Category Archives: Obituary

Obituary of Jack Leroy Butler

Jack Leroy Butler, age 93, resident of Frontenac, KS, passed away Monday, April 27, 2026, at Pittsburg Care and Rehab in Pittsburg, KS. He was born July 15, 1932, in Pittsburg, KS, the son of Cleo Roy Butler and Emma Dillow Butler. Jack married Lillian Maxine Tripp on September 10, 1955, in Pittsburg. She preceded him in death on September 10, 2014. He served in the U. S. Army during the Korean conflict. Jack worked most of his career as a truck driver. In his spare time, he enjoyed being outdoors doing yardwork and gardening. He could often be found in the garage making or fixing something. He liked telling stories and discussing his Army career. Jack was an avid reader, especially the Bible. He loved spending time with family, especially during the holidays.

Survivors include 7 children, Vickie Smith, Spokane, WA, Karen Cox (Virgle) Lamar, MO, Cindy Albertson, Provo, UT, Danny Butler, Arizona, Steven Butler (Lindy) North Carolina, Christina Boren (Glen) Mesa, AZ, and Kimberly Gilbert (David) Paola, KS; and numerous grandchildren, great grandchildren, and great-great grandchildren. Besides his wife, he was preceded in death by 3 sisters, a grandson, and his parents.

Rev. Chuck Russell will conduct graveside services at 12:30 PM Monday, May 11th, at the U.S. National Cemetery, Fort Scott, KS. Services are under the direction of the Cheney Witt Chapel. Words of remembrance may be submitted online at cheneywitt.com

Obituary of Audrey Elaine Stewart

Audrey Elaine Stewart, age 96, a resident of Ft. Scott, Kansas, passed away early Wednesday, April 29, 2026, at the Medicalodge in Ft. Scott. She was born August 15, 1929, in Bayard, Kansas, the daughter of Don Ewell Miller and Addie Isabelle Hutton Miller. Audrey spent her early years on the family farm near Xenia, Kansas. She went on to graduate from the Bronson High School. Audrey married Neil Stewart on December 24, 1948, at Bronson. Together they raised their four children and operated their own farm in the Fulton and Devon areas. Audrey was a loving and devoted wife and mother. She worked hard to provide for her family’s needs whether it be sewing and mending clothes or working in the family garden and canning the fruits of her labor. She also enjoyed tending her flowers. After her children had grown, Audrey worked as a file clerk for the Western Insurance until her retirement in May of 1987. Neil and Audrey eventually left the farm and moved to Ft. Scott. Audrey was a member of the Community Christian Church. In later years, she loved attending high school reunions and catching up with her old friends.

Survivors include her four children, Don Stewart (Paula), Paul Stewart, Mary Worsley (John) and Marsha Farmer, all of Ft. Scott; seven grandchildren and fifteen great-grandchildren. Also surviving is her sister, Wanda Abbott of Lakeland, Florida. Audrey was preceded in death by her husband, Neil, on December 15, 1992. She was also preceded in death by her parents, a daughter-in-law, Karen Stewart and a son-in-law, Keith Farmer. The family would like to extend a special thank you to Audrey’s hairdresser, Susan Porter, and to Cindy Hall with Community Care Connection for their kindness over the years.

Hospice Chaplin Jeff Feagins will conduct a graveside service at 11:00 A.M. Tuesday, May 5th at the U. S. National Cemetery. The family will have a time of visitation on Tuesday from 10:00 A.M. prior to the service at the Cheney Witt Chapel. Memorials are suggested to Care to Share and may be left in care of the Cheney Witt Chapel, 201 S. Main, P.O. Box 347, Ft. Scott, KS 66701. Words of remembrance may be submitted to the online guestbook at cheneywitt.com.

Obituary of Rex Alan Brown

Rex Alan Brown, age 66, of Prescott, Kansas, passed away on April 25, 2026, leaving behind a life defined by hard work, craftsmanship, and deep love for his family.

