Robert A. “Skip” Thomas, age 78, resident of Fort Scott, KS, passed away Thursday, March 12, 2026, the University of Kansas Hospital, Olathe KS. He was born on November 23, 1947, in Oakland, CA. the son of Frank Thomas and Esther Marzolf Thomas. He attended Walla Walla High School and graduated with the class of 1965. Skip worked as a Court Services Officer for Bourbon County for many years. He married Anita Hurst on December 7, 1969, in Dayton, Washington.

Survivors include his wife Anita of the home, his children, Shawn Thomas (Christy), Mound City, KS. Stephanie Kinsley, Baldwin City, KS., five grandchildren, Ryan Thomas (Sierra), Collin Thomas (Ella), Allie Thomas, Quentin Kinsley, and Rylee Kinsley, one great-granddaughter, Braxton Thomas. He was preceded in death by his parents.

There was cremation Father Yancey Burgess will conduct a funeral Mass at 2:00 P.M., Thursday, March 19, 2026 at the St. Mary’s Catholic Church. Burial will take place at a later date at the U.S. National Cemetery. Memorials are suggested to the American Cancer Society (Hope Lodge) 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.

Haley Dawn Merriman, age 42, passed away peacefully at her home, surrounded by family on March 11, 2026, in Fort Scott, KS.

Haley was born in Fort Scott, KS on July 18, 1983, to Don and Terri Shelton.  She was raised in the Fort Scott and Uniontown area.  Haley was best described as energetic and fun.  She was voted “most mischievous” in the 3^rd grade.  Haley always saw fun in even the smallest things.  She was given the nickname “Hula Hopper” by her dad when she was very young, due to her high energy and enthusiasm.  She was lovingly called “MacGyver, Jr.” by some family members because of her ingenuity and ability to problem solve, while others lovingly called her “Halo.”  Haley was the life of the party and could light up any event with her laughter and fun-loving spirit.  She graduated from Fort Scott High School in 2001.  She graduated from Fort Scott Community College Nursing Program in 2004.

Haley was married to her teenage sweetheart, Timothy Merriman.  Haley married Tim on March 22, 2011, in Portland, TX.  Haley and Tim also repeated their marriage vows on January 25, 2026.  Haley loved traveling with Tim and her family, exploring new places and enjoying hiking whenever possible.  She loved camping, canoeing, cookouts, and hiking.  She also became a certified scuba diver.  Haley loved trying out new recipes that she could cook for her family.  She loved animals.  She had many pets throughout her life, but she especially loved her Great Danes, Loki and Pig.

Haley was a supervisor at First Source Insurance for over 10 years.  She was employed at Kansas Renewal Institute at the time of her passing.

Survivors in the home include her husband Tim Merriman, a son, Kolton Merriman, and her daughter, Kylea Merriman.  Also surviving are her son Kaidon Shelton of Fort Scott, bonus daughter Krista Spurgeon of Salt Lake, UT, bonus son Jayce Stewart of Fort Scott, parents Don and Terri Shelton of Fort Scott, brother, Heath Shelton (Ashley) Uniontown, KS, sister Shanon Byrnes (Tony) of Melissa TX, nephews Brayden and Jacob Byrnes of Melissa, TX, Gage Shelton of Springfield, MO, Jaxon Shelton of Uniontown, KS, one niece Alyssa Shelton also of Uniontown, two grandchildren, Paxton and Parker of Salt Lake, UT, father and mother-in-law, Kenny and Liz Merriman, and brother -in-law Josh Merriman, as well as numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins.  She was preceded in death by her grandparents, Leroy and Shirley Harris, John Shelton, uncle, John Kruger, and mother-in-law Beverly Merriman.

Rev. Virgil Peck will conduct funeral services at 11:00 AM Monday, March 16^th, at Fort Scott Church of the Nazarene.  Cremation will follow.  The family will receive friends from 10:00 AM until service time Monday at the Church.  Memorials are suggested to Care to Share and may be left in care of the Cheney Witt Chapel, 201 S. Main St., Fort Scott, KS 66701.  Words of remembrance may be submitted online at cheneywitt.com.

Lytle Emory Arnold, age 80, passed away Tuesday, March 10, 2026, at his home. He was born August 6, 1945, in Leavenworth, Kansas, the son of Oscar “C.R.” Arnold and Effie Lynne Walker Arnold. He was the youngest of five children. Lytle was preceded in death by his parents, two brothers, Wendell Oliver Arnold and Joseph Lynn Arnold and a sister, Florence May Arnold White. Lytle was a kind and gentle person. He attended elementary and most of high school in Ottawa, Kansas. After graduating high school, he joined the US. Army where he served in Germany. He completed his military service as an E-5. Lytle lived in Dallas, Texas where he worked in construction. He was also a musician and played in different bands. He wrote music and loved playing his guitar.

