Monica Kathleen Liston Rutherford

Monica (Liston) Rutherford  

1964-2023

Monica Kathleen Rutherford Passed away on August 22nd, 2023, at the age of 58 in Kansas City, Missouri.  She was born on November 30th, 1964, in Fort Dix, New Jersey.

Monica was a passionate advocate against racism, violence, and all forms of injustice. She used her voice to uplift and empower those around her. Monica was a fiercely loyal friend and confidant, always there to support and encourage her loved ones. Despite her numerous accomplishments, she remained humble and grounded.

A lover of the natural world, Monica enjoyed taking walks in the park and exploring the great outdoors. She had a special fondness for pets and the

cherished little beasts we welcomed into our homes. Monica had a gift for connecting with people and striking up conversations. She genuinely enjoyed meeting new individuals and learning about their stories. Her ability to listen attentively made her an exceptional conversationalist.

Monica's diverse taste in music reflected her vibrant spirit. Throughout her life, she collected songs from various genres and found solace in the power of music. Comedy brought her joy, and she appreciated the light heartedness that it brought to her life.

Monica dedicated her career to helping others. She worked as an electrocardiogram technician and a health care assistant at children's mercy hospital for 10 years.  She ultimately pursued her passion as a beautician with her dear friend Russ.

Monica's educational journey included attending Loretto Academy for high school and later pursuing higher education at the University of Kansas, where she graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in psychology.

As a lover of the outdoors Monica found solace and spiritual connection in nature. She worshipped in the great cathedral of the outdoors.

In her free time, Monica enjoyed taking walks in the park, listening to music and tending to her garden. These activities brought her peace and allowed her to appreciate the beauty of the world around her.

Monica leaves behind Cherished memories with her surviving family members: Joan Liston, Peter Liston and Brigid Maguire, Michael and Cathy Liston and Andrew and Pam Liston, as well as numerous loving aunts and uncles, nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her beloved father, Thomas Liston.  She has joined her friend for life, Tony Rutherford.

Memorial services for Monica will be held at Muehlebach funeral home on Tuesday, August 29th. The services will begin with a visitation from 6 PM to 7 PM.  The evening will conclude with a memorial service from 7 PM to 8 PM, where friends and family can come together to honor and remember Monica.

Monica Kathleen Rutherford will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her. Her legacy of compassion advocacy and love will forever inspire those whose lives she touched. May she rest in peace.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the Innocence Project, a charity that was close to Monica's heart.