Johnson & Mass-Hinitt Cremations, Funerals & Receptions

01/05/2026

Richard Wayne Parker

Richard Wayne Parker, born on October 16, 1934, in Greenville, Michigan, passed away peacefully on January 1, 2026. He was the beloved son of Robert E. and Aileen E. (Price) Parker. Richard's life was defined by his unwavering dedication to both his family and his country.

A proud veteran, Richard made significant contributions during his military service as he served in both the Korean Conflict and the Vietnam War. He retired from the United States Air Force with the rank of Chief Master Sergeant and remained actively involved in veteran affairs as a life member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), the American Legion, and the Air Force Sergeants Association. His commitment to his country was a testament to his character and values, which he instilled in his family.

Following his military career, Richard transitioned to a civilian role, working for the United States Coast Guard as a Financial Systems Analyst in Topeka, Kansas. His professional life mirrored his personal virtues, marked by integrity and a strong work ethic.

Richard's enduring spirit was complemented by his passions outside of work. He enjoyed reading and was particularly fond of watching old western movies, finding joy in the stories and characters that graced the screen. Additionally, he had a deep love for traveling, exploring new places and cultures with curiosity and enthusiasm.

Richard is survived by his wife, Sherry, who resides in Clay Center, Kansas; and two daughters, Kimberly Mulvaney of Dallas, Texas, and Jeanne Bunting of Topeka, Kansas; six grandchildren and thirteen great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his first wife, Joan Parker, who passed away on February 2, 2001, and a daughter, Constance A. Parker-Smith, who died in 2004.

Richard Wayne Parker will be remembered for his warmth, commitment to family, and the legacy of service he leaves behind. A graveside service to honor his life will be held at Dennison Cemetery in Dennison, Kansas, on January 16, 2026, at 11:00 AM. His presence will be deeply missed, yet his memory will continue to live on in the hearts of many.

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01/05/2026

Judith A. Engstrom-Ratliff

Judith A. Engstrom-Ratliff, a cherished member of her community and a dedicated educator, passed away on January 2, 2026, just two days shy of her 80th birthday. Born on January 4, 1946, in Concordia, Kansas, Judith cultivated a lifelong passion for education, culminating in a long and fulfilling career as an elementary school teacher and high school counselor. Her impact on the lives of her students was profound, and her commitment to their growth and happiness set her apart in the field.

Judith was a proud alumna of Kansas State University, where she earned her Master of Arts Degree. This accomplishment not only reflected her dedication to her profession but also her continuous pursuit of knowledge and self-improvement throughout her life.

Beyond her professional life, Judith was a joyful person known for her warmth and positivity. She had an infectious smile that brightened the days of those around her. Her love for embroidery work brought her immense satisfaction, and she cherished the memories created while spending time with her family. Judith's presence in the lives of her loved ones brought much happiness, leaving an indelible mark on their hearts.

On October 21, 1967, Judith married Terry D. Ratliff, solidifying a loving partnership that flourished for many years until Terry's passing in 2024. Judith's devotion to her family was unwavering, and she took pride in her role as a sister and aunt.

Judith is survived by her brother Cliff Engstrom and his wife Pam of Junction City, Kansas; her sister Sheila Cartwright of Junction City, Kansas; her sister-in-law Debbie Engstrom of Kyle, Texas.

She was preceded in death by her parents, August "Nick" and Nellie Mae (Kulp) Engstrom; her sister Sandy Koppenheffer; her brother William Engstrom; two brothers-in-law, Steven Koppenheffer and Randy Cartwright; one nephew, Jeff Koppenheffer; and two great nieces, Amy Joann Engstrom and Olivia Engstrom.

Judith A. Engstrom-Ratliff will be remembered for her love of family, her dedication to education, and her joyful spirit that touched countless lives. Her legacy will continue to inspire those who knew and loved her.

Cremation has taken place. A private graveside service will be held at a later date in Dwight, Kansas.

