Holly Blair Hutchens

August 22, 1942 - October 15, 2019

The Rev. Holly B. Hutchens died on Tuesday October 15 at Heritage Healthcare in Chanute after a long battle with Alzheimer’s disease. Holly was born on August 22, 1942 to Edward and Charlotte Hutchens in Petersburg, VA. She grew up in Hinsdale, IL. Holly received her BA from the University of Michigan and her MA from the University of Chicago. She spent a year living in India studying Indian art history. She taught Art History at Cedarcrest College in Pennsylvania and at SW Missouri State University. In 1985 Holly entered Seabury Western Theological Seminary where she studied for the Episcopal priesthood. She was ordained in 1988 and served congregations in Illinois, Kansas and Missouri. She then spent six years living in the Highlands of Scotland where she served as the Rector of St. Ninian’s Scottish Episcopal Church. Holly loved to travel and to explore new cultures and cuisines—one of her favorite dishes was Haggis with tatties and neeps! And, of course, anything chocolate. After she was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s she returned to Chanute where she had a support group of dear friends. She lived at Country Place until she broke her hip. She then went to live at Heritage Healthcare where she made many friends among the staff and the other residents. Holly is survived by her sister Pamela Edwards, and her brothers James Hutchens, Curtis Hutchens and Timothy Hutchens their spouses, children and grandchildren. Cremation has been requested and a Celebration of life will be held at St. Timothy’s Episcopal Church in Iola on Tuesday, October 29 at 11:00 AM, The Rev. David Kent officiating. In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to St. Timothy’s Episcopal Church, 202 S. Walnut St., Iola KS 66749 or the Alzheimer’s Association, 229 N. Michigan Ave., Fl. 17, Chicago, IL 60601. Online condolences may be left at: www.countrysidefh.com. Services have been entrusted to: Countryside Funeral Home 101 N. Highland, Chanute, KS 66720.