Category Archives: Obituary

Obituary of Lenita “Lyn” Ellen Pulliam

Lenita “Lyn” Ellen Pulliam, 81, of Fort Scott, Kansas, passed away at home on Saturday, June 13, 2026. She was born on November 19, 1944, to Sergeant Benjamin Earl Pulliam, and Cora Alice and Alvin Vernon Tucker.

After attending Fort Scott High School, Lyn worked at various companies over the years, having spent much of her career at Frito Lay in Dallas, Texas, and Tulsa, Oklahoma, and later returning to Fort Scott and retiring from the State of Kansas Social and Rehabilitation Services Office.

Lyn was a devoted Christian who often found strength in the pages of her Bible. She loved spending time with her family and friends, and was usually full of long talks, loud laughs, and occasional tears. Going to the movies, reading a good book, and margaritas by the pool, were some of her favorite pastimes. Most importantly, her grandchildren and great-grandchildren were the center of her world and her greatest joy in life. The love, laughter, and endless support she shared with them, will remain her lasting legacy.

Lyn is survived by her daughters, Toni (Rusty) Felt, Lisa (Brent) Neubauer, and Cheryl (Dale) Gates; grandchildren, Jerod (Tracie) Felt, Jordan (Kory) Harding, Nathan Uttinger, Trenton (Jacie) Uttinger, Colton Manley, and Grayson Manley; great-grandchildren, Brady Felt, Karrington Harding, Karoline Harding, Ryan Austin, Mason Uttinger, Tucker Felt, and Adalyn Uttinger; siblings, Sharon Dean, Verna (Phil) Sibona, Frank (Melanie) Tucker, Cindy Breese, and Khris (Jeff) Simpson.

Lyn was preceded in death by her son, Jeffery Dean Uttinger; parents, Earl Pulliam, and Alice and Alvin Tucker; sister, Vivian Tucker.

There was cremation.  Rev. Leon Weece from Miami, Oklahoma, will conduct a memorial service at 10:30am on Thursday, June 18th at Cheney Witt Chapel.  Private burial will take place at the Deerfield Cemetery.  Memorials are suggested to the Scott View Apartments (Highrise) 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.

Obituary of Joyce Ann (Cox) Findley

Joyce Ann (Cox) Findley, 73, of Fort Scott, Kansas, passed away peacefully surrounded by her children. Born on August 3, 1952, in Deerfield, Missouri, she was the daughter of Elmer and Arta Mae Cox and grew up alongside her six siblings: Lonni, Jerry, Marilyn, Karen, Forrest, and Patsy.

Joyce was known for her kind heart, caring nature, and beautiful smile. She married Floyd Findley in August of 1980 in Miami, Oklahoma, and together they built a loving family. Joyce devoted her life to being a homemaker and caring for those she loved most. She was a proud mother to Jason, Melanie, and Kenneth, and grandmother to Bailey, Tyler, Megan, and Phoenix. One of her greatest joys in recent years was having all of her children back home living in Fort Scott.
Joyce was preceded in death by her husband, Floyd Findley, in 2015. She will be remembered for her gentle spirit, her ever-present smile, and the chocolate chip cookies that brought everyone to her kitchen table. Her kindness, will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.
Konantz-Cheney Funeral Home has charge of the arrangements.

Obituary of Michael Wayne Meanor

Michael Wayne Meanor, 49, passed away on Sunday, June 7, 2026 at the Freeman West Hospital in Joplin, Missouri.

Mike was born January 16, 1977, in Niskayuna, New York, to Linda Lee DeLapp Meanor and Martin Wayne Meanor. The family later moved to the Uniontown, Kansas, area where he grew up and graduated from Uniontown High School with the Class of 1996.

On July 30, 1999, Mike married April Dawn Peck, in Fort Scott, Kansas. Together they raised their two children, Bryce and Marissa.

Following high school, Mike attended Butler County Community College, where he earned a degree in Fire Science. He served his community as a firefighter in the Wichita area and later with the Fort Scott Fire Department. Throughout his working years, he was employed by Bourbon County, Dayco, and Mid-Continental Restoration. However, the work he loved most was farming. Mike found great satisfaction working as a farm hand for both G3 and Cloverdale Farms, where he enjoyed being outdoors and caring for the land and livestock.