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01/01/2026

As we move into a new year, we know this transition can feel especially heavy for those who are grieving. While the calendar turns and the world speaks of fresh beginnings, many families are stepping into a year their loved one will never share, and that can be incredibly hard.

Please know that it’s okay to feel reluctant, uncertain, or even overwhelmed during this time. Grief doesn’t follow a timeline, and there is no “right” way to enter a new year after loss.

Our hearts remain with you, just as they were when we first had the honor of serving your family. We are wishing peace for you and your family this new year.

12/31/2025

William Brown

William Griffin Brown Jr., a beloved husband, father, and cherished community member, passed away on December 27, 2025, in Junction City, Kansas at the age of 66. He was born on February 21, 1959, in Mobile, Alabama. William lived a life rich in service and love, marked by his commitment to both his family and his country.

A dedicated member of the United States Army, William served honorably from July 18, 1978 until 1980 when he took a short break in service. He returned to service later that year until his retirement on January 31, 2003. He achieved the rank of Master Sergeant but declined in order to take care of his beloved grandfather and continued to hold the rank of Sergeant First Class at retirement. He specialized as a track wheel vehicle repairman during his military career, which included tours in Germany, Korea, Desert Storm, and Kuwait, as well as multiple assignments at Army Forts across the continental United States. William was not only a skilled technician but also a leader and role model to his squad members and fellow soldiers.

Following his military service, William continued to dedicate himself to public service, working for fifteen years as a supervisor in the records department of IACH on Ft. Riley, Kansas until his retirement. His diligent work ethic earned him the respect of his colleagues and community.

William married the love of his life Cassandra Williams on July 1, 2003 and they embraced family life with enthusiasm. Cassandra was affectionately known as his "darling" while he was her "cutie." They created lasting memories with their blended family, ensuring that every holiday and special occasion included loved ones, including his previous wife and all their friends. William loved to grill, especially hosting his famous fish fries, and he enjoyed traveling to visit family, often frequenting the Prairie Band Casino.

Known for his caring and loving personality, William easily connected with others, never meeting a stranger and always willing to give a helping hand. He was known for his wonderful sense of humor and the affection he shared with everyone around him.

William is survived by his loving wife, Cassandra A. Brown of Junction City, Kansas; his sons, William G. (Enrico) Brown III of Vincenza, Italy, and Michael J. Brown of Junction City, Kansas; step-sons Andrea Shepherd from Manhattan, Kansas, and Vincent (Queentonya) Shepherd of Georgia; daughters Shemeka S. (Elliot) Brown and Shanitra S. Brown, both of Junction City, Kansas; step-daughter Selena Shepherd of Westminster, Colorado; godson Jonathan Valles; goddaughters Losi (BJ) Jidla of Minnesota, Monica Vazquez of Manhattan, Kansas, and Porsha Martin of Junction City, Kansas; niece/daughter Lotus Brown of Cleveland, Ohio; grandchildren Neveah, Niko, and Nariah; and step-grandchildren Nathan, Camille, Chloe, Maya, and Layla. He is also survived by his father, Reverend William Griffin Brown Sr.; siblings Josephine (Dave) Phillips of Montgomery, Alabama, Debra Stewart of Cleveland, Ohio, and Jannie Ledger of Cleveland, Ohio; aunties Robbie Moultrie and F***y (Charles) Bell of Chicago, Illinois; and best friend Patricia Brown - James Fleming, who served as his prayer partner. William's community extended to honorary brothers Jesse (Patricia) Woods, Ronald (Bernadette) Clasberry, Clifford (Tina) Scott, Danny Thompson, McDaniel (Naomi) Rawlings, Jerry (Emma) Cockrell, and Alfred Johnson. During their time together William and his best friend Patricia fostered over 100 children in the Junction City and Manhattan area. He is also remembered by a plethora of friends, community members, and former brothers in arms.

William was preceded in death by his mother Clara Mae Latner, who passed away on September 3, 2005; his great-uncle/grandfather Roosevelt P. Richardson, who departed on October 16, 2004; godson Curzeil Diamond Walker, who left this world on November 3, 2010; goddaughter Shamone Denise Walker, who passed on August 10, 2015; and aunt Mable Norman, who died on July 20, 2018.

