Gwendolyn Marie "Gwen" Eppenauer, 86, of Sedalia, Missouri, passed away Sunday, August 2, 2026, at Boone Hospital Center in Columbia, Missouri.

She was born November 28, 1939, in Harlem, Missouri, the daughter of Ira Jones Sr. and Bertha (Claxton) Jones, both of whom preceded her in death.

On June 21, 1957, in Kansas City, Missouri, she was united in marriage to John Madison Eppenauer, who preceded her in death on July 9, 2015.

Gwen was a proud graduate of North Kansas City High School, Class of 1957. Shortly after graduating, she and John began their life together as husband and wife. Gwen began her career at Southwest Key Bank in Kansas City, where she served as secretary to the bank president. She later worked as secretary for the family business, Eppenauer and Associates Land Surveying, until 2000. She also worked as a cashier in the Smith-Cotton High School cafeteria.

Gwen enjoyed collecting antiques, tending to her flower garden, and caring for her many beloved pets. Above all, she treasured spending time with her family, especially during holidays and other special occasions.

Survivors include three sons, John Eppenauer Jr. and his significant other, Christina, of Independence, Missouri, Timothy Eppenauer and his wife, Andrea, of Sedalia, and Richard Eppenauer and his wife, Thresa, of Sedalia; five grandchildren, Matthew, Dustyn, Austin, Alexander, and Allison; four great-grandchildren, Natasha, Ronin, Brady, and Levi; and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and extended family members.

In addition to her husband and parents, Gwen was preceded in death by eleven siblings, Lucille, Lee, Dorothy, Leonard, Casey, Mary, Camilla, Bob, Howard, Floyd, and Jerry; and one great-grandson, Judah Eppenauer.

A celebration of Gwen's life will be held at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, August 8, 2026, at Christ & Trinity Lutheran Church, 2101 W. 32nd Street, Sedalia, with Pastor Ann Kyle officiating.

Family and friends are invited to remain at the church following the service for a luncheon and reception.

In lieu of plants and flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions be made to Christ & Trinity Lutheran Church.

Arrangements are in the care of Rea Funeral Chapel.