William Leslie Ross, age 96, a resident of Ft. Scott, Kansas, passed away Tuesday, July 29, 2025, at his home. He was born October 25, 1928, in Warrensburg, Missouri, the son of John F. Ross and Goldie Andrews Ross. Bill married Harriet Ann Jamieson on May 14, 1955. He had worked for many years as an air traffic control specialist for the Federal Aviation Administration. While working for the FAA, the Ross family made their home in Milwaukee, Nashville and Wichita as well as Puerto Rico and Panama. Following retirement, they moved to Ocala, Florida where they resided at On Top of the World retirement community. Bill enjoyed playing tennis and traveling. They later relocated to Ft. Scott to be near family.

Survivors include a son, Mike Ross (Mimi) of Ft. Scott, two grandchildren, Krista Park (Matt) and Luke Ross and four great-grandchildren, Jovie, Kenley, Noble and Kansas Park. Also surviving is a daughter-in-law, Willow Ross of Wichita, Kansas. Bill was preceded in death by his wife, Harriet, on May 16, 2023. He was also preceded in death by his son, Steven Ross, two sisters, Laverne McNamara and Winnie Danaldson and four brothers, Gene, Jack, L.T., Ralph and Bob Ross.

There was cremation. Burial will take place at a later date in the Liberty Cemetery, Warrensburg, Missouri. Arrangements are under the direction of Cheney Witt Chapel 201 S. Main, Ft. Scott, KS 66701. Words of remembrance may be submitted to the online guestbook at cheneywitt.com.

Nicholas R. Payne, age 34, passed away July 4, 2025.  A memorial service will be held at 3:00 P.M. Saturday, August 2nd at the Pittsburg Adventist Church, 430 E. 21st St., Pittsburg, Kansas.  Private burial will take place at a later date in the Clarksburg Cemetery near Garland, Kansas.  Memorials are suggested to the Nicholas Payne Memorial Fund and may be left in care of the Cheney Witt Chapel, 201 S. Main, P.O. Box 347, Ft. Scott, KS 66701.

Julie Ann Elbrader, 79, passed away tragically on July 8, 2025, in a fire at her lifelong home. She was born on July 7, 1946, to Levi Albert Thompson and Elnora Josephine (Lewis) Thompson. Julie was the second youngest of six siblings, all of whom have passed away: Mary, Marjorie, George, Doug, and Levi. On August 14, 1964, Julie married Robert Elbrader, who preceded her in death after 60 years of marriage.

Julie’s life was marked by selflessness and quiet strength. She opened her heart and home to those in need, especially children, and was a steady and loving presence. Julie was an unofficial historian, the keeper of her family’s stories, memories, and photographs. Her gentle spirit, unwavering generosity, and deep love for her family leave a lasting legacy.

A devoted mother of five, Julie is survived by her children Ricky (Archie) Thompson of Colorado Springs, CO; Marty (Dena) Thompson of Ft. Scott, KS; Ambrosia (James Greene) Shapiro of Richmond, CA; Tara (Jason) Peters of Puyallup, WA; and Jessica (Matt Bower) Shapiro of Iola, KS. She is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews, including Natasha Thompson of Fort Scott, KS and great-great niece Claire Bower, of the home.

Following cremation, graveside services will take place at 1:30 p.m. on Friday, August 1, 2025, at the Fort Scott National Cemetery under the direction of the Konantz-Cheney Funeral Home. Memorial contributions may be made to the Clair Bower fund 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.

Peggy Ann Lowry “Hill”, walked through the gates of Heaven on Monday, July 28^th, 2025.  Peggy was born on October 12, 1955, to Donald Eugene and Rosetta Mae (Proctor) Lowry.  Peggy had two children, Jennifer Rose Lowry and James Robert Lucas.

Peggy loved to cook and everything she made was amazing, from her special Hawaiian Chicken to fried chicken and baking was her way of showing love.  If she found a new recipe that she liked, she would write it down on whatever she could find.  Peggy will be remembered for her famous Black Walnut Banana Bread.  Peggy worked as a waitress in Fort Scott, Kansas at the Flamingo, Flanner’s Owl Roost, and the Colonial restaurants.  Peggy also worked as a CNA in Arma Kansas and in Nevada, Missouri (where she lived for many years).