William's proudest accomplishments were his family and his dedicated years of service in the United States Military. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

Visitation will be held on January 6, 2026, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Johnson & Mass-Hinitt Funeral Home located at 203 N Washington St, Junction City, KS. The funeral service will take place on January 7, 2026, at 11:00 AM, also at Johnson & Mass-Hinitt Funeral Home. Following the service, a graveside service will be conducted at the Kansas Veterans' Cemetery in Manhattan, KS, at 1:00 PM with military honors.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the American Cancer Society, 1100 Pennsylvania Avenue, Kansas City, Missouri 64105.

To live stream William's funeral service, please click on the link: Funeral Service for William Griffin Brown Jr

View William Brown's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

12/30/2025

Kathleen M. White

Kathleen Michelle White, 65, of Junction City, Kansas, passed away on December 27, 2025 at Good Shepherd Hospice House. Cremation has taken place with no services planned at this time.

She was preceded in death by her husband Otho Michael White.

Kathleen is survived by her loving sister Julie Lynn Lavallee of Junction City, Kansas.

View Kathleen M. White's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

12/29/2025

Gary Dean Barrick

Gary Dean Barrick, a dedicated family man and esteemed veteran, passed away on December 26, 2025, in Topeka, Kansas, at the age of 79. Born on August 27, 1946, in Carlisle, Pennsylvania, Gary led a life filled with love, service, and camaraderie.

Having retired from the United States Army in 1985 as a Chief Warrant Officer 2 (CW2), Gary's military career was marked by four tours in Vietnam. He was proud to be a member of the elite skydiving team, the Golden Knights, and served as an Army Ranger before becoming a Green Beret. His contributions to his country were commendable, and he carried the values of service and dedication throughout his life.

After his military retirement, Gary transitioned to a career in civil service at Fort Riley, where he diligently worked for the next two decades before retiring in 2008. His commitment to both his career and his family remained unwavering.

Gary was known for hosting the entire family and countless friends for every holiday and celebrations large and small. His home was a gathering place, radiating warmth and hospitality. A loving family man, Gary was described as caring, giving, and strong-willed. Among his proudest accomplishments were his roles as a father and grandfather, as well as his significant contributions as President of the Shriners Hospital for Crippled Children.

His passions included hunting and fishing, and he never stopped cooking, consistently trying new ideas and recipes up to his final days. He was an active member of the Union Lodge #7 A.F. & A.M., participated as a Shriner, and engaged with the Scottish Rite, reflecting his supportive spirit towards his community.

Gary is survived by his son, Gary A. (Berinda) Barrick of Salina, Kansas; his daughter, Diann (Jimmy) Heath of Salina, Kansas; his granddaughter, Ciara Barrick of Salina, Kansas; his brothers, Dennis Barrick and Michael Barrick; and his niece, Denise Vance (Barrick).

He joins in eternal rest his loving wife, Ingeborg Barrick; his parents, Dean and Effie Barrick; his sister, Shirley Mae Barrick; and his brother, George Barrick.

Visitation will be held on January 2, 2026, from 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM, followed by the funeral service at 3:00 PM at Johnson & Mass-Hinitt Funeral Home in Junction City, Kansas. A graveside service will follow at Highland Cemetery the same day.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the Shriners Children's Hospital in St. Louis, Missouri. 4400 Clayton Ave, St. Louis, Missouri 63110.

Gary will be remembered not just for his accomplishments but for the love he shared with his family and friends. His legacy of caring and the memories he created will forever hold a special place in the hearts of those who knew him.

To live stream the funeral service, please click on the link: Funeral Service for Gary Dean Barrick

View Gary Dean Barrick's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

12/29/2025

Bernadette "Bernie" Cimino

Bernadette "Bernie" Cimino, 88, of Junction City, Kansas died on Friday, December 26, 2025 at Brewster Place in Topeka, Kansas.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be 11 a.m. Friday, January 2, 2026, at St. Xavier Catholic Church. A rosary will be prayed at 10 a.m. prior to the mass at the church. Burial will be held at a later date at Fort Riley Main Post Cemetery.

