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Beulah Louise Thomas, age 94, passed away January 27, 2024.  She was born October 28, 1929 to Stanley and Mildred (Hill) Doggett in rural Howard, Kansas.

Beulah graduated from Howard High School in 1948.  She then worked at the First National Bank in Howard.  On January 19, 1952, Beulah married Robert "Bob" Thomas at the Methodist Church in Howard.  In December 1953, they purchased a farm north of Longton, Kansas.  Beulah had to quit her job that she loved at the bank because the couple only had one vehicle.  They lived on that farm for the rest of their lives.  They were married 53 years until Bob's death on July 7, 2005.

Beulah belonged to the Howard Rebekah Lodge and the Fredonia Promades, a square dance club.

Survivors include her daughter, Marlene (Steve) Wilcox of Wichita, Kansas; her son, Robert "Joe" (Nancy) Thomas of Howard, Kansas; three grandchildren, Amos Williams of Wichita, Kansas, Ryan Thomas of Emporia, Kansas, and Sarah Galvin of Niverville, Manitoba, Canada; three great-grandchildren, Joanna Williams, Aston Galvin, and Aiden Galvin; and her sister, Myrtle Dewey of Wichita, Kansas.  In addition to her husband, Bob Thomas, Beulah was preceded in death by her parents; her infant son, David; her brother, Malcolm Doggett; and her sister, Joyce.

Funeral service will be held on Thursday, February 1, 2024 at 1:30 p.m. at Countryside Funeral Home in Howard, Kansas.  The family will receive friends at visitation from 12:30 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. prior to the service.  Interment will follow in Grace Lawn Cemetery in Howard, Kansas.  Memorial contributions in memory of Beulah can be made to the Independence Humane Society and may be mailed to or left with the funeral home.  Countryside Funeral Home, 206 E. Washington, Howard, Kansas has been entrusted with arrangements.

(taken from the Countryside Funeral Home website)

Nellie Elizabeth Johnson of Severy, Kansas got her wings at the age of 87 two days before her 88th birthday on January 19, 2024 at her home surrounded by family.  She was born on January 21, 1936 in Neal, Kansas to Arthur and Anna (Crouch) Watts.

Nellie married Kenneth Dale Johnson on February 27, 1953 in El Dorado, Kansas.  They started their home in an old white farmhouse west of Augusta, Kansas.  Later, they moved to a chicken house made into apartments.  Eight children were born to this marriage.  Nellie and husband, Kenneth, had lived in many places:  Alaska, Kansas, and California.  They settled down in Severy, Kansas.

Nellie had many jobs as a homemaker, farmer's wife, bookkeeper for her husband's businesses, cleaning military housing, and Howard Twilight Manor Nursing Home in the Laundry and Cleaning Department.  She belonged to the First Baptist Church in Howard, Kansas.

Nellie is survived by her son, Delane Johnson of the home, Dale (Wayne) McDaniel of Willow Springs, Missouri, Doyle (Delores) Johnson of Severy, Kansas, Lynn (Christy) Johnson of Severy, Kansas; Becky Shepherd of Eureka, Kansas, Doreen (George) Rogers of Stinnett, Texas, Kendall (Melissa) Johnson of Howard, Kansas, and Debra (Scott) Greer of Elk City, Kansas; 25 grandchildren and 4 step-grandchildren; 46 great-grandchildren and 4 step great-grandchildren and 1 on the way; 4 great-great grandchildren and 2 step great-great grandchildren and 1 great-great grandchild on the way;  and three sisters, Sharon Hellman, JoAnn Ashlock, and Anna Mae Hare.

She is preceded in death by her husband, Kenneth Johnson; son-in-law, Mike Shepherd; granddaughter, Joy Johnson;  step grandson, Zachary Beshirs; brothers, Bert Watts, Walter Watts, Kenny Watts, John Watts, and Arthur Ray Watts; and sisters, Faye Johnson, Adeline Hobbs, Alma Lee Schlotterbeck, and Dolly Ashlock. 

The family will receive friends at visitation on Friday, February 2, 2024 from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at Countryside Funeral Home in Howard, Kansas.
 Funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, February 3, 2024 at Countryside Funeral Home with interment to follow in Cresco Cemetery.  Memorial contributions are suggested to the American Diabetes Association or the American Heart Association and can be mailed to or left with the funeral home.  Services have been entrusted to Countryside Funeral Home, 206 E. Washington, Howard, Kansas 67349.

(taken from the Countryside Funeral Home website)

Marc Steven "Sarge" Spurrier, age 71, passed away on January 16, 2024 at his home in Howard, Kansas.  He was born May 4, 1952 in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma to Herbert L. and Betty Spurrier.

Marc grew up in Howard, Kansas and graduated from Howard High School with the Class of 1970. He married Sharron Berry on June 26, 1999.  His life career was in construction with highlights of blasting and excavator operation.  He was a member of the Howard Methodist Church.  His pleasures were camping, fishing, and hunting.

Marc is survived by his wife, Sharron Spurrier of the home in Howard, Kansas; his siblings, Kaye (Robert) Yates of Katy, Texas, Sylvia Stites of Howard, Kansas, and Brian (Lori) Spurrier of Caney, Kansas; two stepsons, Steven (Camine) Berry of Kansas City, Kansas and Keven (Janie) Berry of Moline, Kansas; 15 grandchildren; 7 great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.

