Lola Jean Antes

Lola Jean Antes, born on August 25, 1922, passed away peacefully on July 10, 2024, at the age of 101. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Walter Antes, in 1996, her parents, and five sisters.

Lola is survived by her son, Larry Robert Goddard and his partner, Eleni, of Stamford, Connecticut, and her daughter, Terri Goddard, of Kansas City. She was a cherished grandmother to Tiffany Goddard and her husband, Lance, of Jacksonville, Florida and Courtney Goddard of Kansas City. Lola was also the proud great-grandmother of Wyatt Hawkinson, Caroline Hawkinson, and Sutton Snyder. She is remembered fondly by her sister, Georgia Ream, and her nephews, David Ream (Sarah), Dean Ream (Janna), Steven Coonrod and daughter-in-law, Cathie Simons.

Lola's life was enriched by the love and care of her devoted caregiver and friend, Roxanna Swaney, and her adopted family, Sanjaya, Soniya, Sabrina, and Shivani Gurung of Baltimore.

Born the fifth of seven daughters to Robert and Ethyl Gresham, Lola was raised in Springfield, Missouri, before making Kansas City her home in 1955. She had a zest for life, finding joy in dancing, shopping, cheering on the Kansas City Royals and the Chiefs, and ensuring her hair was perfectly styled every week.

Lola enjoyed a successful career in retail, working for notable stores such as Macy’s, Harzfeld’s, and Bonwit Teller. She took immense pride in her son's accomplishments as a great athlete and his distinguished service as a US Secret Service Agent. She was equally supportive and proud of her daughter Terri’s career in non-profit work, often surrounding herself with Terri's friends and colleagues.

Lola adored her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, finding immense joy in their company. She was a strong, proud, and stylish lady until the very end, leaving a lasting impression on everyone who knew her. Lola Jean Antes will be deeply missed and forever remembered by her family and friends.

A Celebration of Life will be held to honor her memory on July 27th from 2:00-4:00 at the home of Ryan Long and Curtis Smith. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in her name to KC Shepherd’s Center, 9200 Ward Parkway, Ste 200 Kansas City, MO 64114 or donate online at https://kcshepherdscenter.org/how-to-help/donate.html.