Jerre Lynn Staley Fortner

Jerre Lynn Staley Fortner, affectionately known as Jerre Lynn, passed away peacefully on April 10, 2026, in Lee’s Summit, Missouri, surrounded by her loving family, at the age of 75. Born on August 21, 1950 in Clinton, Missouri, she was the cherished daughter of Marvin Lee Staley and Norma Geraldine Staley.

Jerre Lynn grew up in Garden City, Missouri, and graduated from Sherwood High School. She pursued further education at Central Missouri State University, where she developed skills that would serve her well throughout her career. A dedicated professional with a knack for numbers and organization, Jerre Lynn worked as a 911 dispatcher, as well as contributed her talents to the Prosecuting Attorney’s Office. Later she acted as Keeper of Records for the City of Raymore, leaving a legacy of precision and reliability in every role she undertook.

A devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, Jerre Lynn is survived by her daughter Heather Lynn Armstrong and son-in-law Steven Armstrong; grandchildren Arion Abbigail Johnson, Kylen James Johnson, and Maylee Lynn Armstrong; great-grandchildren Ellie Marie and Alexander Cade; granddog Charlie Tucker; sister Marvalee Unrein and family; countless cousins and numerous friends. She was preceded in death by her husband William “Bill” Fortner, her parents Marvin and Norma Staley, and her grandson Cayden Maddix Staley Johnson.

Jerre Lynn found joy in life’s simple pleasures. She loved watching birds flit about outside her window with Charlie Tucker always by her side, and spent endless hours playing cards and Mexican Train with “the girls.” She enjoyed the time she had with her grandchildren, including listening to music, trying new foods, cleaning fish, playing with cars, and thrift shopping. Her kitchen was often filled with laughter and the aroma of delicious meals as she cooked alongside Heather Lynn. A good cup of coffee was always within reach during these moments of connection. Her warmth extended to all who knew her– she was funny, chatty, caring, and an attentive listener who made everyone feel valued.

Although she was unable to attend in person later in life, Jerre Lynn was a member of the United Methodist Church in Garden City. Every Sunday you could find her, sitting in her chair, listening to that morning’s service, a fresh cup of coffee by her side.

Jerre Lynn’s memory will be cherished by those who were fortunate enough to know her. Her humor, devotion to family, and ability to bring people together will remain an enduring legacy.

May her memory bring comfort to all who loved her and held her dear.

Cremation with a private family service.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to American Cancer Society. Donations can be made through the link or mailed to Dickey Funeral Home, P.O. Box 432, Harrisonville, Missouri 64701.