Verla "Boots" Eckstein, 77, also known as "Grandma Sugarbear" of Stanberry, Missouri, passed away May 16, 2023, at Pineview Manor in Stanberry. She was born June 26, 1945, in Ravenwood, Missouri, the daughter of Herschel H. and Florence B. (O'Banion) Sybert.

Boots was united in marriage to Bernard Eckstein on July 3, 1963. He preceded her in death November 9, 2017.

She was also preceded in death by her grandson, Jeffrey Fish, sister and brother-in-law, June and John McCrary, and brother-in-law, Jerry Eckstein.

Boots worked in the kitchen at Benedictine Convent for several years, and for Conception Abbey as a cook for 30 years before retiring.

Boots practiced Methodist faith. She was a wonderful wife, mother, and grandma. She loved playing with the grandchildren, enjoyed music, cooking, fishing, mushroom hunting, riding through the countryside and most of all visiting her wonderful family and friends.

Survivors: sons, Mike (Susan) Eckstein, Weatherby, MO; Herschel (Trudy) Eckstein, Independence, MO; daughters, Brenda (Doug) Fish, Albany, MO; Judy (David) Henry, Blockton, IA; grandchildren, Tonya (Josh) Wilson, Delaney Eckstein (Tony Johnson), Dylan Eckstein, Danielle (Brandon) Sleep, Whitney Henry, Damien Henry; great-grandsons, Zhane, Gavin & Gabriel Wilson, Henry Sleep, Jesse Johnson and great-granddaughter, Hannah Sleep; step-grandchildren, Alex & Chloe Wilson; sister, Susie Eckstein; many nieces, nephews, family and friends, especially the Staff and residents of Pineview Manor in Stanberry.

Memorial Service: 5:00 PM Friday, May 26 at the Roberson-Polley Chapel, Albany. There is no scheduled family visitation. Friends may call anytime after 2:00 PM on Friday at the chapel. There will be a meal following the service at the Wilford Building in Albany. Memorial Contributions: Pineview Manor or Three Rivers Hospice in care of the Roberson-Polley Chapel, 403 N. Hundley, Albany, MO 64402. Online condolences: www.robersonpolleychapel.com