Cremation has taken place, and a memorial service will be held on Saturday, January 27, 2024 at 10:30 a.m. at the Howard Methodist Church in Howard, Kansas with Pastor Katie Jordan officiating.  The family has suggested memorials to the Howard Methodist Church, 815 E. Randolph Stret, Howard, Kansas 67349.  Memorials may be mailed to or left with the church.  To leave a message for the family, go to www.dickensfuneral.com.  Dickens Family Funeral Home of Sedan, Kansas is in charge of arrangements.

(taken from the Dickens Family Funeral Home website)

Beverly K. DeWater, age 82, passed away January 8, 2024 in Winfield, Kansas.  She was born June 19, 1941 in Winfield, Kansas to Leona Belle (Schockey) and Charles William DeWater.

Beverly was reared in and attended schools in Elk County, Kansas, graduating from Moline High School in Moline, Kansas with the Class of 1959.  Her parents owned the DeWater Drug Store in Moline for many years.   She graduated from Kansas State University in 1967 with a Bachelor of Science in Education degree and received post graduate degrees from Kansa State Universtiy, Emporia State Univeristy, Pittsburg State University, and received  her doctorate from the University of Arkansas.  She was an associate professor of Psychology at Arkansas State University from 1972 until her retirement in 2001. 

Survivors include her nieces Carol Still, Lisa Willard, and Debbie DeWater and nephew Charles DeWater.  She was preceded in death by her parents and her brother, Elbert DeWater. 

Graveside service will be held on Saturday, January 20, 2024 at the Douglass Cemetery in Douglass, Kansas  In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established with Cumbernauld Village, 716 Tweed, Winfield, Kansas 67156.  Smith Family Mortuaries, Mulvane Chapel, of Mulvane , Kansas has been entrusted with arrangements.  Please visit www.smithfamilymortuaries.com.

(taken from the Smith Family Mortuarires website)

Thomas Jocelyn Leckliter (Jock Kent), age 81, of Camdenton, Missouri and formerly of Herington, Kansas, passed away January 13, 2024 at Lake Regional Hospital in Osage Beach, Missouri.  He was born June 25, 1942 in Winfield, Kansas to Richard and Dorothy (Ritchards) Leckliter.  After his father's plane was shot down in World War II and he was killed, his stepfather, Logan Kent, became the loving father he needed.

Tom graduated from Moline High School in Moline, Kansas and then joined the United States Navy where he spent two years serving on the USS Ticonderoga stationed out of San Diego, California.  He was united in marriage to Myrna Sharp on March 16, 1963,  and they celebrated 60 years of marriage in 2023. To this union were born two sons, Micheal and Jeff.  After returning home from his military service, he attended Vo-Tech in Pittsburg, Kansas to become an electrician.  Tom and Myrna moved to Herington, Kansas where they raised their boys.  Tom commuted to Fort Riley, Kansas to work as an electrician. 

Tom and Myrna moved to Camdenton, Missouri in 2022 to be closer to Jeff and his family.  They both enjoyed exploring less traveled roads in their spare time, both in Kansas and Missouri.  When at home, Tom enjoyed watching westerns and spending time with grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Tom is survived by his wife, Myrna; his sons, Mike Leckliter and Jeff (Karla) Leckliter; grandchildren, Ashley (Jared) and Jake (Sydney); three great-grandchildren; sisters, Karen, Nancy, and Kathy; and brother, Kenny.  He is preceded in death by his father; his mother; his stepfather; and two step-brothers.

Services will be held at the United Methodist Church in Piedmont, Kansas at 11:00 A.M. on Saturday,  January 20, 2024.  Burial at Piedmont Cemetery with full military honors will follow the service.  In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Tom's name to Carter-Rader American Legion Post #0149, P.O. Box 865, Howard, Kansas 67349.  Arrangements are under the direction of Hedges-Scott-Millard Funeral Home of Camdenton, Missouri.  Condolences may be left online for the family at www.hedgesscottmillard.com.

(taken from the Hedges-Scott-Millard Funeral Home website)

Rex Thornton Vinette was born September 15, 1951 in Winfield, Kansas to Darrel H. and Helen (Thornton) Vinette.  He passed away on January 12, 2024 in Topeka, Kansas.

Rex graduated from Howard High School in Howard, Kansas with the Class of 1969.  He graduated from Emporia State University with a teaching degree, but worked as a carpenter. 

On September 20, 1980, he married Jane L. Vinette.  Together they had a daughter, Rachael Vinette-Parrish and one granddaughter, Elizabeth "E.J." Parrish.  He is also survived by three sisters, Mary Elliott, Jeanne Bjorklund, and Janet Vinette; one niece, Ann Marie Riccomini; four nephews, Danny Stauffer, Mark Stauffer, Jonathan Stauffer, and Taylor Lapardo; and great nieces and nephews.  He was preceded in death by his father, Darrel Vinette; his mother, Helen Vinette; two brothers, Darrel Lee Vinette and Robert Vinette; a brother-in-law, Mike Elliott; a son-in-law, Stuart "Matt" Parrish; and other family members.

