Roma Lee Meinsen

Roma Lee Meinsen, a cherished member of her community and a loving matriarch to her family, passed away on April 17, 2025, surrounded by love in her hometown of Independence, Missouri. Even in her final days she found a way to continue, as she had her whole life, spreading joy and warmth to all who had the pleasure of knowing her.

Roma was born in Independence on February 25, 1938, but was raised in Blue Springs and was proud of being from Blue Springs and being a graduate of Blue Springs High School. Even later in life she would talk with anyone who asked her about growing up in Blue Springs and about what it was like then versus now.

Faith was a very important component in Roma’s life and she had been a member of First Christian Church of Independence for over 60 years. She enjoyed the friendship and warmth of many lifelong friends made thru the church and felt blessed to be an Elder Emeritus for the church.

Roma dedicated 40 years of her life working as a secretary at Household Financial Corp before retiring. Her professional life was marked by her impressive organizational skills and her cheerful demeanor, which made her a beloved figure in the workplace. She had many managers thru the years, but they all could see she was really running the place as she was the first contact with the customers as well as their final contact and she set the tone for the office’s day as well as for the customer with her smile and warmth, welcoming them into the office.

Even before she retired Roma was busy with volunteer work, and after retirement she wondered how she had even had time to work between volunteering. She had been a Cub Pack leader when her son was going thru Cub Scouts. Roma was a member of the Ladies Oriental Shrine and was eventually the High Priestess for Tarrara Court in Independence. She enjoyed her monthly meeting of the Mary Paxton Study Group as she always learned something new and interesting. One of her greatest joys was the years she spent working with the Bingham Waggoner Historical Society, eventually serving the board for 20 years as the membership chairman. Her knees did not allow her to guide tours, but she found multiple other ways to help. Her love of art led her to be on the Citizens Civic and Cultural Commission that hosted an art show for local high school students every spring. She enjoyed seeing what the kids created and the pride they had when showing the work hanging at an art show to their families. Her other great joy was her time spent with the Independence Young Matrons, helping with the work they do and eventually serving as President of the organization for two years in 2014 and 2015. Helping others was just second nature to her.

In her personal life, Roma was known for her great sense of humor, impeccable taste in design, and her ability to make everyone around her feel special. With her sharp wit and stylish flair, she kept a beautiful home filled with warmth and laughter. Roma had a passion for life and embraced every moment, whether it was cheering on her favorite teams—the Kansas City Royals, the Kansas City Chiefs, or the Mizzou Tigers—or indulging in her love for travel. Alongside her husband, Donald Meinsen, she explored the picturesque landscapes of Ireland, France, Hawaii, and enjoyed various bus tours that created lasting memories.

A life-long avid reader, Roma particularly loved the works of Danielle Steel, finding solace and inspiration in her stories. Family was at the core of Roma's existence; she loved them fiercely, and there was nothing more gratifying to her than being surrounded by family during gatherings and celebrations. She was a proud mother to her son Geoffrey Ingram and embraced her role as stepmother to Karen Hoyt and her husband Kevin, as well as Mark Meinsen. Her legacy continues through her four beloved grandchildren and nine cherished great-grandchildren, each of whom carries a piece of her vibrant spirit.

Roma's enduring bond with her sister, Margaret Roberts, along with her extended family and friends, was a testament to her deep-rooted connections. She is preceded in death by her parents, Walter and Gladys Pem, and her first husband, David Ingram. Her absence leaves a void that cannot be filled, yet the memories of her laughter, wisdom, and love will forever resonate in the hearts of those she touched.

A visitation will be held on May 19, 2025, beginning at 1:00 PM, followed by a memorial service at 2:00 PM at Speaks Suburban Chapel in Independence, Missouri. In celebrating her life, we remember Roma Lee Meinsen as a beacon of joy, style, and love whose legacy will continue to shine brightly through her family and friends.

The family would like to extend a huge thank you to St. Croix Hospice for all their love, patience and assistance during her final days. With a special thanks for the three little angels who saw her the most during this time, Megan, Brie and Ally along with Chaplain Harlan who comforted her in her final days.

In lieu of flowers family suggest contributions to be made in Roma's honor to St. Jude's Children's Hospital.