Janet Claurice Culbertson

Janet Claurice (Closson) Culbertson, 92, of Lee’s Summit, MO formerly of Odessa, MO passed away on Friday, September 19, 2025, at St. Luke’s Hospice House in Kansas City, MO surrounded by her loving family.

Janet will have a private burial in the Mound Grove Cemetery in Independence, MO. In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to Missouri School for the Blind or Macular Degeneration Foundation. Memories of Janet and condolences for her family may be left at www.LedfordFamilyFH.com or on our Facebook Page. Arrangements have been entrusted to the Ralph O. Jones Funeral Home, 306 S. 2nd St., Odessa, MO, 64076, 816-633-5524.

Janet was born on August 14, 1933, in Independence, MO to Claurice Godfrey Closson and Leona Myrtle (DuVall) Closson. She graduated in 1951 from William Chrisman High School in Independence, MO. On December 11, 1951, Janet was united in marriage to Merle Ray Culbertson in Independence, MO. He preceded her in death on August 23, 2024. In 1941, Janet was baptized RLDS and held her faith close to her heart throughout her life. She was very active in the church helping lead the youth groups. Janet was a homemaker, taking care of her home and family. In addition to spending time with family and friends, Janet enjoyed gardening, sewing, cooking, and traveling.

Janet is survived by five children, Cynthia Whiting of Yankton, SD, Sharon (Greg) Bolliger of Overland Park, KS, Janice Darlene Culbertson of Lee’s Summit, MO, William Culbertson of Yankton, SD, and Elizabeth VanWinkle of Lee’s Summit, MO; seven grandchildren, ten great grandchildren, and two great-great grandchildren; special family members, Robert (Adelina) Gray of Pheonix, AZ; and many nieces nephews, relatives, and friends.

In addition to her parents and husband, Janet was preceded in death by a son-in-law, Jim Whiting; a granddaughter, Karina Quail; a sister, Barbara Carder; and two brothers, Warren Closson and Robert Closson.