Our beloved mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother Joyce Ann Buffalo unexpectedly passed away on January 3, 2026. She was born on December 15, 1947, in Walnut Ridge, Arkansas to Jarvey Stephenson and Sue (Lawrence) Stephenson. The family moved to Kankakee, Illinois when Joyce was five years old where she grew up and attended school. Joyce had a passion for cooking and helping others that can be seen throughout her career. She spent eight years working for St. Mary Hospital and Our Lady of Victoria Nursing Home in nutritional services. In Kankakee, she worked for Aramark while raising four daughters. Later in her career, she was transferred to Kansas where she handled nutritional services at Mercy Hospitals in Independence and Fort Scott. After fifteen years at Aramark, she moved to Fort Scott, Kansas and worked at Tri-Valley. She worked there for four years before retiring and moving to Oklahoma.

After retiring, Joyce built a new life with her husband Arthur Robinson Buffalo Jr. who she married on February 22, 2012. They enjoyed camping, antiquing, and attending grandkids’ events until his passing in January of 2016. Following his passing, she moved back to Fort Scott, Kansas where she spent her days spoiling her dog, Coco, enjoying daily meals with her friend Doug, and spending time with family. Joyce will forever be remembered for her sassiness, orneriness, and wit. Her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren were her greatest joy. She loved spending time with family and regaling us all with fun filled stories that kept us on our toes.

She is survived by three daughters, Kristi (Tommy) George of Fort Scott, Shellie Snyder of Oklahoma, and Diana (Dan) Lange of Kansas City. She is also survived by eleven grandchildren, Ashley (Josh) George, Amanda Harper, Joyce (Daniel) Golden, Draven George, Landry George, Cooper George, Jordan Snyder, Lakin Snyder, Christopher Snyder, Jacob Snyder, and Kody Lange, and sixteen great-grandchildren.

She is preceded in death by her husband Arthur Buffalo, her son Michael, her daughter Lynette Steeby, her sister Janie, and her parents Jarvey Stephenson, Sue Duffield, and Arthur Duffield.

Forever in our hearts, her life was a blessing, and her memory is our treasure.

A celebration of life service will be held at 10:00 A.M. Saturday, January 10^th 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.

Michael Hugh “Big Michael” Lancaster, age 71, a resident of rural Deerfield, Missouri, passed away Wednesday, December 31, 2025, at his home.

He was born October 24, 1954, in Noel, Missouri, the son of Robert Hugh Lancaster and Peggy Ann Sellers Lancaster.  Michael grew up in Raytown, Missouri and graduated from Raytown High School.  He later served with the United States Marine Corps from 1975 to 1979 where he attained the rank of Corporal.

Following his discharge from the Marines, Michael married Michele Piano on July 11, 1986, at Olathe, Kansas.  They made their home in Humansville, Missouri where he owned and operated a feed store.  In the early ‘90s they moved to Ft. Scott, Kansas and later settled just over the line in Deerfield.

He owned and operated the Dusty Attic Flea Market on Main Street in Ft. Scott.  After moving to Deerfield, he operated Poor Boys Antiques and Grannie’s Tiques and Fleas out of his home on 54 Highway.  In addition to running the flea market, he also built and repaired computers.

Michael loved to learn and consistently read on a variety of subjects.     He enjoyed construction and working on building projects of all kinds.  He studied up on green energy and used solar energy and other natural resources to power and heat and cool his home.  He also liked to garden.

Michael constructed a greenhouse and used a hydroponic gardening system as part of his operation. He will be lovingly remembered for his ornery personality and his quick wit with a funny joke.

Survivors include his wife, Michele, of the home; eight children, Stephen Petrovich (Heather) of Cape Coral, Florida, Michael Robert Lancaster of Belton, Missouri, Melissa Slocum (Erik) of Swansea, Illinois, Christopher Lancaster (Cindy) of Indonesia, Julia Dryden-Lancaster of Joplin, Missouri, Jessica Lancaster of Ft. Scott, Kansas, Derrick Lancaster who is serving with the US Marine Corps, stationed at Camp Pendleton in California, and Keria Lancaster of the home.  Also surviving are several grandchildren and great-grandchildren, two brothers and a sister.

