Charlene Gentry Friedman, 82, passed away peacefully on Feb. 4, 2024, in Overland Park, Kan. She was born in Houston, Mo., to Charles and Bessie Gentry. The family home was on the current site of The Bank of Houston.
She was preceded in death by her parents and sister, Joyce Anne; and two former husbands.
Charlene grew up in Houston, Mo., where her father was the postmaster and her mother was a homemaker. After graduating from Houston High School in 1959, she attended the University of Missouri-Columbia earning her bachelor of arts degree in 1963. In 1983, she received a diploma in paralegal studies. She moved to Kansas City, Mo., after college, where she met and married her first husband, John Friedman. They relocated to California for 10 years, where Charlene worked as a social worker, before moving to Chicago. Charlene then returned to Kansas City but remained good friends with John. Charlene spent her career working for the city of Kansas City, Mo., in the Neighborhood and Community Service Department for 25 years. There she met her second husband, Rudy Sixta Jr.
Charlene had many lifelong friends near and far, who cherished her friendship and kindness. Some cousins also survive.
Charlene loved to travel with her friends and explore new places. She enjoyed Native American art and culture and always looked forward to trips to art shows with her friends every year. Charlene was an avid reader, always learning and expanding her knowledge. She practiced yoga into her 70s and stayed fit. Charlene loved her pet dogs and always had one as her companion.
Charlene is survived by many wonderful friends who will miss her dearly. She was a loving and generous person who touched the lives of many with her smile, warmth and compassion.
A Celebration of Life will be 12:30 to 2:30 p.m. Feb. 28, 2024, at the Powell Community Center, Room D, located at 6090 Woodson St., Mission, Kan. 66202. A graveside service will be held at a later date at Pine Lawn Cemetery, Houston, Mo.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association or the Humane Society in her memory.
PAID