Stefanie Jo Adams, Age: 55
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Oct 26, 1963---Jun 08, 2019

 

Stefanie Jo Adams (Legleiter), 55, was called home to her heavenly Father on June 8th, 2019. She was born on October 26th, 1963 in Colorado Springs, CO to Rudy and Maralyn Legleiter. She graduated from Wichita State University in 1986 and went on to be a band director and music teacher. She met her loving husband Jeff at her first teaching job in Colorado. They were married June 11th, 1993 and had two children- Olivia (1997) and Jase (2000).

 

 Stefanie was a very artistic and creative person. She enjoyed sewing and making clothes for herself and others. Stefanie spent her free time gardening and looked forward to picking out which flowers to plant each spring. Growing up in Colorado, she became an avid Denver Broncos fan. She carried this passion throughout her life, supporting Jeff in coaching, Olivia in swimming, and Jase in football. Stefanie especially loved music and helping others grow in their musical talents.

 

 After 32 years, Stefanie retired from teaching in 2018. She and her older sister, Lynette, started their own historical-education workshop business shortly after called 2 Into Teaching You. Stefanie also began working at the Lenexa Rec Center in the childcare center where she got to do one of her favorite things: rock babies. Her spare time was spent cuddling her beloved Bentley, a five-pound Yorkie.

 

 Stefanie was preceded in death by both sets of her grandparents and five uncles. She is survived by her husband Jeff, daughter Olivia, son Jase, parents Rudy and Maralyn Legleiter of Colorado Springs, CO, sister Lynette Legleiter of Hutchinson, KS, sister Suzanne Legleiter of Phoenix, AZ, 8 nieces and nephews, and her best friend Bentley.

 

 A rosary will be said at 4:45PM with a visitation following from 5:00PM to 7:00PM at Porter Funeral Home, 8535 Monrovia, Lenexa, on June 11th. Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30AM on June 12th at Holy Trinity Catholic Church, 13615 W. 92nd St., Lenexa and burial to follow at Resurrection Catholic Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Stefanie’s name to a scholarship fund in her honor at St. James Academy, KU Medical Center, or Pets for Life.

 


Condolences

Sharon Anderson Jun 10, 2019

worked with Jeff at SME ,Olathe ,Kansas

No words can express the sorrow for your loss. I am so sad for you and your family and pray that you can find some comfort in each other.

Heather Sommer Jun 10, 2019

Friend ,Olathe ,Kansas

I had the good fortune to have the classroom next door to Stefanie’s music room for about nine years at Ray Marsh. I loved listening to her classes. For me, Stefanie was the “sparkle” at Marsh. Energetic and positive, Stefanie was always bringing people together in her creative ways. Stefanie went beyond the expectations of her teaching duties for students in teaching us, her fellow teachers. She even held summer breakfast get-togethers as the staff learned new technology. Stefanie was there to support others in their times of need and I personally benefitted from her generosity. I extend my sincere sympathy to Jeff, Olivia, Jace, and all of her family. Heather Sommer

Kristy Rasdall Jun 10, 2019

friend ,Shawnee ,Kansas

Jeff and family, I am so sorry for this deep loss to all of you....my prayers are for strength, comfort and peace for you, Olivia and Jace, as well as Stefanie's entire family and circle of friends.

Katherine Newman Jun 10, 2019

Worked at Shawanoe with Jeff. Met Stephanie at their lovely home and several times at the Lenexa BBQ ,Leawood ,Kansas

Dear Jeff and your beautiful children, I am keeping all of you in my prayers. She was a lovely person. But, best of all, a loving and caring wife and mother.

Mary E Dykmann Jun 10, 2019

church friend ,Lenexa ,Kansas

So heartbroken for you all & have been keeping your family in my prayers. No one could rock a pair of shoes like Stefanie! She was always the best dressed at church. And while I should have been praying before communion, i often would look at Stefanie doing her EM thing, to see what the shoes/outfit of the day were! She was a blessing to those around her & HT is going to miss her.

Karen Swope Jun 10, 2019

Co-worker ,Lenexa ,Kansas

What a pleasure it has been to work with Stephanie at Lenexa Rec Center. We have all been impacted by her positive, upbeat energy, and her love for children. Her "customers" are very sad and will miss her so much. Wishing Stephanie's family peace as you adjust to life without her.