Funeral services for Rex will be held on Thursday, January 18, 2024 at 10:30 a.m. at Countryside Funeral Home in Howard, Kansas.  The family will receive friends at visitation from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. prior to the service.  Due to weather conditions, the family requests not to go to the cemetery for interment.  Burial will take place at Grace Lawn Cemetery in Howard.  In lieu of flowers, donations in Rex's name can be made to the National Rifle Association (NRA) or Shawnee County Helping Hands Humane Society in Topeka, Kasnas.  These remembrances may be mailed to or left with the funeral home.  Countryside Funeral Home, 206 E. Washington, Howard, Kansas 67349 has been entrusted with arrangements.

(taken from the Countryside Funeral Home website)

Teri Dawn Hazelwood was born at St. Anthony's Hospital in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma on August 15,1970 to Robert Terry Brotherton and Mary Virginia Clifton.  After several years of declining health, Teri Dawn departed her earthly life at the same hospital where she had arrived (St. Anthony's) on January 7, 2024.

Teri Dawn grew up in Ponca City, Oklahoma, later moving to the Oklahoma City area where she married Joseph Lee Hazelwood, Jr. and they raised their family there.  She worked for several years as a home health aide in the Oklahoma City area.  This experience was particularly rewarding to Teri, and she worked until her failing health made it impossibile to continue.  In 2018, Teri, Joe, and grandson, Dominick, moved to Longton, Kansas where Teri had many fond memories from her childhood.

Teri Dawn is survived by her husband, Joseph Lee Hazelwood, Jr.; children, Tanner Clifton Hazelwood, Catherine Fay Bryant, Jeff Tyler Hazelwood, and Mary Barbara Rose Hazelwood; her parents, Terry (Kathy) Brotherton and Mary (Rob Deloof) Clifton; siblings, Shelly Shattuck, Chance Throop, Jessie Palovik, and Cody Brotherton; 8 grandchildren; and many extended family members and friends.

A funeral service for Teri Dawn will be held on Saturday, January 13, 2024 at 2:00 p.m. at the Longton United Methodist Church in Longton, Kansas.  Interment will follow in the Longton Cemetery.  Services have been entrusted to Countryside Funeral Home, 206 E. Washington, Howard, Kansa 67349.

(taken from the Countryside Funeral Home website)

Jeanine Bey Young, age 87, of Winfield, Kansas, passed away December 7, 2023 at the Kansas Veterans Home in Winfield.  She was born December 12, 1935 in Cherokee, Oklahoma, the daughter of Percy Ben and Lille Fern (Parkhurst) Doughty.

Jeanine grew up in Elk County, Kansas and graduated from Howard High School in Howard, Kansas with the Class of 1955.  She and Donald Leroy Young were united in marriage in 1957 in Seattle, Washington.

Jeanine enjoyed being a homemaker and liked watching television.  She is survived by her children, Gerald Young and Sheryl Young; her sister, Jackie Perkins; and her brother, Ben Doughty.  She was preceded in death by her parents, Percy and Fern Doughty; her husband, Donald Young; her infant daughter, Donna Jean Young; and her brother, Leon Doughty.

Private graveside services were held at the Grace Lawn Cemetery in Howard, Kansas.  Arrangements were entrusted to Shelley Family Funeral Home of Winfield, Kansas.

(taken from the Shelley Family Funeral Home website)

Jack S. Woods passed away peacefully on December 29, 2023 surrounded by his family.  He was born August 16, 1952 to Lloyd Jr. and Jeanne (Swanbholt) Woods in Winfield, Kansas.

Growing up, Jack enjoyed creating adventures and mischief with his siblings, James (Jim) and Dena, and numerous friends.  He grew up in the Winfield area where he was an avid member of the Boy Scouts of America.  He graduated from Winfield High School in 1970.  After graduation, he attended Wichita State University and later joined the United States Navy.  He met the love of his life in an airport boarding line making small chats (just like in true Jack fashion). 

Jack and Deborah (Debbie) Kill were united in marriage on October 17, 1975.  Eventually they established their home in Grenola, Kansas whle raising their six children.  Jack worked at Learjet and the United States Postal Service.  During this time raisng their children, he enjoyed coaching them in baseball, umpiring youth baseball games, cheering loudly at games, taking family vacations that led to many memories full of laughter, and sharing his love for all aviation-related things.

After his retirement from the Postal Service in 2008, Jack enjoyed attending all his grandkids' activities, traveling with his sons, attending air shows, puzzles, model airplanes, serving his community by participating in mission trips, years as a volunteer firefighter, and bring joy to all children during the Christmas time.  Jack never was a stranger to anyone for very long.  He would help every hitchhiker or stranded motorist that he came upon, offering them an ice cold Dr. Pepper that was always stocked in a cooler in the backseat of his car.

Jack was extremely proud of his family.  He will be dearly missed  by all who knew him.  His family asks that he be remembered for the joy he brought to all who met him.

Jack is survived by his wife, Debbie Woods of Grenola, Kansas; his children, Sarah (James) Robertson, Mike (Stephanie) Woods, Daniel (Kirby) Woods, Kyle (Tara) Woods, Heather Henley, and Jacob (Ashley) Woods; his grandchildren, Kyli, Laura, Briona, Lydia, Dante, Landon, Kyra, Elizabeth, Kyson, Braxton, Max, Kari, Cole, Lucas, and Blakeley; his stepmother, Mary Woods; his siblings, Dena (Roger) Hill, Darlene Woods, Kathy (Rick) Goetz, Randy (Viv) Sack, and Judy Sack; and numerous nieces and nephews.

