Category: Obituaries

Ottis Harold Vann

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Funeral services for Ottis Harold Vann, 81, Charlotte, North Carolina, will be  11 am, Thursday, December 8, 2022, at First Regular Missionary Baptist Church.  A Visitation will be from 6-7 pm, Wednesday, at Rumsey-Yost Funeral Home.

He passed away on Tuesday, November 29, 2022.

Ottis Harold Vann was born October 16, 1941, in Fort Scott, Kansas. He departed this life on November 29, 2022. He was the son of the late Elmer and Mildred Vann. He would have celebrated 49 years of marriage with his beloved wife Bessie Vann last Thursday December 1, 2022. He leaves to cherish his memories to his siblings; Donna Mitchell, Lawrence; Duane (Brenda) Vann, Kansas City, KS; Leonard (Willa) Vann, Raytown, MO; James (Madolyn) Vann, Lawrence; Craig Vann, Lawrence; Bryan (Junko) Vann, San Bruno, California; Sheila Vann, Lawrence. And his children Rochelle (William) Howard, Galveston Texas; Colette Vann, Lawrence; Steven (Kimberly) Vann, Charlotte, NC; Frank (Guadalupe Patricia) Hatchett III, Houston, TX; and Eric (Cortney) Vann, Charlotte, NC. He also leaves behind 12 grandchildren, and 7 great grandchildren along with a host of other family and dear friends. His brother Dalton T. Vann preceded him in death.

Ottis accepted Christ at an early age. He was a Sunday school teacher, member of the choir, and a Trustee at various Churches throughout his life. This commitment to Christ allowed him the opportunity to introduce friends and family to Christ as well.

He started his career at Norris Brothers Plumbing. During this period of his life, he ran for a seat on the Lawrence School board. Although he lost, he realized the potential he had to go on a journey that was higher than his own expectations. He quickly learned that his gift to connect with people would allow him a career in the Automotive Industry. That decision led him to become the first Black Ford dealer in the Central United States in 1982. He went on to own Vantage Ford in El Dorado KS, Lima Lincoln Mercury in Lima OH, Vantage Lincoln Mercury and Queen City Lincoln Mercury both located in Charlotte NC.

As he gained confidence and started to exceed his own expectations for his career, he guided others to take the same path. He made a point to make sure others knew they could succeed no matter their background. That confidence led him to be on Ford Motor Company’s Minority Dealer Board which allowed him to help minority dealers with issues he had already encountered.

Ottis enjoyed golf and was the King of the long drive competitions. He also loved dining at fine restaurants, following sports and debating his passionate opinions about all things sports related.

Ottis had a very vibrant personality, which was obvious to all that met him. He was always the life of the party and never left anyone out. His charisma was contagious to all who encountered him and he enjoyed his interactions with everyone. He is enjoying his reunion in heaven with his family and friends.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Kidney Foundation, sent in care of Rumsey-Yost Funeral Home, P.O. Box 1260 Lawrence, Kansas 66044.

Everett Robert Farmer Jr.

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On 11-26-2022 Everett Robert Farmer Jr. peacefully passed at Lawrence Memorial Hospital. He was born on April 29th 1937 in Lawrence Kansas. He dedicated 22 years of service to the city of Lawrence maintenance Department. He was married to Virgie M Farmer for 63 unforgettable years of his life. His daughters; Virgie K Farmer, Dorothy F Farmer, Linda L Cosco and son, Robert D Farmer.

Visitation will be Monday December 5th 2022 at 6:00 pm at Rumsey-Yost Funeral Home, 601 Indiana Street, Lawrence, Kansas 66044.

Ila Dean ‘Deanie’ Stewart

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We are sad to announce the death of Ila Dean Stewart from Lawrence, Kansas. After a long battle with multiple health issues, she passed on at home surrounded by loved ones on 11/27/22 at the age of 86.

She worked at the Kansas Color Press for many years and retired from Hallmark Cards in 2000. Deannie was brought up with traditional values of hard work and devotion to family. She liked gardening, vacationing and treasure hunting at White Cloud. Her greatest pleasure came from the gathering of friends and family. There are many memories of fun times together playing a competitive game of Michigan Rummy, brewing up a batch of homemade wine or doing the Two-Step to some good ‘ol Honky Tonk music.

