Sharon Kay Smith, age 80, a resident of Ft. Scott, Kansas, passed away early Thursday, November 20, 2025, at the Medicalodge in Ft. Scott. She was born December 7, 1944, in Wichita, Kansas, the daughter of Rex Hurst and Dolores Swartzetrub Hurst. The family left Wichita when Sharon was young and relocated to Mountain Grove, Missouri. Sharon spent her growing up years in Mountain Grove and graduated from the Mountain Grove High School. Sharon enlisted with the United States Army where she was stationed in Germany. Following her military service, Sharon married William R. Smith on June 13, 1975. Together they made their home in Washington State for many years. Sharon was employed by the State of Washington as a key punch operator. She later worked as an auditor for the IRS. In earlier years, Sharon enjoyed bowling. After her health failed, Sharon moved to be close to her sister, Anita. While in Ft. Scott, Sharon was a member of the Church of Christ at 15^th and Crawford.

Survivors include a sister, Anita Thomas (Skip) of Ft. Scott; a niece, Stephanie Kinsley, two nephews, Shawn Thomas (Christy) and David Ferre; three great-nephews, Ryan (Sierra), Quentin, and Collin, two great-nieces, Rylee and Allie and a great-great-niece, Braxton. Sharon was preceded in death by her husband, Bill, her parents and a sister, Cheryl Stubbs.

Graveside services will be held at 11:00 A.M. Wednesday, November 26^th at the U. S. National Cemetery. Memorials are suggested to the Parkinson’s Foundation 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.

Ronald Charles Palmer, age 82, resident of Fort Scott, KS passed away Thursday, November 20, 2025, at his home.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 PM Tuesday, November 25^th at the First Baptist Church.

Burial will follow in the Clarksburg Cemetery.

The family will receive friends from 1:00 PM until service time at the Church.

Memorials are suggested to either the First Baptist Church or the Ronald and Shirley Palmer FSCC Scholarship 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.

Edward L. LaRue, age 79, a resident of Bronson, Kansas, passed away Monday, November 17, 2025, at the Mercy Hospital in Pittsburg, Kansas.  He was born December 19, 1945.  Ed grew in the Xenia area where he was raised by his grandparents, Tom & Myra Johnson.  Ed graduated from Bronson High School.  He was later drafted into the United States Army where he served in Vietnam from 1965 to 1967.  Following his military service, Ed began a career in gas service.  He worked as a pipeline installer and customer service representative for many years.  Ed was united in marriage to Mary L. Esch on May 4, 1968, at Pittsburg, Kansas. Ed and Mary settled on their farm south of Bronson where he remained for the remainder of his days.  He enjoyed life in the country where he fished and hunted deer.  He also liked driving around the countryside and playing the occasional game of pitch. Many memories were made while traveling on their many family vacations.

Ed is survived by his children, Jeff LaRue, Jennifer LaRue (Rusty) and Jason LaRue (Heather) as well as two additional daughters he and Mary raised, Tess Johnson and Tina Gossett (David), five grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.  Ed was preceded in death by his wife, Mary, on February 25, 2015.

Graveside services will be held at 11:00 A.M. Saturday, November 22^nd at the Bronson Cemetery.  Following services, the family will receive friends at the Bronson Community Center.  Memorials are suggested to St. Jude’s Hospital or the Shriner’s Hospital 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 left on the online guestbook at cheneywitt.com.

Billy Joe Cowan, 95, originally of Devon, Kansas and later of Nevada, Missouri, passed away November 10, 2025, at the Crystal Coast Hospice House in Newport, North Carolina. He was born in Walnut, Kansas April 11, 1930, the son of Charles Oscar and Grace Olive Boileau Cowan. He married Norma Jean Riggs on August 12, 1951. She preceded him in death on September 21, 2021. His son, Phillip Cowan, also preceded him in death August 8, 2022.

He is survived by his daughter, Diana Cowan, Beaufort, North Carolina, daughter-in-law, Lisa Walker Cowan, Tulsa, OK, grandsons Zachary, Tulsa, OK, and Seth (Lizbeth), Houston, TX. Additionally, he is survived by great-grandchildren Brooklyn, Haidyn, and Camdyn, sister, Chalene Bruns, and several nieces and nephews.

Bill owned and operated a service station and tire business in Devon, Kansas for several years. Later he sold cars and eventually he sold insurance. He was a member of both Devon Masonic Lodge and Ft. Scott Scottish Rite. He was a member of Devon and Nevada United Methodist Churches.

