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Plumer-Gobber Funeral Home, 215 W. Main, Norton, KS (2026)

03/27/2026

In Loving Memory
James David Moreau

James David Moreau, a beloved husband, dedicated public servant, Engineer, and builder, passed away on March 25, 2026, at Norton County Hospital in Norton, Kansas. He was 58 years 1 month and 3 days old. James’s passing followed a long and courageous battle with cancer, throughout which he was surrounded by the love and support of his wife and family.

Born on February 22, 1968, in Minden, Nebraska, James was the son of Roger and Patricia Ann (Davidson) Moreau. He was the third of four children and spent his early childhood in Holdrege, Nebraska, where he began his primary education. In 1974, his family moved to McCook, Nebraska.

A proud graduate of McCook High School’s Class of 1986, James was known for his competitive spirit. He excelled in track, cross country, swimming, and diving. He was awarded the Bison Award his senior year. During his youth, he worked at the Fox Theater running projectors and concessions, and later at McDonald's.

James pursued higher education with diligence, first earning an Associate degree in accounting from McCook Community College in 1989. He then attended the University of Nebraska in Lincoln, where he earned a Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering in 1994, and his Professional Civil Engineer in 1999. In 2018 he achieved a Master’s degree in Public Affairs and Administration from the University of Arkansas.

James’ professional life was marked by a commitment to infrastructure and community service. While earning his undergraduate degree, he began working for the Nebraska Department of Roads. Following graduation, he served as Engineer I for the department in Ainsworth, Holdrege, and then became the Traffic Engineer for the North Platte location serving greater Western Nebraska.

While living in North Platte, James met the love of his life, Andrea Nekuda. The two were married on September 22, 2001. James's devotion to his family was evident from the start, as he soon after proudly adopted Andrea’s daughter, Alizabeth.

His career journey then took him to Olsson’s in Holdrege before they moved to Littleton, Colorado. There, he worked for Alliance Power as the Project Engineer for a wind farm in Sterling, Colorado. James later joined the Colorado Department of Transportation, where his significant contributions to the I-25 corridor project earned him professional recognition and an award.

In May 2018, James’s path led him to Norton, Kansas. For nearly eight years, he served with distinction as the City Administrator, applying his engineering expertise and administrative leadership to better the community he called home. During his administration he created the “One Norton” concept in which he wanted all of his team members to work together for the good of Norton. He was very proud of his team.

James is remembered by his colleagues as a talented engineer and a steady leader, and by his friends and family as a man of great character. A master of his craft and a fixture in his community, James served on the Norton County Hospital Board starting in 2021, and was the Board president for just over 2 years. He was a member of the B.P.O.E., Nebraska, Kansas and Colorado Professional Civil Engineers, and POCI Club.

James was a man who could build or fix just about anything. Whether he was rebuilding a staircase in the homes he remodeled alongside his wife, or tuning up an old Pontiac alongside his dad and brother, he found satisfaction in a job well done. His love of education led him to getting an Electrical Apprentice license so he could work on his project homes.

When he wasn’t mid-project on his house, James enjoyed playing on the Norton Co****le League. But the absolute pleasure he lived for was his annual fishing trip to Minnesota with his friend Mike Johnson, and the recent addition of the 'boys’ weekend' in Las Vegas. He also enjoyed hitting estate sales when he lived in Colorado, “most fun you can have for $20 bucks.”

A lifelong, unwavering fan of the Nebraska Cornhuskers and the Denver Broncos, James was rarely seen on game day without his team shirt. His spirit, and knowledge of the game, and his love for it rarely found him not watching or listening to it on the radio. In fact, he planned his wedding around the Husker football schedule.

James was preceded in death by his mother Patricia, daughter Alizabeth, nephew Brady, wonderful aunt Donna, grandparents and many aunts and uncles.

