Herbert J. Eplee

Herbert John Eplee, 86, passed away July 13, 2024. Visitation will be Thursday, July 18 from 11am-12pm at Longview Funeral Home, with services to follow at 12pm. Burial will take place at Longview Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are suggested to Kansas City Hospice.

Herb was born on August 15, 1937 in Kansas City, Missouri, to Claude and Emma Eplee. He was a veteran of the US Air Force. Herb married Carol in February of 1976 and found his calling as a minister to those who were incarcerated at state and federal penitentiaries in Kansas. 

Herb was preceded in death by his parents, a sister, Wilda Mae, a brother, Vernon, and a daughter, Denise Atkinson. He is survived by his wife, Carol; daughters: Devonna Sheehan, Debbie Hargrove, and Kenna DeBlase (husband, Joe); grandchildren: Katie DeBlase, Joseph DeBlase, Shandi Hargrove, and Shawn Hargrove; several great grandchildren; a sister, Ruby York; a sister-in-law, Betty Eplee; and Travis Merryman, who was like a son to Herb.

Herb was known for being very kind and loving, a true animal lover who had a great sense of humor and a smile that could light up the room. He will be greatly missed.