Beverly Ann McKenzie, 74, of Protem, Missouri, passed away peacefully on October 7, 2024, surrounded by family.

Born on April 29, 1950, in St. Louis, Missouri, Beverly was the daughter of the late Theodore and Dorothy Litteken.  She was a loving wife to John McKenzie for 47 years and a devoted mother to one daughter, Teresa Zeleznock, and four stepchildren, Christine Mattingly, Michelle Keim, John McKenzie, Jr. and Kenneth McKenzie.

Beverly's career as an insurance broker was her early passion.  She later became a real estate agent before retiring.  Outside of her professional years, Beverly had a deep love for her furbabies (especially Baby Cakes and Rascal), working in her flower garden, listening to music, and enjoyed spending time with her family and friends at Bull Shoals Lake. Her warm heart, laughter, and wisdom will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

Beverly was known for her kindness, unwavering support, and the way she brought people together. Whether through small gestures of care or simply lending a listening ear, Beverly made a lasting impact on her family.

Beverly is survived by her husband, John; her siblings, Mary Margaret Litteken Wildberger, Dale Anthony Litteken (MaryAnn), Janet Lee Litteken Fehr (Gary Myers); her daughter, Teresa Ann Gorda Zeleznock (Jerry); her stepchildren, Christine Mattingly (Chuck), Michelle Keim (Joseph), Kenneth McKenzie (Shannen); her many beloved grandchildren; and numerous close family members and friends.  She was predeceased by her parents and stepson, John McKenzie, Jr.

Arrangements are under the direction of Clinkingbeard Funeral Home, Gainesville, MO.

Beverly will be cremated and a celebration of life will be held at a later date.

Below is a poem that Beverly had saved that we wish to share:

When I come to the end of the road

and the sun has set for me

I want no lights in a gloom-filled room,

Why cry for a soul set free?

Miss me a little but not for too long,

And not with your head bowed low,

Remember the love that we once shared.

Miss me . . . . . but let me go.

For this is the journey that we all must take,

And each must go alone.

It's all a part of the Master's Plan

A step on the road to home.

When you are lonely and sick of heart,

Go to the friends we know,

And bury your sorrow in doing good deeds,

Miss me . . . . . but let me go.