James is survived by his wife, Andrea of the home. His “want-to-be son” Josh (Kymmy) Ragsdale and sons. His father Roger (Susan) Moreau of McCook, Nebraska; his brother Brian (Beth) Moreau of Castle Rock, Colorado and sisters, Janice (Pat) Howell of Cambridge and Brenda (Bryan) Buechter, of Belgrade, Nebraska. His step-brother Ryan (Christal) Vrbas of Oberlin, and step-sisters Staci (Jason) Meyers and Katie (David) Anthony of McCook, Nebraska. Nephews Alex (Shannon), Kiel (KC), Bryce, Jake and Levi. Nieces Kathryn (Dave), Amber (Ricky), Emily (Lyle) and Breanna (Landon). His mother-in-law, Alice Nekuda, and sister-in-law, Jenny Nekuda.

Friends and family are invited to a visitation on Tuesday, March 31, 5-7:00 pm at Plumer-Gobber Funeral Home, Norton. The Life Honoring Service of James Moreau will be held Wednesday, April 1, at 10:30 am at Norton Christian Church, 208 N Kansas Ave, Norton, Kansas. Please join us for a luncheon following the service at the church. Inurnment will be at a later date. A memorial will be established in James’ name to the Norton County Hospital for facility upgrades. Condolences may be left at

Plumer-Gobber Funeral Home in Norton, KS provides funeral, memorial, aftercare, pre-planning, and cremation services to our community and the surrounding a... Learn More

03/16/2026

In Loving Memory
Dr. Richard “Willie” Dee Wiltfong
November 6, 1936 – March 11, 2026

Dr. Richard Wiltfong, affectionately known as “Willie” or “Doc” to friends and family, was born on November 6, 1936, to George and Louise (Butler) Wiltfong on their farm near Clayton, Kansas. Willie was the youngest of three brothers, and along with his two older brothers, Phillip and Meredith, he helped his parents raise livestock and farm. Because of his love for animals and enjoyment of the outdoors, Willie, like his two brothers, chose to become a veterinarian. Willie attended school in Norcatur and Norton, Kansas, graduating from Norton Community High School in 1955. He went on to college at Kansas State University, where he met Marcia Petracek, from Jennings, Kansas. Willie and Marcia married on August 7, 1960, and they celebrated their 65th anniversary in August, 2025. After graduating and receiving a D.V.M. degree from Kansas State University Veterinary Medicine School in 1961, Willie served for two years in the U. S. Air Force. Willie and Marcia enjoyed living in Portland, Oregon, where Willie served as the base veterinarian on the International Air Force Base in Portland. While in Portland, their daughter Susan was born. After his discharge, Willie and Marcia returned to Norton where Willie joined the large and small animal veterinary practice of Dr. George Atkinson in 1963, eventually forming their partnership in 1965. Willie and Marcia’s family grew in Norton with the birth of their son, David, and daughter, Julie. Willie practiced veterinary medicine in Norton County for approximately 40 years, making daily calls to livestock farms, caring for pets and farm animals at the Norton clinic, and inspecting and providing veterinary care for livestock on a weekly basis at the Norton sale barn. Because of his long practice as a veterinarian in the Norton area, he came to know and enjoy many friends in the wider Norton community. The Norton veterinary clinic continues to serve the community today.

As a native son of Norton and a long-time resident, Willie cared very much about the Norton community. He was a contributor and leader who always made an effort to know and help others, and to help make Norton a good place to live. He set a good example not only as a veterinarian, but also as a human being. Willie epitomized being the “salt of the Earth” by serving and giving to others over the years:
• Served on the Norton School Board for eight years, helping to find and select a district superintendent and build a new junior and senior high school building.
• He supported the Norton County Fair each summer, judging 4-H livestock, purchasing 4-H animals and a carnival ride that is used in the county fair.
• Willie coached girls’ summer softball teams, was a Boy Scout leader, and helped with Big Brothers.
• He served on the boards for The Bank, Valley Hope, the Norton United Methodist Church, and the local Farmer’s Home Administration.
• Willie was active in Rotary, joining in 1966, serving as local president and in other officer roles. He was recognized with the Rotary Paul Harris Fellow Award for his contributions to global Rotary service projects.
• He was a member of the American Legion, Eagles Club, and the American and Kansas Veterinary Medical Associations.
• As an antique car collector and lover, Willie founded the Norton Car Club, and he often made his antique cars available to friends and family for parades and community events as well as the annual Sugar Valley antique car rally in Scotts Bluff, Nebraska. Many friends and family members have fond memories of these events, and Willie’s kids and grandkids continue to enjoy “Papa’s” old cars.
• Willie and Marcia, both Kansas State University graduates, are well known for their “Purple Pride” as long-time KSU supporters and fans, and often wearing the royal purple and white colors of KSU. They are life-time members of the KSU Alumni Association, members of the President’s Club and 1963 Circle. They have given many scholarships to KSU students over the years. Importantly, they purchased 50-yard line seats when the KSU football stadium was first built in the 1960s, and they have held those tickets ever since. In more than fifty years they missed only four home games, because of blizzards, and due to this good record, they were honored several years ago at a KSU home football game for being dedicated fans. The extended Wiltfong family has created an endowed scholarship in honor of Willie and his brothers Phillip and Meredith, all three veterinarians, given annually to a KSU veterinary medical student.