Predeceased by mother Theresa Norcross, brothers Verlon Daniel, Wayne Daniel & John Norcross, grandson D’Vaughn McMechan

Survived by Rick Mische, Sheryl McMullen, Steven Stewart, Glen Daniel, Harold Daniel, Christine McMechan, James McMullen, Cammie Garrison, Kenton & Tracey Mische, Chad & Amanda Mische & so many more grandkid, great grands, nieces, nephews, and loved ones.

Graveside services will be held at 1 pm Friday at Oak Hill Cemetery. Don Cunningham will officiate. A visitation will be held from 11:30 – 12:30 at Rumsey-Yost Funeral Home.

 

Georgia May (Ice) Holladay “Dolly”

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Graveside services for Georgia May (Ice) Holladay, 94, Lawrence, will be at 2 PM, Monday, December 5th, 2022, at Clinton Cemetery, Clinton, Kansas. A visitation will be held on December 4th, 2022, at 2 PM, at Rumsey-Yost Funeral Home in Lawrence.

Georgia was known by many as Dolly.

Dolly passed away November 28th, 2022, at Lawrence Memorial Hospital. Dolly was born on September 18, 1928, in Lawrence, the youngest child of Ralph Leonard and Helen May (Williams) Ice.

She had worked at Woolsworth, Hallmark and was a homemaker. She loved to quilt, embroidery, crochet, knit, travel, cook, bake, reminiscing, going to the casino, watching the Kansas City Royals, and spending time will her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

Dolly married Leonard Ray (Rusty) Holladay on October 10th, 1948, in Lawrence, Kansas. Together they shared 68 years of marriage. Rusty, her beloved husband, passed away on July 8th, 2017.

Survivors include children Steven (Jennifer) Holladay, Marilyn Cabay (Bill) Montgomery, Carolyn (Lonnie) Downing, Melinda (Mark) Hegeman. Grandchildren Brian (Sandy) Holladay, Brandon (Katie) Holladay, Brent (Casey) Holladay, Dustin (Becky) Downing, Derrick (Natalie) Downing, Erica (Theodore) Patz, Blake (Emily) Hegeman, Tara (Gage) Ham, Casey (Lance) Greenly, Jeffrey (Allison) Cabay, Haley (Nathan) Oehlert, 30 great-grandchildren, many nieces, nephews, and friends.

Dolly was proceeded in death by her husband, parents, brother Harold Ice, his wife Eunice and nephew Francis Ice. Memorial contributions in her name may made to the Donor’s choice.

Amado Pete ‘Rojo’ Martinez

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Beloved Amado P. Martinez “Rojo” 54.

November 10, 1968 – November 22, 2022

Born in Fort Worth, Tx raised in Moore Tx.

Lived in Lawrence KS.

Surviving wife: Wife Norma Martinez

Daughters: Josie M. Martinez, Callee J. Hinojosa.

Son: Aidan P. Martinez

Son-in-laws: Chad Banks & Rueben Hinojosa.

Grandchildren: Kyng, Davilyn, Champ & Evalynn.

Brother: Ernest “Gugi” Martinez. Step mother: Carmen Roberts.

Preceded by parents: Ernesto H. Martinez, Josephine Hill Martinez.

 

Amado “Rojo” enjoyed spending time with the grandkids, fishing, walks, camping and ice dates. Amado and his wife enjoyed going to watch their children play softball, showing them how to take care of their vehicles because he would tell them “I’m not always going to be here.” There was nothing more than him loving to help anyone he came across that needed it. He loved giving grief to those Chiefs fans.

LETS GO BUFFALO! OOH OOH OOH Let’s go BUFFALO!

 

Services will be held at.

The Cure Church

1910 Haskell Ave suite 11

Lawrence KS, 66046

December 9th @ 7pm.

 

Archie Lee Noble

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A Celebration of Life Service for Archie Lee Noble, 85 of rural Oskaloosa will be held at 10:00 am on Friday, December 2, 2022 at Apple Valley Lane Barn in Ozawkie, KS. Pastor Bob Robison will be officiating and burial will follow in Oak Ridge Cemetery in Perry, KS.

Archie went peacefully to heaven surrounded by his loving family on November 25, 2022. He was born December 12,1936 in Avalon, Missouri, the son of Archie Wells and Ida Bernice Noble.

Archie graduated from Lawrence High School in the Class of 1954. He served for six years in the Kansas National Guard.