Bernadette was born April 11, 1937, in Humboldt, Kansas the daughter of Ralph and Regina (Eckart) Womack.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are suggested to be given to Cystic Fibrosis Foundation (CFF) at 4550 Montgomery Avenue, Suite 1100 N Bethesda, Maryland 20814; https://give.cff.org/tribute/BernadetteCimino.

Bernadette was a member of St. Xavier Catholic Church and a frequent volunteer for many years in the parish office. She worked various positions for the parish over the years as well. She also operated Mr. C's restaurant in Junction City with her husband Charles.

Bernie met the love of her life in Fort Sheridan, Illinois where they were both stationed. It was love at first sight and they married on April 12, 1958. Together they created a family that has continued to grow over the decades.

Survivors include three sons, Randy Cimino, Michael Cimino, and Chuck Cimino; one daughter Deborah Chaudary; thirteen grandchildren and fourteen great-grandchildren; two brothers, Joseph Womack and William Womack.

Bernadette was preceded by her parents, her husband Charles Cimino who died August 28, 2006 and her daughter Therese Cimino who died March 12, 2019; and eleven siblings.

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12/29/2025

Inge Phillips

Inge (Becker) Phillips passed away peacefully at Via Christi Village on Monday, December 22, 2025 after a short illness.Inge was born December 19, 1935 in Idar-Oberstein, Germany to Philipp and Marta Becker. Inge just celebrated her 90th birthday.While growing up in Germany she enjoyed gymnastics and later enjoyed archery and camping. On November 27, 1957 she married the love of her life, Alfred R. Phillips in Indianapolis, Indiana. She worked hard and was immensely proud of becoming an American citizen. Inge always considered Junction City her home. Inge worked for many years at Cohen's Chicken House where she loved her customers and met many friends. After moving to rural Junction City she worked as Dining Hall Supervisor at Rock Springs Ranch.

Inge loved the country life and her home. She loved working in the yard, feeding the birds and enjoying nature. Inge loved her family and spent as much time as possible with them. She loved spending time at the family's lake home at Lake of the Ozarks, relaxing on the deck watching the water, shopping, and enjoying good food. She also enjoyed the mountains and loved traveling to Estes Park, Colorado. More than anything she loved her family: Survivors include her children, Marcus and his wife Cathy Phillips of Junction City, Kansas; Ravena and her husband Jerry Humbert of Manhattan, Kansas; Grandchildren, Richard Phillips, Jared and Kelsey Humbert and Elijah Phillips. One of her proudest moments was the birth of her great granddaughter, Alaina Marie Humbert born on July 17, 2025. She also had many nieces and nephews whom she always kept in contact with and loved dearly. Inge loved her family, friends and neighbors immensely. She always put others first and was concerned for their well being.She was preceded in death by her husband Alfred ( 4 June 2017), her parents, and brothers Hans Becker and Klaus Becker.Cremation has taken place and a celebration of life will be held in the Spring at Ashland Cemetery.

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12/24/2025

Paul Lee Miller

Paul Lee Miller, a long-time member of the Junction City community, passed away peacefully on December 23, 2025, at the age of 69. Born on October 2, 1956, in Ohio, Paul led a life marked by his service, hard work, and love for both his family and friends.

Having joined the United States Army in 1978, Paul proudly served his country for 17 years before retiring in 1995. Following his military career, he embarked on a fulfilling journey as a truck driver, spending many years with Doug Bradley Trucking Inc.

In December of 1985, Paul married Debbie Edholm, in Junction City, Kansas. After Debbie’s passing on March 10, 2014, Paul continued to honor her memory, holding close the values and joys they shared.