Obituary of Daren Ted Lloyd

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Daren Ted Lloyd, 62, of Fort Scott, passed away Monday, May 25, 2026. He was born in October of 1963 in Phoenix, Arizona, the son of Janice “Jeri” Rae Vannasdale and Carl Edward Lloyd.

Throughout his life, Daren worked as a cowboy, restaurant entrepreneur, contractor, and a truck driver, taking pride in the hard work and dedication each role required. He also proudly served his country as a member of the United States Air Force Reserve.
Daren spent his early years in Arizona, where he developed a love for rebuilding dirt bikes and dune buggies and riding them through the desert with his family. As a teenager, he moved with his family to Southeast Kansas, where he embraced the outdoors; coon hunting, camping, and training and riding horses.

While in high school, Daren met the love of his life, Diane. Their love story became the foundation of a life filled with laughter, adventure, and devotion. Together they enjoyed traveling in his beloved Pontiac Firebird, simply hopping in and hitting the open road. They married in 1985 and built a home centered on love, family, and being together always.

Daren’s greatest joy in life was his family. He deeply loved his four children and cherished every moment of watching them grow into the people they became. He took great pride in being an active part of their lives—whether coaching their teams, bowling alongside them, riding horses, or simply spending time together creating memories that would last a lifetime.

His heart grew even fuller with the arrival of his six grandchildren, who brought endless happiness and laughter into his life. Daren treasured every adventure shared with them, from hunting and fishing trips to camping, family vacations, pumpkin patch outings, and afternoons spent target shooting. He loved teaching them new things, sharing his love of the outdoors, and passing down lessons, traditions, and memories they will carry with them forever. His family was the center of his world, and the love he gave them will never be forgotten.

Survived by his wife, Diane, of the home; his four children, Danielle Minor and Jeremiah Dawson of Bronson, Kansas, Devan Lloyd and Abel Davis of Ft. Scott, Marissa Gonzales and fiancé Adam Ehler of Lenexa, Kansas and Dylan Lloyd and Charity Brower of Ft. Scott; six grandchildren, Hunter and Lane Minor and Cash, Aria, Charlee and Aurora Davis.  His two brothers, Doug Lloyd and Jason and Rhonda Lloyd; three sisters, Dawn Lloyd, Barbara and Dieter Maissch, and Carla and Jay Ewing.  Daren is also survived by an uncle, Merle and Brenda Lloyd and his mother-in-law, Marjorie Schwalm.  Daren was preceded in death by his parents, his brother, Derek Lloyd, his father-in-law, Ross Schwalm and his brother-in-law, Wayne Schwalm.

The Memorial Service will be held at 3:00 P.M. Sunday, June 7th at the Cheney Witt Chapel.  The family will receive friends from 2:00 P.M. until service time at the chapel. Following the service the family will host a Celebration of Life at the River Room, 3 West Oak St. Ste B, Fort Scott, Kansas. 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, KSS 66701.  Words of remembrance may be submitted to the online guestbook at cheneywitt.com.

Celebration of Life For Don Tully is June 7

Donald Eugene Tully, affectionately known as Don to his friends and family, passed away on 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.

Don was preceded in death by his parents, Tom Tully and Maxine Tully McMichaels, and his sister Jane Clements.

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  Brickstreet BBQ Restaurant, at 3 W. Oak Street on June 7, 2026 at 2 p.m.

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.