Peggy graduated in 2016 with her diploma from Chanute High School in Chanute, Kansas.  Peggy had a quick smile and an infectious laugh.  Peggy loved dancing and listening to music, her favorite artists being Elvis Presley, the Oak Ridge Boys, and Gary Allen.  Peggy enjoyed driving in the country, listening to music and spending time with her friends.  She loved day trips to wherever the road took them.  Peggy was a bright spot in this world that will continue to shine in the hearts and minds of all that knew her.

Peggy is survived by a daughter, Jennifer Arnold (Troy) of Fort Scott, Kansas; a son, James Lucas, Fort Scott; and a brother, Bobby Proctor of Wichita, Kansas.

Peggy was preceded in death by her parents, Donald Eugene and Rosetta Mae Lowry; two brothers, Donald “Donnie” Eugene Lowry and Jeffrey “Jeff” Roe Lowry; one of her best friends/sister-in-law Debra Sue (Long) Lowry; and many aunts and uncles.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 AM Thursday, July 31^st, at the Cheney Witt Chapel. Burial will follow in the Memory Gardens Cemetery.  The family will receive friends from 10:00 AM Thursday until service time at the funeral home.  Memorials are suggested to Harry Hynes Memorial Hospice and may be left in care of the Cheney Witt Chapel, PO Box 347, 201 S. Main St., Fort Scott, Kansas 66701.  Words of remembrance may be submitted online at cheneywitt.com.

With heavy hearts and deep love, we announce the passing of Larry Ballou Sr., who left this world on July 26, 2025, in Joplin, Missouri of the age of 84. Born on February 4, 1941, to Charlie and Delores (Monroe) Ballou in Fort Scott, Kansas. Larry’s journey through life was nothing short of remarkable. He passed peacefully, surrounded by family and friends he loved so dearly.

Larry grew up in the heart of Kansas, where he attended Fort Scott Schools, laying the foundation for a life characterized by hard work and dedication. His first job was at Comstock’s Texico Filling Station, where even at a modest .25 an hour, he learned the value of earning one’s keep. Larry’s career later took him to the Mid America Welding Supply and, most notably, his 30-year tenure with the Painters Union District Council No.3 Local #9, where he left a lasting impact through his commitment and craftsmanship.

A man of many interests, Larry was most passionate about dirt track racing, a pursuit he enjoyed from the 1960s to the 1980s. His love for the sport was matched only by his enthusiasm for coon hunting and fishing—activities that not only reflected his adventurous spirit but also his appreciation for nature’s simple pleasures. Mornings for Larry were a sacred time to indulge in his favorite cookies and coffee, a ritual he cherished deeply.

Larry met the love of his life, Johnna Kay Davis at Lowe’s Skating Rink on National Ave. From their very first meeting, it was clear their love story would be one to remember. When Johnna’s mother would not allow her to ride in Larry’s car, he walked her all the way home to little street- an act that marked the beginning of a lifelong devotion. One year later, they were married on Easter Sunday, March 29th, 1959. Together, they built a life full of love, laughter and unwavering commitment, celebrating 66 beautiful years of marriage.

A devoted husband, father, unk, grandfather, and friend, Larry’s greatest pride and purpose was his family. He was the kind of man who showed up- cheering from the sideline, fixing what was broken or simply sitting and listening with a cup of coffee in hand. He lived with a quiet strength, a servant’s heart, and a sense of humor that left lasting impressions.

Larry’s greatest joy, however, was his family. He is survived by his brothers, Charley Ballou (Diana), and Paul Ballou (Cheryl); his children, Susan Davis (Rick), Pam Cowan (Billy), and Larry Ballou Jr. (Brenda). His legacy continues through his favorite grandchildren, Joshua Cowan (Chrystal), Stacey Atkins (Brandon), Ashley Valentine (Tyler), Jenni Simhiser, Dana Midkff (Corey) and Kelli (John), Smith and his 18 great-grandchildren, who will carry forward the stories and lessons he imparted. Also surviving are numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and many friends.

Those who knew Larry will fondly remember a man who was the epitome of loving, funny, and adventurous. He had a way of lighting up a room with his sense of humor and had a knack for making everyone feel special—especially his children, whom he loved dearly. Larry’s absence will be felt deeply by all who had the pleasure of knowing him, but his memory will live on, a testament to a life well-lived and a man deeply loved.