Survivors include his sister, Rosalyn Good of Ft. Scott, Kansas, nephews, Eric Avery of Albutuch, North Carolina, Brent Avery of Bastrop, Texas and Tab White of Ottawa, Kansas and a niece, Michelle White of Little Elm, Texas.

Graveside services will be held at 12:30 P.M. Friday, March 13th at the U. S. National Cemetery. Family and friends may meet on Friday at the Cheney Witt Chapel from 11:30 A.M. until leaving for the cemetery. Memorials are suggested to the Medicalodge Activity 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.

PATRICIA  ANN  PRICE

Patricia Ann (Mudd) Price, 94, of Fort Scott passed away Saturday, March 7, 2026, at the Creedo Senior Living Center in Fort Scott. She was born in Fort Scott, the daughter of Burton J. and Eunice Louise Shelton Allen. She graduated with the Class of 1949 from Fort Scott High School. She married Carl A. Price on August 26, 1951, in Fort Scott, Kansas, He preceded her in death on September 2, 2006.

She served as Clerk for the Probate and Juvenile Bourbon County Judge for 12 years, and she served as Head Teller for Citizens National Bank for 22 years, retiring on July 1, 1999. She and Carl enjoyed Square Dancing with the Iza Stompers Square Dance Club of Fort Scott for many years. She was a member of the Community Christian Church.

Pat is survived by her daughter, Amy Ann Bass of Joplin, Missouri, a son, Randy Lee Price of Deerwood, Minnesota, six grandchildren, eleven great-grandchildren, and one great great-grandchild. In addition to her husband, Carl, Pat was preceded in death by an infant daughter, Mary Beth Price, a son, Terry Allen Price, a daughter-in-law, Melissa Price, and a granddaughter, Megan (Price) Werner.

Pastor Tim Woodring will officiate funeral service for Pat on Wednesday, March 11, 2026, at the Konantz-Cheney Funeral Home. The Family will receive friends from 1:00 pm Wednesday until 2:00 pm. The funeral will begin at 2:00 pm Wednesday. Private burial will be in the Memory Gardens of Bourbon County Cemetery.

The family suggests memorial contributions to the Multiple Sclerosis Society, donations may be left in the care of the Konantz-Cheney Funeral Home, 15 West Wall Street, P.O. Box 309, Fort Scott, Kansas 66701.  Friends and family may sign the online guest book and share memories at www.konantzcheney.com.

Dr. George Phillip Barker, PhD, affectionately known as Phil to his friends and family, passed away peacefully on March 2, 2026, in Ft. Scott, Kansas. Born on April 3, 1941, in Atlanta, Georgia, Phil’s journey through life was marked by his insatiable curiosity, his love for learning, and his dedication to sharing his knowledge with others.

Phil was predeceased by his mother, Nellie Mae Latham, his father, George Scott Barker, and his step-father, Clarence Cullen Wofford. He leaves behind his beloved wife, Janice, his cherished step-children, and adored step-grandchildren, who will forever remember his gentle guidance and unwavering support.

Phil’s academic journey began at Tulane University in New Orleans, where he received his Bachelor of Science in 1963. His passion for mathematics led him to the University of Wisconsin, where he earned a Master of Science in Mathematics in 1964, and later, a Doctor of Philosophy in 1969. His pursuit of excellence in mathematics was recognized by his induction as a charter member of the Pi Mu Epsilon Fraternity Louisiana Gamma and his association with the Sigma Xi Wisconsin Chapter in 1969.

For over three decades, Dr. Barker served as a professor at the University of Missouri UMKC, where he inspired countless students with his love for mathematics. His commitment to education was paralleled by his sense of civic duty, as he also served the community as a reserve officer for the Miami County Kansas Sheriff’s Department in Paola.

Phil’s interests extended far beyond the classroom. He was an avid traveler, embarking on educational trips to China, Turkey, Ireland, Germany, and Mexico, where he visited his graduate students and participated in mathematics conferences. His intellectual pursuits were complemented by his passion for history and his role as a registered gun collector, a hobby that allowed him to connect with fellow enthusiasts and preserve pieces of history.

Those who knew Phil would describe him as loving, kind, and intelligent—a man who approached every situation with a warm heart and a sharp mind. His legacy is one of dedication to his family, his students, and his community.

Dr. Barker’s life was a tapestry woven with the threads of academia, service, and personal interests, creating a rich and vibrant legacy. He will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him, yet his spirit will continue to inspire those who walk the path he once did.