Obituary of Harley Louis Fuhrman

Harley Louis Fuhrman, age 86, a resident of Bronson, Kansas, left his earthly home to join the Lord on Sunday, May 24, 2026, with his loved ones by his side.  Harley was born to G. Leslie “Pete” Fuhrman and Bertha (Perry) Fuhrman on November 26, 1939, in Bronson.  Harley attended the Dry Ridge one room schoolhouse for his primary education and then attended high school at Blue Mound, Kansas, where he graduated with the Class of 1958.  Harley attended Ft. Scott Community College where he played both basketball and football, graduating in 1961.  Harley enlisted with the United States Army in 1962 and was honorably discharged in 1964. Harley spent his entire life as a farmer and rancher, in partnership with his brother until 1978, then he and Beverly ventured out on their own.  Harley enjoyed bowling for over forty years.  He bowled in men’s leagues, mixed leagues and bowled in many tournaments.  His men’s team won the Kansas State Bowling Tournament in 1977.   Throughout his life, he enjoyed working with his hands, not only on the farm, but as a master wood craftsman.  Harley made each of his grandchildren a bed and toy chest.  He was diverse in his ability, making china hutches, entertainment centers, beds, dressers and corner cabinets for family members.  He also assisted in adding the annex onto the Bronson United Methodist Church.  Harley enjoyed camping and going on vacation with his children and other family members.  He also enjoyed other travels with his family to Alaska, Italy and most recently a cruise to the Caribbean.  Harley served as a board member for several organizations such as USD #235 School Board, Moran Coop and Farm Bureau.  He was also an ACCO Seed and Vigortone dealer.  Harley married Beverly Jo Bacon on June 19, 1966, in Bronson, Kansas.  This union was blessed with two children, Christine M. and W. Kenneth.

Harley was preceded in death by his parents, brothers, Leroy Fuhrman and wife, Luella and Duane Fuhrman and wife, Deanna and a sister, Helen Rife, and husband, Sam.  Harley is survived by his loyal wife, Beverly of fifty-nine years, his daughter Christine M. Hanna and husband, Aric and his son, W. Kenneth Fuhrman and wife, Sue.  Also surviving are grandchildren, Haylee J. Hanna and husband, Nick Watson, Brody B. Hanna and wife, Karli, Chance W. Fuhrman and Alexa Fuhrman and a great-grandson, Asher A. Watson and numerous nieces and nephews.

Pastor Tracy Smith will conduct funeral services at 10:30 A.M. Thursday, May 28th at the Bronson United Methodist Church.  Burial with military honors will follow in the Bronson Cemetery.  The family will receive friends from 5 to 7 P.M. Wednesday at the Bronson United Methodist Church.  Memorials are suggested to the Bronson United Methodist 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.

Obituary of Dale Rodney “Butch” Schilling

Dale Rodney “Butch” Schilling passed away peacefully at his home in Fort Scott, Kansas on May 19th, 2026. He was born September 12, 1946 in Fort Scott, Kansas to Orville Fredrick and Emma Lavon Schilling. He graduated from Fort Scott High School in 1965 and married the love of his life, Donna Sue Carpenter, in March of 1966. They welcomed their son, Travis Dale Schilling, in 1968. Dale’s favorite nickname became “Papa” in 1997. He was blessed with another granddaughter in 2004, then became “Papa Dale” when his first great-grandson was born in 2023.

Dale spent his life playing any sport he could. His early years were full of baseball, then he graduated to fast pitch softball, but he spent the majority of his years on the golf course. He was an avid fisherman throughout his entire life, and spent many, many weekends on Tablerock Lake with friends and family. Dale was the family historian, and has quite the collection of Schilling and Fort Scott history. His many photo albums, filing cabinets, and VHS tapes document a vibrant life well lived, surrounded by those he loved. He was a master storyteller. He enjoyed spending time with his many friends, supporting his granddaughters in anything they put their minds to, and looking through his many photos.
Dale and Donna shared the same home together in Fort Scott for 56 years, where many friends and family gathered over the years. Dale knew that true riches were found in friendships, and that man knew he was rich. “The Garage” always had at least one visitor. He became the “Neighborhood Guardian” or “Neighborhood Grandpa” to many neighbors. Dale worked for Kansas Gas Company/One Oak for 35 years. He loved working for Kansas Gas Company, and has about 74 company hats to prove it. After retiring, he spent many summer weekends in Branson with his wife, son, daughter-in-law, and granddaughters.