A graveside service will be held at 2:30 p.m. on Friday, Januaryh 5, 2024 at Greenlawn Cemetery in Grenola, Kansas.  Following the service, the family invites all to join them at the Grenola Community Building to share stories and laughter in Jack's memory.  A memorial has been established with the Grenola Methodist Church for the youth in the community, and memorials can be mailed to or left with the funeral home.  Services have been entrusted to Countryside Funeral Home, 206 E. Washington, Howard, Kansas 67349.

(taken from the Countryside Funeral Home website)

Samuel Levi Trigg, age 77, of Elk Falls, Kansas, passed away on December 19, 2023 at Pleasant Valley Nursing Center in Sedan, Kansas.  He was born October 5, 1946  in Guymon, Oklahoma to Oval and Viola Trigg.

On July 16, 1965, Sam married Mary Jane Jones in Longton, Kansas.  They were married 46 years until her passing in January 2011.

Sam was a hard worker and loved to be outdoors.  He would often leave the house before the sun came up and wouldn't come back in the house until dinner time that evening.  He worked for the Santa Fe Railroad, then WATCO Railroad, for a total of 37 years before retiring.  In his spare time, he enjoyed cutting wood and working in the greenhouse with Martha and even spent some time fishing and camping with the family at the Hitching Creek.

Sam is survived by his children, Samuel Trigg of Antelope, Montana, Nina Teska of Longton, Kansas, and Mary Torres of El Paso, Texas; 10 grandchildren; 3 great-grandchildren; and sisters, Ladonna Collins of Wichita, Kansas and Jane Vantuyl of Kennwick, Washington.  He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Martha; his son, Jim Trigg; his brothers, Chet and Vincent; and his sisters, Sue and Ann.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, Decmeber 26, 2023 from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at Countryside Funeral Home in Howard, Kansas.  Funeral service will be held on Wednesday, December 27, 2023 at the Community Christian Church in Longton, Kansa.  Burial will follow at the Elk Falls Cemetery in Elk Falls, Kansas.  Memorial contributions are suggested to the Elk County Sheriff's Office or the Longton City Fire Department and can be left with or mailed to the funeral home.  Countryside Funeral Home, 206 E. Washington, Howard, Kansas 67349 has been entrusted with arrangements.

(taken from the Countryside Funeral Home website)

Mary Louise Van Royen, age 83, of Sedan, Kansas, passed away on December 17, 2023 at her home.  She was born May 24, 1940 in Roxanne, Oklahoma to John and Lucy (Taylor) McCormac.

Mary was raised alongside six brothers and sisters.  In 1957, she met a young man, James, and after three years of dating, he simply stated, "I think we'll get married".  She agreed, and on November 27, 1960, Mary married James Van Royen in Sedan, Kansas.  They were married 44 years until his passing in 2005. 

Mary and James lived on their farm, and while James farmed and worked other jobs, Mary took care of the house, the garden, and their children.  She enjoyed being a homemaker and everything that came with it, whether it was making large meals for the family or tending to the one-acre garden she grew, she was doing what she loved.  Her family loved to get together for Sunday dinners, and Mary always made sure there was more than enough food to feed everyone along with many leftovers.

Mary lvoed being a wife, mother, and grandma.  She was like a second mom to every one of her grandchildren.  She will be greatly missed by all her family and many friends.

Mary is survived by her sons, James Van Royen of Wichita, Kansas, Rickey Van Royen of Sedan, Kansas, Ronnie Van Royen of Longton, Kansas, Danny Van Royen of Sedan, Kansas, Gary Van Royen of Independence, Kansas, and James Van Royen of Sedan, Kansas; her grandchildren, Scotty, Sherri, Sylvia, Jimmy, Wyatt, Dalton, and Zachary; and her sisters, Viola Darnell of Sedan, Kansas and Nadine Ratliff of Phoenix, Arizona.  She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; and her siblings, John, Edna, Jerry, and Velma.

The family will receive friends at visitation on Thursday, December 21, 2023 at Countryside Funeral Home in Howard, Kansas from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. Graveside services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, December 22, 2023 at the Longton Cemetery in Longton, Kansas.  Memorial contributions can be made to the American Cancer Sociedty and can be left with or mailed to the funeral home.  Countryside Funeral Home, 206 E. Washington, Howard, Kansas 67349 has been entrusted with arrangements.

(taken from the Countryside Funeral Home webiste)

Clarence Edward "Eddie" Hopwood, age 61, of Murrayville, Georgia, passed away December 17, 2023 at Northeast Georgia Medical Center in Gainesville, Georgia surrounded by his family.  He was born September 23, 1962 in Bremerton, Washington to Stanley and Ruby Anne (Garrett) Hopwood.

A member of Chicopee Baptist Church, Eddie was retired from the United States Postal Service.

Survivors include his wife, Arline (Rabino) Hopwood; his son, Jacob Hopwood; his daughter, Misty Hopwood; his brothers, Gary Hopwood and Jeff (Cris) Hopwood; and his sisters, Becky (Lynn) Yarbrough and Stana Hopwood.  He was preceded in death by his parents, Stan and Ruby (Garrett) Hopwood.

Funeral service will be held on Thursday, December 21, 2023 in the Chapel of Memorial Park South Funeral Home in Flowery Branch, Georgia.  Entombment will follw at Memorial Park South Cemetery.  Rev. Clyde Self will officiate.

