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Obituaries Archives for 2023-10

Larry Dean Campbell

Larry Dean Campbell, 76, of Coffeyville passed away on Sunday, October 29, 2023, at his home.

 

He was born on November 18, 1946, in Coffeyville to Ivan and Betty (Winters) Campbell.  Larry grew up and attended school in the South Coffeyville area graduating Lenapah High School in Lenapah, Oklahoma.

 

Larry was a U.S. Army veteran serving during the Vietnam War.

 

He married Charlotte Main and they had two daughters, Becky and Tracy, and a bonus daughter Jeannette,  they later divorced.

 

Larry married Sherry Brundige and they had two children, Cristal and David. Sherry peceded him in death in 2000 after 30 years of marriage.

 

He then married Bertha Davis and gained a bonus family, spending the last 19 years together.

 

Larry spent years honing his craft as a machinist, working at Rockwell International in Tulsa and Jensen Brothers, Jencast in Coffeyville. He spent a short period of time in Tucson, before returning to his beloved hometown of Coffeyville to continue his career at American Insulated Wire, where he stayed until his retirement. His creativity found another outlet in woodworking, where he crafted pieces that were both functional and beautiful. Beyond his work, Larry found joy in his hobbies, playing the drums and bass guitar for several bands including Bandelaro, Wally Beech's Silver Eagle Band, The Churchmen, and Back Roads Band for a total of 38 years. This creative side of Larry is a testament to his multifaceted personality, a man who could create intricate mechanical components by day and soul-stirring music by night.

 

Survivors include his wife, Bertha Campbell, his daughters, Becky (DavId) Meek, Tracy Gordon, Cristal Campbell, Jeannette (Scott) Calvert and his son, David (Heather) Campbell. His life was further graced by his bonus children,  Valerie (Randy)Smith, Crystal (Brandon) Grundy, and Tandra (Eric) Wolf, Sarah Tosh (Daniel Thimmes) and Abby Tosh (Thomas Tevebaugh). His brother, Jerry (Jamie) Campbell, and many grandchildren and great-grandchildren also survive him. Larry was preceded in death by his parents, Ivan and Betty Campbell, and his wife, Sherry. His legacy will continue to live on through the countless lives he touched and the values he instilled in his loved ones.

 

Visitation will be on Wednesday, November 1, 2023, from 1:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at the David W. Barnes Funeral Home. The family will greet friends from 5:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at the funeral home.

 

As we remember Larry, we invite you to share your memories and upload photos of him to the memorial page. Your personal stories and images will serve as a tribute to Larry's life and allow us to collectively celebrate a remarkable man who will be greatly missed.

 

Robert Lee Johnson

Robert Lee Johnson (82) of Coffeyville, Kansas passed away peacefully on October 17, 2023, at his home with his wife at his side who always called him “Honey” and surrounded by family.

 

 Robert was born to Tim Johnson and Lessie Mae Banks on March 11, 1941, in Junction City Arkansas. He was the oldest of 9 siblings and grew up in Coffeyville, Kansas.

 

Robert was a hard worker and took much pride in protecting, providing for, and taking care of his family.

 

Robert married Marie Ann Johnson on December 7, 1994. Robert was a very hard worker, he started working construction at an early age, but switched over to Santa Fe Railroad where he retired.

 

He was a member of Sardis First Missionary Baptist Church, and truly enjoyed going to church to worship the Lord.

 

Robert leaves behind to cherish in his memory: His wife Marie Ann Johnson, five children: Tony Johnson (Sheila) Kimberly Bolden (Curtis), Martinie Freeman (Tony), Meko Johnson, Jeff McCoy, 2 step children: Angela McDaniel-Newman (Almando) and Fred McDaniel, 4 siblings: Nellie Johnson Grant (Al), Betty Jackson (David), Lester Fullard (Anitris), Arnold Fullard (Heather), a host of grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

 

Robert is proceeded in death by his mother Lessie Mae Fullard, Brothers Frank Fullard, Henry T Fullard and Ronald Fullard; sister: Linda Burns, and a stepdaughter Latiesha Ward.

 

Robert was loved and respected by so many people near and far and he will be greatly missed.

