Our Team

Jamie King

Funeral Director

Jamie King joined Speaks in 2017 and has since transitioned from Service Coordinator to Funeral Director, a role where her compassion and calm presence make a meaningful difference every day. A lifelong Missouri native, Jamie lives in Pleasant Hill and is a proud graduate of Blue Springs High School. She’s the proud mom of three and an active wrestling and golf mom. In her free time, Jamie enjoys car shows, race tracks, off-roading adventures, and spending time on the water. Most of all, she values every moment with her family. Helping families navigate some of life’s most unimaginable challenges has changed Jamie’s life. She sees this work not just as a career, but as a calling—and she is honored to serve her community as part of the Speaks team.

Katie Wood

Funeral Director

Born and raised in Independence, Missouri, Katie Wood has always had a heart for service. She began her career in Quality Assurance and Customer Relations as a Customer Services Specialist, ensuring that clients received the highest level of care and support. In July 2019, Katie joined Speaks as a Service Coordinator, where she quickly discovered her true calling. Her compassion and commitment to helping others led her to transition into the role of Funeral Director. Katie is deeply dedicated to guiding families through some of life’s most difficult moments and takes great pride in honoring the lives and legacies of their loved ones. Known for her empathy, attention to detail, and heartfelt service, she considers it a privilege to walk alongside families during their time of need. Outside of work, Katie is a devoted wife and the proud mother of three beautiful sons. She enjoys reading and cherishing quality time with her family.

Taylor Kabrick

Funeral Director | Apprentice Embalmer

Originally from Grain Valley and now rooted in the Kansas City metro area, Taylor Kabrick brings both heart and creativity to everything she does. Before joining Speaks in August 2021, Taylor spent six years as a self-employed wedding and portrait photographer, cultivating an eye for detail and a passion for capturing life’s most meaningful moments. She studied at the Art Institute of Denver and later graduated magna cum laude from Worsham College of Mortuary Science, Class of 2025. A creative at heart, Taylor continues to explore photography, including the timeless art of wet-plate collodion. Outside of work, you can often find her at live music shows, practicing yoga, running, or spending time with close friends and her three beloved pups—Douglas, Frankie, and Oscar. With a deep commitment to serving others, Taylor proudly serves at Speaks, working alongside her family to support the community with care and compassion. For Taylor, being part of a multigenerational team—including her aunt Katie (Co-Director) and grandmother Terry K. (Hairdresser)—is more than a career; it’s a calling, and an honor.

Robert Watson

Funeral Director | Embalmer

Robert Watson began his professional journey with a bachelor’s degree in Psychology from California State University – Stanislaus in 2013. He went on to earn a degree in Funeral Service Education from American River College in Sacramento in 2016, deepening his commitment to guiding families through meaningful end-of-life care. Since relocating with his family to Missouri in 2022, Robert has been honored to continue his calling at Speaks, where he helps families take their first steps on a healthy grief journey—mourning the loss of loved ones while celebrating the uniqueness of every life. Robert is an active member of St. Mark the Evangelist Catholic Church in Independence. In his free time, he enjoys exploring the Kansas City metro and the surrounding rural areas with his family.

Rachel Gudde

Funeral Director Embalmer

Kelly Boren

Carson-Speaks Service Coordinator

Kelly Boren, a native of Goddard, Kansas, joined the Speaks team in December 2024, bringing with her over a decade of dedicated experience in the funeral and cemetery industry. Throughout her career, Kelly has been recognized for her compassion, meticulous attention to detail, and unwavering commitment to excellence. In her role, she provides essential behind-the-scenes support to ensure that each family receives the highest standard of thoughtful and respectful care. Kelly has been married for 20 years and is the mother of two sons. In her personal time, she enjoys reading, gardening, baking, and spending quality time with her family.

Christine Maltos

Suburban Service Coordinator

Originally from Cape Girardeau, MO, Christine Maltos now calls Blue Springs home. She joined Speaks Chapels in May 2023, bringing with her a strong background in the medical field and a deep commitment to compassionate service. Beyond her professional life, Christine recently experienced a heartwarming reunion—reconnecting with the love of her life after 30 years apart. She is a proud mother of three and an active member of the Elks Lodge in Blue Springs. In her free time, Christine enjoys relaxing at the beach, tending to her garden, playing ping pong, and attending live concerts.

