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George Francis Meader, age 71, of Longton, Kansas, passed away February 7, 2025 in Andover, Kansas.  He was born December 26, 1953 in Lake Port California to H. Dean and Blanch Lucille (Dwinell) Meador, the youngest of three boys.

George graduated from Lake Port High School in 1972 and moved to the Turlock area to work.  He worked at Armour for a short time followed by Foster Farms' Livingston Processing plant where he worked for more than 34 years.  After leaving Foster Farms, he worked seasonally in St. Helena, California.  In 2017, he bought a home in Longton, Kansas where he retired and lived with his companion of 30 years, Sheryll Overton.

George leaves behind his companion, Sheryll Overton of Longton, Kansas; his son, Shawn Meador and wife, Erin Wilson Meador of Howard, Kansas; his daughter, Jennifer (Laam) Larder and spouse Roseanne Smallwood of Muscle Shoals, Alabama; his stepson, Jake Overton and fiance, Nicole Spencer of Emporia, Kansas; 10 grandchildren; 5 great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.

Per George's request, cremation will take place with no services planned at this time.  Memorial contributions are suggested to your local American Legion or VFW post in his name.  Services have been entrusted to Countryside Funeral Home, 206E. Washington, Howard, Kansas 67349.

(taken from the Countryside Funeral Home website)

Karen Denise Dillon, age 63, of Howard, Kansas, passed away at her home on January 27, 2025.  Born June 27, 1961 in Colorado Springs, Colorado, to Thomas and Patricia (Prater) Dillon, Karen lived a life filled with love, compassion, and a deep devotion to her family and community.

Karen's warm heart and vibrant spirit touched many lives. She was a skilled and dedicated dog trainer, specializing in Great Danes which she proudly showed at AKC events.  Her love for animals, especially her beloved dog, Mouse, was evident to all who knew her.  Her home was a haven of beauty, reflecting her passion for flowers and plants.

Four years ago, Karen and her husband, Michael moved to Howard, Kansas.  They were married in April 2022 at the Howard Baptist Church, a place that held a special place in their lives.  Karen generously volunteered her time at the Howard Senior Center, and her commitment to her community extended to her service on the Howard Housing Authority Board.  Her legacy will live on in the hearts of those she loved and the community she served.  She had a heart of gold and would do anything for anybody.  Her kindness will be deeply missed.

Karen is survived by her husband, Michael Zatorski; her sons, James (Jennifer) Reichle and Trevor Reichle; her siblings, Tom Dunn, Timothy Dillon, Regina Dillon, Angela Dillon, and Mary Baxter; seventeen nieces and nephews; numerous great-nieces and nephews; and one great-great-nephew.  She was preceded in death by her parents, Thomas and Patricia Dillon and her sister, Vicki Bryant.

A memorial service celebrating Karen's life will be held on Saturday, February 22, 2025 at 1:30 p.m. at Countryside Funeral Home in Howard, Kansas.  In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the funeral home to help with final expenses or to the Chautauqua County Humane Society in Karen's memory.  Services have been entrusted to Countryside Funeral Home, 206 E. Washington, Howard, Kansas 67349.

(taken from the Countryside Funeral Home website)

Mary Louise (Wilson) Moomey was welcomed into this world on June 20, 1939 at Severy, Kansas, the daughter of Elby William and Hazel Blanche (Bell) Wilson.  She was raised alongside her older brother, Jimmie Luke Wilson.  She attended school in Severy, Kansas, graduating from Severy Rural High School with the Class of 1957.

On August 29, 1957, Mary married Martin Wilmer Moomey at the Church of the Nazarene in Severy, Kansas.  Together the couple had 3 children, Marcia, Marilyn, and Mark.  Mary Louise worked at various places through the years.  While living in Wichita, Kansas, she worked at St. Francis Hospital for 8 years in the Central Supply section.  While in Severy, she worked at the Fredonia Regional Hospital in Fredonia, Kansas for 5 years.