 

A Home Coming Service will be held on Saturday, October 28, 2023, at 11am at Sardis Missionary Baptist Church, 414 E 2nd St., in Coffeyville with Pastor Armagen Walker officiating.  The family will receive friends on Friday, October 27, 2023, from 5-7pm at Ford-Wulf-Bruns Chapel, 2405 Woodland Ave., also in Coffeyville.  The family request memorial contributions to be made in Robert’s memory to a charity of your choice. Contributions may be left in care of the chapel. Following the Home Coming service Robert’s committal services will be held at the Veterans Memorial Patio in Fairview Cemetery where he will be laid to rest.  To leave a message of condolence, share a memory visit www.fordwulfbrunschapel.com

 

 

 

 

 

Katherine "Cathy" Conklin

Katherine “Cathy” Conklin, a beloved daughter, sister, wife, mom, and grandma left this world to be with her Lord and Savior on Monday, October 23, 2023, at CRMC in Coffeyville with her family by her side.

 

On January 11, 1933, in Skiatook, Oklahoma Thomas and May Elizabeth (Elkhair) Brown welcomed Katherine into this world. Katherine was one of thirteen children; with a house of seven girls and six boys, there was always a little mischief. The Brown family lived in rural Copan, Oklahoma and Katherine completed her education there.  

 

Becoming Mrs. Jasper Conklin on June 28th, 1950, was such a joy and honor to Katherine. The two were married in Bartlesville, Oklahoma and eventually made Coffeyville their home, where they purchased their very own home, establishing roots to raise their 5 children. She loved her husband “Jack” Conklin with all of her heart until death did, they part on November 11, 1988. Being a wife and mother was what was most important to Katherine. She kept her family close following her husband’s passing and encouraged every family member to love one another. Her childlike spirit created happy, loving memories that her children and grandchildren will treasure forever. Tending to her family and her home was her purpose, and it brought her great joy in life.

 

Katherine was one of the kindest people you would ever meet loving others is what God called her to do. She offered the biggest heartfelt hugs to those she loved. Loving Jesus and dedicating her life to serve Him was more valuable than money and possessions to her. Attending church and worshiping with others helped her in her daily walk with the Lord.

 

Alongside being a homemaker, Katherine looked forward to watching Nascar races and Kansas City Chiefs Football. According to her, Nascar just wasn’t the same after Dale Earnhart Jr. retired. She also sang in her church choir, taught Sunday school, and loved to draw. 

 

Her grandchildren saw her as their best friend. They treasured knowing that when they went to “One” Grandma’s house that the simple traditions would always be repeated. She cared for generations of her family, not stopping when her kids left home.

 

Roxanne was Katherine’s special four-legged friend, and the bond she had with Roxann was one in a million. About a year and a half ago Roxanne crossed the rainbow bridge and Katherine had grieved deeply for her ever since.  

 

Katherine is survived by her children who called her blessed, William “Bill” Conklin, Patricia Kinsey and husband William, Jackie S. Scott and husband Charlie, and Elizabeth Cunningham and husband Robert; brothers Charlie Brown and wife Teresa, Donald Brown and wife Ivy, and David Brown; sister Reta Lankford and husband William; eleven grandchildren, twenty great grandchildren and 3 great-great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, son Donald E. Conklin; three brothers and five sisters. 

 

Funeral services will be held on Friday, October 27, 2023, at Emmanual Chapel, 312 Broadway Ave, South Coffeyville, OK 74072 at 1pm with burial taking place at Restlawn Memorial Park Cemetery. Pastor Gary Close will be officiating. The family will receive friends from 5 to 7pm at Ford-Wulf-Bruns Chapel, 2405 Woodland Ave., in Coffeyville. Visit www.fordwulfbrunschapel.com to leave a message of condolence, share a memory or view services.

 

Mark Allen Alloway

Mark Allen Alloway, 60, of Coffeyville, Kansas, passed away Monday, October 16, 2023, at Coffeyville Regional Medical Center.

 

He was born on December 4, 1962, in Coffeyville to Richard D. Alloway Sr. and Darlene (Garretson) Alloway.  Mark grew up in the Angola and Edna area where he attended Edna Grade School, Labette County High School, Fort Scott Community College, Peru State College in Peru, Nebraska and completed his education at Fort Hays State University.