Amy Michaels

Accounting Specialist

Terry Ramsey

Beautician

Jessica Crossley

Family Service Advisor

Debbie Crossley

Funeral Assistant Coordinator

A lifelong resident of Lee’s Summit, Debbie Crossley brings a deep sense of community and compassion to everything she does. Married for nearly 50 years, she has lovingly raised two children and is a proud grandmother to six grandchildren. Debbie spent many years as a devoted stay-at-home mother, building a strong and nurturing foundation for her family. She is a dedicated member of Lee's Summit Bible Church, serving as a youth group sponsor for over 30 years. Since joining Speaks in September 2016, Debbie has found deep fulfillment in supporting families during some of life’s most difficult moments. Outside of work, you’ll often find her hosting Sunday dinners for her family, cherishing every moment spent around the table.

Paul Morales

Funeral Assistant

Paul Morales is a lifelong resident of the area and a proud graduate of Truman High School. With a deep commitment to music education, Paul has served as an orchestra teacher for 27 years and spent the last 12 years as the District Music Department Coordinator, guiding and supporting music programs across the district. In the summer of 2018, Paul joined Speaks, bringing leadership and community engagement to the team. He is an active member of the Gathering Baptist Church and is dedicated to both his faith and his family. Paul is married and the proud father of two children. Outside of his professional life, he enjoys playing the guitar and creating intricate caricature wood carvings, blending artistry with craftsmanship in his personal pursuits.

Roger Hamilton

Funeral Assistant

Roger Hamilton, originally from Chillicothe, Missouri, brings a lifelong commitment to leadership, service, and community. Before joining Speaks Chapels in 2013, Roger dedicated his career to education, serving as both a Junior High and High School Principal. His passion for helping others extends beyond the workplace—he is an active member of Abundant Life Church and is deeply involved in community outreach, from providing food for the homeless to organizing community cleanup efforts. A devoted husband and proud father of three daughters, Roger enjoys a rich and active life outside of work. He shows horses and dogs and spends his free time enjoying the outdoors through gardening, waterskiing, and snow skiing.

Janis Winkler

Funeral Assistant

After a fulfilling 30-year career in education with the Fort Osage School District, Janis Winkler joined Speaks Chapels in 2023, bringing with her a heart for service and a deep commitment to community. Known for her warmth and dedication, Janis is an active volunteer with Harvester’s and the Sew and Sew group in Independence, and she serves as President of the Women’s Fellowship at St. Paul Church in Napoleon, MO. In her free time, Janis enjoys singing, exploring historic stadiums and Capitols, and cheering on her favorite baseball teams. Her passion for connecting with others and her lifelong spirit of giving continue to guide her work and relationships every day.

Bruce Mann

Funeral Assistant

A lifelong area resident, Bruce Mann brings deep community roots and a spirit of service to his role at Speaks, which he joined in August 2012 following his retirement from Bayer Crop Service. Known for his warm demeanor and dedication to others, Bruce is a proud husband and father of two daughters, and a devoted member of Abundant Life Church. Outside of work, he enjoys traveling, playing golf and pickleball, and cherishing time with his grandchildren.

Jerry Kacheroski

Funeral Assistant

Based in Independence, Missouri, Jerry Kacheroski has been a valued member of Speaks Chapels since November 2004. Originally from Minneapolis, Minnesota, Jerry brings a diverse background to his role, having previously worked as an engineer and in marketing with AT&T. A proud U.S. Army veteran, Jerry is committed to service both professionally and personally. He is an active member of St. Mark Catholic Church and deeply rooted in his community. Jerry and his wife are the proud parents of two sons. In his free time, he enjoys connecting with others through his ham radio hobby.