Martha Macher Jun 10, 2019

Friend/taught w/Jeff @ Nieman ,Lenexa ,Kansas

Jeff, Olivia, Jace, & family, I was so so sorry to hear about the loss of your dear wife/mother! My ❤️ goes out to all of you! I pray that you will find comfort, strength, & peace during this difficult time in your lives. She was a wonderful wife/mother & may all the fond memories of her always remain in your ❤️s. Thinking & 🙏🏻 ing for all of you! ((Hugs!!))

Laura Kellar Jun 10, 2019

Friend ,Olathe ,Kansas

Our family is very blessed to have met your family at Holy Trinity. Stefanie always treated my kids like they were her own. They always felt very loved when she was around them at mass and when she would joke around with them at breakfast after mass. My daughter Ellie really felt comfortable with her and always gave her the biggest smiles. I considered her the cool aunt to my kids. My condolences to the family. And I pray the amazing memories of her keep you smiling!

Julie Hayford Jun 10, 2019

Holy Trinity ,Lenexa ,Kansas

Dear Jeff, Olivia and Jase, I am so sorry for your loss. I will continue to pray for you as you figure out the way to live without the amazing Stefanie. Know that she will always be with you as grow. God bless you.

Laura Whitaker Jun 10, 2019

taught with Stefanie ,Lenexa ,Kansas

Stefanie Adams was a beautiful, sparkling force of nature. I taught for four years at Ray Marsh where Stefanie was such an inspiring mentor to all of us. She always had a pot of fragrant, hot coffee brewing in her colorful, light filled music room. She was one of the brightest, most creative people I have ever met. She produced wonderful musicals with her students as the stars, she taught her co-workers so much when our new iPad and MacBooks arrived. She was a technology wizard, and was so patient when attempting to teach those of us who were technologically challenged. Bless her! Stefanie hosted back-to-school breakfasts at her house that she had lovingly decorated. Stefanie’s unique spark was evident everywhere in her home. Her co-workers were also her friends, and she shared her pride and love of Jeff, Olivia, and Jase with us. My heart is breaking for all of you because Stefanie was taken so soon. You all were her greatest loves, and my prayer is that you find comfort in having had Stefanie for your loving wife and mother. She truly packed a lot of loving in her 55 years on earth. When I think of Stefanie I always think of a crown; she loved them so. My hope is that she is wearing the brightest crown in heaven today. We are all blessed for having been fortunate enough to know her.

Harry Mcaleavy Jun 10, 2019

Holy Trinity Friend ,Olathe ,Kansas

Dear Stefanie, We will miss your smile and Faith well lived. Your light will now shine in eternity. May the rays warm Jeff and the kids with comfort and peace. The Pre-Mass Gathering Room at HT will miss your spirited vitality, but never forget your faithful and faith-filled service. Rest peacefully!

Jun 11, 2019

Part of her 7:30 mass family ,Lenexa ,Kansas

Stephanie was such a bright light to everyone who knew her. So sad for the loss of such a great spirit. Instead of dwelling on what she missed with her premature passing..... she would want us to remember our sister and all that she did get to do in her life. An amazing, sweet and spunky lady

Susan Peters Jun 11, 2019

Friend/coworker ,Shawnee ,Kansas

Stefanie was a true model of the loving Christian Spirit: Always willing to lend a helpful hand, generous with her time and worldly possessions. She loved being Olivia and Jase’s mom. She was so proud of her family. Her absence will be deeply felt in my life. I’m so sorry for your loss.

Nan Grube Jun 11, 2019

Friend ,Olathe ,Kansas

I am very sorry for the loss and pain you must be feeling. My daughter, Libby, truly enjoyed spending time with Stephanie while visiting Olivia. I pray that God will hold your family close during this difficult time.

Laura Whitaker Jun 11, 2019

taught at Ray Marsh with Stefanie ,Lenexa ,Kansas

Stefanie Adams was a beautiful, sparkling force of nature. I taught for four years at Ray Marsh where Stefanie was such an inspiring mentor to all of us. She always had a pot of fragrant, hot coffee brewing in her colorful, light filled music room. It was so comfortable. She was one of the brightest, most creative people I have ever met. She produced wonderful musicals with her students as the stars, she taught her co-workers so much when our new iPad and MacBooks arrived. She was a technology wizard, and was so patient when attempting to teach those of us who were technologically challenged. Bless her! Stefanie hosted back-to-school breakfasts at her house that she had lovingly decorated. Stefanie’s unique spark and her love of family was evident everywhere in her home. Her co-workers were also her friends, and she shared her pride and love of Jeff, Olivia, and Jase with us. My heart is breaking for all of you because Stefanie was taken so soon. You all were her greatest loves, and my prayer is that you find comfort in having had Stefanie for your loving wife and mother. She truly packed a lot of loving in her 55 years on earth. When I think of Stefanie I always think of a crown; she loved them so. My hope is that she is wearing the brightest crown in heaven today. We are all blessed for having been fortunate enough to know her.