In 2024, Mary Louise was diagnosed with a rare gastrointestinal disorder causing her to become dependent on iron and blood transfusions.  She went home to be with the Lord on January 24, 2025 at her home in Severy, Kansas surrounded by loved ones.

Mary Louise is survived by two daughters, Marcia Lynn Atchison of Eureka, Kansas and Marilyn Sue Moomey of Bokchito, Oklahoma; a son, Mark Wayne Moomey of Emporia, Kansas; 8 grandsons, Ryan (Emily) Atchison, Dwayne Frakes, Shaun Atchison, Andy Frakes, Jonathan (Edith) Moomey, Seth (Devonie) Atchison, Martin Allen Frakes, and Patrick (Ashley) Moomey; and 19 great-grandchildren.  She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Martin Moomey who passed away on November 17, 2022; her brother; and a grandson, Christopher Alan Moomey.

A graveside service will be held at a later date at Severy's South Lawn Cemetery.

(taken from Find-A-Grave website)

Marie D. MaGee, age 98, of Independence, Kansas, went home to be with the Lord on January 22, 205 at Medicalodges in Independence, Kansas.  She was born Marh 29, 1926 in Howard, Kansas to Charles and Opal (Munson) McLean.

She grew up in Elk County, Kansas and graduated from Howard High School.  In 1943, she married Robert "Bob" Cookson, and they owned a cafe and filling station in Howard.  Mr. Cookson passed away in 1967.  Marie then moved to Independence, Kansas and started her job as a clerk at the post office.  She married Charles MaGee in 1972, and he passed away in 2018 after 45 years of marriage.  They were very involved in their church and ministry to people.  She loved to garden, crochet, quilt, work crossword puzzles and enjoy her grandchildren.

Marie's survivors include her daughters, Cheryl Cookson of Independence, Kansas and Diane (Hal) Wigley of Derby, Kansas; stepchildren, Kenneth (Jane) MaGee of Bartlesville, Oklahoma, Roselyn (Dale) Sweaney OF Sedan, Kansas, Kayla (Tim) Crossland of Overland Park, Kansas; and Bill MaGee of Wichita, Kansas; and her brother, Richard (Juanita) McLean of Howard, Kansas.  There are about 60 grandchildren of all kinds as well as numerous extended family and friends.  She was preceded in death by her parents; two husbands, Bob Cookson and Charlie Magee; siblings, Charles McLean, Louise Cookson, and Lucille Parker; and three children, Janet Parker, Ron Cookson, and Carolyn Wigley.

A Celebration of Life was held on January 27, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. at Zach Webb Family Funeral Service in Independence, Kansas with Chaplain Keith Springer officiating.  A private interment will take place at Mount Hope Cemetery in Independence, Kansas.  Memorial contributions may be made to Harry Hynes Hospice, c/o Zach Webb Family Funeral Service, 4069 CR 3900, Independence, Kansas 67301.

(taken from the Zach Webb Family Funeral Service website)

Mary Jane Bahr, a devoted educator, loving mother, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully on January 10, 2025 in Meriden, Kansas.  Born on May 5, 1939 in Stella, Missouri, Mary dedicated her life to nurturing young minds and shaping the future through education. 

With a career that spanned over four decades, Mary taught in various school districts across Kansas.  While living in Topeka for 13 years, she made a notable impact in the local school.  She transitioned to the Royal Valley School District in Hoyt.  There, she spent 17 fulfilling years teaching Special Education, demonstrating remarkable patience and love for her students.  Her dedication did not wane as she later moved to Howard, Kansas where she continued to inspire young learners at the West Elk School District #282 for over 20 years until her retirement.  Her influence touched countless lives, and her commitment to education was unwavering.

Mary's education journey began in Altamont, Missouri.  She further pursued her passion for learning, graduating from Kansas State University with her Master's Degree in 1981. She continued her academic pursuits, earning another Master's Degree from Emporia State University in 1992.  Her thirst for knowledge was a testament to her character - as a lifelong learner and teacher, she inspired those around her to strive for excellence.