Larry is preceded in death by his parents, Charlie and Delores Ballou, and his precious granddaughter Amanda Kay Cowan.

In honor of his life long love of Dirt Track Racing, guests are encouraged to wear their favorite racing shirt. Though our hearts ache, we find peace in knowing Larry’s race has been faithfully ran- and the checkered flag has now waved him home.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 P .M. Thursday, July31^st at the Cheney Witt Chapel.  Burial will follow in the Oak Grove Cemetery, Fort Scott, Kansas.  The family will receive friends on Wednesday from 5:00 – 7:00 P.M. 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.

John Sackett, age 65, passed away on Tuesday, July 22^nd at Integris Baptist Medical Center in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. John was born in Fort Scott, Kansas to William (Jim) and Mary Sackett (Monroe).

John enlisted in the Army in 1977. When he stepped onto the bus to travel to Fort Polk, Louisiana for boot camp, he looked back at that moment as the most defining decision of his life. His military career took him to Germany, where in 1980 he wed Margaret Anderson, Texas, Korea, Colorado, New York, (back to) Germany, and then returning to Kansas to finish his service at Ft. Riley, KS, retiring in 1998.

In 2002, John moved to Oklahoma for a supervisor position with the Transportation Security Administration after 9/11. In 2005, he married Christie (Borggren) and they made their home in Blackwell, Oklahoma. There they would host get-togethers where John would break out his DJ skills, vast music knowledge, and congregate with good friends. In 2007 John became a mail carrier for the United States Postal Service until his retirement in November 2019. As a mail carrier, he became the family’s weather/news man. John had numerous friends, many from his youth at Country Kitchen to his Ft. Riley group.

It has been said that John was everyone’s best friend.

John is survived by his wife Christie, daughter Jennifer Thurston (Justin) of Fort Scott, Kansas; daughter Mary Larsen (Chris) also of Fort Scott, Kansas; and son Ian Sackett of Sierra Vista, Arizona. Surviving siblings include brother Jim (Gayle) of Fort Scott, and sisters Jane Burgess (Bob) of Ponca City, OK, and Judy Wilmoth (Jerry) of Webb City, MO.

He has seven grandchildren: Jordan, Madi, Emily, Ryann, Sarina, Owen, and Chance, all of Fort Scott, KS; numerous nieces and nephews; and three godchildren: Deklan, Dawsen, and Kynleigh Moore.

Funeral services will be held at 10:00 AM Wednesday July 30th at Cheney Witt Funeral Chapel, 201 S. Main St., Fort Scott, Kansas. The family will receive friends from 5-7 pm the evening before at the funeral home. Burial will follow at the Fort Scott National Cemetery. Words of remembrance may be submitted online at cheneywitt.com.

Hazel Marie Gulliford, age 99, a resident of Nevada, Missouri, passed away Monday, July 21, 2025, at the Moore Few Care Center in Nevada.  She was born on January 11, 1926, in Garland, Kansas, the daughter of Charley and Viva (Clyburn) Bley.  She attended school in Bronaugh, Missouri and after graduation, Pittsburg State College.  She married V. H. Gulliford on April 30, 1947.  He preceded her in death in 2016.

Hazel taught school in a one room schoolhouse.  She then worked as a teacher’s aide in the Nevada school system.  She later worked in the accounting department for The Western Insurance Company.

Hazel enjoyed quilting and was a member of the Jolly Circle Club. She had an affection for animals and was quite the baker, especially her rolls.  Hazel loved spending time with her family.  Her sister Charlene lived with her from the age of nine.

Survivors include her sister, Charlene Widmar, Franklin, Kansas, and several nieces and nephews.  Besides her husband, she was preceded in death by her daughter, Nancy; 3 brothers, Marvin, Lee, and Clyde Bley; 2 sisters, infant Chelsea Bley and Glenna Gordon; and her parents.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 AM Thursday, July 24^th at the Cheney Witt Chapel.  The family will receive friends from 10:30 AM until service time at the funeral home.  Memorials are suggested to Vernon County Cancer Relief and may be left in care of the Cheney Witt Chapel, PO Box 347, 201 S. Main St., Fort Scott, Kansas 66701.  Words of remembrance may be submitted online at cheneywitt.com.

