Obituaries

Debra Jo Sumner

Debra Jo Sumner

Aug 2, 2025

Debra Jo Sumner, age 68, passed away on August 2, 2025, surrounded by family. She was born on March 7, 1957, in Garden City, Kansas, and spent her formative years in Elk City, Kansas, where she received her formal education.

Debra married Steven Benson, and later Gary Taylor—both preceding her in death. She eventually married one of her lifelong friends, Donnie...

Todd Alan Trimmell

Todd Alan Trimmell

Jul 25, 2025

Todd Alan Trimmell, cherished father and grandpa, was born on February 5, 1968, in Independence, Kansas. He departed this life on July 25, 2025, at his home in Cherryvale, Kansas, leaving behind a legacy of love and dedication to his family and passions.

Todd was deeply rooted in nature, taking great joy in gardening, exploring the outdoors, shooting guns, and engaging...

Brenda Maureen Williams

Brenda Maureen Williams

Jul 16, 2025

It is with our deepest heartbreak and our most profound sadness that we announce the passing of Brenda Maureen Williams on July 16th, 2025. Brenda was born on November 26th, 1960, to Robert J and Evelyn M Ward in Neodesha Kansas.

Brenda grew up in Neodesha graduating from Neodesha High School in 1978. Brenda remained in the Neodesha area working a...

Helen S. Sebastian

Helen S. Sebastian

Jul 10, 2025

Helen S. Sebastian (Wilson), 90, Independence, Kansas, passed away on Thursday, July 10, 2025, at Medicalodges in Independence, Kansas. Graveside services will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Monday, July 14, 2025, at Sunnyside Cemetery in Caney, Kansas.

Helen was born on January 31, 1935, to Walter E. and Dora M. (Anderson) Williams in Chautauqua, Kansas. Helen attended Sedan and Caney...

Ellen Eda Boyd

Ellen Eda Boyd

Jul 6, 2025

Ellen Eda Boyd, a beloved mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully on July 6, 2025, in Independence, Kansas, at the age of 88. Born on January 5, 1937, in Salina, Kansas, Ellen was a source of unwavering love and kindness, cherished by all who had the privilege to know her.

A proud high school graduate, Ellen dedicated her life to...

William Waite Juby

William Waite Juby

Jun 24, 2025

William (Bill) Waite Juby, age 90, passed away and entered the presence of his Lord on June 24, 2025 while at his longtime residence in Independence, Kansas. Bill was born on December 12, 1934 in Bartlesville, Oklahoma to Robert (Dub) Gail Juby and Ethel Grace Juby. He grew up in Dewey, Oklahoma with his brother where he accepted Christ at...

Russell Wayne Young

Russell Wayne Young

Jun 16, 2025

Russell Wayne Young, fondly known as Rusty, was born on November 7, 1962, in Garnett, Kansas. He left this world on June 16, 2025, in Independence, Kansas, leaving behind a legacy of kindness, love, and laughter.

Throughout his life, Rusty was known for his remarkable skills as a handyman, dedicating many years to not only his profession but also to selfless...

Joe Sanchez Solis

Joe Sanchez Solis

Jun 13, 2025

Joe Sanchez Solis, 74, of Independence, Kansas, passed away June 13, 2025, at Montgomery Place Nursing Home, after a lengthy illness.

Joe was born to John V. and Petra Solis on April 11, 1951, in Billings, Montana. When Joe was a toddler, the family moved to La Junta, Colorado where he attended school. As an adult, he moved to Independence in...

Kylia Heape

Kylia Heape

Jun 8, 2025

Kylia (Welch) Heape passed away June 8, 2025. Cremation has taken place, and a Celebration of Life service will be held at 11:00 a.m., on Saturday, June 21, 2025, at Potts Chapel.

Kylia was born on September 24, 1954, in Independence, Kansas.

She was proceeded in death by her father Kyle Welch, mother Maxine, sister Kay Davis, and Mary Dye.

She leaves behind...

Shelda Avonell Myers

Shelda Avonell Myers

Jun 6, 2025

Shelda Avonell Myers, 89, of Independence, Kansas, passed away Friday, June 6, 2025, in Independence.

She was born on July 11, 1935, in Iowa City, Iowa to Edwin W. and Clara E. (Morgan) Thomas. She graduated from Altoona High School in 1953.