Family was a core part of Mary's life, and she instilled values of kindness and hard work in her children.  With her career marked by a commitment to education, her family life enriched with love, Mary Bahr leaves behind a legacy of devotion, care, and an enduring passion for teaching that will forever resonate in the hearts of those she touched.  In every lesson taught and in every heart warmed, her spirit will continue to shine brightly.

Mary is survived by her beloved daughter, Marla (Chris) Bailey; son, Robert Gaddis; sisters, Carolyn Bernard, Patsy Hicks, Cathy Barker, and Charlene Kunkler; and brothers, Jim Russell and Mike Lewis. She also deeply cherished her grandchildren, Steven Gaddis, Nicole Biteniks, Cassidy Bailey, and Alexia Bailey, as well as her four great-grandchildren.  She is preceded in death by her loving husband, Fred Bahr whom she married on July 29, 1977 in Scranton, Kansas and who passed away on September 2, 2018.  She is also reunited in spirit with her parents, Ivan and Ethel (Harvey) Russell; her son, Ed Gaddis,and her sisters, Hester Haney and Cleta Colleen Russell. 

Cremation is planned with no services to be held.  She will be laid to rest next to her husband, Fred, at Memorial Park Cemetery in Topeka, Kansas.

(published in the Prairie Star - 01/16/2025)

Mary K. Billups, age 82, of Viola, Kansas, passed away December 4, 2024 at Ascension Via Christi St. Teresa, Wichita, Kansas.  She was born February 14, 1942 at Severy, Kansas to Albert McQueen and Cynthia Bernice (Sexton) Ambler.

Mary grew up in the Severy community and attended Severy Public Schools.  She was united in marriage to James Franklin Billups on August 18, 1957 in her parents' home at Severy, Kansas.  To this union, three children were born:  Edward in 1958, James in 1960, and Belinda in 1963.  The family moved from Wichita, Kansas to Viola, Kansas on August 19, 1965.

Mary worked in food services at Terrace Gardens in Wichita, Kansas, Spring View Manor in Conway Springs, Kansas,
Blasi Daycare in Schulte, Kansas, and ultimately at Trinity Presbyterian Church in Wichita, Kansas. She was an active member of the Viola United Presbyterian Church in Viola, Kansas.  She was a past Worthy Matron of Dorcas Chapter #157 Order of Eastern Star in Conway Springs and a current member of Ninnescah Chapter #423 OES, Clearwater, Kansas.

Mary is survived by her husband, Jim Billups; two sons, Edward (Sharon) Billups of Conway Springs, Kansas and James (Laura) Billups of Wichita, Kansas; one daughter, Belinda (Terry) DeLaGarza of Wichita, Kansas; eight grandchildren; 18 great-grandchildren; and a number of other relatives and friends.  She was preceded in death by her parents; a brother, Merle Ambler; two sisters, Evelyn Townsley and Charlotte Felter; and one great-granddaughter, Talia Weaver. 

Funeral services were held on December 13, 2024 at Viola United Presbyterian Church with interment in Viola Cemetery in Viola, Kansas. A memorial was established to the Viola United Presbyterian Church.  Ebersole Mortuary, 219 W. Spring Avenue, Conway Springs, Kansas was entrusted with arrangements.

(taken from the Ebersole Mortuary website)

Shirley Ann Doughty of Holiday Island, Arkansas was born July 27, 1935 in Howard, Kansas to Lawrence and Nellie (Forsyth) Thompson.  She passed away December 29, 2024 in Holiday Island at the age of 89.

Shirley grew up in Howard, Kansas, graduated from Howard High School in 1953, and attended Southwestern College in Winfield, Kansas.  She and Dale Doughty were united in marriage in 1955 and celebrated 64 years of marriage on June 12, 2019.  She retired from Dr. Richard Marks's optometrist office in Derby, Kansas.