Rex was born on August 10, 1959, to Everett Oscar Brown Jr. And Patricia Ann Brown. He graduated from Oak Park High School in Kansas City, Missouri. On June 30, 1978, he married Brenda Sue Thurston, and together they shared 47 years of marriage and built a life centered around family.

He is survived by his children, Jason Brown (Nicole) of Prescott and Katie Hueston (Kenny) of Redfield; his grandchildren, Madison, Curtis, Carlie, and Macie; and his great-grandchildren, Dawson and Liam Sterling.

A proud third-generation Union Ironworker with Local 10, Rex spent nearly his entire career helping shape the Kansas City skyline, including work on the T-Mobile Center, the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts, Kansas City Star and numerous power plants. He also had the honor of setting the point on the tallest building in Kansas City.

Rex and Brenda owned Fox Run Bar in Fulton, Kansas, for nearly two decades, where he enjoyed playing pool and making lasting memories with friends and family. Outside of work, he loved fishing, traveling, and seeing new places, and he was known for giving the best hugs.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Brenda, and his parents.

Rex will be remembered for his strength, his work ethic, and the love he had for his family.

There was cremation. Memorial services will be held at 11:00 AM Monday, May 4th, at the Cheney Witt Chapel. The family will receive friends from 10:00 AM until service time Monday at the funeral home. Words of remembrance may be submitted online at cheneywitt.com.

Obituary of Esther Alpha Anderson

Esther Alpha Anderson, 93 passed away on December 9, 2025 at Tuttle Oklahoma. Born on April 9, 1932 in Devon Kansas. Esther was the 6th child of Charles Frederick Miller and Gladys Ida (Huss) Miller.

She graduated from Mercy School of Nursing in Fort Scott Kansas. She married Robert Gene Anderson and raised 3 children, David Anderson, Deanna (Anderson) Slack and Steven Anderson.
She worked as the nurse with Doctor Braun for several years then worked at Mercy Hospital.

She moved to Oklahoma in 1998 to be closer to her daughter. She lived by herself until June of 2025, when she moved in with her daughter until she passed away in her sleep.

She is survived by her children, 9 grandchildren and 7 great grandchildren.

Services will be held May 2, 2026, 11:00 AM at Battlefield Cemetery south of Pleasanton.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to Tunnel to Towers.

Obituary of Alma Marie Williams

 Alma Marie Williams, age 80, resident of Bronson, KS passed away Monday, April 20, 2026, at her home.  She was born October 1, 1945, in Houston, TX, the daughter of George and Nodie Bell Brantley Lindsey.  Following high school, she graduated from beauty school in Houston.  Alma used her talent as a hairdresser for many years.  In her spare time, she enjoyed fishing and spending time with her grandchildren.  Alma had a great taste for decorating and remodeling old furniture.  Her true gift was in giving.  No one ever wanted in her presence.

Survivors include a son, Christopher Lindsey, Sr., Iola, KS; a daughter, Anicia Robinson, Bronson, KS; bothers Irving McArthur, Conroe, TX, and Elder Henry Duskin, Mansura, LA; sisters Nodie Lindsey-Evans, Ennis, TX and Amminita Young, Kincaid, KS; 9 grandchildren; 9 great grandchildren; as well as numerous nieces and nephews.  She was preceded in death by her husband, Charles Williams; a brother, John Young; sisters Patricia Duskin, Annette Lindsey, and Pamla Grady; grandson Domonic Robinson; son-in-law Carl Robinson; as well as her parents.

Rev. George Proctor will conduct funeral services at 11:00 AM Saturday, April 25th, at the Cheney Witt Chapel.  Cremation will follow.  The family will receive friends from 10:00 AM until service time Saturday at the funeral home.  Memorials are suggested to the Alma Williams Memorial Fund and may be left in care of the Cheney Witt Chapel, PO Box 347, 201 S. Main St., Fort Scott, KS 66701.  Words of remembrance may be submitted online at cheneywitt.com.