Phil’s life story is a testament to the impact one individual can have on the lives of many. His memory will be cherished and his contributions to the world of mathematics and to the hearts of his loved ones will endure. Dr. George Phillip Barker’s life was a beacon of knowledge and kindness, illuminating the way for future generations. Rest in peace, Phil, knowing that your journey was meaningful, your presence valued, and your memory everlasting.

At Phil’s request, there was cremation and no formal services will be held at this time.  Arrangements were under the direction of the Cheney Witt Chapel, 201 S. Main, Ft. Scott, Kansas.

Richard Lee Cook, passed away peacefully at home on March 3, 2026, in Fort Scott, KS, at the age of 75. Born on September 14, 1950, in Parsons, KS, Richard was a man whose life was marked by gentle wisdom, love, and creativity.

Richard is survived by his wife of 46 years, Linda Cook, and their children: Tara & Jody Summers, Rita & Clay Wheeler, Joshua & Carrie Cook, and Paul Cook. His legacy as a loving Papa continues through his grandchildren: Gwen, Atticus, Tierza, and Adeline Summers; Ainsley, Zadie, and Rory Wheeler; and Abigail and Ethan Cook.  He is also survived by his sisters, Barbara Alloway and Susan Edwards. He was proceeded in death by his parents Paul and Mary Cook.

Richard graduated from Labette County High School before furthering his education at Northeastern Oklahoma A&M College and Kansas State University. He spent over 30 years farming his family land alongside his father. He also spent his younger years raising and judging prize-winning hogs with pride and dedication. Richard’s commitment to hard work was evident through his 35 years of service with the City of Fort Scott.

Richard enjoyed the simple pleasures in life such as gardening, his John Deere tractor, expressing his craft and creativity through woodworking, and spending time with his beloved family.

Richard will be remembered as a gentle, wise, and loving man.  His guidance and quiet wisdom was sought by many, and his counsel was always given with kindness and thoughtfulness. His personal faith shaped who he was and how he loved.

As we bid farewell to Richard, we celebrate a life well lived. His memory, humor, love and wisdom will carry on in the lives he touched. Richard’s journey on this earth has been completed, but his spirit and presence will live on with those he loved.

Pastor Matthew Hunt will conduct funeral services at 11:30 AM Saturday, March 7th, at the Cheney Witt Chapel, 201 S. Main St., Ft. Scott, Kansas Burial will follow in the Oak Grove Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 10:30 until service time at the funeral home. Words of remembrance may be submitted to the online guestbook at cheneywitt.com

Jan (Janice when she was in trouble) Elliott, 70, passed away Tuesday, February 24, 2026, at home with family by her side. She was born in August of 1955 to Charles and Virginia (Christner) Urano in Greeley, Colorado. Jan graduated from University High School in Greeley and attended Aims Community College.

In July of 1981 Jan married Dave Elliott and they raised one son, Steven. In 1993 the family moved to Ft. Scott, Kansas from Greeley. Jan worked as a paraeducator for USD234 schools for 24 years and became quite skilled in assisting students with autism to be successful. All of the students she touched, either at school or at the Keyhole Youth Center, knew that while she wouldn’t put up with much nonsense, she truly loved them and wanted to help them be the best they could be.

Jan retired in 2017 and enjoyed collecting, repainting and repairing Breyer horses. She staged these models in dioramas and successfully competed in photo competitions. She was an avid writer, creating many wonderful stories. She also enjoyed attending card making classes and sending the cards to family and friends. Throughout her life, Jan loved pets and the house was always full of critters, often to Dave’s dismay. One of her favorite pastimes was fishing and the family enjoyed many such outings with the boat.

Jan was well known for folding paper cranes for friends or family who were ill. Following Japanese tradition, she would fold and send 1000 paper cranes to each person as a wish and prayer for good health. She estimated that she folded easily over 10,000 paper cranes for others.

Jan is survived by her husband, Dave, of the home and their son Steven, daughter-in-law Nicole, and grandson Charlie, all of Ft. Scott. She is also survived by a brother, Ron Urano, of O’Fallon Illinois, and many friends who were very much part of the family. She was preceded in death by her parents, Charles Y. and Virginia Christner Urano and a brother, David Urano.

Nancy Ann Stewart, 79, of Fort Scott, went to be with the Lord on February 22, 2026.

Nancy was born in Southbridge, Massachusetts to Lillian and Bjame Haugland, and grew up and went to school in San Diego, California.

