorating trees and the house with lights. She adored her grandkids and loved watching their excitement as they opened their gifts. Did we mention this was another opportunity for Mom to shop—one of her favorite pastimes? QVC, HSN, Walmart—you name it, and she was ready to shop!

On March 13, 2025, Anna gave up her earthly smile for her heavenly smile, passing peacefully at home.

She was preceded in death by her loving husband of 56 years, Robert Champ Sr. of Kansas City, Kansas; her mother, Lee Esther Manning; her sister, Annette Como; her brother, Donald A. Boyd; and her son, Wayne L. Champ.

She leaves to forever cherish her memory and celebrate her life: her sons Robert Champ Jr. (Norma) of Kansas City, Kansas, and Lawrence M. Champ (Nikki) of Kansas City, Kansas; her daughter, Joy D. Champ (Delisha) of Kansas City, Kansas; her stepdaughter, Donna F. Banks of Richmond, Virginia; grandchildren Brandi Keens (CT), Chase Champ, Porsha Champ, Jonte Daniels, Jari L. Champ, JoJo Champ, Monica Walton, Balora, and Angel Champ; great-grandchildren, cousins, nieces, nephews, and a host of other family members and friends.

A funeral service will be held on Saturday, March 29, 2025, at Salem Baptist Church, 1824 N. 11th St., Kansas City, Kansas, 66104. The visitation will begin at 10:00 AM, followed by the Celebration of Life at 11:00 AM.