Obituary of Jackie Keating, Sr.

Shawn Gerard Keating Sr. “Jackie”, age 62, a resident of Fort Scott KS passed away Friday April 17, 2026 at home surrounded by his family. He was born May 25, 1963 in Fort Scott KS to Edward and Patricia (Warzel) Keating.

Shawn graduated from Fort Scott High School class of 1981 where he was a member of the Tiger Football Team. He then attended Newman University and graduated with the class of 1986 with bachelor’s degrees in business management and marketing. After graduation, he returned to Fort Scott to work in the family business, K&K Auto Parts. He married Sandi Hobbs June 12, 1998 in Fort Scott, KS at Mary Queen of Angels Catholic Church. She survives of the home. Shawn’s greatest blessings in life were his children, whom he loved with all his heart. He was an avid Chiefs fan and enjoyed watching the games and grilling out. Shawn also helped serve lunch to the kids at St. Mary’s School for over 20 years. He was the kind of man people will remember for being friendly and sincere. He carried himself with a steady kindness. That left a lasting impression on every one he met.

Also surviving are sons Vincent (Courtney), Jesse, Andrew, Shawn II, and Connor. Daughters Grace (Eli) and Faith (Gage). Granddaughters Maeve and Margo. Siblings Eddie, John (Charlene), Mary Lowry (John), Beth Anne Graham (Daryl), and Patty Kramer (Mike) and numerous nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, Shawn was preceded in death by sister-in-law Janet (New) Keating, mother and father-in-law Nancy and Joe Decker.

Father Yancey Burgess will celebrate Mass of Christian Burial Wednesday, April 22, 2026 at 10:30 a.m. Mary Queen of Angels Catholic Church. Burial will follow in St. Mary’s Catholic Cemetery. The Rosary will be prayed at 7:00 p.m. with family receiving friends from 5:00 until 7:00 p.m. Tuesday at the Cheney Witt Chapel. Memorials are suggested to the St. Mary’s Catholic School and may be sent to Cheney Witt Chapel, P.O. Box 347, Fort Scott, KS. Words of remembrance may be submitted to the online guestbook at Cheneywitt.com

 

Obituary of Timothy Dean York

Timothy Dean York, age 62, a resident of Ft. Scott, Kansas, passed away Saturday, April 4, 2026, at the Freeman West Hospital in Joplin, Missouri.  Private burial will take place at the U.S. National Cemetery in Ft. Scott, Kansas.  Memorials are suggested to the Timothy York Memorial Fund and may be left in care of the Cheney Witt Chapel, 201 S. Main, P.O. Box 347, Ft. Scott, KS 66701.  Words of remembrance may be submitted to the online guestbook at cheneywitt.com.

Obituary of Andrew William Miles

Andrew William Miles, known to many as Andy, passed away on April 2, 2026, in Overland Park, Kansas, as the result of a motorcycle accident. He was born on December 4, 1989, in Fort Scott, Kansas, and lived a life marked by love, adventure, and selfless devotion to the people who knew him best.

Andy was a Christian man whose faith was an important part of his life and the way he treated others. He was the kind of person who made an impression wherever he went, not because he sought attention, but because of the steady kindness, warmth, and sincerity he brought into every room. Those who loved him will remember him as loving, adventurous, and selfless, qualities that were evident in the way he cared for his family, his friends, and the many people whose lives he touched.

Andy attended Fort Scott Harley Davidson school, where he developed the skills and knowledge that supported his work as a motorcycle mechanic. He took pride in his work and found purpose in doing what he loved. His hands and his heart were both dedicated to motorcycles, and he appreciated the craftsmanship, freedom, and spirit that came with them. His work reflected his character, steady and dependable, and he was respected for the care he gave to every job he took on.