 

Mark was a machinist at Spears Mfg. Co. in Caney, where he was a respected and dedicated employee. He was passionate about sports, and particularly enjoyed attending games of the Coffeyville Community College Red Ravens, Nebraska University,  and the Kansas City Chiefs. He was also an avid fisherman and enjoyed the farm life, raising cattle and hogs. Above all, what mattered most to Mark was spending quality time with his family and friends.

 

Mark was married to Linda Vargas and they later divorced. He was partners with Carolyn Dixon Lay and they had one daughter, Annyston.

 

Mark is survived by his daughter, Annyston Alloway; mother, Darlene Alloway; brother, Richard "Rick" Alloway Jr; and his sisters, Diana (Dick) Smith, Janice (Brandon) Owens, Toni (Bernie) Vargas, Karen (Tom) York, and Tammy (Ryan) Bliss and many nieces, nephews and cousins. He was preceded in death by his father, Richard D. Alloway Sr.

 

Following Mark's wishes cremation has taken place under the direction of the David W. Barnes Funeral Home in Coffeyville.

 

A celebration of life with family and friends to honor Mark will be held on Sunday, November 5, 2023, from 2pm to 4pm. At 3pm there will be a time for family and friends to share stories about Mark.  The celebration of life will be held at the First Baptist Church, 300 West 9th Street, Coffeyville, Kansas.

 

We encourage all who knew and loved Mark to share their memories and upload photos to his memorial page at www.dwbfh.com  . Your remembrances will serve as a comfort to his loved ones and a lasting tribute to a life well-lived.

 

An educational fund is set up for Annie, Mark's daughter. Memorials for this fund can be left with or mailed in care of David Barnes Funeral Home 306 North Cline Road, Coffeyville, KS 67337 or brought to Mark's Celebration of Life on November 5th.

Everett Leroy Smith Sr.

Everett Leroy Smith Sr. passed away surrounded by the family that loved him and that he loved at the age of 81, in his home in Coffeyville, Kansas.

 

Everett was one of 8 children, and was born on April 11, 1942, in Coffeyville to Edgar and Merriam (Shamblin) Smith.  He grew up in Coffeyville, attending school here and completing his education.

Everett was self-employed and enjoyed his construction work and especially enjoyed being an arborist.  He took great pride in his work and enjoyed what he did.

 

When time and his health allowed, he enjoyed fishing and coon hunting.  He also enjoyed raising his coon dogs and always had a terrier as his side kick.   Everett’s favorite pass time was traveling with his wife, Betty Lou (Scott) of 40 years.  Together they visited every state but Hawaii because that involved traveling by air or boat and that just wasn’t going to happen.  He flew once and that was all he wanted and vowed he would never do it again.  Colorado was his absolute favorite place to visit, he would have moved there if the opportunity had presented itself. Like the John Denver song, Colorado offered “Rocky Mountain High”.

 

Everett loved to play as hard as he worked, in addition to traveling, he enjoyed family gathering and spending time with his family.  Those who knew him best knew that he was a self-determined, driven individual.  His philosophy was “Why put off it off to tomorrow, what you can do today.”

 

Everett’s legacy will live on through his wife, Betty of the home; his four children from a previous marriage, Joyce Vaughn and husband Rocky, Anna Mora and husband Curtis, Leroy Smith and wife Dana, Randy Smith and wife Valorie, Vickie Dick, and husband Larry; fifteen grandchildren; twenty-two great-grandchildren and seven great-great grandchildren; three brothers, Eldon Smith, Ivan Smith and wife Ruth, Ronnie Smith; and one sister Sharon Gillman and husband Matt. He was preceded in death by his parents, two brothers Edgar Smith Jr., Donald “Duck” Smith, sister Phylis Sisco, grandson Raymond Vaughn Jr., and two great-great grandchildren Alexander Storm and Eli Fowler.

The family will receive friends at Ford-Wulf-Bruns Chapel, 2405 Woodland Ave., in Coffeyville on Thursday, October 26, 2023, from 6-8pm.  At Everetts request cremation has taken place and the family will hold private family services. To leave a message of condolence or share a memory visit www.fordwulfbrunschapel.com

 

Tammy Jean James

Tammy Jean James of Coffeyville passed away at the age 63 at Medicalodges on Midland with husband, Ed James by her side.