Memorial donations in Eddie's memory can be made to Chicopee Baptist Church, 13 1st Street, Gainesville, Georgia 30504.  Memorial Park South Funeral Home of Flowery Branch, Georgia is in charge of arrangements.  Online condolences may be left for the family online at www.memorialparkfuneralhomes.com.

(taken from the Memorial Park South Funeral Home website)
...
Eddie Hopwood lived in Howard, Kansas  with his family for several years during his elementary school years.  His mother, Ruby Anne (Garrett) Hopwood grew up in Howard and was the daughter of Clarence and Anne Garrett, longtime Elk County residents.  His dad, Stan, pastored the Howard
Baptist Church for a few years.

Lola S. King, age 78, of Winfield, Kansas, passed away December 16, 2023 at her home,  Born September 30, 1945 in Moline, Kansas, she was the daughter of Earnest and Laura (Ferry) Van Royen.

Lola was raised in and received her education in southeast Kansas, graduating from Howard High School in Howard, Kansas in 1964.  She married Willis Eldene Lauffer in 1965.  The couple made their first home in Virginia where Willis was stationed with the United States Navy. To this union, three children were born. They moved frequently due to his military service, living in Virginia, California,  and settling in Winfield, Kansas.  Lola worked in the bakery at Wheeler's IGA grocery store in Winfield.  The couple later divorced.

Lola was united in marriage to David H. King on September 30, 1988 in Winfield, Kansas.  They lived north of Winfield where they built their home.  Lola worked for many years as a cook for the Winfield school district.  She enjoyed spending time with her family, cooking, celebrating the holidays, and attending all of her children's and grandchildren's events.  She also enjoyed going to the casino in Newkirk, Oklahoma.  David preceded her in death on January 23, 2004.

Survivors include her children, Tina (Craig) Umholtz of Burden, Kansas, Candy Lauffer of Winfield, Kansas, Clayton (LeAnne) Lauffer of Winfield, Kansas, Marty (Dianna) King of Burden, Kansas, and Cynthia (Tom) Thomson of Winfield, Kansas; her brother, Russell (Barbara) Van Royen of Thayer, Kansas; her sisters, Neva Walter of Eureka, Kansas and Rita Lee of Burton, Kansas; her grandchildren, Shane (Courtney) Davis, Tyler (Alyssa) Davis, Colton Lauffer, and Leland "L.J." Lauffer; her great-grandchildren, Addy Davis, Annisten Davis, Parker Leabo, and Tessa Davis; and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.  In addition to her parents and husband, Lola was preceded in death by two brothers, James Van Royen and Kenneth Van Royen.

Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, December 22, 2023 at Miles Funeral Service in Winfield, Kansas.  Interment will follow at Wilmot Cemetery.  A vsitation is scheduled at the funeral home from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. on Thursday, December 21, 2023 where the family will greet visitors.  A memorial has been established in Lola's name for the American Heart Association.  Contributions may be made through the Miles Funeral Service, 4001 E. 9th Avenue, Winfield, Kansas 67156 which has been entrusted with arrangements.

(taken from the Miles Funeral Service website)

James R. "Jim" Leewright, age 86, of McPherson, Kansas and formerly of Hoisington, Kansas, passed away December 11, 2023 at The Cedars Nursing Home in McPherson.  He was born on October 13, 1937 in Great Bend, Kansas, the son of Kenneth Russell and Maude Marie (Grow) Leewright.

Jim was a 1956 graduate of Howard High School in Howard, Kasnas.  He was drafted into the United States Army in October 1960 and served for two years as a Military Policeman.

Jim worked in the oil field most of his life while living in Hoisington, Kansas.  After retirement, he enjoyed gardening, fishing, dancing, and traveling.

Jim is survived by the love of his life, Verna French of McPherson, Kansas; his sisters, Margaret Hogan of Sedan, Kansas, Elizabeth Hogan of Neodesha, Kansas, and Lillias (Jerry) Butts of Elk City, Kansas; his brother, Robert (Barbara) Leewright of Valley Center, Kansas; and many nieces and nephews.  He was preceded in death by his parents, Kenneth and Maude Leewright, and his brother, Walter Leewright.

The family thanks Verna and her family for all the love and support they gave to Jim.

His funeral service will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Monday, December 18, 2023 at Stockham Family Funeral Home in McPherson, Kansas.  Burial with military honors will follow at McPherson Cemetery.  Memorial donations can be made to the Howard High School Alumni in care of Stockham Family Funeral Home, 205 N. Chestnut, McPherson, Kansas 67466 which has been entrusted with arrangements.

(taken from the Stockham Family Funeral Home website)

Reba Mae Jesseph received her angel wings and left this earth to be with her Lord and Savior on November 6, 2023.  She was surrounded by family and friends that love her dearly in the home of her daughter, Patricia, in Mounds, Oklahoma. She is formerly from Longton, Kansas, Independence, Kansas, Wichita, Kansas, and Humboldt, Kansas.

Reba was born on January 21, 1934 in rural Longton, Kansas to Floyd and Flora Mae Vestal.  She was raised by loving parents on the farm and had many stories of being raised there as a child.  She graduated from Longton High School. 