Motorcycles were more than a profession to Andy. They were a lifelong interest and a source of joy. He enjoyed traveling, spending time on the open road, and making memories along the way. He especially treasured hanging out with his wife and friends on weekends, where laughter, conversation, and simple time together meant the most. Andy understood the value of shared moments, and he made those around him feel welcome, appreciated, and loved.

Family was at the center of Andy’s life. He is survived by his wife, Rachel Miles, and their children, Karsten Miles, Kristian Miles, Mackinzie Larrabee, and Loretta Miles. He also leaves behind his stepdaughters, Chanelle Cravens and Peyton Cravens. He was deeply loved by his mother, Pepper Miles; his father, James Andrew Miles; his stepmother, Misty Miles; his brothers, James Miles, Steven Morris, and Adam Miles; his sisters, Amanda Collins and Christine Hall; and his aunt, Crystal Greenway. Many nieces, nephews, cousins. His family will forever carry his memory in their hearts and remember the many ways he showed up for them with loyalty, humor, and care.

Andy was also welcomed in death by those who went before him, including his grandpa Edward Knoblich, grandma Ann Lee, uncle Nickie Knoblich, great-grandma May Knoblich, great-grandpa Edward Knoblich, grandma Jane Knoblich, grandpa Norman Earl Miles, grandma Helen Miles,  and several others in heaven with him. Though his passing leaves a painful emptiness, his loved ones take comfort in knowing he is now reunited with those who loved him and await him beyond this life.

Andy’s life, though far too short, was filled with meaning. He will be remembered for his generous spirit, his adventurous heart, and the deep love he had for his family and friends. He leaves behind a legacy of devotion, strength, and kindness that will continue to live on in the stories shared about him and in the lives of those who were blessed to know him. His memory will remain a source of comfort and inspiration, and he will be dearly missed always.

Rev. Paul Rooks will conduct funeral services at 10:30 A.M. Thursday, April 9th at the Grace Baptist Tabernacle.  Following services, there will be cremation.  The family will receive friends from 5 to 7 P.M. Wednesday at the Cheney Witt Chapel.  Memorials are suggested to the Andy Miles Memorial Fund and may be left in care of the Cheney Witt Chapel, 201 S. Main, P.O. Box 347, Ft. Scott, KS 66701.  Words of remembrance may be submitted to the online guestbook at cheneywitt.com.

Obituary of Robert “Bob” Dean McBride

Robert “Bob” Dean McBride, 79, of Fort Scott, passed away Wednesday evening, March 25, 2026, at his home. He was born April 8, 1946, in Mapleton, Kansas, the son of Charles LaWayne McBride and Dorothy Louise (Killion) McBride. He married Linda Ann Large on August 22,1969, in Devon, Kansas, and she preceded him in death on February 16, 2016.

Bob graduated from Uniontown High School. He served his country in the U.S. Army from October 23, 1967, until November 8, 1971. He was a member of the Devon Masonic Lodge & Shriners Mounted Patrol. He enjoyed trail riding & camping on a regular basis with close friends, hunting & fishing. He played in a pool league for numerous years.

Bob is survived by three daughters, Jimmie Hughes and husband Rod, of Archie, Missouri, Bridget Wright and husband John, of Stockton, Missouri, and Tina Jones and husband Rick, of Nevada, Missouri and a son, David McBride and Ashlea, of Fort Scott; a sister-in-law, Arlene Boswell & their children Tim & Annette; eight grandkids, Tiffany Ogle (Clayton), Caleb Franklin (Nichole), Cody Franklin (Tim), Jessica Norwood (Aaron), Megan Demster (Kevin), Zach Simhiser (Hannah), Dalton Jones (Bri), Charlie Wright, & eight great-grandkids. In addition to his wife Linda, Bob was also preceded in death by his parents, and a brother, Gary Wayne McBride.