 

 Tammy was born on July 5, 1960, in Council Bluff, Iowa to Keith and Rennie (Hull) Hunt. The Hunt family moved to Coffeyville when Tammy was a young girl.   Tammy received her formal education attending Coffeyville grade school, middle school and graduating from Field Kindley Memorial High School.  She then went on to complete her education at Coffeyville Community Junior College.  She grew up attending First United Methodist Church where she attended until her health no longer allowed her to go.

 

Tammy married the love of her life, Ed James, and they made their home in Tyro, Kansas. Together they enjoyed long drives, fishing and she was often the golfing coach while riding along in the golf cart. Riding in the cart allowed Tammy to reminisce of the days that she tagged along with her dad, playing golf.  Tammy also enjoyed grabbing a Coke at Sonic, watching television and a good Chicken Fried Steak at Copan Truck Stop.  She simply found pleasure in the simplicity of life.

 

Tammy will be missed by the staff and residents at Medicalodges but not more than by her husband Ed of the home, siblings David Hunt, Stephen Hunt and wife Sara, and Theresa Mott and stepmother Jewel Hunt.  She was preceded in death by her parents, and sister Debbie Bowser.

 

Funeral services honoring Tammy’s life will be held on Saturday, October 21, 2023, at 10am at Ford-Wulf-Bruns Chapel, 2405 Woodland Ave., in Coffeyville. First United Methodist Church, Pastor Yves Kinangwa will officiate.  Tammy will be laid to rest at Robbins Cemetery following the services.  To leave a message of condolence, share a memory or view services visit www.fordwulfbrunschapel.com

 

Margaret Viola Longpine

Margaret Viola Longpine, age 85, passed away peacefully on October 6, 2023, in Weatherford, Texas.  She leaves behind a legacy that will continue to blossom in the hearts of those she touched. Known for her captivating smile and warm, inviting nature, Margaret never failed to make those around her feel loved. Her generous spirit was reflected not only in her kind words and actions but also in the immense sacrifices she made for her family, who mattered most to her.

 

Margaret was born on August 1, 1938, in Coffeyville, Kansas, to Ralph and Irma (Roberts) Perkins. She graduated from Wann High School in Wann, Oklahoma.

 

In 1957, she was united in marriage to James W. Longpine.  Of that union five children were born, Edna Loretta, a stillborn baby girl, Karla Denise, Ralph Franklin, Dorothy Jean and Marjorie Ann. The couple later divorced in 1989.

 

Margaret worked as an office clerk for ATT until she left in 1979 and was a homemaker until her divorce in 1989.  After that, she worked at Casey's General Store in Lawson, Missouri making pizza and then for Barstow School janitorial in Kansas City, Missouri. 

 

Margaret was a member of the Pleasant Valley Baptist Church in Wann, Oklahoma. She devoted her time and energy to her beloved family, nurturing and caring for them with an unwavering commitment. Margaret’s life was a testament to the power of love, generosity, and support. Her legacy will continue to inspire those who were fortunate to know her.

 

Surviving to cherish her memory is her daughters, Karla Denise Croswhite and husband, Gary of Kearney, Missouri,  Dorothy Jean Thornbrugh and husband, Josh of Weatherford,  Texas, Marjorie Ann Anderson and husband, Casey of Salem, Oregon, ten grandchildren, four great grandchildren, brothers, Gary, James, and Tom Perkins, along with numerous extended family members and close friends who will forever carry Margaret's loving spirit within them.

 

She was preceded in death by her parents, Ralph and Irma Perkins, her stillborn daughter, Edna Loretta Longpine, her son, Ralph Longpine, siblings, Howard "Ike" Roberts, Eunice Lewis and Alfred Perkins. 

 

Visitation will be held on Friday, October 13, 2023, at David W. Barnes Funeral Home in Coffeyville from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m.

 

Kenneth "Cricket" L. McCartney

Kenneth "Cricket" L. McCartney, a beloved husband, father, and friend, passed away on October 6, 2023, surrounded by the family that meant the most to him. He was born on January 29, 1939, in Angola, Kansas to Frank "Bub" and Addie (Taylor) McCartney. Kenneth was the oldest of four children and embraced his role throughout his life.