Paul was a man of many interests. He found great pleasure in restoring his GTO and enjoyed the exhilarating feeling of riding his motorcycles, which reflected his profound love of the open road. He was often seen at his favorite local diner, where he would start his mornings with a cup of coffee and a hearty breakfast, enjoying the camaraderie of his friends and community.

In his later years, Paul lived at Brookdale Assisted Living, where he developed a fondness for the staff and fellow residents.

He is survived by his daughters, Bonnie (Jerry) Wright and Christina (James) Edholm, and his beloved granddaughter, Jessi. Paul is also remembered by his brother, Darrel Miller, and many close friends.

No services are planned at this time. A graveside service will be held in Ohio at a later date.

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12/19/2025

The team came together today to celebrate the season with a Christmas potluck luncheon filled with good food and great company. 🎄

During the gathering, Funeral Director in Charge Sam Steiner had the honor of presenting Support Staff Curtis Wooten, with his 25-year anniversary pin. Congratulations, Curtis, and thank you for 25 years of dedication and service!

12/15/2025

Veronica L. Osborn

Veronica L. Osborn, affectionately known as Roni, graced this world with her presence from February 4, 1954, until her passing on December 14, 2025. Born in Amarillo, Texas, Roni’s life was a testament to selflessness and an unwavering love for her family.

Roni married her beloved husband, Robert Osborn, on July 4, 1994, in a heartfelt ceremony in Las Vegas, Nevada. Their union marked the beginning of a beautiful partnership characterized by love, laughter, and deep devotion to one another.

Roni was a very giving person whose personality shone brightly in the lives of those around her. Her heart was always open, and she found joy in cherishing her family, which included her cherished sons, David Linn and Stanley Schultz, and her treasured daughter, Miranda Sanchez. Roni took immense pride in her role as a grandmother, enjoying precious moments spent with her grandchildren, Shantelle, "Junior," Cena, Alyssa, and Nova.

In addition to her love for family, Roni had a special place in her heart for all the cats she cared for throughout her life. Her passion for these animals reflected her nurturing spirit and deep compassion.

Roni is survived by her loving husband, Robert Osborn; her children, David Linn, Stanley Schultz, and Miranda Sanchez and her husband Luis; her grandchildren, Shantelle, "Junior," Cena, Alyssa, and Nova; and her brothers, Edward and Kenny Kile. She is predeceased by her parents, Edward and Shirley Kile, whose love laid the foundation for Roni’s own legacy of care and generosity.

As we remember Roni, let us celebrate her spirit, the warmth she brought into our lives, and the countless ways she touched the hearts of those she loved. May her memory live on in the hearts of all who knew her.

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12/14/2025

John G. Mix

John G. Mix, a beloved husband, father, and grandfather, passed away on December 13, 2025, in Wakefield, Kansas. Born on October 13, 1947, in Olean, New York, John was a man known for his giving spirit, humor, and deep love for his family.

A proud veteran, John served in the United States Army from 1976 to 1991, retiring with full honors. His dedication to his country reflected the values of commitment and service that he carried throughout his life.

In June 1969, John married the love of his life, Hellen Bone, at Ft. Kobbe in the Panama Canal zone. Together they built a joyful home filled with laughter and surrounded by their loved ones. Some of John's fondest memories include spending time at home, where he cherished the moments watching baseball with Hellen.

John's talents extended beyond his commitment to family and military service. He was an avid fisherman and enjoyed engaging in small construction projects around the house. A man of many interests, he played the bass guitar for the band Back Porch Country during the 1980s, performing across Kansas and sharing his love of music with audiences.

John is survived by his beloved wife, Hellen Mix, his son, John G. Mix Jr. and daughter-in-law Elizabeth Cedeno de Mix, and his cherished grandson, George Neill II. He is also survived by his sister Gerilee Greene and her family from Florida. He was preceded in death by his parents, John E. and Patricia Mix, and his daughter, Rose Mix.

As we remember John G. Mix, we celebrate a life filled with love, laughter, and dedication to family and country. He leaves behind a legacy that will be cherished by all who knew him.

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