Pastor Randy Query will conduct graveside services at 12:30 PM Friday, January 9^th at the U. S. National Cemetery.  The family will receive friends on Friday at the Cheney Witt Chapel from 11:00 AM until leaving for the cemetery.  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.

Kenneth L. Judd, Jr., age 79, passed away Wednesday, December 31^st, 2025, at Moran Manor in Moran, KS.  Services for Kenneth Judd will be announced by the Cheney Witt Chapel, 201 S.

DEATH NOTICE

Kenneth L. Judd, Jr., age 79, passed away Wednesday, December 31st, 2025, at Moran Manor in Moran, KS. Services for Kenneth Judd will be announced by the Cheney Witt Chapel, 201 S. Main St.

John Oscar Younggren, 78, of Fort Scott, Kansas, passed away on January 3, 2026.
He was born on March 30, 1947, in Hugoton, Kansas, to Jean and Oscar Younggren. In the summer of 1962, the family left their homestead in Hugoton and moved to Redfield, Kansas, where they settled on a new farm to build a lasting family legacy. John graduated from Uniontown High School in 1965 and later attended heavy equipment training in Beloit, Kansas.

A lifelong farmer and cattleman, John also owned and operated a successful heavy equipment construction business providing service primarily to agricultural & water conservation. He had an incredible talent for working with dozers, motor-graders and  scrapers—able to set grade by eye with unmatched precision. His skill and dedication earned him the respect of many, and he took great pride in shaping the land and caring for his herd.

On March 30, 1968, John married Linda Louise Colvin; they had two children Meleesa and Jason. They later divorced. In his later years, John shared his life with Joann Hays, who preceded him in death. Their relationship was meaningful and brought him steady companionship and comfort—a chapter he truly valued.

John was grateful for the help and visits from Jason & Maddi Thorpe, and their kiddos.  Whether it was checking on the cattle, making him a bowl of chili, or grabbing the mail, their thoughtfulness meant so much. He looked forward to their check-ins—catching up on the new calves or getting the latest copy of the Tribune which was most often a fair exchange between he and the kids for a few pieces of candy, was often the highlight of his day.

John deeply appreciated his treasured nurse, Irene, who cared for him not only physically but spiritually as well. Her presence brought him comfort and peace during difficult times. He was also blessed with hospice nurses and attendants who provided exceptional care and companionship—often sitting with him to watch a rodeo or an episode of Ag News. Their kindness and dedication meant the world to him and his family.

John will be remembered for his strength, determination, and love for family and friends. Survivors include his children: Meleesa Grate and husband Dan of Manhattan, KS, and Jason Younggren and wife Monica of Louisburg, KS; four grandchildren: Maddi Pruett, Allea Ruby Davis and Gage (and their soon-to-arrive son), Alec Blayne, and Reece Adlin. He is also survived by his sister Connie Neil, brother Mike Younggren and wife Mary, and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and brother- in- law, Dwayne Neil and special friend Joann Hays.

John’s legacy lives on in the fields he worked, the land he shaped, and the family he loved. His hands built more than ponds and pastures—they built a life of purpose and pride.

Chaplain Derek Harman will conduct a funeral services at 1:30 p.m. on Wednesday, January 7. 2026 at Cheney Witt Chapel. Burial will follow in the Centerville Cemetery. The family will receive friends Tuesday from 5:00 – 7:00 P.M. at the Cheney Witt Chapel. Memorials are suggested to the Bourbon County Fair and may be left in care of the Cheney Witt Chapel, 201 S. Main, P.O. Box 347, Ft. Scott, Kansas 66701. Words of remembrance may be submitted to the online guestbook at cheneywitt.com.