“Papa Dale” leaves behind a legacy of generosity, kindness, hospitality, and humor. Survivors include a son, Travis Schilling and daughter-in-law, Tina of Ft. Scott; two granddaughters, Taylor Qualls and Tabitha Schilling, a grandson-in-law, Levi Qualls and his two great-grandsons, Kalister and Olivander Qualls. Also surviving are nephew Fred Stoughton and wife Diana of Fort Scott, a brother-in-law, Bill Carpenter and wife Diana of Ft. Scott, and a nephew, Doug Carpenter of Louisburg, Kansas. Dale was preceded in death by his parents, sister, a nephew, and his wife, Donna Sue Schilling.
There was cremation.  Graveside services will be held at 11:00 AM Tuesday, May 26th, at the Evergreen Cemetery.    Memorials are suggested to Harry Hynes Hospice and may be sent to the 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 Marilyn Darlene Fluty

Marilyn Darlene Fluty, age 90, passed away on May 15, 2026, following a brief stay in convalescent care. Marilyn was born to Howard and Doris Jones on January 1st, 1936, in Fort Scott, KS. While attending Fort Scott High School, she met the love of her life, Delbert Fluty. Marilyn and Delbert were married in Fort Scott on October 27, 1953, while Delbert was serving in the United States Army. They subsequently shared nearly seventy years of beautiful marriage. The love and devotion they demonstrated toward one another was a true inspiration to those who had the good fortune of seeing their unwavering commitment to God, their family, and their church.

Marilyn accepted Jesus Christ as her personal Savior as a young girl. She was a steadfast believer throughout the course of her life, fiercely honoring the message of the Gospel. Having a true servant spirit, Marilyn served the Lord she loved at every opportunity afforded to her. One of her greatest blessings was teaching the Overland Park Baptist four-and-five-year-old Sunday School class for more than half a century. Marilyn is fondly cherished by the hundreds of children with whom she tenderly shared the message of Christ.

Marilyn was a remarkable model of a genuinely selfless and Godly mother to her sons, Steven and Phillip. She was a mother of example, gently and compassionately showing her sons the path to becoming honorable men. She is boundlessly loved and admired beyond measure.

Marilyn was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, Delbert Fluty, her brother, Larry Jones, and countless cousins and cherished friends. Marilyn is survived by her sons, Steven and Phillip, her sister-in-law, Leah Jones, her nephew, Matthew Jones, her dear and lifelong friend, Ellen Geneva, and a large contingent of cousins. In the wake of her life, Marilyn leaves us with a humble legacy of unbridled sacrifice and the joy of kindness without expectation.

Pastor Tracy Roby will conduct funeral services at 11:00 AM Thursday, May 21st, at the Overland Park Baptist Church, Overland Park, KS. The family will receive friends from 10:00 AM Thursday until service time at the church. Graveside services will be held at 11:00 Friday, May 22nd, at the U. S. National Cemetery, Fort Scott, KS. Memorials are suggested to the Overland Park Baptist Missions Program 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 Valerie June Canon

Valerie June Canon, age 71, resident of Fort Scott, KS, passed away Monday, May 11, 2026, at her home. She was born March 27, 1955, in Albuquerque, NM, the daughter of Clay and Carolyn K. Kepley Canon. Upon moving to Fort Scott from New Mexico, Valerie worked as a bartender at the Fort Scott Country Club and later the Silver Spur. She then worked in health care for area nursing homes. Valerie’s many interests included bingo, fishing, arts and crafts, and home décor. She was a great cook, specializing in New Mexican cuisine. Her true love was spending time with her grandchildren. Valerie had a caring heart, always having an open door for anyone in need.

Survivors include 3 children, Diane Renee Canon, Bonner Springs, KS, Ramon Martinez (Natasha) Fort Scott, KS, and Jason Martinez (Quatisha) Fort Scott, KS; 10 grandchildren, Breonna (Dashaun), Ronal, Antwaun (Vanessa), Deandre (Katherine), Angel, Leiya, Andrew, Jacob, Isabella, and Olivia; 7 great grandchildren; one great-great granddaughter; and numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by a young brother, Clay Canon, Jr., a sister Fredina Gonzales and her husband David Gonzales; and her parents.

There was cremation. Private family services will take place at a later date. Memorials are suggested to the Valerie Canon 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 Terry Don Hahnfeld

Terry Don Hahnfeld, age 80, resident of Bronaugh, MO, passed away Thursday, May 7, 2026, at the Moore-Few Care Center in Nevada, MO. He was born November 16, 1945, in Waco, TX, the son of William and Mildred Power Hahnfeld. Terry graduated from Independence, MO high school. He served in the Army then in the Missouri National Guard for a total of 34 years of service. In his spare time, he collected vintage tractors and later progressed into classic hot rods. Terry enjoyed buying, showing and selling hot rods, owning over 30 at various times. He loved spending time with his grandchildren.

