Edith L. Ferrell

Edith L. Ferrell, born on June 16, 1938, in Akin, Colorado, passed away early Monday morning, December 16, 2024, in Lawrence, Kansas at the age of 86. She was a beloved mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, (GiGi) who touched the lives of many with her warmth and kindness.

Edith lived in several places throughout her life, including Colorado, Iowa, and Kansas. After graduating from Clearwater High School in 1956 in Clearwater, Kansas, she embarked on new adventures. She moved to Wheelus Air Force Base in Tripoli, Libya, followed by McConnell Air Force Base in Kansas. In 1965, she settled in Flint, Michigan, where she spent 30 years before relocating to Independence, Kansas, for another five years. Eventually, she made her way to Caney, Kansas, from 2000 to 2017, and then to Lawrence, Kansas, where she resided until her passing.

Edith dedicated 20 years of her career to General Motors, where she worked as a supervisor in quality control. She was admired by her colleagues for her leadership and dedication to her job.

Her personality radiated love and joy. Edith was known for her beautiful smile, and she had an innate ability to make everyone feel like a friend. She was always ready to lend a helping hand and shared her love for family and friends without reservation.

In her leisure time, Edith enjoyed playing horseshoes, shuffleboard, and bowling. She cherished moments spent playing card games with family and loved floating in the pool and soaking up the sunshine. A trip to the casino was also a favorite pastime.

She was a member of the American Horseshoe Association and member of Lawrence Heights Christian Church.

Edith was preceded in death by her parents, Alfred G. Vining “Jack” and Cleda B. (Lancaster) Vining, her brothers Efton D. Vining “Duane” and Marshall L. Vining, and her spouse William C. Ferrell, who passed away on April 27, 2021.

She is survived by her children, Sherrie (Steve) Zelent of Mears, Michigan; Patti (Keith) Doncouse of Lawrence, Kansas; and Kimberly Johnson of Warwick, Rhode Island. Her legacy continues through her beloved grandchildren and great-grandchildren: Aimee (Brett) Strickland of Cherryvale, Kansas – Morgan and Jack; Joshua (Katelyn) Doncouse of Gardner, Kansas – Hadley; Rebekah (Travis) Zweydoff of Baldwin, Kansas – Ryder, Axel, Evander; Cody (Ryanne) Johnson of West Warwick, Rhode Island; and Tiffany Johnson of Lawrence, Kansas – Declan.

A graveside service will be held in her honor on Saturday, December 21, 2024, at Robbins Cemetery in Coffeyville, Kansas, starting at 11:30 AM under the guidance of Wickham Family Funeral Home & Cremation Service, 216 East 4th, Cherryvale, Kansas 67335. 

Edith L. Ferrell will be remembered fondly by her family and friends for the love and joy she brought to their lives.