Donald Eugene Tully, affectionately known as Don to his friends and family, passed away Wednesday, October 29, 2025, in Ft. Scott, Kansas. Born on August 22, 1951, Don’s life was marked by his kindheartedness, friendly demeanor, and generous spirit. His passing leaves a void in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

Don was raised by his mother and maternal grandfather, R.C. Smith.  Don was a proud graduate of Ft. Scott High School, class of 1969.

Don’s professional life was rooted in the food industry, beginning with a position at Pizza Hut in Ft. Scott while still in high school. His entrepreneurial spirit led him to own and operate several establishments, including Spanky’s Bar & Grill and the Silver Spur both in Ft. Scott. Don’s journey took him to Dallas, Texas, where he contributed over two decades of service at Judge Roy Beans Restaurant. While in Dallas, Don took up tennis and even restrung rackets as a side job.   Eventually, he returned to Ft. Scott to own and operate the Bombay Bicycle Club and later shared his culinary talents at the Nu Grille.

Beyond his professional endeavors, Don was always ready to lend a helping hand, often putting others before himself. He enjoyed playing the guitar and sharing his passion for music by giving guitar lessons to his granddaughter during her visits to Ft. Scott.

Don’s legacy is carried on by his daughter, Valarie Ward of Broken Arrow, Oklahoma; his granddaughters, Samantha Garnecky, Kimberley Parkinson (Jacob), and Izzabella Ward; and his great-grandchildren, Freya, Daemon, Weston, and Keagan.  Also surviving is his sister, Jane Clements (Terry) of Galena, Kansas. Don was preceded in death by his parents, Tom Tully and Maxine Tully McMichaels.

Don’s life was a testament to the power of kindness, friendship, and generosity. His warm smile and willingness to help others have left a mark on the community of Ft. Scott and beyond. His departure from this world is not the end of his story, as those who loved him will continue to honor his memory through acts of kindness and the sharing of fond memories.

A celebration of Don’s life will be held at a later date.  Arrangements are under the direction of the Cheney Witt Chapel, 201 S. Main, Ft. Scott, KS 66701.  Words of remembrance may be submitted to the online guestbook at cheneywitt.com.

Doris Marie Cullor, 92, Beloved Stepmother, Grandmother, Aunt and Passionate Lifetime Educator

Doris Cullor, a beloved teacher and fierce advocate for education, passed away peacefully on October 15, 2025 at the age of 92 at Aberdeen Village Assisted Living in Olathe, Kansas.  She was born in Crocker, Missouri on April 3, 1933 to Warner Otis McDowell and Augusta Jane (Van Loon) McDowell.  Doris dedicated her life to nurturing the minds of young students, and encouraging them to embrace the joy of reading.

Doris grew up on a farm near Deerfield, Missouri, the youngest of seven children.  She attended Nevada High School and was a member of the NHS Honor Society.  She graduated second in her class and received a full five-year scholarship from the L.F. Richardson Foundation in 1950.  She attended the University of Missouri at Columbia, Missouri where she earned her Bachelor of Arts and Masters of Education degrees, followed some years later by a Specialist degree in Education from the University of Kansas at Pittsburg, Kansas.

Her remarkable teaching career spanned over six decades, mainly at Winfield Scott Elementary School in Ft Scott, KS where she taught remedial reading and inspired generations of learners to read vigorously and widely.  She sometimes repeated the humorous quote  “You don’t need to read every day, just on the days you eat.” to students at reading award assemblies.   Her faith and dedication to uplifting others through education were central to her life.  She was an active member of the Alpha Etta chapter of the Delta Kappa Gamma International Society of Women Educators.  And in the course of her teaching career she received multiple awards in recognition of her commitment to excellence in teaching.

She married Reason William “R.W.” Cullor, a Ft. Scott businessman, on November 23, 1974.  During their marriage of 20 years they enjoyed traveling the world together.   Doris enjoyed her large family and she had many friends.  She was a joyful person and was fun to be around.   She learned to decorate cakes and over the years she gifted her friends and family members with dozens of beautiful birthday and wedding cakes. She also taught cake decorating and English literacy at the Ft. Scott Community college, and decorated cakes for the Village Market bakery in Nevada.  She never wasted a minute living life to it’s fullest.

Doris was also known for her strong religious faith and her generosity, giving her time, energy and resources to many causes and charities.  She was an engaged citizen and a life long member of the Democratic party, and helped work elections.  She thought it an honor to live along the National Cemetery route.  Driving by her home, one would often see her outside mowing her grass, keeping her yard extra tidy out of respect for the cemetery and her feelings of civic duty.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Otis and “Gussie”, and her three brothers and three sisters, including many of their spouses:  Gilbert O. McDowell (and Irene), Hubert McDowell, Kathryn Hayes (and Walter), Bill McDowell (Mona, still living), Ruby “Tiny” McConnaughey (and J. R. “Buck”), and Eva Capelle (and Oscar).  Also 2 nephews, 3 nieces and a great-nephew from her siblings side.