After retiring, Willie and Marcia continued to enjoy KSU football games, antique cars, gardening, wintering in Mesa, Arizona, travel around the world, and watching and tending to the purple martins who made homes in Willie’s many purple martin houses each year in their backyard. For the last several years, Willie and Marcia have lived in Lincoln, Nebraska, near their son, David, and his family. In Lincoln, Willie and Marcia have enjoyed living at the Aviva Woodlands Senior Community where they have made and enjoyed many good friends.

Willie is preceded in death by his parents and brothers. He is survived by his wife Marcia, of Lincoln, Nebraska, daughter Susan Cesiel (Greg) of Rochester Hills, Michigan, son David Wiltfong (Cindy) of Lincoln, Nebraska, daughter Julie Bolander (Bobby) of Kingwood, Texas, and six grandchildren including: David Cesiel (Lexi) of Minneapolis, MN, Ryan Cesiel (Ryan) of San Francisco, California, Ellie Wiltfong Olson (Craig) of Omaha, Nebraska, Kathryn Cesiel Gomez (Andrew) of Romeo, Michigan, Anne Wiltfong of Lenexa, Kansas, and Jenna Wiltfong of Kansas City, Kansas.

A memorial service will be held on Friday, March 20, 1:00 pm, at the First United Methodist Church in Norton, Kansas, followed by a luncheon at 2:00 pm in Fellowship Hall at the church, and inurnment with military honors at the Norton Cemetery at 4:00 pm. Memorial donations may be made to the Norton Community Foundation and sent in care of Plumer-Gobber Funeral Home, 215 W. Main St., Norton, KS 67654. Condolences may be left at

Plumer-Gobber Funeral Home in Norton, KS provides funeral, memorial, aftercare, pre-planning, and cremation services to our community and the surrounding a... Learn More

03/13/2026

In Loving Memory
Mark McMillin

Mark William McMillin, 66, of Almena, KS passed away January 27, 2026. He was born August 4, 1959 in Norton, KS to Bill Comstock and Virginia Engelhardt and later adopted by Joe McMillin.

Mark’s dad did construction so as a kid they moved a lot, they lived in Tribune, Chapman, and the Rossville/St. Mary’s area. He attended high school in Chapman. After high school, Mark moved back and forth from Almena and Washington State, where he met Tina Smith. They moved to St. Mary’s and had their son, Chaim. While living in St. Mary’s Mark worked for a company doing custom cabinets. He enjoyed woodworking and being around family and friends and listening to Classic Rock. Mark loved going on motorcycle rides and camping with Chaim.

Mark is survived by his son, Chaim and wife Ryan McMillin of Lenexa, KS, stepson, Leon Hughes of Norton, KS, grandkids, Davina and Royce, and siblings: Cindy Brown of Lenexa, KS, Lora McMillin of Morganville, KS, Brad McMillin of Westmoreland, KS, and Kevin McMillin of Delia, KS. He was preceded in death by his parents, Joe and Virginia McMillin.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 12:00 pm Saturday, March 14, 2026 at the Almena Community Center, Almena, KS. Condolences may be left at

Plumer-Gobber Funeral Home in Norton, KS provides funeral, memorial, aftercare, pre-planning, and cremation services to our community and the surrounding a... Learn More