In loving memory, Carolyn Sue Wenderott passed away on December 23, 2025, at the age of 89 in Fort Scott, KS. Born on November 17, 1936, in St. Mary’s, KS, Carolyn’s journey through life was marked by her unwavering strength and kindness.

Carolyn attended local Fort Scott Schools. Her professional life was devoted to clerical and administrative roles in the Fort Scott area.

Carolyn had a strong devotion to her family and friends. She was the beloved wife of Charlie Wenderott, who predeceased her in 2014.

Carolyn was a devoted mother to her children: Dave McGrew of Colorado Springs, CO; Christine Brown of Pittsburg, KS; Mark McGrew of Great Falls, MT; and Tamela Phalen of Hurricane, UT. She was also a stepmother to Mary Burcham, Julie Wenderott, and Debra Bell. Her life was further enriched by the joy and laughter of many grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who will carry forward her spirit of generosity and affection.

She was cherished by all her siblings. Those surviving include Clifford Burke of Springfield, MO, and Jim Rohrig of Gainesville, TX. Carolyn was predeceased by 5 of her siblings Frances Cox, David Burke, Delores Dighero, George Burke, and Myrna Turner.

In her younger years, Carolyn enjoyed bowling and raising her family. She also took great joy in nuturing her flower gardens. Carolyn was also an excellent cook, a skilled seamstress, and had a natural flair for decorating. Her home was a haven of warmth and beauty, welcoming to all who entered.

Carolyn Sue Wenderott’s memory will be cherished by her family and friends. She will be greatly missed. Her Family would like to thank all the caregivers of Credo Memory Care for their affection and compassion. Their dedication was unwavering and we are eternally grateful.

Funeral services will be held at 11:30 AM Tuesday, December 30^th, at the Cheney Witt Chapel.  Burial will follow in the U. S. National Cemetery, Fort Scott.  The family will receive friends from 10:30 AM until service time Tuesday at the funeral home.  Words of remembrance may be submitted online at cheneywitt.com.

Sammy  Elaine Winship, a cherished member of the Fort Scott community, passed away peacefully at the age of 86 on December 22, 2025, in Fort Scott, Kansas.

Born on February 4, 1939, Sammy was a beacon of selflessness and kindness throughout her years. She attended Fort Scott High School, where she laid the foundations of a life dedicated to service and care. Sammy’s warmth and nurturing spirit led her to own and operate her own daycare, where she touched the lives of many families, guiding their young ones with love and dedication. Her commitment to her community extended to her work as a line worker for the Avon Company, where she was known for her work ethic and friendly demeanor.

Sammy’s life was a testament to the joy of giving. She found her greatest happiness in the laughter and achievements of her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Her daughter, Laura Rasmussen of Independence, Mo., and her daughter Carolyn Fisher and husband Roy of Kansas City Her granddaughter Sammi Bailey and husband Josh of Festus, Mo., along with Aaron Fisher and Carrie Fisher and Claudio, of Kansas City, will carry forward her legacy of kindness. Sammy’s four great-grandchildren, Canyon, Bella, Lennon, and Wilder Bailey. Her Family will cherish the memories of her steadfast support and endless encouragement.

Although Sammy has joined her late family members, including her parents, William S. Bailey and Deloris Likely Bailey, her brother Joe Bailey, and sister Alice Hallin, her spirit of selflessness and devotion lives on through those she has left behind.

Sammy Winship was a woman whose life was defined by her unwavering love for her family. She will be remembered as a nurturing soul who brought joy to children and comfort to parents, a woman who built a life on the foundation of kindness and care. As we say farewell to Sammy, we reflect on a life well-lived, a journey marked by the countless hearts she touched and the smiles she inspired. Sammy Winship’s legacy is one of love, and it will continue to shine brightly in the lives of those who were fortunate enough to know her.

