Barbara Lee Grinde, Daughter of Jean and Charles Arthaud, died peacefully in the early morning hours of Thursday, August 10th in Kansas City, Missouri.

Lee was born in Murfreesboro, TN on June 2, 1953. The daughter of an Army Air Command pilot, Lee quickly grew accustomed to traveling and spent several years in Chillicothe, Kirksville, and Warrensburg, Missouri. Lee attended The University of Missouri and University of Central Missouri to pursue a undergraduate majoring in European history. Lee also attended The University Central Missouri to pursue a graduate degree with an emphasis in teaching.

For several years Lee worked and supported a variety of educational programs at Warrensburg and Knob Noster High schools. Lee was especially gifted at mentoring and educating At-Risk high school students, who often considered her one of the few people that understood their struggles and actually had a sense of humor.

Lee is survived by three sons, Robert of Chillicothe, Phillip of Denver, and Drake of Kansas City. One grandson, Oliver. One sister, Carol. Two nieces, Kathrine & Elizabeth. And two nephews, Clay & Lee.

Lee was considered by many to be one of their funniest and brightest friends. She adored listening to music loud and telling a story that might not be perfectly appropriate.

As a mother, she showed her children the importance of accepting individuals from all walks of life, and doing the right thing even when you're REALLY mad.

Throughout her life, Lee expressed little desire to have a memorial service. She believed her memory is best embraced by listening to music and telling a story to friends and family.

If you would like to make a gesture of kindness, the family of Lee Grinde ask that you consider making a donation to pkdcure.org in her name. Or any other Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD) research foundation.

online condolences may be left at www.williamsfuneralchapel.net