Joshua Lyle Proud

It’s with heavy hearts that we share the passing of Joshua Lyle Proud, who left us unexpectedly on July 17, 2025, in Independence, Kansas. He was just 44 years young.

Born on June 16, 1981, in St. Louis, Missouri, Joshua grew up surrounded by the love and support of his father Richard Proud, mother Ginny, and stepfather Ron Baker. He spent his formative years in vibrant Las Vegas, Nevada, where he graduated high school, embracing life to the fullest.

In the early 2000's, Josh moved to Independence, where he found love and friendship with Haley Jones. They tied the knot on August 6, 2016, and together, they nurtured a beautiful family of five amazing kids: Jeszi Proud, Gavon Proud, Kaylee Wunder, Madalynn Botts, and Zoey Proud. His family meant the world to him, and he poured his heart into being the best husband and dad possible.

Josh was a true gem—an extraordinarily hard worker, devoted husband, and a friend who would go the extra mile. He took pride in providing for his family and loved to bring everyone together during the holidays. Whether it was cheering at the Tulsa Speedway or cruising on his motorcycle, Josh cherished making memories with his loved ones.

His talent as a mechanic was unmatched; he started turning wrenches as a kid and never looked back. With over a decade at Hackney and time spent at Precision Railway, he found his stride in maintenance at Bartlett Soybean Processing Plant, where he continued perfecting his craft.

Joshua is survived by his adored wife Haley and five wonderful kids, Jeszi, Gavon, Kaylee, Madalynn, and Zoey. He’s also remembered by his parents, Richard Proud and Ginny and Ron Baker, as well as his sister Caitlin Baker, uncle Kevin McMahon and countless family members, friends, and coworkers who were lucky to know him. He was preceded in death by grandparents Robert L. And Ardella Proud, grandparents John W. and Virgina F. McMahon, aunts Lorette Drennen and Jeanne Kritzi, and uncle Terence McMahon.

A celebration of Josh's life will take place on Friday, July 25, 2025, at 2:00 PM at Webb and Rodrick Chapel, located at 306 W. Main St., Independence. The family invites you to honor Josh's legacy and the love he gave so generously. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to support the children's education through Haley Proud and can be left at the chapel or given directly to the family.

To view live streaming of the service, share your memories or express your condolences, please visit his obituary page at www.webbrodrickchapel.com