 

Kenneth's early years he was also known as "Tine' by his family as his brother was "Tip; his sisters were "Peach" and "Punk". Even as a young child, he helped with the family chores and learned the value of resourcefulness. He had a frugal nature and could stretch a nickel into seven cents like no one else. Kenneth often asserted confidently, "I know what I'm doing," as he forged his own path through life.

 

Kenneth's elementary years were at the rural Angola school, and he attended graduated from Labette County High School. It was during this time that he established himself as a driven individual with a strong work ethic.

 

Following his education, Kenneth served his country with honor and distinction. As a young man, he joined the US Army and later continued in the Army Reserves until receiving his honorary discharge. While in the Army, he developed his culinary skills as a cook—a talent that his family continued to benefit from.

At the young age of 15 Shirley Holderbaum met Kenneth and they shared a mutual attraction to each other. After a 2-year courtship the two were married on June 5, 1959, in Coffeyville at Shirley’s parents’ home. They had just celebrated 64 years of marriage.

 

After concluding his military service, Kenneth embarked on a fulfilling career journey. He was owner/operator of two semis’ after returning from Texas.  A job at Aptus became available where he worked for several years and retired from Kopco Inc. in Caney, Kansas. His dedication to his work was apparent to all who knew him.

 

Outside of work, Kenneth loved fishing, it held a special place in his heart—it was his absolute favorite pastime. Often accompanied by his son, he would spend countless hours casting lines into the waters. His family sometimes wondered if he was fishing for the fish or if the fish were fishing for his pole. They fondly recall the times when many of his poles inexplicably ended up at the bottom of the lake, until they discovered pole life jackets. Apart from fishing, Kenneth also enjoyed camping while living residing in Mesquite, Texas for 15 years. He was an avid deer hunter, and football watcher; he cheerfully supported the Dallas Cowboys. One Christmas, he surprised his family by dressing up as Santa Claus—it was so unexpected and brought joy his children.

 

Kenneth was a man of few words but expressed his deep love for his family through actions and affectionate nicknames. His razzing and nicknames were a testament to the bond he shared with his loved ones—they knew they were truly loved and liked by him. He leaves behind a legacy of love and cherished memories.

 

In addition to his wife, Shirley J. (Holderbaum) McCartney, Kenneth is survived by his sons Mike McCartney (and wife Tammy) and Terry McCartney (and wife Kimba). He was a proud grandfather to Nick McCartney, Kenny McCartney, Savannah Covone, Nicki Spears, and Misty Woollard. His great-grandchildren include Zach, Colin, Bridget, Brexton, and Anna McCartney; Odin and Oliver Covne; as well as Audrey and Kalyee Woollard. Kenneth is also survived by his brother-in-law Tom Newton and sister-in-law Carolyn McCartney and a host of nieces, nephews, and friends.

 

Kenneth's parents Frank "Bub" McCartney and Addie McCartney preceded him in death, also at rest is his brother Clifford "Tip" McCartney and sisters Lola "Peach" Newton and Laura Walker (and husband Steve).

 

A visitation will be held on October 9th at Ford-Wulf-Bruns Chapel, 2405 Woodland Ave. in Coffeyville from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM. The funeral service will take place on October 10th at Lewark Church of God, 902 Lewark, also in Coffeyville at 10:00 AM.   The family request Memorial Contributions be made payable to Shriner's Children's Hospital or Wounded Warriors and may be left in care of the chapel.  To leave a message of condolence, share a memory or view live streaming of his service visit www.fordwulfbrunschapel.com

Donald D. Brown

Lifelong Coffeyville, Kansas resident, Donald D. Brown age 93, passed away on Sunday, October 1, 2023 at Gran Villa on Tyler. 

 

Don was born on February 8, 1930, in Coffeyville, Kansas to Spartin W. and Rachel (Sheehorn) Brown.  He grew up in Coffeyville where he attended local schools and graduated from Field Kindley Memorial High School.   

 

On December 17, 1948 he was united in marriage to Shirley June Lewis.  The couple made their home in Coffeyville where they raised their family.  They were members of Tyro Christian Church.  Don spent much of his time working, but when he wasn’t, he enjoyed woodworking and spending time with his loving family. 

