Viola Snook-Zumault

Viola Snook-Zumault, 102, of Kansas City North, formerly of Smithville, MO, passed away, Saturday, December 29, 2007 at her home.

She was the daughter of John Franklin Snook and Clara Dolan Snook, born on May 7, 1905 at the home of her grandparents on land where American Airlines now stands. She had one brother, Roy William Snook, who preceded her in death, October 31, 1987. She taught school in the twenties and with her husband, owned and operated a paint, wallpaper, hardware and decorating business in Smithville, Mo. for eighteen years. She enjoyed a long, successful career as a real estate associate from 1952-1989 when retiring. She was known and highly respected throughout the area for “ethical conduct and professionalism in business”. She was a world traveler, skilled writer and lecturer. She was the author of over 2,000 published poems, 2 books of poetry and on March 10, 1997 was elected into the International Poetry Hall of Fame by the International Library of Poetry and Alex Hanley, Director of the International Poetry Hall of Fame Museum . Her work was recognized and won many honors and awards in Europe as well as the United States. She was a Past Missouri State President of the National League of American Pen Women, member of the Kentucky State Poetry Society, The International Platform Association and held numerous honorary titles. At the time of her death she was an Elder Emeritus of the First Christian Church of Smithville, Mo., having been a devoted member for 79 years.

She was a Past Matron of Garland Chapter #287, Order of the Eastern Star and had the distinction of holding an office every year for over half a century.

She was married to Roy Authur Zumault, June 8, 1926 while attending college in Warrensburg, MO. Mr. Zumault preceded her in death February 17, 1986. They had no children of their own but opened their hearts and their home to many. Mrs. Zumault donated all earnings from her writing to charity, focusing on abused, unwanted, terminally ill children and Habitat for Humanity.

She is survived by three nieces, Dorothy Kneib, of the home, Marjorie Stubbs, Edgerton, Martha Jane Williams, Dearborn, three nephews, Marion, Staley and Earl Snook of Edgerton and a beloved sister-in-law, Ida Zumault of Kansas City North.

Funeral Services: 2:00 P.M., Friday at the First Christian Church of Smithville,

with visitation one hour prior to the Service.

Reverend Jerry Porter, officiating, assisted by Reverend James Matson.

Honorary Pallbearers: Members of Garland Chapter #287 O.E.S.

Burial: Mt. Moriah Terrace Park Cemetery, Kansas City.

Friends may call anytime after 2:00 P.M., Thursday at the Hixson-Klein Funeral Home, Smithville.