Services for Bill Cowan will be at 1:00 p.m., November 21, 2025, at the Konantz-Cheney Funeral Home in Fort Scott. Burial will follow at the Centerville Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family requests contributions to the American Cancer Society, Alzheimer’s Association, or the SECU Crystal Coast Hospice House, 100 Big Rock Weigh, Newport, NC  28570. Friends and Family may sign the online guest book and share memories at www.konantzcheney.com.

Lavon K. Middleton (Richard), 84, of Uniontown, Kansas, passed away Thursday, November 6, 2025, at Moran Manor in Moran, Kansas, surrounded by her loved ones.

She was born on Nov. 30, 1940, in Redfield, KS to Vern Richard and Mary Richard (Reinecke). Lavon graduated from High School in Uniontown, KS in 1958. She was Uniontown’s first ever Homecoming Queen. She went on to marry Kenneth Middleton her high school sweetheart on July 22, 1961, at Paint Creek Church in Redfield, KS.

Lavon followed her beloved husband all over the world during his time in the Navy as they raised their family before settling in their home in Uniontown.

Lavon was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother and friend. She was an excellent homemaker and cook. She babysat many local kids for her family and friends. Lavon enjoyed spending time with her family and playing cards weekly with her lady’s group. She was an active member of the Methodist Church until her health would no longer allow it. She enjoyed attending her grandkids’ events and family get togethers. She loved the small-town community life of Uniontown, and her morning coffee club get togethers at Union Station. Lavon was a devout Christian, believing in the Lord, Jesus Christ, for her eternal destiny.

She is survived by her husband, Kenneth, of 64 years. Their 3 children: Sandy (Perry) Lackey of Eldorado Springs, Mo., Steve (Chris) Middleton and Greg (Semina) Middleton of Uniontown, Ks., 11 grandchildren and 12 great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents and beloved brother Lester Richard.

The family has chosen to hold a private Celebration of Life ceremony.

Janet Irby Braun (1941-2025)

Janet Irby Braun, 84, of Fort Scott, KS passed into eternal life at the University of Kansas Medical Center on Friday, November 7, 2025. She was born in Oklahoma City, OK on March 28, 1941 to Dr. Pratt and Pauline Robinson Irby.

She grew up in Fort Scott as the proud big sister of Robert and Mary. The siblings enjoyed traveling with their family and doting on their beloved dog, Annie. Janet enjoyed being a Rainbow Girl, acting in plays, and serving as a Fort Scott High School class officer for the class of 1959. She attended Baker University where she was a member of Delta Delta Delta, starring in several theatre productions and earning her degree in elementary education in 1963. She later earned her Masters in Special Education at the University of Kansas in 1966.

Janet and her former spouse, Edward Braun, raised three children together: Becky, Ted, and Mac, living first in Durham, NC, then St. Louis, MO, then Orlando, FL, and finally Fort Scott, KS. Janet loved being a mom and was known for transporting her kids and all their friends in her famous red van to all kinds of activities including dance lessons, baseball games, swim team practices, golf lessons, and play practices.

Janet was a caring and compassionate special education teacher at Winfield Scott Elementary School. She loved supporting her students and helping them soar. She rooted for every student during their time in her classroom and loved staying in touch with them as they grew up. She won the Kansas Special Education Teacher of the Year award in 2001.

Janet loved everything about living in Fort Scott. She was known for her philanthropy, service, and friendship in her beloved hometown. She was a member of the U234 School Board from 2003 to 2019, serving as president from 2012 to 2014. She was on the Good Ol’ Days Steering Committee from its inception. She was also a founding board member of the Fort Scott Area Community Foundation and served as Chairperson from 2007 to 2013, and has been a board member from 2019 to the present. Her faith was important to her as a longtime member of the First United Methodist Church. There, Janet was a member of the Memorials Committee and was Secretary of the Administrative Board. She served on the Visioning A Healthier Bourbon County Board as well as the Children’s Advocacy Board in Pittsburg. She was a member of the Fort Scott Rotary Club, serving on the Rotary Board. She was proud to be named the Rotarian of the year in 2008, 2010, and 2019. A member of the Bourbon County Garden Club, her home was on the Secret Garden Tour in 2009. She was the Bourbon County Representative on the Southeast Kansas Mental Health Board. She also served on the Chamber of Commerce Tourism Committee, and won the Keystone Award in 2010 and the Chamber of Commerce Community Spirit Award in 2018. She recently celebrated her 61st anniversary of membership in the PEO sisterhood. She was also the winner of the Wal-Mart Citizenship Award in 1997.

