Shirley Darleen Knapp

Shirley “Darleen” (Peters) Knapp, 82, of Lexington, Missouri, passed away Friday, November 28, 2025, at Centerpoint Medical Center surrounded by family.

Darleen was born on April 4, 1943, in Thurmont, Maryland, to Vacil and Charlotte (Weller) Peters. She graduated from William Chrisman High School in Independence, Missouri in 1961. Following graduation, Darleen worked as a receptionist for the Vendo and Stephenson-Yost Steel companies. She met her husband of 61 years on a blind date in February of 1963. On December 28, 1963, Darleen was united in marriag to Thomas “Tom” Knapp in Independence, Missouri. They moved to Lexington in 1976.

Darleen was an active member of First Baptist Church and in her community. She served in various roles at church, which included Chairman of the Memorial Fund and Young at Hearts, and assisting with Children’s Worship, Sunday School and Vacation Bible School. In the community, she worked part-time at the Lexington Newspaper and Chamber of Commerce, and at one time had a consignment booth in a store on Main Street.

Darleen’s greatest joy in life was her family. She was involved and present in her children’s lives, attending their countless number of activities. Her love and support continued for her three grandsons and two great grandchildren. Darleen always “lit up” when she was in their presence. To all of them, she was their biggest cheerleader and fan.

Darleen touched the lives of many with her caring, compassionate, and sweet spirit that brought joy to those who were blessed to be a part of her life.

Darleen is survived by her husband Tom Knapp of the home; two children, Shari (Ryan) Steinbecker of St. Joseph, MO, and Danny (Melinda) Knapp of Liberty, MO; three grandchildren, Jakob (Paige) Steinbecker of St. Joseph, MO, Mikhai and Cruz Knapp of Liberty, MO; two great-grandchildren, Cooper and Leighton Steinbecker; three sisters, Linda (Rusty) Wilson, Annette Kaushal and Robin Usher; two brothers, Gene (Elaine) Peters and Bobby (Lisa) Peters.

Darleen was preceded in death by her parents and two sisters, Sharon Vandaveer and Margaret Pontalion.

Visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., Saturday, December 13, 2025, at First Baptist Church, 525 S. Business Hwy 13, Lexington, Missouri, 64067. A Celebration of Life will follow immediately after visitation.

In memory of Darleen, memorials may be made to the First Baptist Church Memorial Fund. Memories of Darleen and condolences for her family may be left at www.LedfordFamilyFH.com or on our Facebook Page. Arrangements have been entrusted to the Walker-Nadler-Fuller Funeral Home, 1720 South Street, Lexington, Missouri, 64067, 660-259-2245.