Tuesday, Mar. 19 2013 4:24PM
Your Opinion
Missing a friend, neighbor
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ReprintDear Editor,
Lee’s Summit lost a wonderful, kind, caring friend this winter. Hilda and her husband, Richard Burry, always took time to reach out and help others. For many years, Richard co-owned and operated Browning Brothers Clothing Store. It was a prominent business at the corner of West Main and Thirds Street, then a part of The Summit Shopping Center. They were active in the Lee’s Summit Christian Church, raising their three children and Boy Scouts Of America. Hilda worked in the Heath Room at the elementary school while their children were there. We were active in PTA together, as well. There are not more dedicated parents and community workers than the Burrys. I can remember seeing the front door of Hilda and Richard’s house open, a line of grade school neighborhood children enter, grab fresh, warm cookies off of the counter and exit through the back door, to play in the back yard. Gallons of cold water and soft drinks were always available!
Hilda was a talented seamstress, making wonderful costumes for young dancers and keeping Scout uniforms in good repair with all of those earned badges nicely sewn on. She certainly encouraged kids to be all they could be!
Every church dinner and Scout event was attended. Hilda and I taught Summer Church School together...laughing over sawdust and glue houses that molded and patching up skinned knees.
Wayne and I moved out west of Lee’s Summit in 1980, so we visited with our many Lee’s Summit friends, but did not see them as often while our children all grew up and left home. We’ve lost track of Hilda and Richard’s children.
Both of these good people continued to serve the community when they could. Hilda delivered Meals On Wheels for many years. She delivered meals in summer’s heat and winter’s cold. Shut ins could be sure that she would get those lunches delivered. I am sure there are many of us who will feel a big hole in our hearts, missing Hilda’s presence. It was a joy privilege to know the Burrys.
Jan Vinyard
Kansas City