 

Don was a veteran of the U.S. Army serving during the Korean War

 

Don was selfless and courageous; he became a Firefighter, serving with the Coffeyville Fire Department from 1948 until 1969. During this time Don and Shirley accumulated 240 acres and 100 head of cattle in Nowata County, Oklahoma. In 1970 Don and Shirley decided to embark on a new adventure by purchasing a lumber yard in Coffeyville.  In 1973 they branched out and started Brown Construction building homes in the area.  In 1976 they started Shelter Service and Supply, insulating homes and businesses in the area.  A fire claimed the lumber yard in the late 1970's.  They sold their business but remained active buying and selling factory overruns.  In 1985 they started Sports Image, a screen-printing business which they operated until retiring in 1999.  With their busy schedule Don and Shirley built a two-story log home on their acreage in Nowata County. They spent 72 beautiful years together until Shirley passed away on August 12, 2021. 

 

Don is survived by his children, Narayana (Richard) Brown of Kansas City, Kansas, and Deborah Brown Toye of Coffeyville, Kansas; grandchildren, Jesse Ashe, Melissa Ashe Kucyk, Trenton Gomaz; great-grandchildren, Lilly Ashe, Fallon Kucyk, Maddox Kucyk, Leland Kucyk, and a great-great grandson, Tyras Johnson.  He was preceded in death by his parents, S.W. and Rachel Brown, his loving wife, Shirley Brown, a brother, Doyle Brown and a sister, Pauline Brown Edens. 

 

A guest register will be available to sign on Friday, October 6, 2023, at David W. Barnes Funeral Home in Coffeyville from 1:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m.

 

Funeral Services be held on Saturday, October 7, 2023 at 10:00 a.m. at the Tyro Christian Church in Tyro, Kansas.  Evangelist David Bycroft will officiate.  Interment will follow at Robbins Cemetery, west of Coffeyville with Military Honors conducted by Veterans of Foreign Wars Post #1022 and American Legion Post #20. 

 

To leave condolences online for the family, visit www.dwbfh.com

 

Dana Jean Gilpin

Dana Jean Gilpin, age 64, of Edna KS, passed away on September 30, 2023, at her home surrounded by her family.

 

Dana was born May 14, 1959, to John and Helen Eli. She graduated from Ketchum High School and later attended Coffeyville Community College where she obtained her MLT.

 

Dana was employed as a Medical Lab Technician with Mercy Hospital in Independence Kansas for 10 years. She then worked for Coffeyville Regional Medical Center and retired from after 20 years of employment.

 

Dana met Jack Gilpin and the couple was united in marriage on July 18, 1986. In her free time, she loved to fish, garden, and was an excellent baker. She loved her family and was proud of all her children and grandchildren.

 

Dana is survived by her husband Jack, her 3 sons and 1 daughter and their families: Bryan and Jeanie Gilpin, Gene Gilpin, Chris and Tiffany Gilpin, Jennifer and Chris Harp, as well as 13 grandkids and 2 great grandchildren, her mother Helen Eli, and sister Zaneta Radebaugh.

 

The family requests in lieu of flowers, donations be made in her memory to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital; contributions may be left with the funeral home or mailed in care of David W. Barnes Funeral Home, 306 North Cline Road, Coffeyville, KS 67337.

 

A Memorial Graveside service celebrating Dana's life will be at 11:00 a.m. Tuesday, October 10, 2023, at North Edna Cemetery, Edna, Kansas with Pastor Lane Roberts officiating.

 

To leave a message for the family please visit www.dwbfh.com.

 

David W. Barnes Funeral Home of Coffeyville is in charge of arrangements

Paul R. Griffiths Sr.

 

Paul R. Griffiths Sr., a beloved husband, dad, and grandpa, passed away on October 1, 2023, at the age of 92. He was born on June 25, 1931, in Coffeyville, Kansas, and was the son of Frances Elizabeth (Ellis) and John Robert Griffiths. 

