KANSAS CITY, Mo. — It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Phyllis Jean Bryant Gannaway, who left us peacefully on Dec. 3, 2024. Born on March 27, 1953, in Great Bend, Kan., she was a loving mother, devoted grandmother, and a cherished friend to many.

Phyllis was a woman of remarkable strength, warmth, and kindness. She grew up in rural Chase, Kan., then resided in nearby Ellinwood, Kan. for 27 years. Phyllis married John Gannaway in 1981, and together they were owner-operators of Gannaway Hardware in Ellinwood. They moved to Kansas City, Mo., in 2003, where Phyllis worked for North Kansas City Hospital for 14 years. In retirement, she volunteered with the Assistance League of Kansas City. Phyllis was well known for her love of family, sense of humor, and passion for giving to others. Her love for her grandchildren was immeasurable, and she beamed with pride whenever she spoke of them.

Phyllis was preceded in death by husband John Gannaway; parents Charles and Dorothy Heine Bryant; sister Barbara Bryant Worman; brothers Allen Bryant, Eldon Bryant, and Phillip Bryant. She is survived by daughter Jennifer Gannaway Havelka and husband Mark, of Liberty, Mo.; granddaughter Hannah Havelka Brolsma and husband Luke, and grandson Cole Havelka; brother Martin Bryant of Leawood, Kan.; companion Don Lauf of Kansas City, Mo. Her legacy of love, resilience, and kindness will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew her.

A celebration of Phyllis’s life will be held on Jan. 3, 2025, at Holy Family Catholic Church, 919 NE 95th Street, Kansas City, Mo., at 3 p.m. Reception to follow at the church. Friends and family are invited to gather and share in the memories of a life well-lived. Private family inurnment will occur in Ellinwood, Kan., at a future date. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Assistance League of Kansas City or Holy Family Catholic Church.

Great Bend (Kan.) Tribune, Dec. 10, 2024