Azalia Teegarden Gant, 95, of Hardin, passed away Sunday, August 4, 2024, at NorthCare Hospice House in North Kansas City.
Azalia was born on October 28, 1928, in Knoxville Township of Ray County, the daughter of Aaron and Jessie L. (Goodman) Teegarden, Jr. She was united in marriage to Rev. Robert Young Gant of Knoxville on September 19, 1946; he preceded her in death on July 25, 2004.
Survivors include: three sons: Robert W. (Charlotte) Gant of Jacksonville, FL, Lonnie E. (Carolyn) Gant of Lawson. And H. Dennis (Nancy) Gant of Hardin; daughter, Sheila A. (Billy) Cain of Blythedale; 11 grandchildren: Robert Eric(Lori) Gant, Jesse Allen (Amy) Gant, Brian Eugene (Mindy) Gant, Kelly Ray (Priya) Gant, Mark Dennis (Jennifer) Gant, Jason Aaron (Jennifer) Gant, Michael Robert (Shanna) Bears, Barbara Lynn Bears, Randall Ray Bears, Laura Kay (Mike) Sweezy, and Loretta Sexton; 25 great-grandchildren; and nine great-great-grandchildren.
In addition to her parents and husband, Azalia was preceded in death by two brothers, Robert W. Teegarden and Aaron A. Teegarden, and three granddaughters, Shelia Dawn Gant, Nicole Bears, and Michaela Bears.
Azalia was born and raised in the Knoxville area, where she began her education. She attended grade school in Knoxville and went on to her high school education in Stet. As a devoted housewife and homemaker, Azalia dedicated her life to raising her family with love and care. As a minister’s wife, she played a significant role in supporting her husband’s ministry, offering her assistance and compassion to their congregation. In addition to her household duties, Azalia also contributed to the family’s livelihood by helping her husband on the family farm in the Knoxville and Richmond areas.
Azalia had a passion for quilting and sewing, creating beautiful pieces that showcased her talent and dedication. She also enjoyed working with ceramics, particularly crafting ceramic angels. These angels were made with love and given to individuals who had lost a loved one, offering them comfort during difficult times. Family was at the heart of Azalia’s life. She cherished her grandchildren deeply, and each one held a special place in her heart. Her love and warmth extended to all her family and friends, making her a beloved figure in their lives.
The family suggests memorial contributions be made to the Hardin United Methodist Church. They can be left at or mailed to Thurman Funeral Home, 507 East Main Street-P.O. Box 190, Richmond, MO 64085.
Visitation will be held from 6:00 P.M. to 8:00 P.M. on Wednesday, August 7, 2024, at Thurman Funeral Home in Richmond. Funeral services will be held at 10:00 A.M. on Thursday, August 8, 2024, at Hardin United Methodist Church. Interment will be in Knoxville Cemetery. Please remember to share your memories of Azalia with the family by visiting www.thurmanfuneralhome.com.