 

As a child Paul resided on Glenwood Street within the city limits of Coffeyville.  His early adolescence was shaped by his family's move to the Cedar Bluff area, where he attended Cedar Bluff School along with his siblings. Even as a young boy, Paul showed an admirable work ethic and took on responsibilities such as working as a custodian at the school. He also developed a passion for agriculture while helping his father care for their family acreage and learned to drive a tractor at the tender age of 12. The Busy Band 4-H Club was also very instrumental in his learning to care for livestock and cultivate the land he harvested. 


As he entered Field Kindley High School, Paul's life took another turn when his family relocated a few miles further north of Coffeyville. It was during high school that he crossed paths with Arlene Kauffman in their 6th-hour study hall. This meeting marked the beginning of their love story, which endured despite Arlene's family moving to Chicago. The couple maintained a long-distance relationship through heartfelt letters until they rejoined each other and were married on July 16, 1950, at her home church First United Methodist.

Throughout his career, Paul demonstrated perseverance and adaptability. He worked in various places after marrying Arlene. Starting in the 1950s, he joined Dixon Industries before moving on to Continental Can, Parkersburg, and Jensens. Despite experiencing lay-offs along the way, Paul remained resilient and eventually found employment with North American Rockwell. This opportunity led him to relocate his family first to Neosho, Missouri and later to Columbus, Ohio and Tulsa, Oklahoma. However, Coffeyville beckoned them back due to their deep-rooted love for the community. Paul seized an employment opportunity with Farmland Industries (now known as CVR Refining) and dedicated himself to the company for 22 years. During this time, he worked as a machinist and eventually retired as a foreman, leaving behind a legacy of hard work and dedication.

Beyond his professional achievements, Paul's true passions resided in his talents and hobbies. He was a masterful carpenter, using his skills to remodel two of the family's homes in Coffeyville. Gardening brought him joy, and he continued to grow his prize tomatoes until his passing.  Paul had a talent for swimming and enjoyed boating and skiing with his family. He and Arlene cherished their adventures together, exploring destinations such as Prince Edward Island, Alaska, Hawaii, various states across the United States, and Canada through memorable cruises.

Paul had an unwavering faith that guided him throughout his life. For over 71 years, he and Arlene were devoted members of the Tri-M Sunday School class at the First United Methodist Church. Additionally, Paul served as an usher at the church and used his carpentry skills to assist in local missions that involved building and repairing churches. His dedication stretched beyond Coffeyville when he traveled with KEC to Haiti to construct new places of worship.

Above all else, Paul cherished time spent with his family, finding immense pride in seeing them grow not only in numbers but also in character. He leaves behind his loving wife of 73 years, Arlene Griffiths of the home. Together they raised their children: Joyce Elaine Berry and Dana Diane Braet (Steve) and Paul Richard "Rick" Griffiths Jr. who preceded him in death. Paul was a doting grandfather to Tony Berry, Jill Rampacek (Tony), Taylor Braet (Leah), Dr. Corey Braet (Sarah), as well as great-grandchildren Grace and Catie Rampacek, Jamie and Johny Braet, Brittney, Delaney, and Briley Braet. His enduring legacy extends further with Nicholas Berry (Kelsey) and his two fifth generation great-great-grandchildren, Emmett and Elenor Berry. Paul also leaves behind his daughter-in-law, Becky Griffiths, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends who will forever cherish his memory.

In addition to his immediate family, Paul was preceded in death by his parents, and his siblings along with their spouses: Robert Griffiths (Nadine), Margaret Evans (Jack), Betty Miller (Bob), Joann Benning (Richard).

A visitation to honor Paul's life will be held on October 6, 2023, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Ford-Wulf-Bruns Chapel located at 2405 Woodland Ave in Coffeyville, Kansas. The funeral service will take place the following day, October 7th at 1:00 p.m., at First United Methodist Church situated at 304 W 10th St in Coffeyville.  The family request Memorial Contributions be made payable to First United Methodist Church and may be left in care of the chapel.  To leave an online condolence, share a memory or watch the live stream of the services visit his obituary page at www.fordwulfbrunschapel.com

Paul R. Griffiths touched the lives of countless individuals through his unwavering work ethic, genuine kindness, and deep devotion to his family and community. He will be remembered as a man of integrity who lived life with purpose, love and a great sense of humor. May he rest in eternal peace knowing he has left an indelible mark on those who had the privilege of knowing him.

