Claudia (Sarhage) Belsly

Claudia Belsly, 72, of Kansas City, MO, ended her long journey with Alzheimer's disease on Sunday, November 5, 2023. 

Claudia was born on Thanksgiving Day on November 23, 1950 to Glenn "Lefty" and Dorothy (Benda) Sarhage in St. Louis, MO.

Claudia was a 1968 graduate of McCluer High School. She earned a degree in Physical Education/Modern Dance with a Minor in Mathematics from the University of Missouri, as well as continued Masters studies at the International School of Theology. It was during her time at Mizzou that she made the decision to dedicate her life to serving her God. She served in campus ministry with Cru at University of Michigan, Villanova University, University of Southern California and Bradley University. It was during her time with Cru that she met her late husband, Dick Belsly. They wed in 1977 and had two children. Claudia was also the Women's Military Ministry Director in Oahu, Hawaii. Later in her life, she served alongside her second husband, Bob Stephens, with Athletes In Action in Ontario, Canada as well as Family Life Ministry in Kansas City, Missouri. She made an impact that will last into eternity.

After Jesus, Claudia's biggest love was people; being around people, encouraging people, praying with people, gatherings and celebrations. She lit up any room she walked into with her loud laughter and outgoing personality. She loved to dance, make others laugh and was the biggest cheerleader at any sporting event! She radiated joy and love and even when she lost the ability to speak, her smile blessed everyone around her! 

She is survived by her sister, Janet (Rick) Cook of Seneca, MO; her son, Adam (Brittany) Belsly of Olathe, KS; daughter, Summer (C.J.) Youngkin of Lee's Summit, MO; as well as her six grandchildren, who affectionally referred to Claudia as "Coi Coi”, Hayes Youngkin, Bria Youngkin, Henry Belsly, Jimmy Belsly, Reid Belsly, and Jennings Belsly. 

A visitation from 4:00 pm until 6:00 pm followed by a 6:00 pm Celebration of Life will be held on Monday, November 13, 2023 at Great Oaks Community Church, 515 State Route 116, Germantown Hills, IL. Funeral arrangements are being handled by Mason Funeral Home Metamora Chapel. 

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to an education fund set up for her six grandchildren online at https://www.gofundme.com/f/claudias-memorial-fund?utm_campaign=p_cp+share-sheet&utm_medium=copy_link_all&utm_source=customer.

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