Kay Rauscher

(From Housh-Goodwin Funeral Home)

Sheila Kay Rauscher, known to family and friends as Kay, passed away on July 31, 2026, in Carthage, Missouri, at the age of 83. She was born on February 1, 1943, in Purdy, Missouri, to the union of Kenneth and Selah (Hadley) Farmer.

A 1961 graduate of Sarcoxie High School, Kay carried throughout her life the same friendliness and sincerity that endeared her to others from an early age. She never met a stranger, and her smile had a way of lighting up any room she entered. Kay was truly a people person, and she had a gift for making others feel welcome, valued, and cared for. Those who knew her will remember her as loving, friendly, and passionate in all that she did.

Kay was the beloved wife of Norman Rauscher of Carthage, Missouri, and together they shared nearly sixty-five years of wonderful memories. They were school sweethearts, and their marriage on December 10, 1961, began a lifelong partnership built on love, friendship, and mutual devotion. Their bond remained a shining example to their family and all who witnessed the life they built together.

Kay spent several years working as an insurance clerk for Mary Jones Insurance in Sarcoxie and later for Joan Smith Insurance Agency. She was a loyal and dedicated employee who took pride in her work and was respected by those around her. Her strong sense of responsibility and steady presence reflected the same dependable character she showed in every part of her life.

She was a member of the Presbyterian Church in Sarcoxie and served as Past Matron of the Order of Eastern Star, Eminence Chapter #93 of Carthage, Missouri. Her involvement in these organizations reflected her commitment to faith, fellowship, and service.

Kay enjoyed many simple pleasures in life. She loved fishing at Table Rock Lake, though she would never get in the water, often joking with family and friends that her bathing suit was “dry clean only.” She also loved watching her grandchildren play sports and cheering on the Chiefs during football season. Dancing with Norman was another joy they shared, and those moments together added to the many treasured memories they created over the years.

In addition to her husband, Kay is survived by her children, Misty Rauscher of Carthage, Missouri, Leslea Delaney and husband Steve, of Haltom City, Texas, and Kevin Rauscher of Phoenix, Arizona. She also leaves behind her grandchildren, Kevin Baldwin, Ashlea Baldwin, Eric Stanley, Lindsey Turner, David Delaney and wife, Karly and Taylor Sciarra along with six great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her sisters, Sally Clapper of Carthage, Missouri, and Betty Moss and her husband, George, of Baxter Springs, Kansas; brothers-in law, Ink Reynolds and Brian Rhymer; as well as several nieces and nephews and a host of other family members and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents; grandson, Michael Baldwin; sisters, Mary Lee Reynolds and Judy Rhymer; and brother-in-law, Harpo Clapper.

Visitation will be 10:00 a.m. Thursday, August 6, 2026, at Housh-Goodwin Funeral Home in Sarcoxie, Missouri. Graveside services will follow at 11:00 a.m. at Sarcoxie Cemetery with pastor David Delaney officiating. Those honoring her life by serving as pallbearers are Kevin Baldwin, Eric Stanley, Scott Brooks, Michael Penrow, Wyatt Keplar, Marc Kutz, David Delaney, Steve Delaney, Jeff Houck and George Keplar. Memorial contributions may be directed to Twentieth Century Club in care of the funeral home. Online condolences may be sent to the family through our website, www.housh-goodwinfuneral.com.

Arrangements are under the personal care and direction of Housh-Goodwin Funeral Home in Sarcoxie, Missouri.