John (Jack) Reilly 82 of Independence Missouri was baptized in the Catholic church.
He passed away peacefully 12-19-25 with family members by his side.
Jack was born on 12-17-43 in Independence Missouri. Jack graduated from Vanhorn high school in 1962. He was a skilled auto body man whose craftsmanship and attention to detail earned him a strong reputation. Over the years his work spoke for itself, including performing auto body work for the legendary stuntman Evil Knievel- a point of pride he carried quietly. He took great satisfaction in restoring vehicles and helping others get back on the road, always believing that good work should be done right the first time. Jack was a talented dancer who loved both ballroom and square dancing with his first wife MaryJane. He taught himself Waltz, foxtrot, and swing dance. He was also proud to serve as the president of the Hee Haw Squares, helping lead the group and keeping the joy of square dancing alive. In Jacks earlier days he had a love of sports and friendly sports competition. He played men’s volleyball, enjoyed bowling, and proudly set a perfect record, an achievement few ever reach. One of his greatest joys was sharing sports with his wife, Maryjane, including playing the rare and uniquely challenging coed game of 16 inch -slow pitch mush ball. Whether competing or just having fun, Jack valued teamwork, skill, and the camaraderie that sports brought into his life.
Dad is survived by his children, Jackie Reilly (Tiffany, Tierra, Jarred and Roy), Jennie Anderson (Daniel and Danielle), Kelly Reilly wife Bridget (Tyler, Jack, Chloe), Sean Reilly (Gracie, Attica and Emaline), Sister Barbara Ripple and many Great Grandchildren.
He is preceded in death by his parents John Leo Reilly and Jenny Marie Reilly, Daughter Kimberly Reilly, first wife Mary Jane Reilly second wife Charlotte Reilly, Grandson Javon Reilly, Siblings Donald Reilly, Mary Sue McGonigle and Jeannine Mayer.
A Funeral Service will be held on Friday January 9th, at St. Marks Catholic Church 3736 S Lee’s Summit Road Independence Missouri 64052. Visitation will begin at 10:00 a.m. followed by the funeral mass at 11;00 a.m. Burial will take place immediately following the service at Mt. Olivet 7601Blue Ridge Blvd Kansas City Mo 64138
Obituary submitted by the family.
Arrangements: Royer Funeral Home, Oak Grove, MO 816-690-4441