Archie met the love of his life Marilyn Kay Winchell at the Lawrence Root Beer Stand. They were married August 10,1963 in Lawrence, Kansas. They were devoted parents to their four children, Cindy Kay Noble, Merriam, Debra Sue Noble, Lawrence, Laura Lynn Claxton(Cory) Oskaloosa, Michael Lee Noble (Stephanie) Winchester. Together they have 6 grandchildren Carter Claxton, Hunter Claxton (Savannah), Lexi Noble, Madelyn Boryla, Abigail Boryla, Simone Friedrich and 4 great-grand children Mason Claxton, Wyatt Claxton, Waylon Claxton and Antonia Friedrich along with many nieces and nephews.

He was proceeded in death by his parents, wife, his sisters Hazel Plymell (Bill) and Vicki Jaax (John), brother Eugene Noble.

Archie started his career at All Star Dairy/Fairmont-Zarda where he was a route salesman and retired after 38 years of service in the Lawrence community. Archie and his wife Marilyn owned and operated the Oskaloosa Flower Shop for 15 years. Archie had a strong work ethic and began working for the Perry Public School District as a custodian and retired at the age of 80 after 19 years of service.

Archie was a loving husband, father, grandfather and great-grandpa. He was a care taker to all with a servants heart. Never knowing a stranger and making everyone feel welcome. Archie cherished his days working alongside and tending to the cattle on the farm with his son Mike. He enjoyed KU basketball, spending time with family and taking trips together.

Friends may call on Thursday December 1, 2022 at Rumsey-Yost Funeral Home where the family will receive them from 6:00 to 8:00 PM. The family would like to thank the Jefferson County Visiting Nurses for the compassionate care that Archie received and request memorial contributions be made to Jefferson County Visiting Nurses, P.O. Box 1260 Lawrence, Kansas 66044.

*The funeral services will be held in a barn like setting dress accordingly*

 

Erwin W. Morgan

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Graveside services for Erwin W. Morgan, 100, Eudora, will be at 2 pm Monday at Oak Hill Cemetery. Erwin passed away Tuesday, November 22, 2022, at Homestead of Eudora.

Born March 7, 1922 to Willard H. Morgan and Emma Mae Hartley.

United in marriage to Wilma I. Barraclough on June 19, 1942.

Erwin’s family was the first settlers in Lawrence in 1854, he is the 4th generation.

Erwin served in the United State s Army Air Corps for 3 years during WWII.

Survivors include his wife of 80 years, Wilma, son, Larry (Debbie) Morgan, daughter, Sandra (Dave) Cockrum, 5 grandchildren, 18 great grandchildren, & 3 great-great grandchildren.

Jesse James Hardy

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Jesse James Hardy, 34, of Lawrence Kansas, peacefully passed away on November 20th, 2022 in Fort Worth, Texas. Jesse was born in Lawrence, Kansas on May 27th, 1988, to Robert and Irene (Chavez) Hardy. He attended Free State High School, graduating in 2006. Jesse was a son, a brother, an uncle, a cousin, a teammate, and a friend to many. Jesse loved his family and he always had a way to light up any room with his infectious smile and laugh. Although he didn’t have children of his own, Jesse was the best with kids. He was “Uncle Jesse” to many children in his life. His family will always remember his dance moves, his sense of humor, and his kind and gentle manner. Jesse had a knack for having the best Halloween costume every year.

At seven years old Jesse’s love of wrestling began with the Lawrence Wrestling Club. Jesse went on to become one of Free State High School’s finest wrestlers and continued his wrestling career at Labette Community College. Jesse loved participating in sports including wrestling, baseball and football. Not only was he a stellar athlete, he also enjoyed watching sports and idolizing his favorite players.  Jesse was a huge fan of the Chiefs, Yankees, Lebron James and the Jayhawks.

Jesse will be greatly missed by all.

Survivors include his parents, Robert (Odessa) Hardy, Lawrence KS and Irene Hardy, Kansas City MO; Maternal Grandparents, John and Loretta Chavez, Lawrence KS; Two older brothers Joseph (Melanie) Hardy Lawrence KS, and David (Devin) Hardy Lawrence KS; Many additional relatives including aunts, uncles, cousins, and nieces and nephews. Jesse was preceded in death by his Grandparents Justin and Lucy Hardy, Aunt Alfreda John (Hardy), Uncle Paul Chavez, Cousin Alicia Chavez, and Nephew Roman Hardy.

