Kimberly “Kim” Ann Byers Kenney, of Basehor, Kansas, passed away peacefully, surrounded by her family, on November 11, 2025, at the age of 64.
Born on July 29, 1961, in Kansas City, Kansas, to Albert and Wanda Byers, “Nurse Kenney” or “Nurse Kim” devoted her life to caring for others—both in her career and in her everyday kindness. Kim spent the majority of her life residing in Kansas City, Kansas and Basehor, Kansas. She graduated from Washington High School in 1979 and went on to receive her Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN), and Clerical Licenses from the Kansas City Area Vocational-Technical School. She spent her career as a nurse, serving patients and students alike at KU Medical Center, Providence Medical Center, various pediatric doctors’ offices, and for 22 years at Linwood Elementary, Basehor-Linwood Middle School, and Basehor-Linwood High School. Her compassion, warmth, and steady presence touched countless lives in every community she served.
Kim was happiest when surrounded by her family. She was preceded in death by her parents, Albert and Wanda Byers; her brothers, Albert “Wes” Byers and David Byers; and her granddaughter, Rose Watts. She is survived by her loving husband of 44 years, Jeffry Kenney; her daughters, Shannon (Matthew) Beat and Morgan Kenney; her brother, Wade (Diane) Byers; sisters-in-law, Lorriane Kenney and Pam Byers; and her four beloved grandchildren, Lydia and Reegan Beat and Colin and Iris Watts, who brought endless joy to her life. She also leaves behind nephews, nieces, cousins, and numerous friends and family.
Known for her generous spirit and friendly nature, Kim never met a stranger. She could strike up a conversation with anyone and make them feel at ease. Kim enjoyed casinos, amusement parks and traveling, especially cruises and trips to Las Vegas. At home, she found comfort in Hallmark movies, HGTV, and the laughter of family gatherings. She also loved bargain hunting and was always on the lookout for a great deal.
Kim was truly a one-of-a-kind person. Her legacy is one of kindness, compassion, and genuine connection. She will be remembered for her warm smile, her boundless generosity, and her unwavering love for those around her.
A celebration of Kim’s life will be held at the Lawrence Union Pacific Depot, 402 N. 2nd Street, Lawrence, KS, 66044 on November 30, 2025, from 1-4 pm, where friends and loved ones are invited to share stories and honor her remarkable life. Interment of ashes will be at Highland Cemetery, also known as Parker Cemetery, in Parker, KS at a later date.
The family asks that in place of flowers, please donate to the Alzheimer’s Association in honor of Kimberly Kenney at alz.org/kansascity.
