Elizabeth Ann “Libby” Lynch, 63, passed away on August 22, 2025, in Overland Park, Kansas. A lifelong Kansas Citian with a vibrant spirit, a generous heart, and an unforgettable laugh, Libby left an indelible mark on all who knew and loved her.  

Born on December 13, 1961, in Kansas City, Missouri, Libby was the cherished daughter of Patrick and Rita Lynch. She grew up surrounded by love and faith, values that guided her every step. With her beloved sister Erin always by her side, Libby’s childhood was filled with laughter, storytelling, cousins, aunts, uncles, and lifelong friendships. She graduated proudly from St. Teresa’s Academy in 1980, where she formed bonds that endured across decades through Thursday Nighters’ gatherings of good food, adult beverages, and endless laughter. Her friends were family to her—and she treated them as such. 

Libby’s professional career in group insurance and benefits spanned more than four decades, beginning at American General and continuing through LaHood & Associates, Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Kansas City, UnitedHealthcare, Shook Hardy & Bacon, Kansas City Area Transportation Authority, and finally as Benefits Manager at Helzberg Diamonds—a position she cherished and excelled in until her passing. Recognized for her talent and dedication, she earned numerous awards and respect from colleagues throughout her career.

Libby lived life with passion. She was a fierce volleyball competitor, a sometimes golfer who delighted in the camaraderie of the game, and a lifelong lover of music. Music held a special place in Libby’s heart - whether it was singing along with friends, or most especially, following the music of Bruce Springsteen, whose lyrics and energy spoke to her deeply. She made pilgrimages to Asbury Park, New Jersey, visiting iconic venues like The Stone Pony, The Asbury Park Convention Center, and The Wonder Bar, with a playful drive-by of Springsteen’s estate. She saw Springsteen on Broadway in New York and counted those experiences among her most treasured memories. For Libby, music was more than entertainment—it was communion, joy, and life itself. She loved all music, and shared that love generously with friends and family.

She was equally devoted to her Kansas City roots. A proud and longtime season ticket holder for the Chiefs, Libby’s loyalty ran deep. She never missed Wimbledon, loved going to the movies—especially “Gone With the Wind,” which she watched countless times—and knew every great restaurant in Kansas City. Food, like music, was another way she shared life with others. She loved a good Cherry Limeade – a Route 44 was preferred. A great cook, she invented her own dishes and was famous for her chocolate buttermilk brownie sheet cake, which was nothing short of legendary.

Travel was another of Libby’s joys: from the Lake of the Ozarks to Martha’s Vineyard, from Maui to Victoria and Butchart Gardens in British Columbia, and countless adventures near and far. Yet no matter where she went, her favorite place was always wherever her family and friends were gathered.

At the heart of it all was her deep Catholic faith, which anchored her life. She drew inspiration from her cousin, Mick Mulvany, a Catholic priest, and carried that faith into her friendships, her family life, and her generous spirit.

Libby is survived by her loving parents Patrick and Rita Lynch of Camdenton, Missouri; her beloved sister Erin Luby and brother-in-law David Luby of Kansas City, Missouri; and their pup, Darlin. She also leaves behind a wide and devoted circle of cousins, relatives, and friends who were family to her in every sense.

Libby loved fiercely—and was fiercely loved in return. Her infectious laugh lit up every room, her gift of storytelling brought joy to countless gatherings, and her unwavering loyalty to her loved ones was her defining trait. She will be deeply, profoundly missed—not only by her family and closest friends, but by all who had the privilege of knowing her. Her memory will forever echo in the songs she loved, the meals she shared, and the joy she spread so effortlessly.

A mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Peter’s Parish Catholic Church at 701 E. Meyer Blvd. in Kansas City, Missouri, on Saturday, August 30 at noon. Visitation will begin at 10:00 AM at the church. Graveside services will follow at Mt. Olivet Catholic Cemetery, with a celebration of life at St. Peter’s Parish Hall afterward.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests contributions to Wayside Waifs of Kansas City, Missouri. 

May Libby’s memory bring comfort, laughter, and joy to all who knew her—and may the passion with which she lived continue to inspire those whose lives she touched.