Jan Ferguson

Funeral Assistant

Mike Harper

Funeral Assistant

Originally from Denver, Colorado, Mike Harper brings 38 years of experience in Youth Ministry to the Speaks team, which he joined in March 2024. With a heart for mentoring young people and building lasting connections, Mike has spent his career walking alongside students and families with compassion, wisdom, and faith. Mike is a devoted husband, proud father of two daughters, and grandfather to two energetic grandsons. He enjoys bow hunting, golf, fly fishing, and—most of all—spending quality time with his wife and family.

Kent Eaton

Funeral Assistant

Kent Eaton joined the team in January 2019 and soon after began serving as a Certified Celebrant. Since then, he has had the privilege of conducting hundreds of personalized services with compassion and care. Prior to his current role, Kent served as a Baptist minister for over two decades, followed by a 14-year career as a Special Education teacher. His lifelong commitment to serving others continues to shape his work today. Kent is a proud member of First Baptist Church of Lee’s Summit. He and his wife enjoy a rich family life with two children and six grandchildren. In his free time, he enjoys working on jigsaw puzzles, watching sports, and making memories with his grandchildren.

Bob Stikeleather

Funeral Assistant

Bob Stikeleather has been a valued member of the Speaks team since February 2019. Known for his steady presence and genuine care for others, Bob brings a wealth of life experience and community spirit to his role. Bob is a proud husband, father of three, grandfather to eight, and great-grandfather to one. A dedicated member of First Presbyterian Church in Independence, Missouri, he remains actively involved in Scouting America, supporting youth development and leadership. Outside of work, Bob enjoys staying active through hiking and playing pickleball.

Julie Simcosky

Funeral Assistant

Julie Simcosky has been serving families in funeral care for decades. She began working in funeral service at a young age while working alongside her parents at Hinton Funeral Home in Raytown, MO, and became a licensed funeral director in 1975. Her early start in the family business shaped her deep compassion and commitment to helping others through life’s most tender moments. In January 2020, Julie joined the team at Speaks Chapels. In addition to her work, Julie has cherished her role as a pastor’s wife, finding joy and purpose in ministry and community. Julie is married, with two sons and two granddaughters who bring her immense pride and joy. When she’s not working, she enjoys sharing coffee and conversation with friends.

Phil Simcosky

Funeral Assistant

Phil Simcosky is a dedicated pastor and community leader with a lifelong commitment to faith, service, and family. Raised in Independence, Missouri, Phil is a proud graduate of William Chrisman High School. Over the years, Phil has faithfully served as the pastor of five churches, where he has built strong, lasting relationships and helped congregations grow both spiritually and communally. Beyond the pulpit, Phil is an active member of the Rotary Club, embodying its motto of "Service Above Self." Phil is married and the proud father of two sons. When he's not serving his community or spending time with his family, he enjoys playing golf.

Susie Wilson

Funeral Assistant

A lifelong resident of Independence, Susie Wilson joined Speaks Chapels in September 2024 after a rewarding 45-year career as a dental assistant. A proud graduate of Truman High School, Susie brings a compassionate spirit and a strong sense of community to her work. Susie is a devoted member of the Community of Christ Church and is deeply rooted in her faith and local community. She is married and the proud mother of one daughter. In her free time, Susie enjoys gardening and finds joy in feeding and watching the birds in her backyard.

Shirley Mawhiney

Funeral Assistant

Lee Morales

Funeral Assistant

Peggy Kearney

Funeral Assistant

Blair Baucom

Funeral Assistant

Michael Whiteside

Funeral Assistant

Rick Christian

General Manager | Funeral Director and Embalmer

Rick Christian is a dedicated funeral service professional with over three decades of experience in the industry. A native of small-town Kansas, Rick brings a grounded approach to his work, shaped by his deep roots and commitment to serving others. He holds an Associate of Applied Science degree in Mortuary Science from Kansas City, Kansas Community College, and is a licensed Embalmer and Funeral Director. After spending 14 years serving families in Kansas, Rick joined Speaks Chapels in 2002. Rick lives in Lee’s Summit, Missouri, with his wife, and they have two daughters. Outside of work, he enjoys spending time outdoors and cherishes time with his family, especially his girls.

