Joseph White Searle

Joseph White Searle, 91, of Kansas City, Missouri, passed away on July 27, 2025.

Joseph was born on December 11, 1933, in Hays, Kansas, to Joseph Woodard Searle and Julia Elizabeth (White) Searle. During his early childhood, the family relocated to the Kansas City area, where he was raised in Mission and attended St. Agnes High School (now Bishop Miege). A lifelong learner, Joe went on to earn his bachelor’s degree in History and Philosophy from Rockhurst University.

He began his professional career at the Federal Reserve Bank, where he worked for 15 years before transitioning to H.O. Peet brokerage. He later worked for Kansas City Southern Railway, where he served as a rate clerk until his retirement in 1995.

Joe was a man of many interests and a deep appreciation for life’s finer things. Whether teeing off on a golf course, playing poker at the casino, or skiing, he embraced each day with curiosity and enthusiasm. He had a fondness for cigars, martinis, a love of classical music, and a deep admiration for fine art—especially works by Picasso. His red Corvette was a source of joy, as were his creative endeavors in pottery, which he pursued at the Kansas City Art Institute.

More than anything, Joe cherished time spent with his family. He treasured his time at his condo at the Lake of the Ozarks, enjoying peaceful moments away from the bustle of the city. Joe was the proud father of three children from his first marriage. On June 12, 1970, he married the love of his life, Therese Clements, and together they added two daughters to complete their beautifully blended family.

Joe was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Jim Searle; and his beloved dogs, MacTavish and Spike. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by his wife of 55 years, Therese Searle; children: Joseph (Danette) Searle, Julie (Jim) Belozer, Jeffrey (Ann) Searle, Sabrina Searle, and Stephanie (Kaleb) May; 18 grandchildren; and 14 great-grandchildren.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at Holy Family Catholic Church, 919 NE 96th St, Kansas City, MO 64155, on Wednesday, August 6th. Visitation will begin at 10:00am, funeral service at 11:00am, followed by interment at Mount Olivet Catholic Cemetery, 7601 Blue Ridge Blvd, Raytown, MO 64138.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Faith Hospice or the Bishop Sullivan Center.

I have seen death too often to believe in death.

It is not an ending - but a withdrawal.

As one who finishes a long journey,

Stills the motor,

Turns off the lights,

Steps from his car,

And walks up the path -

To the home that awaits him.