She is also preceded in death by her step-daughter, Janet Cullor and her grandson, Ty Cullor.

She is survived by her step-son, Gary Cullor (and Sally), and grandchildren, Chandler (and Cara), Spencer (and Sarah), Courtney (and Seth Thompson), and Jordan.   Also 7 great grandchildren: Tyler Ann, Landon, Reese, Ty, Carter, Collins and Leighton.

On her parents side she is survived by 16 nieces and nephews, 29 great-nieces and nephews and 26 great-great nieces and nephews.

Doris’ legacy of enthusiasm for learning will surely live on in those lucky to have been in her classroom.  Her wish for those who will miss her is to continue to support education and encourage reading in young people.

As she did not wish for a funeral, after cremation friends and family may pay their respects and sign Doris’ guest book at the Konantz-Cheney funeral home or share memories online at  www.konantzcheney.com.

A charitable donation can be given in her name to:

-The Fort Scott Community College Doris M. Cullor scholarship fund for a future student pursuing  a career in teaching

-The Walter Jeremy Hayes scholarship fund at Nevada High School

-The Kathy Hayes Thompson scholarship fund at Bronaugh High School

-or a charity of your choice

Doris Cullor will forever be remembered for her optimistic zest for life and her strong commitment to teaching and learning.

Arleen Louise Wilson, 89, of Iola, Kansas, passed away at her home early Friday morning, October 17, 2025, surrounded by her daughters and granddaughters. She was born in Walnut, Kansas, the daughter of Wayne and Pearl Blanche Wright Geiger. She graduated from High School in Hepler, Kansas.

She married Ira E. Wilson in Kansas City, Kansas, on September 8, 1957, he preceded her in death in June of 2014. Their first date was to the American Royal Rodeo. They lived in Kansas City, Kansas for six years before moving the family to Fort Scott, then three years later, they moved to Porterville where they lived until they retired and moved to Iola, Kansas to be closer to family. She retired from the Western Insurance Company after 30 years. Their Last vacation was to Niagara Falls.

Arleen is survived by her three daughters, Connie and Carey Lockwood of Fort Scott, Debbie and Keith Phillips of Shawnee, Kansas, and Karen and Robert McKarnin of Iola, Kansas, a brother, Frank Geiger of Erie, Kansas, six grandchildren, Cody Phillips, Kimberly and Lee Pierce, Timothy and Maria Lockwood, Stacy Lockwood, Emily, Casey and Brandon McKarnin, eight greatgrandchildren, Rayce and Conner Pierce, Tyson and Addyson Lockwood, Parker and Abigail Kaifes and Emmette and Eowyn. In addition to her husband Ira, she was preceded in death by her parents, and her two sisters, Maxine Watkins and Wanda Wilson.

Graveside services will be at 11:00am, Friday, October 24, 2025 at the Rosedale Cemetery near Porterville with Pastor Dusty Drake Officiating. Memorials may be given to the Allen County Animal Rescue Foundation. Contributions may be sent to or left in the care of the Konantz-Cheney Funeral Home, 15 W. Wall St., P.O. Box 309, Fort Scott, Kansas 66701. Friends and family may sign the online guestbook and share memories at www.konantzcheney.com.

Doris Marie Cullor, 92, of Fort Scott, passed away Wednesday morning, October 15, 2025, at Aberdeen Village in Olathe, Kansas. Arrangements will be announced by the Konantz-Cheney Funeral Home.

Arlene L. Wilson, of Iola, Kansas, passed away early Friday morning, October 17, 2025. Arrangements will be announced by the Konantz-Cheney Funeral Home.

Darvin Theon Willard, known affectionately to friends and family as Theon, left this world to paint the heavens on October 11, 2025. Born on August 7, 1961, in the quaint town of Ft. Scott, Kansas, Theon brought laughter and love into our lives for a wonderful 64 years before passing away of natural causes in Warrensburg, Missouri.

Theon was the life of every party, when he walked in you knew you were rocking with the best, and even in his passing, he’d want us to celebrate with joy rather than mourn with sorrow. Raised by his loving parents, Carl and Mary Helen Willard, and his stepmother, Imogene Fewell, who preceded him in death, Theon learned the value of family from an early age. His own family, including his children, Darvin Willard Jr. and Tarrell Vann, along with their spouses Amy and Erin, and his grandchildren Jade, Silas, Hannah, Malachi, Lennox, and Levik, were the apples of his eye and the punchlines to his jokes.Theon’s siblings, Shelba Williams and Gloria Mitchell, along with their husbands Frank and Charles, and his brother Craig Young. His stepbrothers, Charles “Sonny” Fewell and Mike “Frog” Fewell, and Aunt Maryetta Willard, shared in the laughter and love that Theon spread. His life was also touched by those who left before him, including his sister Peggy, brother Vincent, grandparents Mildred and Clyde, stepsister Carol, uncles Bobby and Melvin, aunts Edith and Momma Minnie, nephew Andre, and cousins Woodrow, Regina, Wayne, and Vicki.