Janet loved spending time with her eight grandchildren, who affectionately called her “Nana.” She was their biggest cheerleader, and attended many musicals, awards ceremonies, and gymnastics meets with bells on. Later in life, she supported all of her grandchildren’s endeavors virtually. In recent months, Janet loved visiting individually with each of her grandchildren.

Janet was a connoisseur of all things Broadway and enjoyed many trips to New York City. She loved gardening, tending to her backyard oasis at 1606 Clairmont Street as well as her pink mums at the Presbyterian Village. She enjoyed travels to Ireland, Switzerland, England, and Greece. She also enjoyed volunteering as a costumer for productions at FSCC and in the community.

She is survived by her loving family: daughter Becky and (Pat) Hulla and their children Brendan, Katie, Kellen and Ryan of Overland Park, KS, son Dr. Ted Braun and (Karen) Braun and their daughters Rachel and Allie of Leawood, KS, and son Mac and (Jodi) Braun and their children Emily (Justus) and Nick of Gilbert, AZ. She is also survived by her brother Robert Irby of Faribault, MN and a sister, Mary Rio of Austin, TX, and a niece, Jessica Rio, and her daughters, Paulina and Sofia, of Austin, TX. She was preceded in death by her parents, Dr. Pratt and Pauline Robinson Irby, and her dear friend Jackie Webster.

Janet is missed already by her friends and family. Her family would like to thank all of her caregivers and friends at the Presbyterian Village for everything they did to support her in her later years.

Funeral services for Janet Irby Braun will be on Saturday, November 22, 2025, at the First United Methodist Church in Fort Scott with Pastor Christopher Eshelman officiating. Visitation will begin at 10:00 a.m. with the funeral beginning at 11:00 a.m. The burial will be in the Evergreen Cemetery under the direction of the Konantz-Cheney Funeral Home. Memorials may be made to The Fort Scott Area Community Foundation and sent to or 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.

“Sunrise, sunset. Sunrise, sunset. Swiftly fly the years one season following another, laden with happiness and tears.”

Jane Ray Clements, a cherished wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away on November 6, 2025, at the age of 78 in Joplin, MO, due to complications from dementia. Born on October 1, 1947, in Kansas City, MO, Jane’s life was marked by her infectious humor, boundless generosity, and the thoughtful care she extended to everyone around her.

Jane grew up in Ft. Scott, KS, and later moved to Pittsburg, KS. She worked at Consumer’s until its closure. She continued to serve her community through retail work and home health care until her well-deserved retirement.

Family was the cornerstone of Jane’s world. She was preceded in death by her loving mother, Maxine McMichael, her grandfather who helped raise her, R.C. Smith, and her brother, Donny Tully. Her legacy lives on through her devoted husband, Terry Clements, and her four children, Ricky Clements, Rachel Hubbard, Michelle Dietz (Jerrod), and Chris Clements (fiancé Shannon). Jane’s joy was multiplied by her four grandchildren, Jessie and Casey Dietz, Addison, and Grant Clements, who will forever cherish the memories created with their beloved grandmother.

Jane’s favorite moments were those spent surrounded by her family, whether it was a quiet evening at home or a lively family gathering. Her grandchildren were the light of her life, and she never missed an opportunity to attend their school events, celebrate their achievements, or simply enjoy their company.

An animal lover at heart, Jane’s pets, Tootsie and Suzy, were her constant companions. They brought her immense comfort and happiness, especially in her later years. Jane’s love for animals was just one of the many ways she showed her gentle and caring nature.

Those who knew Jane will remember her for her quick wit and the laughter she brought to every occasion. Her generosity knew no bounds, as she was always the first to offer help or a kind word to those in need. Jane’s thoughtfulness was evident in the way she remembered birthdays, anniversaries, and important milestones, always making her loved ones feel special and valued.

As we bid farewell to Jane Ray Clements, we celebrate a life beautifully lived and a heart that deeply touched all who knew her. Her spirit, characterized by humor, generosity, and thoughtfulness, will continue to inspire and guide us. Jane’s memory will be held in the hearts of her family, friends, and all who were fortunate enough to experience her love and kindness.

There will be a memorial visitation from 5:00 until 7:00 PM Wednesday, November 12^th, at the Cheney Witt Chapel.  Memorials are suggested to the S.E.K. Humane Society 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.