Funeral services are scheduled for 10:00 a.m. Monday, March 30, 2026, at the Konantz-Cheney Funeral Home with burial immediately following at the Centerville Cemetery. The family will receive friends for a visitation at the funeral home Sunday evening, March 29, 2026, from 4:00-5:00 p.m. Memorial contributions may be made to Care to Share, and may be left in the care of the Konantz-Cheney Funeral Home, 15 W. Wall Street, P.O. Box 309, Fort Scott, KS, 66701. Friends and family may sign the online guest book and share memories at www.konantzcheney.com.

Obituary of Miles W. Thompson

Miles W. Thompson, age 97, a resident of Manhattan Beach, California, passed away Monday, March 16, 2026.  He was born August 25, 1928, in Ft. Scott, Kanas, the son of William M. Thompson and Eva Ruth Shannon Thompson.  He served with the Signal Corps in United States Army from 1951 to 1953.  He used the skills he learned in the military to further his education and became an electrical engineer.  He worked for many years at Rockwell International.  His hobbies included old cars, model airplane, amateur radio and high-fidelity sound equipment.

Survivors include his three children, Miles Joseph Thompson and his wife, Brenda, Robert Thompson and Patricia Thompson; six grandsons and twelve great-grandchildren.  Miles was preceded in death by his parents and a brother, Fritz Thompson.

Graveside services will be held at 10:00 A.M. Wednesday, April 1st at the U. S. National Cemetery in Ft. Scott, Kansas where military honors will be provided by the U. S. Army Honor Guard.  Family and friends may meet at the Cheney Witt Chapel prior to leaving for the cemetery at 9:45 A.M. on Wednesday.  Arrangements are under the direction of the Cheney Witt Chapel, 201 S. Main, P.O. Box 347, Ft. Scott, KS 66701.  Words of remembrance may be submitted to the online guestbook at cheneywitt.com.

Obituary of Wanda L. Woolsey

Wanda L. Woolsey (McPherson), 72, passed away peacefully in her sleep on the morning of March 20, 2026, at Kansas City Hospice House in Kansas City, Missouri.

Wanda was born on August 29, 1953, in Omaha, Nebraska, to Richard and Ella Marie Olson. She was the second oldest of six children, one brother and four sisters—and the bond they shared was truly unmatched. In their family, “if it happens to one, it happens to all,” and they lived that out in the way they loved and supported each other. Her siblings would all tell you that Wanda was the ornery one, always ready to drag you into an adventure and just as ready to blame you if it didn’t go as planned.

Wanda loved God and her family above all else, and she lived her life rooted in both. She carried a strong and steady work ethic, following in her mother’s footsteps to become a histologist. She spent much of her career working in pathology at Upshire Labs in Kansas City and Mercy Hospital in Fort Scott, where her dedication and care made a lasting impact.

Wanda had a deep love for life’s simple joys. She enjoyed gardening, bowling, camping, reading, boating, Bible study, and most recently, creating diamond art paintings—she was constantly working on them and gifting them to those she loved, friends and family alike. She had a special love for animals, especially her dogs, who she treated like her own children. In her later years, her beloved dorkie, Jasmine (“Jazzy”), was her constant companion, going everywhere with her—from running errands and attending doctor’s appointments to visit her daughter Jessie and playing alongside the grandkids. Wherever Wanda went, Jazzy was sure to be right there with her.

Her greatest joy, however, was her family, especially her grandchildren. Her entire face would light up at the sight or sound of them. She could be found cheering in the stands at her grandson’s
sporting events, attending her granddaughters’ choir concerts, and showing up for countless other activities—always beaming with love and pride. Her granddaughter Addison lovingly gave her the name “Gammy,” a name that stuck and was even adopted by many of the nurses who cared for her in her final weeks, as she made them feel like family.

Wanda would often say, “Oh, it’s granddaughters galore today,” whenever Addison and Alice surprised her with a visit—though truthfully, she usually already knew they were on their way, as
she liked to follow their comings and goings on Life360. She loved keeping up with her family and made sure they always knew they were cherished.

Wanda also loved garage sales and antiquing with anyone she could convince to come along. She never met a knick-knack she didn’t “need.”

