Zella Marie Sweeney

Zella Marie Sweeney, 87, of Bourbon, Missouri, passed away peacefully at her home on March 10, 2026. Born on September 19, 1938, in Redford, Missouri, to Arthur and Golda (Dinkins) Pyrtle, she grew up in Centerville, where she graduated from high school in 1956. A spirited cheerleader, Zella brought joy and enthusiasm to those around her from an early age.

Her love story with Ronald Sweeney Jr. began in a storybook manner after a high school basketball game. While at the local Dairy Bar with friends, Zella saw a photograph of Ronald, who was serving in the military. She wrote him a letter, sparking a correspondence that blossomed into a deep and lasting connection. They married on March 28, 1959, and shared nearly 67 years of devoted companionship. After a brief time in St. Louis, they settled in Bourbon in 1960 to raise their family. In 1970, they opened Rio Grande Western, a store they operated together for many years. Zella balanced her roles as a loving wife and mother with her active involvement in the family business.

A devout Christian, Zella was an active member of Living Word Church, where she served with grace and commitment. She found great joy in gardening, tending her flowers, and sharing outdoor meals with family. She cherished playing games and creating memories with her loved ones. Known for her honesty, radiant smile, and infectious laughter, Zella lifted the spirits of everyone she met and lived a life grounded in faith and love.

She is survived by her husband, Ron; her children, Lori McNabb of Bryson City, North Carolina, and Michael Sweeney and wife Kathy of Bourbon, Missouri; grandchildren McKenzie Quillen and husband James of Hayesville, North Carolina, and Spencer McNabb and wife Taylor of Golden, Colorado; great-grandchildren L.J. and Paisley; and many nieces, nephews, and other relatives. She was preceded in death by her son, Ronald Sweeney III; her parents; five sisters, Melba Cox, Wilma Hill, Barbara Brooks, Shirley Ann Pyrtle, and Marion Alfred Pyrtle; and four brothers, Fred Pyrtle, Wilbur Pyrtle, James Pyrtle, and Junior Pyrtle.