Jeffrey Scott Bushman, born Jeffrey Scott Caywood on September 14, 1955, in Kansas City, Missouri, passed away peacefully at age 70 at Kansas City Hospice House.

First adopted at eight days old, Jeff became part of a blended family when his mother, Betty Congour Caywood, married Jordan Bushman in 1964. Jordan formally adopted Jeff and his younger sister Michelle; the family later welcomed two more sons, Jeff’s brothers Stephen and Craig.

A tall, athletic young man standing six-foot-five, Jeff played basketball at Central High School in St. Joseph and volleyball at Drake University in Des Moines, Iowa. He was preparing for medical school when a 1978 plane crash left him quadriplegic, dramatically altering the trajectory of his life. Jeff adapted to his new circumstances and built a full life on his own terms in the family home on Ward Parkway, where he resided for decades. He became a successful investor, cultivated a passion for gardening and landscaping—directing his caregivers from his wheelchair—and collected beautiful Turkmen rugs and Arts & Crafts furniture. Jeff maintained a strong sense of self, knew exactly what he wanted, and fiercely advocated for himself. His intelligence, charm, and wit remained intact, and those who knew him will remember his resilience, love of history, and his irreverent sense of humor.

Jeffrey is predeceased by his parents, Jordan F. Bushman and Betty C. Bushman, and his sister, Michelle Renee. He is survived by his brothers Stephen and Craig Bushman, his uncle Robert E. Bushman and aunt Helen, and his cousin Cher A. Congour, along with extended family, friends, and dedicated caretakers.