Jamesetta Marie Lenoir

Jamesetta Marie Lenoir, born May 27, 1956, in Kansas City, Kansas, peacefully entered eternal rest on November 19, 2025. A lifelong resident of Kansas City, Jamesetta lived with purpose, joy, and an unwavering commitment to others. Her generous spirit and vibrant personality touched countless hearts throughout her remarkable life.

Jamesetta received her early education at Wyandotte High School before graduating from Schlagle High School in 1974. She continued her studies at Kansas City Kansas Community College and later transferred to Ottawa University, where she earned her Bachelor of Arts in Education in 1978. Driven by a passion for supporting children with unique needs, she went on to complete her Master’s Degree in Special Education in 1979.

With a career spanning 37 years in education, Jamesetta devoted her life to teaching, guiding, and inspiring young minds. She spent 16 years with the Kansas City Kansas School District and continued her impactful work within the Kansas City Missouri School District, where she also served as a facilitator. Her dedication, compassion, and belief in the power of education left an immeasurable imprint on students, families, and colleagues alike.

Affectionately known as the “platinum blondie,” Jamesetta embraced life with beauty, confidence, and a lively spirit all her own. She loved to travel, shop, get her hair and nails done, and bring joy to any space she entered. She was the life of every gathering—warm, radiant, and always ready with a smile or a listening ear. Her personal motto, which she shared freely, reflected the way she lived each day: “Live every day as if it were your last, because tomorrow is not promised.”

Jamesetta was preceded in death by her beloved parents, James and Berniece Rucker; her maternal grandmother, Lula Lewis; her sister, Beverly N. Rucker Thomas; and her lifelong friend, Pamela Davis.

She leaves to cherish her memory her loving daughter, Karis Holmes; former husband, Walter O. Holmes; her devoted sisters, Connie Rasberry and Sheila Holmes; and a host of cherished nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. She also leaves a special friend, Darryl Irvin, who held a meaningful and valued place in her heart.

Jamesetta’s legacy is one of love, laughter, strength, and service. Her kindness, her passion for helping others, and the joy she carried so effortlessly will continue to shine through the many lives she touched. She will be remembered forever and missed always.

May her beautiful light continue to guide us.