Jim Carter

Care Center Manager | Funeral Director and Embalmer

A third-generation Lee’s Summit native and graduate of Lee’s Summit High School, Jim Carter brings a deep sense of hometown pride and purpose to his work. After earning a BS in Business from William Jewell College and an Associate Degree in Mortuary Science from KCKCC, Jim followed a calling that had long been in the making—confirmed by an aptitude test his freshman year that pointed him toward funeral service. Following a successful corporate career in the greater Kansas City area, Jim joined Speaks Chapels in October 2001. He sees his work not just as a profession, but as a ministry—an opportunity to serve families in their most vulnerable moments with compassion and care. Jim is a devoted member and Deacon at First Baptist Church of Lee’s Summit. He is married and together they enjoy time with family, relaxing at the lake, practicing yoga, and restoring classic cars. For Jim, funeral service is more than a job—it’s a calling and a heartfelt commitment to his community.

Kent Eaton

Certified Celebrant

Kent Eaton joined the team in January 2019 and soon after began serving as a Certified Celebrant. Since then, he has had the privilege of conducting hundreds of personalized services with compassion and care. Before his current role, Kent served as a Baptist minister for over two decades, followed by a 14-year career as a Special Education teacher. His lifelong commitment to serving others continues to shape his work today. Kent is a proud member of First Baptist Church of Lee’s Summit. He and his wife enjoy a rich family life with two children and six grandchildren. In his free time, he enjoys working on jigsaw puzzles, watching sports, and making memories with his grandchildren.

Bob Speaks

Second Generation

Brad Speaks

Third Generation

Brad Speaks, a native of Lamoni, Iowa, began his lifelong connection to funeral service in 1974, working for Rollie Speaks at the original Speaks Funeral Home in Independence. A graduate of Graceland University with a double major in History and Political Science, Brad's diverse work history—spanning 31 jobs from cattle branding to oil drilling—has shaped a people-first philosophy that continues to guide his leadership.



Throughout his career, Brad has been deeply committed to service and community. He has held leadership roles in numerous organizations, including the Independence Chamber of Commerce (past chairman), Rotary Club, Child Abuse Prevention Association, and Economic Development Council. Nationally, he served as president of Selected Independent Funeral Homes and was appointed by Governor Jay Nixon to the State Board of Embalmers and Funeral Directors. He currently sits on the board of the Independence Police Foundation and chairs the Chamber Foundation.



A Community of Christ minister and former congregational pastor, Brad values connection, compassion, and community. He and his wife, Mary Kay, have been married since 1986. They share a daughter, Ciera, a son-in-law, Dave, and a grandson, Daniel. Brad enjoys motorcycles, camping, playing guitar, and attending live music festivals—but his favorite role these days is teaching his grandson the finer things in life: whittling, wheelies, and good manners.

Angela "Angie" Laster

Office Manager & Accounts Receivables (Unlicensed)

I was born in Greenville, SC, raised in Columbus, Georgia, then to Spartanburg, SC when I was 13 years old. I was fortunate to attend Dorman High School where I played clarinet in the Marching Band and Spartanburg Community College.
Having my family close by is a blessing. They include my four daughters: Tamara, Andrea, Victoria, and Alicia; eight grandchildren, Joseph, Fisher, Brooklyn, Lily, Karlee, Maci, Brady, and Tyson; one sister, Jean and brother-in-love, Martin; and my parents, Brenda and Bernie, (along with multiple other family members).
I am a member of Spartanburg Seventh-Day Adventist Church.
Living in the Upstate of South Carolina is the perfect place, right in the middle of the mountains and the beach, which I so love to travel to.
In 2014, I chose to work at The J. F. Floyd Mortuary to serve our families. It is a great honor to create the last item for the family of their loved one, whether it is the obituary, bookmark, candle or assisting with a jewelry piece order. It always brings joy to an incredibly sad time.

Karley Laughter

Office Administrator & Apprentice Embalmer

Karley has been working in funeral service since the age of 16, drawn to the profession by a desire to serve others during some of life’s most challenging moments. As the office administrator, she brings organization, dependability, and a welcoming energy to daily operations, ensuring every detail is handled with care.