Reba was at a friend's house where she met and soon married her husband, Richard L. McBeath on October 5, 1952.  They moved to Texas for several years and then moved closer to home running a cafe in Moline, Kansas for awhile.  Eventually they moved to Wichita, Kasnas and had a successful applicance and refrigeration businesss which they owned and oeprated, McBeath Refrigeration.  To this union were born three children, Patricia, Darrell, and Cheryl.  After a divorce, Reba worked at Cessna Aircraft building small parts for the Cessna Citation.  She also cleaned office buildings at night as a second job.

Soon after retirement, she met and married Albert Jesseph on April 14, 1982 in Wichita, Kansas.  They lived in the country outside of Yates Center, Kansas.  Albert was retired from the military but leased some oil wells to stay busy.  Reba liked to boast about the fact that she worked alongside her husband in the oil fields.  After they moved into town, she ran the Senior Citizens Center, worked for a cleaning service, and worked at the voting polls in her district. 

She and Albert loved to dance, and they were the best!  They had many trophies and many wonderful friends.  She loved to piece and quilt beautiful quilts that she always gave away.  She also liked to embroider, cross stitch, and crochet along with many other crafts she did over the years.  She was a good cook and loved to entertain.  She also liked to camp, fish, tend to her flowers, and mow the yard.  She absolutely loved to play Skip-Bo, and if you ever played with her, you know that she usually won. 

Reba's passion was to live her life for Jesus Christ in every way and to help people when she could.  She was a prayer warrior.  There were many times she was called to pray for some circumstance or need.  You could hear her calling out to God as you walked by her house.  She always put God first in her life, and it was easy to see that He honored her in many ways. 

Reba is survived by her daughters, Patricia (Michael) Brown of Mounds, Oklahoma and Cheryl Leonard of Hulbert, Oklahoma; five grandchildren, Matthew (Crystal) Love, Rusty Havel, Alan Leonard, Bethany (Kyle) Davis, and Ben Leonard; extended grandchildren, Derek (Hope) Marshall, Jayden Baine, Trey Lee, and Wyatte, Wickson; six great-grandchildren, Levi Love, Asher Love, Dale Koehn, Reba (Josh) Bauman, Alan Leonard II, and Lila Bawder; two great-great grandchildren, Xaviar and Clair; sister, Audry (Bill) Tharp; brother, Lavern Vestal; stepchildren, Wayne (Karen) Jesseph, Grady (LeAnn) Jesseph, Glen (Pat) Jesseph, and Tracy Forsyth; and nieces and nephews, Sherry Smith, Machell Tharp, Visia Sweat, Marcia Rood, Bill Kimzey, Bryant Kimzey, Chad Tharp, and Jason Tharp.  Reba was preceded in death by her first husband, Richard McBeath and her second husband, Albert Jesseph; her parents; her son, Darrell McBeath; her sister, Edra Baldwin; two nieces, Pam Atkinson and Brenda Benbrook; and two stepdaughters, Cindy Wells and Janette Jeffers.

Graveside service was held at Longton Cemetery in Longton, Kansas on November 9, 2023.  Potts Chapel of Independence, Kansas was entrusted with arrangements.

(taken from the Potts Chapel website)

LaVada Marie Smoot, a longtime resident of rural Wilson County, Kansas, departed this life on November 24, 2023 in Augusta, Kansas at the age of 88.  She was born June 18, 1935 in Longton, Kansas to Carl and Rosalie (Marquardt) Kimzey.

LaVada graduated from Longton High School in 1952.  She married Carl Craig Smoot on August 30, 1953 at Trinity Lutheran Church in Parsons, Kansas.  They lived in Wichita, Kansas for 23 years with ther two sons, Danny and Timmy.  During this time, LaVada was employed seasonally by H&R Block as a tax accountant.  She was also employed with B.W. Jones School Bus Company where she earned an Instructor's Certification in Defensive Driving, Safety, and Driver's Training which enabled her to instruct classes for school bus personnel.  In 1975, she participated and won district, state, and national awards in school bus rodeos.  LaVada and her family attended the Ark Valley Christian Church in Wichita where she was baptized into Christ on February 1, 1973.

The family moved to Windsor, Colorado in 1976 where Carl was employed at Kodak.  LaVada drove a school bus for the Windsor Public Schools.  She was a member of the Centennial Christian Church at Loveland, Colorado where she was an organist for eight years.  In 1987, they moved back to Wichita, Kansas for three years.  LaVada once again was employed by School Services and Leasing where she retired as a Safety Director. 

LaVada and Carl moved to Fredonia, Kasnas in 1990 to be closer to her mother in Buffalo, Kasnas.  She attended the Church of Christ during her years in Fredonia.  She was a wonderful wife, mother, grandmother, and friend.  She was a beautiful woman with a heart of gold.  Her family, friends and church family were the center of her life.  In her spare time, she enjoyed decorating the church for holidays and special occasions.  She also enjoyed beautifying her yard, walking, spending time with family, and always lending a helping hand to those in need.  LaVada's honesty, sense of humor, generosity, and caregiving nature were well-known.  She will be sorely missed and will live in our hearts forever.

