IN MEMORIAM

EXPANDED EULOGIES

“In Memoriam” listings are expanded paid obituaries that may include enhanced information that might not fit within free death notices.

Lawanda Markley

Services for Lawanda Lee (Kuntz) Markley, 96, Abilene, beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend who passed away Sept. 10, 2026, were 10 a.m. Sept. 16, 2026, at Abilene First United Methodist Church. Burial was in Union Cemetery north of Abilene.

She was born Oct. 11, 1929, to Walter and Florence (Lecron) Kuntz in the Buckeye community and graduated from Abilene High School in 1948.

She worked in the candy department at Duckwalls before later working as cook at the Dickinson County Jail.

On July 5, 1950, Lawanda married William J. Markley of Abilene. During William’s time in the Navy, Lawanda traveled with him, sharing many adventures and experiences throughout their marriage.

Lawanda was a woman who believed in giving back to her community. She volunteered for many years at the local clothing and thrift shop, served on the election board, and helped with FFA banquets. She also was a life member of the Abilene VFW Women’s Auxilary.

Above all, Lawanda cherished her family. She was deeply involved in the lives of her children and grandchildren and rarely missed an activity or special event.

Family was at the center of her world, and she could often be found traveling to demolition derbies, proudly watching and videoing family members as they competed. Her support, encouragement, and presence at countless family activities created memories that will be treasured for generations.

In the summer, Lawanda could be found in the garden. She loved growing fresh produce and was always canning large quantities that lasted the family throughout the year. She was happy to share what she had with family, friends, and neighbors.

Her generosity extended far beyond her garden, as she was always willing to lend a helping hand, share a meal, or simply be there for someone who needed her.

Lawanda is survived by her children: Rod of Abilene; Doug (and wife Jody) of Abilene; Rhonda Meeks of Abilene; Darvin (and wife Sue) of Marion; Regina McDermith of Mechanicsburg, Illinois; Billy of McPherson; Tom of Abilene; Pat (and wife Wendy) of Abilene; and Chad (and wife Cindy) of Abilene.

She also leaves behind a loving legacy of 20 grandchildren, 44 great-grandchildren, and 6 great-great-grandchildren; sisters Marlene Bistline of Arvada, Colorado, and Carolene James of Solomon; and numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.

She was preceded in death by her husband, William J. Markley; her daughter, Debbie; her granddaughter, Niki; and her great-grandson Rowdy.

Lawanda will be remembered for always being there for ball games, activities, demolition derbies, family gatherings, and all the little moments in between.

She leaves behind a lifetime of memories, a whole lot of family stories, and generations of people who were lucky enough to call her mom, grandma, and great-grandma.

She will be missed more than words can say but her love will live on in the family she loved so much.