Kynzi DeJager

(From Greenfield Funeral Chapel)

MaKynzi Kailynn DeJager, of Joplin, MO, departed this life on Saturday, May 23, 2026, at the age of 15.

MaKynzi always brightened every room she walked into. Her smile and laughter were contagious, and she truly lived life to the fullest. She had a positive prankster personality that made everyone around her smile, whether it was gently tapping someone on the shoulder only for them to turn the wrong way while she stood nearby with a great big grin, or sneaking in a playful joke at just the right moment. She had a way of bringing joy and laughter wherever she went.

She never had a bad word to say about anyone and was always the first to lend a helping hand. Her famous “Kynzi Hugs”, kind of like a bear hug, only better made everyone around her feel loved and welcomed. She also had her own special way of greeting people, often offering a cheerful fist bump… sometimes even to a snail, because that was just who she was, fun-loving, sweet, and always ready to make someone smile. If you were lucky enough to be close to MaKynzi, chances are she had a fun nickname just for you, a little reminder of how personally and deeply she cared for those she loved.

Kynzi had a special love for preschool and younger elementary kids, who absolutely adored her. She had a gentle, caring way about her that made little ones feel safe, important, and deeply loved. Whether she was playing with them, making them laugh, or simply giving them her full attention, MaKynzi made every child feel like they were someone special. Her kindness and warmth left a lasting impression on even the smallest hearts.

MaKynzi was born and raised in church and has been baptized in faith. She attended Christs’ Community Joplin and was active in Christs’ Community Youth. She loved singing and dancing for Jesus, sharing her joy and smile with everyone she met and was the true light of Jesus every single day.

Kynzi was proud to be a member of the Diamond High School Cheer Squad and played Baritone in the band, bringing her spirit, energy, and heart to everything she did. She loved going and supporting her sisters in all of their sports activities and was often found cheering the teams on and enjoying some popcorn.

She touched countless lives with her cheerful smile, kind heart, playful spirit, and unwavering positivity. She will be deeply missed here on Earth, but we find comfort knowing she is with Jesus now, probably giving Him lots of “Kynzi Hugs”, making bunny ears behind the angels, and singing and dancing with all her heart in praise and joy.

MaKynzi leaves behind her parents Randall and Janet, two sisters Marrisa (18) and MaKarly (12) who she loved deeply. She also leaves behind her grandparents Larry and Joyce Boyd and Don and Nancy DeJager and a long list of aunts and uncles and cousins that she really enjoyed spending time and making memories with.

Memorial services will be held at a later date at Christ’s Community Church in Joplin, MO. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Christ’s Community Church Youth. Services are under the care of Greenfield Funeral Chapel.