It is a difficult task to summarize a life in a few paragraphs, and for a life such as the one lived by LaNette Thirkell, it appears impossible.
Born on December 11, 1970 in Salina, Kansas, LaNette lived the most joy-filled and fruitful life before greeting her savior on July 31, 2025 in Branson, Missouri.
Throughout her years she left a legacy of belief, joy, and a kindness seldom seen. LaNette dedicated her life to serving others, whether as a licensed social worker, a lunch lady or a paraprofessional. A call would come to serve, and LaNette would always answer with “yes”.
Her joyful and compassionate spirit led countless people to believe in themselves in ways they did not know they were capable, with her daughter always saying, “she could make me believe I hung the moon”. She was the first to fight for those she loved, and as a wife, mom, and grandma, LaNette always put her family first; woe to the person who got in the way. Whether she used her excellent cooking skills or her nurturing spirit, her loved ones always had the most sincere and beloved support imaginable.
LaNette was a blessing as a wife to Scott, a mother to Bethanie Adams and Griffin Thirkell, mother-in-law to Travis Adams and Allison Thirkell, a grandma to Lincoln Scott Thirkell and Eleanor Elizabeth Renee Adams, and a daughter to Dianne Haubein and Doug and Kim Thirkell. Sisters Genee Lindstrom and RaShelle Hook also have many stories to share.
Lanette’s legacy of intense love and immense joy lives on through her family and the students she worked with every day. She will be greatly missed by not only those who knew her. She was a light and a servant to the world.