Frank Phillip Tandy

Frank Phillip “Phil” Tandy, 83, of Odessa, Missouri, passed away at home on Friday, June 26, 2026.

A graveside service will be held at 4:00 p.m., Tuesday, June 30, 2026, at Mound Grove Cemetery, 1818 N. River Blvd., Independence, Missouri. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. Memories of Phil and condolences for his family may be shared at www.LedfordFamilyFH.com or on the funeral home’s Facebook page. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are suggested to CMRB Odessa Hills for Capital Improvements Fund. Arrangements have been entrusted to Ralph O. Jones Funeral Home, 306 S. 2nd St., Odessa, Missouri, 816-633-5524.

Phil was born on January 23, 1943, in Independence, Missouri, to Paul E and Frances (Landfried) Tandy. He graduated from William Chrisman High School in 1961 and went on to earn his bachelor’s degree in education from Central Missouri State University in Warrensburg. On December 22, 1968, Phil married the love of his life, Cheri Lee Paddock, in Atkinson, Nebraska. Together, they built a life rooted in faith, family, and service, sharing 57 wonderful years of marriage.

Phil dedicated his life not only to his family and his faith, but also to shaping young minds. He was a devoted educator, teaching in the Eldon, Blue Springs, and Odessa, Missouri school districts. Whether teaching math, music, or Spanish, Phil had a gift for connecting with his students and inspiring a lifelong love of learning. He was very generous, always thinking of the needs of others and finding ways to help them.

Phil served his country in the United States Army during the Vietnam War and was honorably discharged. His faith was a cornerstone of his life; he began each day with an hour of scripture study and was a faithful member of the Odessa Restoration Branch, where he served as a Priest. His firm commitment to the gospel of Jesus Christ and deep devotion left a lasting impact on those around him.

Above all, Phil cherished his family. He loved spending time with them, whether traveling, canoeing, or simply enjoying life’s everyday moments together. His legacy of love, faith, and kindness will live on in each of them.

Phil is survived by his loving wife, Cheri Tandy of Odessa, Missouri; his son, Jon (Tammy) Tandy of Independence, Missouri; his grandchildren, James (Angela) Tandy of Holden, Missouri, Jessica (Kevin) McMilian, Eliana Tandy, and Vanessa Tandy, all of Independence, Missouri; his great-granddaughter, Sarah Elisabeth McMilian; his sister, Marilyn (Paul) Schilling of Austin, Texas; and many extended family members and dear friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Delores Cannon, formerly Delores Bruch.

Phil will be remembered for his unwavering faith and the deep love he had for his family and his God. He leaves behind a legacy that will be cherished by those who loved him.