03/10/2026

In Loving Memory
Robert "Bob" Hays

Robert L. "Bob" Hays passed away on January 16th, 2026, aged 94. Born on a Densmore Kansas farm May 27, 1931, he worked on the family farm, attending a one room school before attending Almena High School. Graduating from high school in 1948, he farmed, worked at Boeing in Wichita, and entered the Air Force. He married Etta Jane Voss of Densmore Kansas in 1953, a union which lasted over 63 years. After honorable discharge in 1953, he returned to farming near Prairie View, Kansas. Two children were born in northwestern Kansas, Kathy (1954) and Phillip (1955). Moving the family to Lawrence in 1956, Robert attended college at the University of Kansas on the GI bill and obtained an Electrical Engineering degree (1960). After graduation, he worked for the Bureau of Reclamation and settled in Golden, Colorado. While working full time, he built a beautiful house with very little assistance. The family moved to the house in 1963 and the last child, Paul was born (1965). Robert lived in the house for about 63 years, living alone after Jane passed away. During his career, he developed a widely used safety procedure for working on high voltage lines. Robert enjoyed working with his hands, making some legacy furniture and several clock cases. After retirement in 1987, he and Jane traveled extensively overseas before spending summers at blue grass music festivals in North America. During winters, they wrote and self-published 15 books documenting both family history and Jane's genealogy research. After Jane's passing, Bob worked as a volunteer at the Golden Visitor Center until late last year. He is survived by three children, Kathy, Phillip, and Paul; their spouses; four grandchildren, Peter and David Stang, Kyle and Tyler Hays; three great-grandchildren, Connor, Jessamyn, and Emmett Hays; a sister, Rose Getty; a nephew, Gale Hays; and seven grandnephews/nieces and their descendants.

Robert was a gentleman, loving, generous, and kind. A lifetime learner, he made friends throughout his life. He knew how to share good clean fun with others, and to work hard and smart.

No funeral nor memorial service. Robert's ashes will be buried next to "Jane" in the Norton Kansas cemetery. If anyone wishes to make a donation in remembrance, please consider the American Cancer Society. Condolences may be left at

Plumer-Gobber Funeral Home in Norton, KS provides funeral, memorial, aftercare, pre-planning, and cremation services to our community and the surrounding a... Learn More

03/09/2026

In Loving Memory
Mary Ann Taylor

Mary Ann (Strayer) Taylor passed away March 6, 2026 at the Norton County Hospital. She was born on April 27, 1952, at Norton County Hospital to Guy William and Ruby (Chambers) Strayer.

Mary Ann attended Lone Hand Country School until the third grade, then transferred to Norton, where she graduated from NCHS in 1971. She married Pat Taylor on August 15, 1992. Pat had two children, Angela and Courtney.

Throughout the years, Mary Ann worked at the Old Public Library, Prairie Dog Recreation Center, Andbe Home, Pizza Hut, Norton Co-op (where she met Pat), and as a paraeducator at the schools. She enjoyed getting to know those she worked with.

Mary Ann loved her aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, and nephews. She enjoyed cooking, baking, nature, cats, music, and spending time with family and friends. In her earlier years, she also enjoyed writing, embroidery, yard work, and attending yard sales.

Prior to receiving Jesus as her Lord and Savior on a Sunday morning at Maple Grove Church, she was baptized at Brethren Church on October 27, 1963, by Pastor George Merky. In 1983, Mary Ann went on a mission trip to Haiti with Arlene Rice’s ministry.

Mary Ann leaves behind her stepchildren, Angela (Shane) Jarvis of Phillipsburg, KS, and Courtney (Michelle) Taylor of Syracuse, NY; three grandchildren; two great-granddaughters; her siblings: Norman (Paula) Strayer of Norton, KS; Virginia (Durant) Harvey of Kearney, NE; and Doug (Sherry) Strayer of Norton, KS; along with many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Pat; her sister, Linda Strayer; and her fiancé, Dick Sterrett.

The family would like to thank Susan Ward and the Norton County Hospital for their wonderful care and to Darel Boston and all other visitors, your presence was a great comfort to us all.