Clifton Carl Marsh, age 81, resident of Fort Scott, Kansas passed away on Friday, July 18, 2025, at Nevada Regional Medical Center in Nevada, Missouri. Born on October 6, 1943, in Hermitage, Missouri, to Clifton and Ida Mae (Thompson) Marsh, Carl’s life was a combination of love, laughter, and the great outdoors.

Carl’s early years were spent in the nurturing environment of Hermitage, where he developed a lifelong passion for nature. His education included Fort Scott High School and Fort Scott Community College, laying a strong foundation for his future endeavors.

Carl was a self-employed advertising salesman, a career that suited his outgoing nature and allowed him to form countless friendships.

He was an avid bass fisherman and hunter, finding solace and joy in the tranquility of nature. His stories of outdoor adventures were legendary, filled with humor and often a touch of mischief.

Carl is survived by his beloved wife, Esther Mae (Bennett) Marsh; his daughter, Audra Peterson, and her husband, Les; his step-son, Ted Sutterby; 4 grandchildren, Luke, Gregory, Joshua, and Emily; and 4 great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his son, Vincent Marsh; a brother, James Marsh; 3 sisters, Leona Banks, Geraldine Skinner, and Yvonne Guimbellot; and his parents.

Funeral services will be held at 1:00 PM on Tuesday, July 22nd, at the Cheney Witt Chapel.  A time of visitation will follow the service. Memorials are suggested to the Medicalodge Activity 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.

Dr. Charles “Stewart” Reeves, age 88, passed away on Sunday, July 6, 2025, at Balfour Central Park in Denver, Colorado.

Stewart was born in Louisburg, Kansas to Charles Hunter Reeves and Alta Mae (Ring) Reeves. After graduating from Louisburg High School, Stewart joined the United States Navy and attended The University of Kansas (KU) for both his undergraduate and medical degrees.

Overall, Captain Reeves served 38 years for our country. His military postings took him to provide medical care in many Naval hospitals across the United States and overseas, including Connecticut, Illinois, Maryland, Massachusetts, Texas, Washington, Bahrain in the Persian Gulf, and even under the sea. He was the Chief Medical Officer on the submarine U.S.S. Thomas Jefferson SSBNG18.
Once retired from the Navy, Stewart worked as an internist and Chief of Staff at Mercy Hospital in Fort Scott, Kansas for 20 years.

When Stewart was in his medical training at KU, he was working rounds in the emergency department. Harriett Louise Carr happened to stumble in with a minor head injury and Stewart oversaw her care. The two were married in Fort Scott on
June 5, 1965. They had two children: Catherine Carr Reeves Kilanoski and Charles Hunter Reeves, II.

Stewart loved golfing, listening to classical music, reading about history, drinking scotch, enjoying Harriett’s homecooked meals and going on many memorable vacations with her and their friends. In the wintertime, he and Harriett would retreat to San Antonio, Texas for relief from the harsh Fort Scott winters. Above all, Stewart loved spending time with his children and four grandchildren: Hannah, Emmah, Hunter, and Hollis.

Stewart is survived by his daughter, Catherine; four grandchildren, Hannah Brandt (Caleb), Emmah Dikeman (Miles), Hunter Reeves (Madi), Hollis Reeves and one great-grandchild, Harlan Leann Brandt.

Stewart is preceded in death by parents; beloved wife, Harriett Reeves; son, Hunter Reeves, II; and daughter-in-law, Talitha Ann (Tally) Brown Reeves and Son-in-law, Joe Kilanoski.

There was cremation. Graveside committal services will be conducted at 12:30 PM Friday, October 24th at the Fort Scott National Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 11:00 AM until 12:00 PM Friday, the 24th at the Cheney Witt Chapel, 201 S. Main St., Fort Scott, KS 66701. Words of remembrance may be
submitted online at cheneywitt.com.

Palmer Don May, age 78, resident of Fort Scott, KS passed away Wednesday, July 9, 2025, at Nevada Regional Medical Center in Nevada, MO. Arrangements are under the direction of the Cheney Witt Chapel, 201 S. Main.