She was united in marriage to Jackie L. Myers on July 12, 1953, in Neodesha, Kansas. He proceeded her in...

Barbara Ann Jay

Barbara Ann Jay

Jun 3, 2025

Barbara Jay, a woman whose life was a testament to love, faith, and unwavering kindness, passed away on June 3, 2025, at Olathe Medical Center after a brief stay. She was surrounded by her devoted husband of 53 years, her two sons and their wives, and her beloved grandchildren, and brother Kim all who shared stories of her profound love...

Jeffrey Wallace Hutchison

Jeffrey Wallace Hutchison

Jun 2, 2025

Jeffrey "Jeff" Wallace Hutchison, age 46, of Houston, Texas, formerly of Independence, Kansas, passed away unexpectedly on June 2, 2025, at his residence.

Born on February 1, 1979, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Jeff was the eldest son of Jeffrey Eugene and Betty Marie (Fowler) Hutchison. He shared a close bond with his younger brother, BJ, during their childhood. Following Jeff's birth, his...

Arloa Nadine (Morris) Farlow

Arloa Nadine (Morris) Farlow

May 28, 2025

Arloa Nadine (Morris) Farlow, 100, of Independence, Kansas went to be with the Lord on May 28, 2025.

Born August 29, 1924, Nadine was the second of six children, born to James and Eva Belle (Haines) Morris. She lived her entire life within 15 miles of her birthplace. Nadine attended a one-room schoolhouse known as Rutland School and then attended Independence...

Catherine Ann Clark

Catherine Ann Clark

May 25, 2025

Catherine Ann Clark, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and great grandmother, passed away peacefully on May 25, 2025, at the age of 75. Born on November 22, 1949, Catherine was raised in Rural Liberty, Kansas, and was a longtime resident of Independence where she cultivated her love for family and tradition.

Cathy dedicated herself to various roles throughout her career, including notable...

Dwight Allen Coda

Dwight Allen Coda

May 17, 2025

Dwight Allen Coda was a man whose life was a testament to the values of hard work, simplicity, and family. Born on December 10, 1953, in Independence, Kansas, he was the beloved son of Albert and Margie Coda. Dwight's life was marked by a deep connection to the land and a love for the open road. He's now reunited with...

David Alan Brackin

David Alan Brackin

May 11, 2025

David Alan Brackin, 74, a dedicated and accomplished project manager who retired from Jacobs Engineering, passed away on May 11, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of hard work, kindness, and lasting memories.

David was known for his inquisitive mind, creative spirit, and remarkable talent. Those who knew him will always remember his quick wit and gentle soul, qualities that made him...

Linda Diane Johnson

Linda Diane Johnson

Apr 30, 2025

Linda Diane Johnson, beloved wife, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully on April 30, 2025, in Wichita, Kansas, at the age of 63, after battling cancer for eight years. Born on November 19, 1961, in Harvey, Illinois, Linda was a beacon of warmth and love in the lives of all who knew her.

Linda was dedicated to knowledge, earning a Master's...

Alexander John Mendoza

Alexander John Mendoza

Apr 26, 2025

Alex "Hondo" Mendoza, age 80, of Independence, Kansas, passed away peacefully in his sleep on April 26, 2025, after a courageous 12-year battle with cancer.

Born December 27, 1944, in Independence, KS, to Arcadio and Phylis Mendoza, Alex lived a life of quiet strength, generosity, and service. He dedicated 30 years of his life to the U.S. Postal Service in Chanute,...

Tammie Jo Steele

Tammie Jo Steele

Apr 18, 2025

Tammie Pattison Padilla Steele, passed away on April 18, 2025, at her home at the age of 63 in Independence, KS. She was born on November 23, 1961, in Vinita, OK. 

She dedicated her life to her children and helping others. She enjoyed spending time with her family while drinking Pepsi and chewing on ice. She loved fishing and setting out...

June Shannon

June Shannon

Apr 16, 2025

June Shannon departed this world on April 16, 2025, at Coffeyville Regional Medical Center. She was born on September 7, 1932, June was a dedicated homemaker known for her homemade treats during the holiday seasons.

Throughout her life, June found joy through conversation with her loved ones every Sunday afternoon and cultivating her love of flowers and gardening. Her proudest moments...