Cremation has taken place, a Celebration of will be held at a late date  Memorials are suggested to the First Baptist Church 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.

DEATH NOTICE

 Barbara Lou Haggard, age 76, resident of Pittsburg, KS passed away Thursday, November 27, 2025, at Mercy Hospital, Springfield, MO.  There was cremation.  Memorial services will be held at 10:00 AM on Monday, December 29^th, at the Cheney Witt Chapel.  Interment will take place at a later date in the U. S. National Cemetery.  Memorials are suggested to the Barb Haggard 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.

Brian Karl Housman, age 67, a resident of Ft. Scott, Kansas, passed away Monday, December 22, 2025, at the Medicalodge in Ft. Scott.  He was born December 28, 1957, in Westwood, New Jersey, the son of Russell and Dorthy Housman.  Brian used to work landscaping with his friend, Frank Lopez at a business they named L. & H. Homeowner’s Services, in Emerson, New Jersey.  He later met the love of his life, Donna.  They were united in marriage on August 19, 1989, in her mom’s backyard.  He then followed his wife to Ft. Scott, Kansas in 1991.  After settling in Kansas, he worked as a maintenance man and then for Ft. Scott Burial Vault Company.  He was always willing to help his wife with any of her various projects and volunteer work.  Brian and Donna were also members of Community Christian Church where they helped found the Christian Motorcycle Association (CMA).  He also made sure to attend his grandchildren’s and great-grandchildren’s events whenever he was able.  He loved working in his garage on various projects and could always be found outside maintaining his yard and property to make it look good.

Brian is survived by his brother, Russell Housman of Westwood, New Jersey; two stepdaughters, Jacqueline Arbogast of Nevada, Missouri (SIL Charles Arbogast, Jr of Oklahoma), Stephanie Smith-Hinson and husband, Darrin of Garfield, New Jersey; a stepson, Christopher Smith of Utah; eleven grandchildren and their spouses, twenty-two great-grandchildren; several nieces and nephews and great-nieces and great-nephews. He was preceded in death by his wife, Donna; two sisters, Candice and Nancy; a step-son, John Enos; his parents, Russell and Dorthy Housman, a great-granddaughter, four rainbow babies; a niece, Dawnelle Ornstein and a great-nephew, Christian Golden.

Rev. Dusty Drake will conduct funeral services at 1:00 P.M. Monday, December 29^th at the Cheney Witt Chapel.  Burial will follow in the Large Cemetery south of Ft. Scott.  Memorials are suggested to Care to Share and may be left in care of 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.

Mickey Louis Shoemaker Webb, 70, passed away on December 8, 2025.

Mickey was born on June 12, 1955, in Fort Scott, Kansas, to Ralph Shoemaker and Mary Schafer. She was raised with strong family values that guided her throughout her life.

Mickey was blessed with her beloved son, Douglas Wayne Felt, born on March 12, 1982. Douglas preceded her in death on January 11, 2002, a loss she carried in her heart always.

On January 4, 1998, Mickey married David Webb in Paola, Kansas. Together, they later made their home in Apache Junction, Arizona.

Mickey is survived by her loving husband, David Webb; her sister, Brenda Fritts (Ron); her brother, Martin Shoemaker; two stepdaughters, Shanna and Heidi; and five cherished grandchildren, Dakota, Amaralis, Havana, Colton and Ginger. She was preceded in death by her son, Douglas Wayne Felt; her nephew, Kyle; her parents, Ralph Shoemaker and Mary Schafer; and both sets of grandparents.

A memorial service will be held at1:00 P.M. Sunday, December 28^th at the Cheney Witt Chapel.  Please, no flowers. If you would like to make a donation to a charity of your choice, you may do so in her memory.

Mickey will be remembered for her devotion to family, her enduring faith, and the love she shared with all who knew her. She is now at peace, reunited with loved ones, and resting in the arms of her Lord and Savior.

Words of remembrance may be submitted to the online guestbook at cheneywitt.com.