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 am Thursday, March 12, 2026 at the funeral home. Burial will follow in the Norton Cemetery. Visitation will be from 5-7:00 pm Wednesday, March 11 also at the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be made to the Ministerial Alliance and sent in care of Plumer-Gobber Funeral Home, 215 W. Main St., Norton, KS 67654. Condolences may be left at

Plumer-Gobber Funeral Home in Norton, KS provides funeral, memorial, aftercare, pre-planning, and cremation services to our community and the surrounding a... Learn More

03/04/2026

In Loving Memory
Floyd Witt

Floyd Lee Witt, 93, of Jennings, KS passed away February 26, 2026 at his home in Jennings, KS. He was born April 19, 1932 in Norton, KS to Cleo and Dorothy (Burroughs) Witt.

Floyd grew up in the Norton and Clayton area and graduated from Norton Community High School in 1950. He served in the United States Air Force for 21 years, retiring in 1973. He served during the Korean War and Vietnam War and was stationed in Cape Lisburne, AK. He continued his education for years, receiving several master’s degrees. Floyd married Joan Beatrice Scarrow on September 5, 1953 in Biloxi, MS. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and great-great-grandfather and loved his family very much. In his spare time, he enjoyed fishing, hunting, wood carving, leather work, gardening, and was a member of the American Legion.

Floyd is survived by his 9 children, 19 grandchildren, 34 great-grandchildren, 14 great-grandchildren, and siblings, Robert Gene Witt and Aleta Kay Baker. He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Joan, and three sisters: Minnie Loretta, Gertrude, and Alice.

A memorial service with military honors will be held at 10:30 am Saturday, March 21, 2026 at the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be made to Hospice Services of NWKS and sent in care of Plumer-Gobber Funeral Home, 215 W. Main St., Norton, KS 67654. Condolences may be left at

Plumer-Gobber Funeral Home in Norton, KS provides funeral, memorial, aftercare, pre-planning, and cremation services to our community and the surrounding a... Learn More

03/04/2026

In Loving Memory
Cheryl A. Smith

Cheryl Ann Smith, 80, of Norton, KS, was called home to Jesus on March 2, 2026 at the Norton County Hospital. She was born November 4, 1945 in Norton, KS to Quinton and Frances (Finch) Ingram.

Cheryl grew up in Norton, graduating from Norton Community High School in 1963. She attended classes at Fort Hays State University and later finished her associate’s degree in applied arts through Colby Community College. Cheryl worked as a District Accountant for the Kansas Department of Transportation for 22 years. Deeply connected to her roots, Cheryl remained an active member of the NCHS Class of 1963 and treasured her Friday morning breakfasts with her close circle of friends. Her love of history led her to devote countless hours to researching Norton County, both personally and for the Norton County Museum. She proudly shared her knowledge with the community, writing 32 articles for the Norton Telegram in the “Small Town Big History” column. Cheryl had a gentle soul and a deep love for animals and the simple beauty of nature. She delighted in tending to her flower and vegetable gardens, often creating charming pathways lined with the antique bricks she lovingly collected.

Cheryl poured her whole heart into her family. Their laughter, accomplishments, and togetherness were her most treasured blessings. She will forever be remembered as a joyful, steady presence behind family traditions such as the Animal Tree, Easter Games, annual Mother-Daughter weekends, and “Wakapolajosmith” gatherings.

Cheryl is survived by the love of her life for over 40 years, Kevin “Turk” Lacy of the home; daughters: Tara Smith (Kevin Woods) of Schoenchen, KS, Amye (Bill) Jones of Norton, KS, and Jennifer Jo (Dan) Porter of Norton, KS; grandchildren: Riley Kaus, Madison (Chris) Brice, Elley Kaus, Silas Jones, Eli Jones, Levi Jones, Jordan (Kayla) Wahlmeier, Quinton (Julia) Porter, Landon Porter (and fiancée Cheyenne Rhoades), Courtland Porter (and fiancée Raye Kasson), and Avery (Garrett) Urban; 3 great-grandchildren and one on the way; brother, William Ingram, and many other relatives and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents, and Kevin’s beloved mother Annaline Lacy.