Billy Don Gillman

Billy Don Gillman, 72, of Bartlesville, Oklahoma, formerly of Coffeyville, Kansas and South Coffeyville, Oklahoma passed away peacefully on Saturday, September 30, 2023, with family at his side at St John's Hospital in Tulsa, Oklahoma. 

 

He was born July 10, 1951, at Nowata, Oklahoma to Perry and Virginia (Winegar) Gillman.  He grew up in Lenapah, Oklahoma and received his schooling there except for 2 years in Amarillo, Texas and a brief time in South Coffeyville.  He graduated in 1969 and also attended Tri-County Vo-Tech in Bartlesville. 

 

He married Linda Jo Gabriel in 1970, they had one son, the couple later divorced.

He married Linda Moorehead in 1976, they had three sons, the couple later divorced. 

 

He married Kathy Turney in 1997, and she survived at their home. 

 

His employments included Phillips Petroleum, and Carter Automotive.  He enjoyed fishing and playing pool.  Also managing his own pool teams. 

 

He is survived by his wife, Kathy of the home; four sons, Randy (Kim) of Webb City, Missouri, Matthew, Casey (Rumi) of Japan, Dusty of Dewey, Oklahoma.  Two stepsons, Kevin Kime of Vinita, Jared Kime (Kristin) of Ochelata, Oklahoma, one stepdaughter Laura Paris (Allen) of Bartlesville, Oklahoma, two brothers, Lonnie (Lynda) of Bartlesville, John (Fawn) of Lenapah, three sisters, Dorothy Swanson of Nowata, Treva Little of Okmulgee, and Helen Barkley of Delaware, numerous grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and his lifelong very best friend, Barry Swanson.  He is preceded in death by his parents, two sisters, Norma and Erma, two nieces, and two nephews. 

 

Following Billy’s wishes, cremation will take place under the direction of David W. Barnes Funeral Home in Coffeyville, Kansas. 

 

A Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, October 21, 2023, at 1:00 p.m. at the First Baptist Church in Coffeyville.  Pastor Dick Smith will officiate. 

 

To leave a condolence online, visit www.dwbfh.com

 

Windell Lee Ledman

Windell Lee Ledman, a kind and generous soul, passed away on September 30, 2023. Born in Bartlesville, OK on March 4, 1957, to Ulysses Samuel Adair, Sr. and Georgia Marie (Ledman) Adair.

 

As a young man he worked in the hay fields and the oil fields in Nowata, Oklahoma.  Windell spent the majority of his career in the janitorial department at various esteemed institutions, including Spears Manufacturing, ReCon, USD 445, and Coffeyville Regional Medical Center (CRMC). His hard work and dedication to his profession were admired by all. Beyond his career, Windell's passions lay in the simpler pleasures of life. He was an avid fan of the Dallas Cowboys and enjoyed watching wrestling. He also found joy in fishing, often spending hours by the water and gardening. 

 

He was united in marriage to Giesele Armstrong on February 26, 2010. Together, they made Coffeyville, Kansas their home, creating countless memories filled with love and laughter. Windell's cooking was also a source of delight for his loved ones, with his kitchen being a place of warmth and shared stories.

 

Windell is survived by his wife, Giesele Ledman of Coffeyville, Kansas; stepchildren, Cynthia Blankenship, Luke Blankenship, Maryann Matthews, Christine Blankenship, and Laura Blankenship; six step grandchildren; brother, Ulysses Adair, Jr., sisters, Shirley Adair, Alberta Marshall and Zabrina Adair along with a host of nieces, nephews, great nieces, great nephews, extended relatives and many friends.

 

He was preceded in death by his parents, Ulysses Sr., and Georgia Adair, siblings, Sylvester Adair, Donald Joe Adair, Cora Jean Miller, Donna Reynolds, Vinita White and Oletha Adair as well as a nephew, Charles McDaniel.

 

His generous spirit and unwavering reliability will be remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.  Cremation will take place under the direction of David W. Barnes Funeral Home in Coffeyville.  No public services are scheduled at this time.

 

In honor of Windell, we encourage you to share your memories and upload photos to his memorial page at www.dwbfh.com  Your stories and pictures will serve as a beautiful testament to the life of a man who was so deeply loved and will be missed by all.

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