Survivors include his wife Jean of the home; 4 children, Dawn Hahnfeld (Milan) Independence, MO, Michele Rusk (Phil) Stover, MO, Kolbe Starne (Abby) Bronaugh, MO, and Nathan Starne, Lamar, MO; 7 grandchildren, Samantha Terrell, Cody Hanes, Aaron Hanes, Arin Starne, Brant Starne Ethan Starne, and Brody Starne; 7 great grandchildren; and a sister, Cheryl Hahnfeld, Colorado Springs, CO. He was preceded in death by a sister, Sandra England, and his parents.

Graveside services will be held at 11:00 AM Tuesday, May 12th, at the U. S. National Cemetery, Fort Scott, KS. The family will receive friends from 10:00 until leaving for the cemetery at the Cheney Witt Chapel. Memorials are suggested to Wreaths Across America 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 Mary Louise Wilson

Mary Louise Wilson, age 99, a lifelong resident of the Bronson Community, passed away at Heartland Meadows Assisted Living on May 5, 2026, in Iola, Kansas.

She was born November 2, 1926, at the family farm home north of Bronson, the daughter of John C. Camac and Lula Ermel Camac.
After attending a one-room grade school, she graduated from Bronson High School in 1944. She began attending summer school at Fort Scott Junior College and Pittsburg State Teachers College to receive a World War II emergency school teaching certificate. She taught school in a one-room schoolhouse for five years.

On November 28, 1946, Mary Louise married Loyd E. (Gene) Wilson after his return from service in the army.  They were blessed with two children, Peggy Lou and Jack Eugene. Gene and Mary lived on the same farm where Gene was born for 65 years. Gene passed away in Iola, Kansas, on May 28, 2011.

Mary Louise became a homemaker on the farm and later worked 19 years for the Western Insurance Company in Fort Scott, Kansas. She had been an active member of the Bronson Methodist Church, the Bronson Order of the Eastern Star, and various other clubs and organizations of the Bronson Community. She was always supportive of her children’s school and community activities. Mary Louise enjoyed sewing and cooking, and was happiest when entertaining or helping her family and friends. She enjoyed playing cards and Sudoku. She and Gene enjoyed square dancing.

Survivors include the children, Peggy L. Clark (Robert) of Fort Collins, Colorado, and Jack E. Wilson (Norma) of Bronson. One grandson, Jerod Wilson Clark ( Sarah) of Chicago, Illinois. Three step-grandchildren, Amy Utley ( Curtis) of Iola, Kansas, Lynda Krouse, and Tom Davis ( Melissa ), both of Illinois. Seven step-great-grandchildren and four step-great-great-grandchildren, all of Illinois. She was preceded in death by her husband, parents, brother Bud Camac (Betty), and sister, Julia Ann Rhoton (C.W. – Bill) Rhoton.
Following cremation, a private family graveside service and burial will take place at the Bronson cemetery.

Obituary of Joan Lauretta Cox

Joan Lauretta Cox, 89, of Fort Scott passed away Sunday, May 3, 2026, at the Hillside Guest Home. She was born on June 22, 1936, in Fulton, Kansas, the daughter of Floyd Leo and Edna W. Golden Cox. She graduated from Fulton High School. And worked as a Self-employed Housekeeper.

She was a member of the First United Methodist Church in Fort Scott, The Olive Chapter #13 Order of the Eastern Star and had been a member of the Fidelis Deo White Shrine #6. She loved to play the piano.

Graveside services will be at 1:00pm Friday, May 8, 2026 at the West Liberty Cemetery with Pastor Christopher Eshelman officiating.

Memorials for Joan Cox will be to the Feeding Families program at the First United Methodist Church and may be sent to, or left in the care of the Konantz-Cheney Funeral Home, P.O. Box 309, 15 W. Wall Street, Fort Scott, Kansas   66701.