She is survived by her daughters, Jessie (Zachary) Malson of Pomona, Kansas, and Michelle Callahan of Ohio; her grandchildren, Addison, Thomas, Ronan Malson, and Alice Callahan (Nathan Pardee), Katelynn Greer, and Curtis Callahan.

She is also survived by her siblings: Nancy Daum of Paola, Kansas; Marjene (Ron) Locke of Pueblo, Colorado; Loretta (Dan) Spotts of Colorado Springs, Colorado; Carl (Malinda) Olson of Paola, Kansas; and Janice (Randy) Menefee of Sioux Falls, South Dakota; along with two nieces, eight nephews, and countless great-nieces and great-nephews (and their spouses), all of whom she loved dearly.

She was preceded in death by her loving parents, Richard and Ella Marie Olson; the love of her life, Thomas McPherson; her sister-in-law, Debbie Olson; her nephew and his wife, James (Kandi) Locke; her nephew and great-nephew, Kurt (Tristian) Daum; and her second husband, David Woolsey.

Wanda will be remembered for her sharp wit, her strong spirit, her unwavering faith, and the deep love she had for her family. As she often said, “it will all come out in the wash.” Today, we rest in the peace of knowing she is free from pain and held in the arms of the Lord.

“He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain.”
— Revelation 21:4

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 AM Saturday, March 28th, at the Cheney Witt Chapel. Cremation will follow. The family will receive friends from 10:00 until service time Saturday at the funeral home. Memorials are suggested to the Wanda Woolsey Memorial Fund and may be left in care of the Cheney Witt Chapel, P.O. Box 347, 201 S. Main, Fort Scott, KS 66701. Words of remembrance may be submitted online at cheneywitt.com.

Obituary of Corey Jene Knight

Corey Jene Knight, age 24, a resident of Fort Scott, Kansas, joined Jesus Friday, March 20, 2026, at the University of Kansas Medical Center surrounded by his loved ones. Corey was finally freed from his wheelchair-bound life and walked through Heaven’s gates.

Corey leaves behind his loving mother, Kimberly Rose and stepfather, Jerry Rose of Fort Scott; his father, Kyle Knight and stepmother Shayla Knight of Uniontown, Kansas. Corey has three sisters, a stepsister, six brothers and a stepbrother. His big sister, Tricia Vargas of Fort Scott and two younger sisters, Kylee and Paisley of Uniontown and stepsister, Amy VanBecelare of Pittsburg. Two older brothers, Garrett and Dayton Knight of Fort Scott and four younger brothers Mathew, Reese, Cooper and Kaden of Uniontown and stepbrother, Jason Wilson of Fort Scott. Corey also leaves behind twelve nephews and a niece. Aiden, Leilan, Isaac, Benjamin, Jordan, Jax, Olivia, Trippton, Oliver, Ari, Opie, Roe and Castiel. Corey was preceded in death by his maternal grandparents, Earl and Billy Jene Graham and paternal grandparents, Virgil and Nadja Knight.

For twenty-four years, Corey defied the odds stacked against him. From his diagnosis before birth the outlook was bleak. Corey fought hard for twenty-four years, not being defined by statistics. Corey brought so much joy and happiness to everyone he met. His infectious smile and laugh would light up the room. Corey enjoyed musicals, concerts – particularly Members Only, ice cream, bubbles, balloons and most of all his love for his family and cuddles with his mama. Corey gets to walk into Heaven with Jesus and do all the things his earthly body couldn’t do.

Pastor Paul Martin will conduct a celebration of Corey’s life at 10:00 A.M. Thursday, March 26th at the Community Christian Church. Burial will follow in the Dayton Cemetery. The family asks that guests wear blue to honor Corey. Memorials are suggested to Families for Hope, Inc and may be left in care of the Cheney Witt Chapel, 201 S. Main, P.O. Box 347, Ft. Scott, KS 66701. Words of remembrance may be submitted to the online guestbook at cheneywitt.com.