Funeral services will be held at 11:11 am Friday, March 6, 2026 at Plumer-Gobber Funeral Home. Burial will follow in the Prairie View Cemetery, Prairie View, KS. Visitation will be from 5:00-7:00 pm Thursday, March 5 at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Norton County Museum or the Second Chance Homeless Pet Society and sent in care of Plumer-Gobber Funeral Home, 215 W. Main St., Norton, KS 67654. Condolences may be left at

Live streaming Link: https://my.gather.app/remember/cheryl-smith-2026

Plumer-Gobber Funeral Home in Norton, KS provides funeral, memorial, aftercare, pre-planning, and cremation services to our community and the surrounding a... Learn More

03/02/2026

In Loving Memory
Sharrelle Janay Shinn

Sharrelle Janay Shinn, age 33, passed away unexpectedly on February 28, 2026. She was born on November 7, 1992, in Phillipsburg, Kansas, to Harold Shinn and Candra Jo (Palmer) Shinn.

Sharrelle grew up in Stockton, Kansas, and later in Norton, Kansas, where she attended Norton Community High School. During high school, she enjoyed art and volleyball.

Following high school, Sharrelle worked in insurance billing for Valley Hope Association, at Walmart and later in housekeeping and home healthcare where she genuinely loved her clients.

Sharrelle was known for her big heart and her fierce independence. She loved deeply and formed loyal friendships that brought laughter and lasting memories to those who knew her. She enjoyed many styles of music, especially Chevelle, Breaking Benjamin, Seether, Skillet and Papa Roach. She had a deep love for animals and children. She had a soft spot for those who were struggling and often felt compassion for the downtrodden.

Sharrelle desired motherhood deeply and carried love in her heart for her children.

She was preceded in death by her mother, Candra Jo (Palmer) Shinn; cousin, Courtney Pelster; daughter, Navarrah Renee, born sleeping on May 23, 2019; grandparents, Roy and Rosalea Palmer and Robert and Dorothy Shinn.

She is survived by her son, Ledger John of Norton, Kansas; her father, Harold (Laurie) Shinn of Norton, Kansas; siblings: Cassidy (Tinna) Palmer of Great Bend, Kansas and Bryanna Smith (Josh Cooler) of Branford, Florida; step-sister, Kate (Gilbert) Brodecker of Fairbury, Nebraska, step-brothers: Ashton (Katharine) Draper of Arvada, Colorado and Mike (Trae) Cliff of Norton, Kansas; grandmothers: Francis Shinn of Mount Pleasant, Texas, Cheryl Kelln of SeaTac, Washington, and Hypatia Day of Norton, Kansas; prior step-mother and friend, Janelle (Mark Seville) Rich of Bullhead City, Arizona; her aunts and uncles: Ray (Chris) Palmer of Branson, Missouri, Carlene Palmer of Elgin, Nebraska, Mack Palmer of Stockton, Kansas, Kathy (Brian) Maughan of Oakdale, Nebraska; nieces and nephews: Selena (Gavin) Lamb of Great Bend, Kansas, Cyrise Brown of Wichita, Kansas, and James Palmer of Great Bend, Kansas; along with many cousins and close friends.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 11:00 am Saturday, May 9, 2026 at the Norton Christian Church. Inurnment will follow in the Norton Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the Ledger John Shinn Memorial Fund and may be sent in care of Plumer-Gobber Funeral Home, 215 W Main St., Norton, KS 67654. Condolences may be left at

Plumer-Gobber Funeral Home in Norton, KS provides funeral, memorial, aftercare, pre-planning, and cremation services to our community and the surrounding a... Learn More

03/02/2026

In Loving Memory
Karri June Sisk

Karri June Worcester Sisk, of Norton, Kansas, departed this life peacefully on February 22, 2026, at the age of 62 in Norton, Kansas. She was born on January 30, 1964 in Hill City, Kansas.

Karri was a beloved member of her community and will be deeply missed by her friends, family, and all who knew her.

Karri was described as the epitome of sweetness. She had a kind heart and a generous spirit, which endeared her to everyone she met. She made it very easy for everyone to love her. She leaves behind a legacy of love and compassion that will be cherished by those who were fortunate enough to know her.

