Dorothy Jean Fonza

Dorothy Jean Fonza, 83, passed away on the morning of February 1, 2025, in her home surrounded by her loving family. She was born on May 18, 1941, in New London, MO, as the first and only daughter of the late Ethel Francis Perkins and Josephine Steward. Dorothy graduated from Hannibal High School in Hannibal, MO, in 1959. In 1960, she met and married her husband, Henry C. Fonza, and together they moved to Chicago, IL. Dorothy was deeply committed to serving her community. She worked as the director of Duncan YMCA in Chicago, IL, and later as the outreach specialist at Swope Health Services after relocating to Kansas City, MO with her family. She was a devoted member of the Community Fellowship Church of Jesus Christ, where she enjoyed serving on the Usher and Mother's Boards. In addition to her community work, Dorothy enjoyed a variety of hobbies, including visiting the casino, bowling, cooking, cheering on the Kansas City Chiefs on football Sundays, and spending time with her family and her beloved furry companion, Shadow. Dorothy is survived by her daughter, Vicki Fonza-Crowe (Jerome) of Kansas City, MO; grandchildren, Kala Crowe of Kansas City, MO, and Alexis Butler of Kansas City, MO; great-grandchild, Nova-Lyn Jones of Kansas City, MO; brothers, Joe Steward of Wentzville, MO, and Ronald Steward (Rhoda) of Kansas City, MO; nephews, Ryan Steward of New York, NY, Lamont Steward (Tracy) of Wentzville, MO, Rustin Steward of New York, NY, and Johnathan Steward (Valerie) of Wentzville, MO; niece, Danielle Steward of Wentzville, MO; as well as a host of beloved in-laws (Rita, Leslie, Sue, Sherry), great-nieces and nephews, and other relatives and friends. Dorothy is preceded in death by her husband, Henry C. Fonza; her brother, David W. Steward; her son, Manual Fonza; and her loving sisters-in-law, Mary and Evie.