LaVada is survived by her sons, Danny (Dr. Michelle) Smoot and Tim (Doris) Smoot; grandchildren, Timothy Smoot, Lesa Bidwell, Zachary Smoot, and Jamey Smoot; sister, Evelyn Catron; sisters-in-law, Melba Kimzey and Marilyn Kimzey; seven great-grandchildren; several nieces and nephews; and a host of friends and loved ones.  She is preceded in death by her husband, Carl Smoot; her parents, Carl and Rosalie Kimzey; her brother-in-law, Bob Catron; and her brothers, Carl Leroy Kimzey, Jerry E. Kimzey, and Jamey Smoot.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, December 2, 2023 at Countryside Funeral Home in Fredonia, Kansas at 1:00 p.m.  Burial will follow at Longton Cemetery in Longton, Kansas.  Memorials to the Church of Christ in Fredonia, Kansas are suggested and may be left with or mailed to the funeral home.  Countryside Funeral Home, 420 S. 20th Street, Fredonia, Kansas 66736 has been entrusted with arrangements.

(taken from the Countryside Funeral Home website)

Marjorie Helen "Marge" Weedin, a resident of Wichita, Kansas, passed away peacefully on October 20, 2023 at the age of 101 years and 8 months.  She was born on March 9, 1922 in Howard, Kansas to Willis A. and Mary E. Heater.

Marge grew up in Elk County, Kansas and graduated from Howard High School in Howard, Kansas in 1939.  In her professional life, Marge worked as a secretary for Beech Aircraft in Wichita, Kansas where she was part of the esteemed Bechcraft Bees.  Later on, she joined McConnell Air Force Base in "Wichita as secretary to the Base Commander where her dedication and hard work were highly valued.

Marge was a woman of great generosity and faith.  She believed in the power of giving and was always ready to lend a helping hand to those in need.  Her love for nature and gardening was evident in her beautifully nurtured garden which brought her immense joy throughout her life.  Marge found solace in her faithi and was an active member of Chapel Hill United Methodist Church where she found spiritual guidance and support.

After marrying Bill, she did quite a bit of traveling.  Outside of work, Marge indulged in her various hobbies including gardening, crafting, painting, and remodeling her home.  She was an active volunteer with the American Red Cross.  She greatly enjoyed genealogy and was a member of the DAR.  These activities allowed her to express her creativity and brought her immense satisfaction.  She leaves behind a legacy of love and cherished memories.

Marge is survived by her son, Michael H. Weedin; her grandson, Clayton Henry; her daughter Crystal (Tony) Campbell; granddaughter, Nicole (Dustin) Bartholf; and great-grandchildren, Bradley Bartholf and Morgan Bartholf.  She was preceded in death by her parents and her loving husband, Wilbur H. "Bill" Weedin.

A memorial service to celebrate Marge's life was held at Chapel Hill United Methodist Church in Wichita, Kansas on November 30, 2023.  Memorial donations may be made to the Kansas Humane Society, American Red Cross, Breast Cancer Awareness, or the American Cancer Society through the funeral home.  Lakeview Funeral Home, 12100 E. 13th Street North, Wichita, Kansas 67206 has been entrusted with arrangements.

(taken from the Lakeside Funeral Home website)

Alice Marie Jeanes was born to Martin and Violet (Friend) Hebb on September 3, 1932 at her maternal grandparents' farmhouse just north of Howard, Kansas.  She passed away on November 21, 2023 in Bryan, Texas.

Alice was the oldest of four children with a brother, James, and sisters, Lucille and Shirley.  After graduating from Howard High School in 1950, she moved to Wichita, Kansas to attend the American Business College.  While working at the Veterans Hospital in Wichita, she met and married John Frederick.  From this marriage, June, Marsha, and Duane were born.  She raised the children as a single parent while working at Beech Aircraft Corporation.  In 1970, she married Weldon Ramsey, and together they had a daughter, Renee.  It was during this marriage that the family moved to Texas, arriving in Bryan in 1972.  She remained married to Weldon until his death in 1987.  Once again, she was a single parent raising a child.  In 1999, she married Alfred W. (A.W.) Jeanes, Sr. until his death in 2005.

Alice began her career with the Texas A&M University-Entomology Department in 1972.  Initially working at the Entomology Research Lab, she gained a wealth of knowledge about flies, roaches, beetles, bees, and other insects, pests, and diseases.  In 1978 after the completiong of the Minnie Belle Heep Building, she transferred to the Student Counseling Office.  In 1982, she became secretary for the Department Head until his retrement in 1993.  In 1997, she retired, having served the Department for 25 years.  Alice received the Department of Entomology's Meritorious Staff Award in 1997 and was nominated for the 1996 Vice Chancellor's Award in Excellence Program.  In December 2017, she was rcognized with a lifetime Achievement Award from the Department of Entomology at Texas A&M University, the first staff member and woman to receive this award.

During her spare time, Alice was an avid bowler.  Her passion for bowling spanned five decades beginning in Wichita, Kansas and ending with leagues in College Station, Texas.  She bowled in ladies' leagues, mixed leagues, and senior leagues and participated in numerous city and state tournaments.

Alice also loved to travel which she inherited from her mother and passsed down to her children.  She traveled east to the Atlantic Coast in North Carolina, west to the Pacific Ocean in Oregon, north to Minot, North Dakota, south to the Texas beaches along the Gulf of Mexico, and so many places in between.  There was also a trip to Germany with her grandson, Justin.  One of her most recent travels included visiting the life-size Noah's Ark in Williamstown, Kentucky.