Kim Coulter Jun 11, 2019

Lenexa Rec Center ,Lenexa ,Kansas

So sorry for your loss. Stefanie will be missed here at the Rec Center. She was full of joy and a lot of fun to be around. Praying for peace for you and your family.

Lorri Seichepine Jun 11, 2019

Sister in law ,Olathe ,Kansas

Jeff, Olivia and Jase I cannot express my sympathy enough for all of you..... Stefanie was such a light in all your lives and those around her that she touched. She had tremendous dedication in all she pursued and lived life with zest. I will miss her "light" for all of us and am thankful for her support, love and caring for all of us. You have all been blessed, as have I for her short time with us here on earth. I love you all.... Aunt Lorri and loving sister

Steve Hillyer Jun 11, 2019

Co-worker with Jeff ,Shawnee ,Kansas

I am sorry for your family’s loss, I have had you in my prayers and will continue to do so. May God grant you peace and comfort in the difficult time. God bless

Seth Jun 11, 2019

school friend ,St. Louis ,Missouri

Jeff, I am so sorry to hear about the death of Stefanie. Although I never had the opportunity to meet Stefanie it sounds like she was an awesome woman. My prayers our with you and your family.

Linda Holland Jun 11, 2019

Friend ,Lenexa ,Kansas

I am so sorry to hear about Stefanie. She was an amazingly talented lady and always so full of energy. She will be greatly missed. You are all in my prayers.

Kathy Smith Jun 11, 2019

Through Holy Trinity ,Lenexa ,Kansas

Jefff, Olivia and Chase, My heat aches for all of you. Stephanie was a genuine person and I am so glad I was able to meet your family through Holy Trinity! My prayers are with all of you you in all the days ahead! She may be gone but she will be shining down on all of you!

Paul Cornelsen Jun 12, 2019

fellow teacher ,Shawnee ,Kansas

I was absolutely shocked to hear about the loss of Stefanie. I had the privilege of teaching with her at Marsh. She was one of the best, most talented, and (especially) creative music educators I have ever met. She was an inspiration to all of us and to all of her students. I'm sure she has her own reserved parking space as well as her crown up in heaven.

Mickey Greene Rutledge Jun 12, 2019

Former PE teacher at SMSD/ Briarwood ,Iola ,Kentucky

Dear Jeff and family, I am so sorry to hear about the loss of your wife. A former teacher at Briarwood sent me a message. She sounded like a wonderful person and the loss will be deep. Hold your loved ones tight and they will help you through this. Sincerely, Mickey

Jack and Judy Bieger Jun 12, 2019

friends and neighbors ,LENEXA ,Kansas

We had the honor of knowing dear Stefanie for many years as a neighbor helping and supporting each other with whatever one needed. Her greatest accomplishment is her two beautiful children whom she was very, very proud of. Prayers to Olivia and Jase. Jeff lost his life partner long before he planned - we pray for you.

Beth Koon Jun 13, 2019

Friend and colleague ,Overland Park ,Kansas

Stefanie Adams was the music teacher Ray Marsh Elementary for over 30 year and I had the privilege to teach with her for 10 of those years. She was my friend, mentor, and work mama. We helped and supported each other in more ways than I can count. She and I were opposites in almost every way and were the greatest of friends. I am deeply saddened by her passing and I am so much better a person for having had her in my life. We talked everyday for 10 years over our before-school coffee and at lunch. That's a lot of meals shared and mornings together. She was kind, passionate, smart, practical, patient, energetic, eager, enthusiastic, and full of life and play. She LOVED her job and her students. She cared deeply for the staff and the school culture. She took care of all of us, and threw the best end of the year parties. She WAS the social committee. I know that she will be missed my many many people. The line for her visitation wrapped all the way out the door and into the parking lot. Goodbye Stefanie, I love you. I know you are with God whom you served all your life, with all your heard and soul.

Mike Boehm Jun 13, 2019

Friend ,Lenexa ,Kansas

Jeff, Olivia, and Jase - Words cannot express my deepest sorrow and sympathy for you at this difficult time. Our loss here in Lenexa is Heaven's gain. All the angels and saints are now blessed with Stefanie's every present smile and her musical gifts.