Shirley loved tending to her flowers and vegetables and enjoyed feeding the birds. She was an active member of the Holiday Island Gardening Club.  She was deeply involved with her church, helping with communion, serving on a committee, and participating in Bible studies.  She cherished spending time with her family and friends.

Shirley is survived by her children, Kirk (Dominique) Doughty of Zena, Oklahoma, Kristy (Paul) Sutherland of Eureka Springs, Arkansas, and Kent (Cathy) Doughty of Bella Vista, Arkansas; her grandchildren, Misty (Adam) Snodgrass, Jared Sutherland and Liz Schuller, Evan (Molly) Doughty, and Jordan (Mitch) Flores; her great-grandchildren, Abigail, Kulton, Kinzley, Jaidyn, Theron, Wyatt, Calvin, and Miles; and several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, Lawrence and Nellie Thompson; her husband, Dale Doughty on August 21, 2019; and her sisters, Irene Keast and Faye Obins.

A memorial service will be held on January 25, 2025 at the Holiday Island Baptist Church in Holiday Island, Arkansas.  A graveside service and burial will take place at Grace Lawn Cemetery in Howard, Kansas on Monday, January 27, 2025 at 2:00 p.m. with Pastor Susan Galvan officiating.  In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial donations to the Holiday Island Baptist Church, 14 Stateline Drive, Holiday Island, Arkansas 72631 or Lives Under Construction, Boys Ranch, 296 Boys Ranch Road, Lampe, Arkansas 65681.  Arrangements are under the direction of Nelson Funeral Service. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.nelsonfuneral.com.

(published in the Prairie Star - 01/22/2025)

Eddie Frank Neubecker, age 84, of Winfield, Kansas, passed away January 3, 2025 at Winfield Senior Living.  Born May 25, 1940 in Grenola, Kansas, he was the son of Merle Dean and Bernice (Garretson) Neubecker.

Eddie was raised in and received his education in Burden, Kansas and Grenola, Kansas, graduating from Central of Burden High School in 1958.  He was united in marriage to Karon LaVerne Peningar on September 7, 1966 in Miami, Oklahoma.  The couple made their first home in Wichita, Kansas and later moved to Burden and then Winfield.  In 1991, they moved to Dexter, Kansas and owned and operated Neubecker Liquor Store and later added Neubecker Mini Storage.  They continued to run the businesses until the late 1990s when they retired.  Eddie also worked for Cessna and General Electric, retiring from General Electric in 2000.  In 2002, the couple made their final move back to Winfield.  Karon preceded him in death on March 17, 2014.

Eddie was a good husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather.  He was a Boy Scout leader, served as Mayor of Dexter, Kansas, and Exalted Ruler of the Winfield Elks Lodge.  He enjoyed teaching his sons to fish, hunt, and become good men.  Most of all, he loved his family and friends and will be greatly missed.

Eddie's family includes his sons, David Neubecker and Dominick Neubecker; his grandchildren, Michael and Lori; and his brother, Donnie Joe Neubecker.  Eddie was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Karon; his sons, Dennis, Ricky, and Robin Neubecker; his sisters, Darlene and April Joy; and his granddaughter, Kimberly Neubecker.

Funeral services were held on January 10, 2025 at Miles Funeral Service in Winfield, Kansas.  Interment followed at Cambridge Cemetery in Cambridge, Kansas.  A memorial has been established in Eddie's name for Central of Burden High School.  Contributions may be made through Miles Funeral Service, 4001 E. 9th Avenue, Winfield, Kansas 67156  which has been entrusted with arrangements.

