Deanna Gail Teaford, age 83, of Warrensburg, formerly of Nixa, passed away Thursday, June 27, 2024, at her home.

She was born November 27, 1940, in Le Mars, IA, the daughter of Edward and Elnora (Grady) Burlage.

Deanna's life journey began on a farm, where she was the eldest of nine siblings. She embraced the role of caregiver from a young age. After completing her education, she left the farm to work as a surgical technician, always sending money back to support her parents. Her dedication to healthcare and caring for others was a cornerstone of her life.

On February 21, 1966, she and Virgil Bradford Teaford, Jr. were united in marriage in Osage, IA, and she wholeheartedly devoted herself to their family. Together, they raised four children while traveling the world during Virgil's military career. For over 20 years, she also provided a loving home for her sister, exemplifying her steadfast commitment to family.

In her later years, Deanna became the primary caregiver for her husband. Her battle with cancer was swift and aggressive, taking her from us much too soon.

Deanna valued caring for others above all else, a true testament to her nurturing spirit. She faced her illness with remarkable strength and unshakable faith, ready to meet her Savior.

Deanna was a beacon of love, kindness, and selflessness. Her legacy of compassion, resilience, and faith will endure in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

Deanna is survived by her husband, Virgil Bradford Teaford, Jr.; her children, Denise (Brent) Hoke, Virgil Bradford Teaford, III, Jeffrey (Sherri) Teaford, and Darrin (Cadee) Teaford; her grandchildren, Madalyn (Vincent) Parker, Alexandra (Chance) Malott, Kevin Hoke, Gabrielle Hoke, Brianna Harlow, Isabella Teaford, Barrett Teaford, Ty Teaford, Tatum Teaford, and Thatcher Teaford; a great granddaughter, Charlotte Parker; and her siblings, Denis (Elisabeth) Burlage, Roger (Cheri) Burlage, Cyril (Esther) Burlage, Norma Jean Perigo, Brian (Polly) Burlage, and Louann (John) Hall.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Edward and Elnora Burlage; and two siblings, James Burlage and Pamela Burns.

A mass will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday, July 2, 2024, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church with Father Andrew Kleine officiating. Inurnment will follow at 1:00 p.m. in the Missouri State Veteran Cemetery in Higginsville.

Memorial contributions are suggested to the St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church (Nixa) or the Sacred Heart Catholic Church (Warrensburg) and left in care of Sweeney-Phillips & Holdren Funeral Home.