Constance Halstead

Constance Gamlin Halstead, 78, of Columbia and formerly of Kansas City, died June 15, 2010, after a brief struggle with cancer. She is loved and will be sadly missed by her family and a wide circle of friends.

Connie was born in  Irvington, New Jersey  to Arthur  and Merle  Gamlin.  She grew up in Missouri. Connie graduated in 1953 with a degree in Education from the University of Missouri (Columbia), where she was a member of Chi Omega sorority. She taught school for several years in Nevada, Ohio, and Kansas before settling in Kansas City. Connie assisted her husband, Dick, for several years in his advertising agency in Kansas City. Connie then became a certified instructor in effectiveness training for parents, teachers, and women, and was a principal in the human relations consulting firm of Halstead and Hudson Associates. Later, she obtained a master’s degree from Southern Methodist University/Baker University and operated a private counseling practice.

Connie pursued a wide variety of interests throughout her life, including promoting peace and understanding among people both in their individual lives and around the world. One highlight of recent years was travelling with friends to Thailand, Italy, and Peru. 

Connie married Richard Halstead in 1958. He preceded her in death in 1990. Connie is survived by three children, Keith Halstead, wife Mary, and son Andy of Camden Point, Missouri; Carrie Tentori, husband Eric and children Elie and Macy of Paonia, Colorado; and Bruce Halstead of Denver and son Spencer of Kansas City. She leaves behind many friends who have cherished her for her warmth, wit, and wise counsel.

A celebration of Connie’s life will be held on Saturday, June 19, 2010 at  5:00 p.m. at Parker’s Funeral Service, 22 N. 10^th Street, Columbia, MO. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions to the charity of the donor’s choice.