Brent Lavoy Littleton

Brent Lavoy Littleton, 61, of Independence, Kansas, died on Friday, December 29, 2023, unexpectedly but peacefully and surrounded by family.

Raised on a ranch in Texas, Brent learned at a young age to work hard while appreciating the beauty and splendor of God’s creations.  He grew up working cattle, riding horses, and being playfully teased by four older siblings. He graduated with the Class of 1981 from Texas High School in Texarkana, Texas, where he played sports, competed in rodeos, and was active in the FFA.    

In 1989 he spread his wings and moved his young family to Claremore, Oklahoma where he lived for almost two decades.  There he cultivated his entrepreneurial spirit and started the first of several businesses in the restaurant and automotive industries.  He later returned to Texas where he leveraged his talent for preparing and sharing food by launching Littleton Catering Resources.  Residents of his final home in Independence, Kansas also knew him as the owner of the local Dairy Queen.  Anyone who enjoyed one of his thoughtfully prepared meals (especially his tender prime rib or smoked barbeque) will remember him as a gracious host with exceptional culinary skills. He was also generous with his community. Brent volunteered time as a member of the Independence Planning & Zoning Commission Board and resources as a frequent donor to local teachers, youth organizations, and various community events.  

Brent lived passionately and loved fiercely.  He never met a stranger, cultivated a wide variety of friendships, and loved building connections through animated (sometimes controversial) conversations. He had a great but often ornery sense of humor. He found joy in life's simple pleasures - listening to soulful music (especially blues), caring for animals (particularly his dogs), watching football (Go Cowboys!), playing a cutthroat hand of cards (you’ve never known a better Spades player), and fishing (he was his happiest catching trout on the White River). 

Brent was loved by many. He is survived by his wife, Dorothy Gillman Littleton; four children, Brittany Littleton (partner of Kamyar Najmi), Bailey Hughes (spouse of Clinton Hughes), Brennan Littleton (spouse of Sarah Trumbo), Barry Motter (spouse of Pate Motter), and four grandchildren, Dylan LeClair, Devyn LeClair, Ruby Hughes, and Elliot Motter.  He is also survived by his mother, Ida Simcox (spouse of James Simcox); his brother, Bryan Littleton, Jr.; his sisters, Tawana Grimes, Tammy Smith, and Tonja McAllen; the mother of his four children, Susan Frank Littleton; and many beloved nieces and nephews.  He was preceded in death by his brother, Barry Lynn Littleton; William “Bill” Grimes, who he loved like a brother; and his father Bryan Littleton, Sr.

Brent was a Jehovah’s Witness who took comfort in the Bible’s promise of a resurrection.  May he find eternal peace. A public celebration of his life will be held on Saturday, January 13, 2024, at 1:00 PM at Independence Memorial Hall, 401 N. Pennsylvania Avenue, Independence, Kansas 67301.  A reception will follow. To leave a special message for the family please visit www.webbrodrickchapel.com. Arrangements have been entrusted to the care of Webb & Rodrick Chapel and Crematory.