Reflections of the Life of Tillie Cyrena Sallis

Tillie “Cyrena” Sallis was born on July 18, 1941, in Warrensburg, Missouri. An only child, she was raised with strong values of faith, hard work, perseverance, and independence—qualities that would shape her life and legacy.

Born Tillie Hyter, she later embraced her middle name, “Cyrena,” once she made Kansas City her home. From a young age, she displayed an entrepreneurial spirit, inspired by her parents. Her father pursued various business ventures throughout his life, while her mother operated a longtime in-home beauty shop as a respected hairstylist. Cyrena learned early the importance of determination and self-sufficiency, often helping with family businesses and finding creative ways to earn money on her own. Whether selling products door-to-door or assisting her parents in their ventures, she always had a drive to succeed. She briefly attended Central Missouri State University, now known as the University of Central Missouri, before attending cosmetology school with thoughts of following in her mother’s footsteps. But Cyrena was never afraid to take risks and explore new opportunities. Over the years, she pursued several career paths—from training as a dental hygienist to working in banking—before ultimately building a lasting career in the insurance industry.

Yet, of all the roles she held in life, the one she treasured most was being a mother and grandmother.

On November 25, 1965, she married her late husband, Elward Alonzo Sallis, and together they built a family grounded in faith and love. Their union was blessed with two children, Jeffrey and Julie. Cyrena often said that her children brought her greatest joy. Though there were seasons of challenges and hard-headed moments along the way, she remained steadfast in prayer, trusting God’s promises over her family and believing the seeds of faith she planted would flourish in due time.

Her heart grew even fuller with the arrival of her grandchildren, whom she loved deeply and fiercely. They meant the world to her, and nothing brought her greater joy than watching her family grow and thrive.

During her hospital stay, after learning of her illness, Cyrena remained at peace. With quiet strength and unwavering faith, she reflected on the blessings of her life, saying, “I’ve got to see my children grow up to be productive citizens, have their own families and see my grandchildren grow up. I’ve been blessed. I’m at peace.” That was the kind of faith Cyrena possessed. Even in the midst of difficult circumstances, she continued to trust the Lord completely and accepted His will, believing in His power to heal in His own way and in His own time.

Now, she is healed. Completely.

“And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away.” — Revelation 21:4

Cyrena enjoyed spending time with family, cooking, attending church, reading scripture, taking walks, and making sure she stayed “fly” with her hair and nails done. She loved watching Lifetime movies, faithfully tuned in to “Family Feud” and made sure every episode of “Beyond the Gates” was recorded. She cherished meaningful conversations, and no topic was ever off limits. Whether she was offering marital advice, discussing politics, sharing wisdom, or giving one of her famously unsolicited opinions, Cyrena always spoke her mind with honesty and humor. Her loved ones treasured her for exactly that reason. She could have you laughing uncontrollably at something unexpected she said, but she was also a source of comfort, wisdom, and unconditional love. During difficult times, she listened without judgment, prayed with sincerity, corrected with love when needed, and reminded those around her that God would see them through.

Cyrena went to her heavenly home on Monday, July 6th. She was preceded in death by her husband, Elward Sallis, in 2024. She leaves to cherish her memory her son, Jeffrey Sallis (Kris); daughter, Julie Gray (Michael); grandchildren Blake, Brianna, Taylor, and Justin, great-grandson Pierce, along with a host of beloved relatives on Pierce; and friends whose lives were touched by her love, faith, humor, and unwavering strength.