Alice is surived by her children, June Davenel, Marsha Puckett, Duane Frederick, and Rene (Kevin) Gerbers along with nine grandchildren, nine great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild due in 2024; and her sisters, Lucille Knight of Howard, Kansas and Shirley (Lew) McGill of Fair Grove, Missouri.  She was preceded in death by her parents; her brother, James Martin Hebb and his wife, Marga; her brother-in-law, Ernie Knight; her sons-in-law, David Puckett and Mel Davenel; and her daugher-in-law, Kimberly Frederick.

A Celebration of Life service will be held on Friday, December 15, 2023 at 2:00 p.m. at Callaway-Jones Funeral Center in Bryan, Texas.  There will be an hour of visitation prior to the service beginning at 1:00 p.m.  Services have been entrusted to Callaway-Jones Funeral Home and Cremation Center, 3001 S. College Avenue, Bryan, Texas 77801.

(taken from the Callaway-Jones Funeral Center website)

Carolyn Ruth Brown, age 83, passed away on November 5, 2023 at Wesley Medical Center in Wichita, Kansas.  She was born on September 17, 1940 in Howard, Kansas, the daughter of Henry C. and Vinnie Blanche (McIntyre) Keene.

Carolyn attended schools in Howard, Kansas.  She worked hard at taking care of her family.  She was not able to complete high school, but she made sure she continued her studies and received her GED prior to her own children completing school.  Carolyn married Kenneth Callier who passed away in 1998.  She then married L.C. Brown, and he also passed away.

Carolyn loved to cook for her family, and she especially enjoyed the holidays and Thanksgiving dinner where she prepared, cooked, served, and provided all she could for her family.  She was a seamstress and loved to sew, quilt, and crochet.  Most importantly, she loved it when the grandchildren were around.  The louder they got, the more she liked it.  She was so proud of having three great-great-grandchildren.

Carolyn is survived by her son, Kris (Colleen) Callier of Haysville, Kansas; her sister-in-law, June Callier of California; 9 grandchildren; 21 great-grandchildren; and 3 great-great grandchildren.  She was preceded in death by her parents; two sisters; her husbands, Kenneth Callier and L.D. Brown; a daughter, Lutreica Callier; 1 great-great granddaughter; 2 brothers-in-law; and 2 sisters-in-law.

Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, November 8, 2023 at 11:00 a.m. at Countryside Funeral Home in Fredonia, Kansas.  Burial will take place in the Fredonia City Cemetery in Fredonia, Kansas. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.countrysidefh.com. Services are under the direction of Countryside Funeral Home, 420 S. 20th Street, Fredonia, Kansas.

(taken from the Countryside Funeral Home website)

DeLoris Lavon Groene, age 93, of Winfield, Kansas, passed away November 3, 2023.  She was born January 22, 1930 in rural Grenola, Kansas to Clarence Franklin and Mabel Ruby (French) Burdette.

DeLoris attended Wolf Creek School and graduated from Grenola High School in 1947. She worked for H.E. Clark Alfalfa Company in Winfield. She was united in marriage to Francis Joseph Groene on August 18, 1954 at Holy Name Catholic Church in Winfield, Kansas. She was a farm wife and homemaker.  Deloris was a member of Holy Name Church and the Altar Society and Liberty EHU.

DeLoris is survived by her sons, Randy (Mona) Groene, Kirk (Becky) Groene, and Jay (Cindy) Groene, all of Winfield, Kansas; her daughters, Debbie (Donnie) Roths of Winfield, Kansas and Linda (Charley) Ellis of rural Grenola, Kansas; her grandchildren, Jason (Kelly) Groene, Aimee (Nathan) Campbell, Grant (Sara) Groene, Chad Groene, Justin (Desaree) Groene, Ryan (Amber) Groene, Peggy (Brian) Lawrence, Mollie (Lon) Schoenholz, Joshua Groene, Jaden Groene, Jeremy (Krista) Groene; Jenna Groene, Jessica Ellis, Cale Ellis, and Bailee Ellis and fiance, Kadin Anliker; and great-grandchildren, Klacie, Carter, and Colby Groene, Breckin, Macklin, and Leighton Campbell, Gunner Groene, Tanner Groene and fiance Olivia McClung, Taylor Groene, Nathan Groene, Graham and Grady Lawrence, Darcy Schoenholz, Teddi and Jackson Groene, and Jace and Archer Groene.  DeLoris was preceded in death by her husband, Francis; her parents; a great-grandson, Hayden Campbell; a great-granddaughter, Korbi Groene; her brother, Darrell Burdette, and her sister, Doris Brentlinger. 

Visitation will be held at Miles Funeral Service in Winfield, Kansas on Wednesday, November 8, 2023 from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.  The family will greet friends during this time.  The Rosary will be prayed following visitation at 7:00 p.m. 

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at Holy Name Catholic Church, 412 E. 8th Avenue, Winfield, Kansas on Thursday, November 9, 2023 at 10:00 a.m.  Interment wil follow at the Kansas Veterans Cemetery in Winfield, Kansas where her husband, Francis, is buried. 

Memorials have been established in DeLoris's name for Holy Name Catholic Church Altar Society, the Winfield Public Library, and the Winfield Friendship Meals.  Contributions may be made through the funeral home.  Miles Funeral Service, 4001 E. 9th Avenue, Winfield, Kasnas 67156 has been entrusted with arrangements.

(taken from the Miles Funeral Service website)