(taken from the Miles Funeral Service website)

Ruth L. Dozier, age 80 years and 10 months, of Dearing, Kansas, passed into the loving arms of God on January 8, 2025 at the home of family.  She was born the fifth of six children on March 2, 1944 in El Dorado, Kansas to Everett and Ethel (Walton) Mossman)

Ruth grew to be a teenager in Potwin, Kansas and moved to Oak Valley, Kansas in 1958.  The family had a gas station/grocery and a small farm.  Ruth graduated from Longton High School in Longton, Kansas in 1962.  On June 8, 1962, she married Rodney Carl Britain in Independence, Kansas, and this union brought two children, Carl Allen and Cindy.  The family made their home in Winfield, Kansas, Havana Lake, and Independence, Kansas.  Ruth received one of her degrees from Pittsburg State Teachers College and was a teacher in Kansas and Wann, Oklahoma. She was always concerned with every student learning up to their potential. She retired from being a longtime rural mail carrier in Independence, Kansas. 

Ruth was an active member of Republican Women and the Tyro Christian Church and several other organizations, always helping in every way possible.  She never knew a stranger and spent her entire life helping to do all she could to make the world and life better and happier for everyone she met. In October 2012, Ruth married Loyd Dozier.

Survivors include husband, Loyd Dozier of Claremore, Oklahoma; a sister, Geneva Duke of Independence, Kansas; her closest friends including Kay, Coleen, Wiladene, and Donna; and countless cherished friends and neighbors, nieces, nephews, and extended family.  She was preceded in death by her husband, Rodney Carl Britain in 2004; her children, Carl Allen Britain and Cindy Britain; her parents; three sisters, Lillian Mossman, Doris Larsh, and Darlene Dent; and brother, Al Mossman.

A Celebration of Life was held on January 16, 2025 at the Christian Community Church in Longton, Kansas with Pastors Joe Love and David Bycroft officiating.  Interment followed in the Longton Cemetery next to her husband and children.  In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to either Pathway Christian Church, Tyro Christian Church, Longton Christian Church, or AWOL and may be sent to Zach Webb Family Funeral Service, 4069 CR 3900, Independence, Kansas 67301 which has been entrusted with arrangements.

(taken from the Zach Webb Family Funeral Service website)

Janice Kay Osborn, age 69, of Howard, Kansas, passed away peacefully on January 10, 2025 in Eureka, Kansas.  Born May 2, 1955 in Kansas City, Kansas to John and Betty (Sweaney) Layton, Jan's early life was marked by the adventures of a family that moved frequently due to her father's work with the Santa Fe Railroad.  She attended first grade in Virgil, Kansas before her family settled in Howard, Kansas where she attended the Howard Public Schools and graduated from North Elk High School in the Class of 1973.  Following high school, she attended Independence Community College in Independence, Kansas for a semester.

Jan's life was enriched by love and family. She was married to David Blex and later to Steve Gerkin, with whom she shared many years and lovingly raised his son, Joe Gerkin, as her own.  Following Steve's passing in 2000, Jan married Jim Osborn who predeceased her in 2008.  In recent years, she found companionship with her boyfriend, Bill Divine.

Jan's professional career included several years at ACC in Independence, Kansas where she worked building motor solenoids.  She and Steve also owned and operated the S & J Cafe in Howard, Kansas for many years.  Outside of work, Jan's spirit was vibrant and playful.  She enjoyed the excitement of casinos, the camaraderie of dining out and beverages with friends, and cherished time spent fishing and vacationing in Branson, Missouri.

Jan is survived by her sister, Peggy (Lee) Juaire of Severy, Kansas; her nephew, Cody Juaire of Howard, Kansas; her aunt, Shirley Brown of Cedar Vale, Kansas; and numerous cousins.  She was preceded in death by her parents, John and Betty Layton; her husband, Steve Gerkin and Jim Osborn; and her stepson, Joe Gerkin.

Jan's warm heart, infectious laugh, and unwavering spirit will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.  She will be remembered for her kindness, her resilience, and her zest for life.

A Celebration of Jan's life will be held on Saturday, January 25, 2025 at 1:00 p.m. at Countryside Funeral Home in Howard, Kansas.  Memorial contributions are suggested to St. Jude's Children's Hospital 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)