Anthony “Tony” Wayne Ogle, a cherished soul known for his kind heart and unwavering spirit, passed away in his hometown of Fort Scott, Kansas, on November 4, 2025, at the age of 56. Born on February 28, 1969, to the late Burton Wayne Ogle and Daisy Ruth Duerson Ogle, Tony’s life was a testament to the values of love, dedication, and joy that he inherited from his beloved parents.

Tony was a proud graduate of Fort Scott High School, class of 1987. His pursuit of knowledge and passion for helping others led him to continue his education at Pittsburg State University, where he honed his skills and prepared for a life of service and community involvement. His professional journey was marked by his commitment to the local school district, USD 234, where he made significant contributions to the educational landscape. His work ethic and dedication also shone brightly during his time with Coke and Superior, where he was not just an employee but a friend and mentor to many.

A devoted fan of the Kansas City Chiefs and the Royals, Tony’s enthusiasm for sports was infectious. He found joy in the roar of the crowd and the thrill of the game. His love for dirt track racing and bowling also occupied much of his leisure time, where he was not just a spectator but an active participant, sharing his passion with friends and family alike.

Those who knew Tony will remember him as the embodiment of kindness. His gentle demeanor, warm smile, and ability to make anyone feel valued left a lasting impression on all who had the pleasure of crossing his path. Tony’s legacy is not merely in the roles he played or the achievements he accomplished, but in the countless lives he touched with his generous spirit and compassionate nature.

As we bid farewell to Anthony “Tony” Wayne Ogle, we celebrate a life beautifully lived and a journey completed with grace. His memory will be cherished and kept alive in the stories shared, the laughter remembered, and the profound impact he had on his community and beyond. Tony’s presence will be deeply missed, yet his spirit will continue to inspire those who were fortunate enough to know him.

Rev. Dusty Drake will conduct services at 1:00 p.m. on Wednesday, November 12^th, at the Cheney Witt Chapel. Burial will follow in Memory Gardens Cemetery, Fort Scott. Memorials are suggested to the Tony Ogle Scholarship 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 to the online guestbook at cheneywitt.com.

 Constantina Vasilasi, age 85, resident of Fort Scott, KS passed away Wednesday, November 5, 2025, at Freeman Hospital, Fort Scott.  She was born on June 10, 1940, in Romania, the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Bresler.  She graduated in Romania from Veterinary  College.  She then worked in the veterinary field until taking employment at the High School Chemistry Department.  She married Marin Vasilasi on August 24, 1958.  Constantina then began working as the bookkeeper and accountant for the family metal foundry business.  The family moved to the United States in June of 1984 and continued the family business.  They both enjoyed traveling together, especially to Colorado where the mountains reminded them of home.  Marin passed away February 16, 2014.

Survivors include her son Michael Vasilasi and wife Livia of Kansas City, MO.

Funeral services will be held at 1:00 PM Friday, November 7^th, at the Cheney Witt Chapel.  Burial will follow in the Evergreen Cemetery.  Memorials are suggested to the Constantina Vasilasi 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.

Terry Koester, age 73, passed away at his home in Fort Scott on Sunday, November 2, 2025. He was born on October 24,1952 in Iola, Kansas to Archie and Arlene Koester. Terry graduated from Fort Scott High School with the Class of 1971 and received his Masters of Microbiology from Pittsburg State University. He married Marla Stanbrough on May 24, 1975 and they recently celebrated their 50^th Anniversary. He was a member of Rinehart Christian Church.

His love of the outdoors led him to establish Redbud Farms and Nurseries, and is reflected in his landscape paintings displayed at the nursery.

Terry cherished his time with his family. Survivors include his wife, Marla, Fort Scott; two daughters: Tara (Jeff) Allen of Fort Scott and Kristen (Drew) Williams of Springfield, Missouri; five grandchildren: Alaina (Colten) Slinker, Parker Allen, Paxton Allen, Silas Williams and Jude Williams; and three sisters: Mendy (Mike) Engstrom, Laura George, and Julie Koester. He was preceded in death by his parents.

Kevin Moyers will conduct services at 10:30 a.m. on Friday, November 7^, at Rinehart Christian Church, near Richards, Missouri. Burial will follow in Evergreen Cemetery, Fort Scott. The family will receive friends from 5:00-7:00 on Thursday evening at Cheney Witt Chapel. Memorials are suggested to Rinehart Christian Church Missions 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 to the online guestbook at cheneywitt.com.