Funeral services will be held at 11 am Tuesday at Victory Bible Church, with Pastor Margaret Johnson of Lawrence Indian United Methodist Church officiating. Burial will follow in Mt. Calvary Catholic Cemetery, Lawrence. A visitation will be held from 5-7 pm Monday at Rumsey-Yost Funeral Home.

The family asks for any donations to go to the Free State High school Wrestling Team. Checks can be sent to Firebird Wrestling Club (c/o Clint Bradley) 3801 Clinton Parkway, #D3, Lawrence, KS 66047, or via Venmo to @ firebird-wrestling Please mention “The Jesse Hardy Foundation” in the memo.

Wilma Jane (George) Patterson

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Wilma Jane (George) Patterson, 85, of Lawrence, KS passed away Monday, November 21, 2022, at Homestead of Eudora after a long battle with Alzheimer’s.

Wilma was born in Kansas City, MO on August 12, 1937, to Walter and Viola (Hendrix) George. She grew up on a dairy farm south of Lawrence where she loved showing her Holstein cattle. Over the years she enjoyed riding mules, spending time with family, friends and her companion, Izzy, her dog.

Wilma is preceded in death by her parents, Walter and Viola George, brother, LeRoy George, and grandson, Damien Grammer. She is survived by her sister, Connie Melton; two children: Cindy (Kevin) Dye, Wayne (LeAnna) Grammer; three grandchildren: Tracie (Brett) Akers, Travis (Ashley) Dye and Ashley (Patrick) Cote. She is also survived by four great-grandchildren: Trenton, Aaliyah, Joshua, and Jacob Cote.

Family will receive friends during a visitation on Sunday, November 27, 2022, from 1:00 – 3:00 pm at Rumsey-Yost Funeral Home. Graveside services will be held Monday, November 28, 2022, at 11:00 am at Memorial Park Cemetery.

The family suggests memorial contributions to the Alzheimer’s Association sent in care of Rumsey-Yost Funeral Home, P.O. Box 1260, Lawrence, Kansas 66044.

Deborah Lynn Wagman

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A celebration of life for Deborah Vickers-Wagman, 70, Lawrence, will be at 4pm on Wednesday, December 14th at her daughter’s residence, 3737 Peterson Road.

Deb passed away at KU Medical Center on November 21, 2022 just before noon due to complications with Covid and a rare congenital defect in her abdomen.

Deb was born in Fargo, North Dakota on January 28, 1952.  Her parents, Mick and Evelyn Vickers, raised her in Rapid City, South Dakota, along with her three younger brothers.

Deb graduated from Stevens High School in 1970.  In 1996 she obtained a BA in Literature from Iowa State University (magna cum laude).

Deb’s college degree at the ripe age of 44 augmented her many accomplishments in life thus far; she had become a celebrated restaurant manager, seasoned chef, practiced baker, renowned recipe developer, and superb culinary writer.

The highlight of Deb’s career was working as a Senior Editor for the Meredith Corporation (Better Homes & Gardens) in the Special Interest Publications department.  Her many captivating magazines earned her awards and accolades at the highest level.

Deb married her husband, Bruce Michael Wagman on February 4, 1974 in Bozeman, Montana.  She had two daughters, Erin Renee (Borgmann) and Rachel Elise (Bredemus).

In all her professional endeavors, Deb was exceptionally talented and relentlessly dedicated to perfectionism.  Her boundless creativity was expressed in all areas of her life and her eye for detail was inspiring.  Her artistry as a baker and chef was fueled by a love for gardening, a strong grasp of food chemistry, and an intense passion for flavor, depth and substance.

Deb was known for turning around a writing deadline in record time and for peppering her sophisticated verbiage with a searing sense of humor.  She did not suffer fools gladly nor did she do anything in life half-way.

Even after enduring a stroke in 2014, Deb continued to write, cook, and create beauty in her surroundings.  Though it was at a slower pace and through the lens of debilitating fatigue and depression, she always knew how to lay down a phrase that would make your head spin, and often, your heart sing.

Survivors include, her husband, Bruce, daughter Rachel, Lawrence, KS, three brothers Mark Vickers, Rapid City SD, Chris Vickers, Grapevine, TX, and Mike Vickers, Quincy, CA, and two grandchildren, Violet (Bredemus) and Charlie (Borgmann).

Deb is preceded in death by her mother, 2007, her daughter, Erin, 2013, and her father, 2020.

In lieu of flowers, Deb would have loved donations to be made to the Lawrence Humane Society at lawrencehumane.org