Robert E. Boyd

February 13, 1929 – March 5, 2026

Robert E. Boyd, 97, passed away peacefully on Thursday, March 5, 2026, at John Knox Village

in Lee’s Summit, Missouri. He was born on February 13, 1929, in Atchison, Kansas, to Clyde

and Nettie Boyd.

Robert graduated from Salina High School before proudly serving four years in the United

States Navy. He married Melba Burden and together they began their family, raising three

children. Robert worked for many years as a phone technician with AT&T. After retirement, he

began working at Kansas State University, where he met Jo Ann. They were married in 1988

and shared 38 wonderful years together.

In 2000, Robert and Jo Ann retired to John Knox Village, where he became a dedicated

volunteer at the Hobby Hut woodworking shop for 25 years. A gifted woodworker, Robert

lovingly crafted countless pieces that are cherished throughout the Village community. He also

had a passion for travel, making several trips to Europe. His favorite destinations included

Ireland, Switzerland, and river cruises along the Rhine and Danube. An avid golfer, Robert won

the Village championship multiple times. Above all, he treasured having family nearby and

spending time with his grandchildren.

Robert was preceded in death by his parents, Clyde and Nettie Boyd; his former wife, Melba

Burden Boyd; and his siblings, William, Richard, and Ellen.

He is survived by his loving wife, Jo Ann Boyd; his children, Anne Boyd, Ron Boyd, and

Christina Boyd; his stepchildren, Allen Messick, Mark Messick, Mike Messick (Kathy), Kathy

Newman, and Bryan Messick; as well as 15 grandchildren, 23 great-grandchildren, and 7

great-great-grandchildren.

Robert’s memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests memorial contributions be made to the John Knox

Village Hobby Hut or the John Knox Village Foundation in Lee’s Summit, Missouri.