Cora Gertrude (Trudi) Schliesman Prichard, 92 of Branson, MO

Cora Gertrude (Trudi) Schliesman Prichard was born February 8, 1929, in El Dorado, KS to Daniel and Teresa Jo Durfey and passed away in her home in Branson, Missouri on July 28, 2021 at the age of 92.

She was preceded in death by her parents and her brother, Danny Durfey, of Houston, Missouri. Also preceding her in death was her husband Earl Keene of Joplin, Mo, her husband Bud Schliesman of Branson, and her husband Dale Prichard of Branson.

Trudi and her husband Dale were members of First Baptist Church Hollister and active in ministering where needed as long as health allowed.

Her college degrees, realtor's license, chef expertise, and teaching abilities pale in comparison to her beloved art work. Her paintings are sought after throughout the Ozarks where she operated several studios and taught painting and drawing classes. She often exhibited at Silver Dollar City and on tours.

Trudi had a flair for traveling, fishing, and enjoying God's creation. She spent many years in campers and travel trailers. Always finding time to capture the deer, ducks and wildlife on canvas. A gourmet cook, she was always ready to put on a feed for all who would come. She owned restaurants in Rockaway Beach and Galena Missouri.

An entrepreneur in her own right, Trudi's life can be summed up best in her own words penned for her cousin's book: (OR in her own words. Period!)

“Never plan to grow up. Write stories, explore new things, build something, travel, appreciate the small things, share what you have with others. My life verse may help explain it: Colossians 3:23 'If you work hard at it and do it for God, you will succeed and be very happy!' ”

Trudi is survived by nieces, nephews, step children and their families, and several who call her “Mom” including Bo Rivers of Texas and Rob Sunderland of Massachusetts. Trudi had a way of making those around her feel like family and leaves loved ones throughout the country who will miss her.

She is also survived by first cousin Carrol Susie Kinslow Adams (husband Dr. Russell Adams) of Buffalo, Missouri.

Arrangements are under the direction of Snapp-Bearden Funeral Home and Crematory, Branson, Mo. No public services are planned at this time. Memorial contributions may be made to the Missouri Baptist Children's Home, 603 N. Main, Mt. Vernon, MO 65712. Cards may be sent to Susie Adams, PO Box 138, Buffalo, MO 65622.