Mary Frances South's Obituary
Mary Frances Stephens South, a beloved mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, passed away peacefully at Heritage Healthcare in Chanute, Kansas, on Saturday, March 29, 2025. Born on Easter Sunday, April 21, 1935, in La Junta, Colorado, to John and Maggie (Jenkins) Stephens, Mary brought a spirit of joy and kindness to all who knew her.
On April 10, 1952, she married the love of her life, Leonard E. South, and together they built a loving family. Their union blessed them with three children: Richard Earl, Cheryl Ann, and Carol Annette. In 1967, the family relocated to Humboldt, Kansas, where Mary became a familiar and cherished presence in the community.
Throughout her life, Mary was a tireless worker, dedicating her time to various roles, including positions at the Jean Factory, Birdview, and Legends in Chanute. For over two decades, she lovingly cleaned the Methodist Church in Humboldt, and also provided cleaning services for Community National Bank and Emprise Banks in Iola, Chanute, and Humboldt, as well as numerous private residences. Her dedication and hard work were a testament to her strong character.
Beyond her professional life, Mary was a woman of many talents and passions. A member of the Eastern Star, she found joy in tending her beautiful garden, watching birds and hummingbirds, and engaging in her cherished crafts. She poured her heart into creating countless embroidered baby quilts, showering numerous new mothers with these handmade treasures. Many in town still use the lovely tea towels she meticulously crafted.
Mary was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Leonard; her son, Richard Earl; her brothers, Edwin and Carl; and her grandchildren, Andrew and Laura Coltrane. She is survived by her daughters, Cheryl (Doug) Coltrane of Humboldt, Kansas, and Carol Wagner of Independence, Missouri; her granddaughter, Megan (Joe) Arell of Humboldt, Kansas; and her great-grandchildren, Cole Anderson, Haylie Anderson, and Trip Arell. These loved ones will carry her memory in their hearts forever.
Cremation has taken place under the direction of Countryside Funeral Home. A Celebration of Mary’s life will be held at a later date. Mary will be deeply missed, but her legacy of love, hard work, and kindness will continue to inspire those whose lives she touched.
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