Patsy Sue Staples

In Loving Memory of Patsy Sue Staples - September 29, 1938 – June 28, 2025

Patsy Sue Staples, born September 29, 1938, passed away on June 28, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of strength, grace, adventure, and unconditional love. A proud graduate of Niangua High School, Class of 1956, Patsy lived a full and spirited life defined by resilience, compassion, and a sense of adventure that inspired everyone around her.

Patsy was the longtime owner of the Top Hat Lounge in Waynesville, Missouri, where she was a beloved and respected member of the community. Known for her loyalty, wit, and warm heart, she formed deep and lasting friendships and left an indelible mark on the lives of coworkers and patrons alike.

Never one to let age define her, Patsy began crossing items off her “bucket list” at 73. She traveled the world with joy and courage—parasailing, white water rafting, swimming with dolphins, ziplining, and even climbing waterfalls. She cruised oceans, met her favorite actors Norman Reedus and Jeffrey Dean Morgan, visited Elvis Presley’s birthplace, and proudly got her first tattoo. Whether she was hot air ballooning or cheering on her beloved St. Louis Cardinals, Patsy’s motto was simple: “Good to go!”

Patsy is survived by her sister Sandy Day (Staples) of Niangua, Missouri; her daughters Kim Swisher (Dysart) of O’Fallon, Missouri, and Tina Brennan (Buckmaster) of Plato, Missouri; and her granddaughter Erica Buckmaster of Springfield, Missouri. She was preceded in death by her beloved son Ronnie Buckmaster, her father Bland Staples, and her mother Iva Lee Staples (Alford).

After a courageous battle, Patsy made the selfless decision to donate her body to cancer research, continuing to give even in death. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made in her honor to the American Cancer Society. She will be deeply missed and forever loved.