Karri is survived by her loving husband of 25 years, James Sisk of Norton, Kansas; son, Kurtis and wife Jessica Campbell of Olathe, Kansas; daughter, Sara and husband Shawn Hicks of Hays, Kansas; grandchildren, and her brothers and sisters: Sherri Worcester and Dale Gillman of WaKeeney, Kansas, Terry and Sandy Worcester of Flagstaff, Arizona, Larry and Jody Worcester of rural Hill City, Kansas, and Perry “PJ” Worcester of Santa Fe, New Mexico.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Donald and Marilyn “Mary” Worcester and mother-in-law, Kathy Fanning.

Karri graduated from Hill City High School in 1982 and that summer moved to Norton, Kansas to begin employment. She worked for the Kansas Department of Transportation for over 20 years in Norton, along with other jobs.

Karri was very fond of animals. Her hobbies included woodworking, metal working, drawing, and painting. Most of all, she loved spending time watching her grandkids.

Karri will forever be remembered for her sweet nature, generosity, and love for her family, grandkids, and community. Her legacy will continue to inspire and touch the lives of those she leaves behind.

The family has chosen cremation, and no memorial services are planned. Condolences may be left at www.plumergobber.com Arrangements by Plumer-Gobber Funeral Home, 215 W. Main St., Norton, KS 67654.

Plumer-Gobber Funeral Home in Norton, KS provides funeral, memorial, aftercare, pre-planning, and cremation services to our community and the surrounding a... Learn More

02/27/2026

In Loving Memory
Mary Kay Woodyard

“We are not given a good life or a bad life. We are given a life. It’s up to us to make it good or bad”
-Ward Foley (Scarman)

Mary Kay (Foley) Woodyard of Norton, Kansas passed away on February 21st, 2026. She was born on August 12th, 1946 in Norton to Lowell Foley and Alice (Sproul) Foley.

Mary Kay attended Norton Community Schools and graduated with the class of 1964. She then attended Colorado State University studying Journalism, where she met Jack Woodyard. Mary Kay later continued her studies at the University of Nevada, University of Alabama and Fort Hays State University.

On August 20th, 1965 Mary Kay married the love of her life Jack Woodyard at the Trinity Episcopal Church in Norton. They celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary last summer. Jack and Mary Kay have five children, Chip, John, Matthew, Amber and Michael. Over the years they made their home in Reno, Nevada, Tuscaloosa, Alabama, and Salem, Oregon, before retiring to Norton in 1996.

She was a lifelong writer, writing articles for local newspapers and writing grants for non profit organizations. She served as Executive Director of Big Brothers Big Sisters in northwest Kansas. Mary Kay was actively involved and volunteered in numerous churches while her children and grandchildren were growing up. During her life she was an advocate for others, a safe place to land for so many. Big problems became small and manageable in her presence.

Mary Kay was preceded in death by her parents Lowell and Alice Foley, her husband’s parents Olin and Ruth Woodyard, her brother and sister-in-law Duane and Joan Foley, her sister Joanne Reeves, and her nephew Ward Foley.

She leaves to celebrate her life, her husband Jack, as well as their children and grandchildren: Chip, Yoko and Ashley Woodyard; John, Tessa, Olin and Katie, Kielan, Emerson and Lochlan Woodyard; Matthew, Bri, Harrison, Emily, Hunter and Ella Woodyard; Amber and Perry Hall, Max Hall, Allen and Araya Apuan; and Michael Woodyard. Mary Kay recently became a great-grandmother to Claire Rae Lambert one month before her passing. She also leaves her brother-in-law Dale Reeves, cousins, many nieces and nephews, great-nieces and nephews, great-great-nieces and nephews and so very many beloved friends who will all miss her dearly. A special thank you to the staff at the Andbe Home for taking such wonderful care of our mother over the past four years.

We are so grateful you are no longer in pain Mom. Peace be with you.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, March 7th at 10:30 am at The First United Methodist Church in Norton. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Norton Library and sent in care of Plumer-Gobber Funeral Home, 215 W. Main St., Norton, KS 67654. Condolences may be left at

Plumer-Gobber Funeral Home in Norton, KS provides funeral, memorial, aftercare, pre-planning, and cremation services to our community and the surrounding a... Learn More

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