She married Chuck Stewart, December 3, 1964, while he was in the Navy in San Diego. Before their marriage she wrote to his parents conveying that she was “taking good care of their son and not to worry”.

Upon discharge from the Navy, they moved to Kansas.

Nancy was a graduate of Madison High School in San Diego and attended Fort Scott Community College while tutoring her husband in College Algebra.

They are the proud parents of three sons: Charles Jr., Michael, and Len, five grandchildren: Tracy, Katie, Bobby, Mary, and Johnny, and 2 great grandchildren: Henry and Simon.

She was a stay- at-home mom making sure her children had the very best in care in their younger years. Since she loved to work with children, she bought a preschool in Eldorado, KS having 62 young students. Later, she accepted a position as Children’s Director at First Baptist Church in Fort Scott.

Nancy was a very intelligent person and gifted in crafts and interior decorating. She loved her old Victorian House and held open house about every year displaying many of her homemade crafts and sewings.

She was a very loving person and loved to be around people. She loved the lord and expressed that through holding a weekly bible study in her home.

Nancy was preceded in death by their son, Len, who was in an automobile accident at the age of 20.

She will be cremated and family will privately gather in El Dorado, Ks to place her ashes at Len’s gravesite.

She will be SO MISSED by her husband who lovingly took care of her for the last 12 years of her life while she was suffering from Frontal Temporal Dementia.

Arrangements are under the direction of the Cheney Witt Chapel, 201 S. Main.

There will be no funeral.

MARILYN MATTHEWS GILMORE

Marilyn M. Gilmore, 74, formerly of Garnett, Kansas, passed away at her home in Fort Scott, Kansas on February 20, 2026. She was born in Detroit, Michigan on March 26, 1951, the daughter of Arthur Ray and Alice Maissa Matthews. She married Arthur Earl Gilmore on May 27, 1989, in Sacramento, California, he preceded her in death in 2018.

Marilyn was a nurse for many years and served in the United States Air Force for 3 years.

She is survived by three daughters, Tanya Lowe of Fort Scott, Kansas, Pamela McSwane of Gardner, Kansas, and Robin Gilmore of Chico California, a son, David Gilmore of Ash Flat, Arkansas, a brother, Robert Matthews of Fort Scott, Kansas, 13 grandchildren, Kaycee, Cooper, Matthew Mullin Jr., Mitch McSwane, Mike McSwane, Marcus McSwane, Bryan Gilmore, Aaron Gilmore, Jocelyn Wells, Shawn DuChene, Erin DuChene, Kelly DuChene, Ronnie Camilari, and Jamie DuChene, great granddaughters, Rakelle and Kaiden Brown, as well as many other great and great-great grandchildren.

In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by her parents.

Services and burial will be in California at a later date.

Richard Eugene “Richie” Clarkson, age 74, passed away Thursday, February 19, 2026, at his home surrounded by family. Richie was born August 4, 1951, in Ft. Scott, Kansas, the son of Richard Junior “Blackie” Clarkson and Betty Mae “Peggy” Brown Clarkson. He was their only child. Richie graduated from Northeast High School in Arma, Kansas with the Class of 1969. After high school, Richie played basketball for Labette County Community College. Richie worked many years for Midwestern and for B & D trucking before becoming self-employed as a contract mail carrier for thirty-eight years for the United States Postal Service. In addition to hauling mail, he also worked part-time with his dad where he operated heavy equipment and did dirt work. In June of 1990, Richie married the love of his life, Ann; together, they shared a home filled with love, laughter, family, and memories. Richie enjoyed sports; he played recreational basketball, fast pitch for the Shepherd Team Auto Plaza team and also played many years of slow pitch softball. Later, he loved cheering on his grandkids at their various sporting events. Richie enjoyed attending gun shows, going to the races and mowing his yard. He also had a deep love for music and never passed up a sweet treat or breakfast food. He was an animal lover and was especially fond of his beloved pets. Richie was a devoted husband, father, grandfather and friend. He had many interests, but nothing meant more to him than time spent with his family. His presence, humor and love will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

Survivors include his wife, Ann, of the home; three daughters, Tricia Daniels (Darrell) of Overland Park, Kansas, Bryna Boldra (Jeremy) of El Dorado, Kansas and Tiffani Agee (Jason) of Nevada, Missouri; four grandchildren, Landon and Keenan Boldra, Anlee Daniels and Lynlee Agee. He was preceded in death by his parents, Blackie and Peggy Clarkson and his in-laws, Ellsworth and Betty Heckadon.

Following cremation, a celebration of life service will be held at 5:00 P.M. Friday, February 27th at the Cheney Witt Chapel. Visitation will follow the service until 7:00 P.M. 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.