In addition to her administrative role, Karley is currently pursuing her embalming license. She approaches her work with compassion, curiosity, and a strong commitment to professional growth within the funeral field.


Outside of work, Karley enjoys embroidery, writing, and painting—creative outlets that reflect her vibrant nature. Whether she’s coordinating schedules or creating art, she brings the same passion and positivity to everything she does.

Jennifer West

Accounts Payable & Office Manager (Unlicensed)

I have been married for 42 years to the love of my life, Larry. We have three children, Shelley, son-in-love Adam, and Tyler and two grandchildren, Lilly and Colton. We are members of West Springs Baptist Church. I enjoy spending time with my family like our yearly trips to Fripp Island and Pigeon Forge.

I joined The J.F. Floyd Mortuary in 2021. I find it very interesting and humbling to help families in any way I can.

Cynthia Lane "Cindy" Wilson

Administrative Assistant (Unlicensed)

I have been at Floyd's since September 2014 in various positions. Since then I have worked as cemetery contract, trusting, and commissions person. Now I am at Greenlawn Chapel as an Administrative Assisstant.


My husband and I have been members of Calvary Baptist Church, where we married 44 years ago, for about 40 years. We have one son and one daughter and four grandchildren; Addison, Evan, Sammy, and Lane. Their ages range from 11 years of age to 21 months old. I enjoy being with them and watching them grow and learn. I also enjoy my flowers and working in our yard.

Dr. Leroy G. Moore

Funeral Assistant (Unlicensed)

Dr. Moore is a retired Chiropractor. He worked as a faculty member and in administration at Sherman College of Chiropractic for 32 years. He also maintained a part-time private practice for 26 years. He has been married to his wife, Phyllis, for 56 years and has two sons. He is a member of Second Presbyterian Church. His favorite hobbies are fishing and golf. Dr. Moore spent his career serving others as a teacher and health professional. After retiring, he wanted to continue working in a profession that served others. Dr. Moore joined The J. F. Floyd Mortuary in 2011 because it gives him the opportunity to serve others who are experiencing a difficult time in their lives.

Richard Smith

Funeral Assistant (Unlicensed)

Richard has been married to his wife for 60 years. They attend Lake Bowen Baptist Church. He enjoys playing golf, fishing, working in his garden, and caring for his yard. Richard joined The J. F. Floyd Mortuary in 2002 after being recruited and recommended by another employee.

Rev. Andy Case

Administrative Assistant (Unlicensed)

Kaitlyn Blum

Crematory Operator

Denise Evans

Staff Position

Kelsey Anderson

Funeral Assistant/Care Center Team (Unlicensed)

Kate Hargraves

Administration

Shawna Harris

Administrative Assistant

Gene Moorhead

Funeral Assistant (Unlicensed)

Kevin Boudle

General Manager/Funeral Director SC

Scott Hoffman

Sales Manager

Joell’e Brawley

Family Service Counselor

Marty Kolb

Family Service Counselor

Joe Lawson

Family Service Counselor

Chris Collins

Superintendent

Trey Banks

Supervisor

John Harrison

Maintenance

Clay Thrift

Maintenance

Daniel Dollar

Maintentance

Justin Smith

Maintenance

Blake Logan

Maintenance

Nick Burns

Maintenance

Charles H. Welch

Retired Funeral Director & Embalmer

Charlie was born in Bishopville, S.C., and moved to Spartanburg in 1966. He began his funeral service career by attending Gupton-Jones College of Funeral Service in Dallas, TX, and after graduation served his apprenticeship at Bass Funeral Home in Rock Hill, S.C. Charlie is married to Janet M. Welch and has two sons Nelson and Turner. He is a lifelong Presbyterian and is currently a member of First Presbyterian Church of Spartanburg. Until recently he owned and operated a Bed & Breakfast in Montreat, NC at the Presbyterian Retreat and Conference Center. He enjoys most types of sports and is a huge CLEMSON fan.

Bertha Flynn

Jane Rowland

Pat Brown

Eddie Fargis

Funeral Director/Inventory Control