Theon was known for his quick wit and even quicker basketball moves. His love for the game was only matched by his passion for music, cooking, and, yes, African American soap operas. The biggest lesson he gave, you had to pay attention through all the talk about food, was to be present and thoughtful about your life and your family. If you have a dollar, hide it! Pay your bills, if you don’t have anything left, at least you can go home! He loved to sit outside with his friends and family, for hours. He loved taking his great nieces and great nephews outside and letting them run wild. His relationship with his Nieces and nephews was definitely important to him. As he passed peacefully at his second home. He made sure he made fun and loving memories with the people he loved. He knew life was short and lived his life like there was no tomorrow! Today, we say goodbye to a man who was not just the heart but also the funny bone of our family. Theon’s legacy is one of joy, love, and the kind of laughter that echoes in the hearts of those he touched. While the world might be a little less bright without his physical presence, the memories of his jokes, his cooking, and his love for life will continue to shine in all of us. Darvin Theon Willard, you were a masterpiece, and like all great artists, your work will live on forever in the gallery of our hearts. Rest in peace, dear Theon, and may the angels be ready for some good old-fashioned fun. This is not our final goodbye, this is our time to say, Hey Theon, save us a seat and a plate!

Funeral service will be held at 11:00 A.M. Friday, October 17^th at the Cheney Witt Chapel. The Family will receive friends from 10:00 A.M. until service time at the Cheney Witt Chapel  Memorials are suggested to the Darvin Willard 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.

Virginia Viel, 74, of Fort Scott, Kansas, passed away peacefully on October 12, 2025. She was born on December 22, 1950, in Hope, Arkansas, to Clinton and Bertha Lee. Virginia was known for her sharp wit, loud laugh, and even bigger heart.

She spent many years working in customer service for Lincoln National, Mass Mutual, and UniCare Insurance before later retiring from Cavalry Crossing. No matter where she was, Virginia made friends easily and never hesitated to speak her mind.

Virginia lived her faith through action, always showing up for people, offering encouragement, and loving her family fiercely. She is survived by her daughters Joetta (Brian) Reisz of Boise, Idaho, and Vanessa (Kirk) Poyner of Fort Scott, Kansas; her grandchildren, Jeron and Kenady Poyner of Fort Scott; and her siblings, Marie Knight of West Monroe, Louisiana, and Calvin Lee of Camden, Arkansas. She was preceded in death by her parents, Clinton and Bertha Lee; her brother, William Lee; and her two best friends, Linda Poyner and Karen Stewart, who were like sisters to her.

Virginia loved casino trips and competitive games of marbles with friends. She was passionately loyal to her family and happiest when surrounded by the people she loved. Whether it was a quick visit, a family gathering, or just sitting and talking, she made every moment count. Her greatest joy in life was being “Mimi” to her grandchildren, Jeron and Kenady, a role she treasured and poured her whole heart into.

Virginia’s life was full of personality, perseverance, and love. She made an impact on everyone who knew her, and the stories about her will be told for years to come.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Monday, October 20, 2025, at the Cheney Witt Chapel. Visitation will be from 5:00 PM to 6:00 PM, followed by a memorial service from 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Medicalodges of Fort Scott Activities Fund, a place where the residents and staff held a special place in her heart.

Words of remembrance may be submitted online at cheneywitt.com.

Esther Ruth Arnold, 72, of Fort Scott, passed away Saturday, October 4, 2025, at the Fort Scott Freeman Hospital. She was born in Kirksville, Missouri on August 26, 1953, the daughter of Maynard Land and Ethel Elizabeth Grogan Osborn. She married Victor Arnold on June 21, 1986, in Kirksville, Missouri, he survives of the home.

She was an L.P.N. in Kirksville, Mo. She attended K.C.C.B.S. and taught there, as well. She graduated from MidAmerica Nazarene University. In 1986 she moved to Fort Scott and taught at the Fort Scott Christian Heights School and substituted for U234. She is a member of the Parkway Church of God.

In addition to her husband, Victor, she is survived by a son, Alex Arnold of Fort Scott, a daughter Kaitlyn and Kyle Warren of Redfield, Kansas, a sister, Deborah Johnson of Lambertville, Michigan, 12 brothers & sisters-in-law, and a host of nieces and nephews, including Heidi Mykolajczyk and Katrina Christian. She was preceded in death by her parents.

Funeral services for Esther Arnold will be 10:30am, Saturday, October 11, 2025, at the Parkway Church of God, with Pastor Nathan Bryant officiating. The Family will receive friends at 10:00 am Saturday at the Church prior to the funeral. Private burial will follow.

Memorials may be made to the Fort Scott Christian Heights School 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.