Gina Sapp Jun 13, 2019

work colleague ,Gardner ,Kansas

I had the privilege of being a colleague of Stefanie's in the Shawnee Mission School District for 25 years, before her retirement. At music educator in-services and meetings, she was always smiling, laughing, peppy, and positive. When she facilitated in-service trainings, they were creative, fun, and she was patient with us-especially with technology issues. I am sure that I can speak for all of the music teachers in saying how devastated we are, and that we'll miss her tremendously. Personally, I would like to thank her family, from the bottom of my heart, for honoring her wishes of organ donation. As a family member on the other side of the situation, you are so grateful and thankful that your family member received a life saving organ, but at the same time you're heartbroken in knowing the tremendous cost and heartache experienced by the other family. Our loved one's life has been extended 18.5 years thus far, because of a gracious donor, just like Stefanie. She will continue to help and bless many others, and in a way, live on in their futures.

Elizabeth Stefanatos Jun 14, 2019

friend ,Melbourne Australia

In the summer of 1987 I met Stefanie on our European tour and a friendship was forged that lasted until now. Though I only got to see her two more times in the US after that (1995 and 2005) a bond had been made that I truly valued, as we stayed in touch over the years. Today I found out that God has taken her early from her family. Stefanie had a huge loving supportive heart. My sincerest condolences to Jeff, Olivia, Jase and to her parents and siblings. May you all find comfort in the wonderful memories you shared together. God Bless her and you all. xx

Marsha Moore Jun 16, 2019

Colleague in the Shawnee Mission School District ,Overland Park ,Kansas

Dear Family of Stefanie: I did not know Stefanie extremely well, but I did have the privilege of interacting with her on several occasions, when we were both Music teachers in the Shawnee Mission School district. I knew that she was a really good Music teacher when I subbed for her at Ray Marsh Elementary. Her kids were preparing for a Program, and she was worried about how they would do. I ran the kids through the music and found that they were doing really well. I told her that they did well and she was so happy to hear that they had done a good job. On another occasion, I sat next to her at a workshop and Stefani was so warm and welcoming to me, even though she didn't really know me very well. We enjoyed pleasant conversation when the situation allowed for that. All in all, I became a fan of Stefani's after only a couple of interactions with her. I know that you all are experiencing shock and a huge sense of loss. Please find comfort in your faith and in the fact that Stefani touched a lot of lives in a positive way. Hopefully, these examples from my own experience with her are proof of that, beyond what you already know. Peace be with you all. Sincerely, Marsha Moore, Music Teacher at Comanche Elementary School, Shawnee Mission School District

Schaefer Wright Jun 17, 2019

Student ,Shawnee ,Kansas

Mrs. Adams will be dearly missed. She was one of my favorite teachers. The way she would introduce a song and then put it up on the screen so we could read the lyrics and sing along made it fun. I remember how her room always smelled like coffee, how she put her own coffeemaker plugged into the wall in the back corner, her leopard-print dress she would wear, and how she decorated for every holiday (and when it wasn’t a holiday, her room was pink). I loved her pink laptop that had a crown and Princess engraved on it in gold. We will all miss her. Her smile always brightened my day, and I hope it brightened yours. Sending love, yours truly, Schaefer Wright (Ray Marsh student)

Merrilee McColgan Jul 21, 2019

Long time friend ,Colorado Springs ,Colorado

Rudy and Marilyn I’m so saddened by this notice. I cannot express my sorrow but will keep you both and your family in my prayers. Much love sent your way.

Services

Event:
Rosary
Location:
Porter Funeral Home
Address:
8535 Monrovia St.
City:
Lenexa
State:
Kansas
Zip Code:
66215
Date:
Jun 11, 2019
Time:
4:45 PM
Google Map:
Click Here to see Location on Map
Event:
Visitation
Location:
Porter Funeral Home
Address:
8535 Monrovia St.
City:
Lenexa
State:
Kansas
Zip Code:
66215
Date:
Jun 11, 2019
Time:
5:00 PM
Google Map:
Click Here to see Location on Map
Event:
Funeral Mass
Location:
Holy Trinity Catholic Church
Address:
13615 West 92nd Street
City:
Lenexa
State:
Kansas
Zip Code:
66215
Date:
Jun 12, 2019
Time:
10:30 AM
Google Map:
Click Here to see Location on Map