Mary Travis Obituary

My mom was a special person with many gifts who loved my sisters and me unconditionally. That love extended to our husbands, children and great grandchildren. One of my favorite memories was when all the families would get together in Wichita for Christmas. She loved to have the grandchildren dress up in costume and act out the story of Jesus's birth. It was a sight to behold! We also have many memories of gathering at our Colorado mountain cabin for fun and relaxation.
My communication with mom was through letters and phone calls, since I didn't live in Wichita. I looked forward to her weekly letters, as well as Saturday phone calls. We would catch up on family things of course, but then the topic would turn to politics. She always wanted to know my opinion about the issues going on in the world. As part of the greatest generation, she loved her country and was a true American Patriot. She loved to discuss current events, candidates, and concerns.
Nonnie Becky, our grandmother, was a prayer warrior. I remember her saying, “As long as were on this earth, God has a purpose for us and mine is to pray for my family from this hospital bed.” I believe with all my heart that mom took that example and ran with it in her life. She found purpose in prayer for her family and for others. She delighted in scriptures that gave her comfort and guided her daily.
Mom loved to laugh and enjoy life. She loved having her daughters visit her and was so proud when she introduced her daughters to others. My memory of the Bella Vista reunions in June each year included plenty of “late night” visits. Mother was always the last one to give in to sleep. She didn't want to miss a moment with “her girls.”
Thank you mom, for the wisdom you developed and passed on to us. You stood tall, faced you challenges with perseverance and courage. Your journey is complete and you are with your precious Lord. We will miss you! Thanks for your endearing love and memories that we have to cherish.

Love, Val

Pictures of Memorial Service on July 31, 2014

Jan, Val, Sheryl and family,
May you know peace in your hearts in this time of loss. We remember Mary Lou as a kind, fun, loving and blessed person. We will miss her forever, but know that she has moved on to a better place. Mary Lou was outstanding in her life leading by example in family, professional and spiritual circles. For now, we'll stay here. Mary Lou has moved on ahead.
God Bless,
Dan and Janet Sohn

Dear Travis Cousins and Relatives,

At this Home- going time for Mary Lou, I think about how she was a terrific hostess for family gatherings at her homes in Wichita, and Bella Vista.

I also think of her delightful cabin in the mountains; the majestic heavenward- pointed towers of rock surrounding it; the fresh air among the evergreen trees; soft needle- laden pathways; the sound of Chicago Creek with its swift- moving water, trout and even a beaver dam upstream; and an opportunity to feed chipmunks and hummingbirds at very close range.

The mountain weather even in July could change from abundant sunshine to sudden waves of sleet and hail, but a warm fire was waiting to be shared in the living room.

Whatever the location, the family gatherings were certain to provide a memorable shared event for relatives of all ages; delights and surprises; lifelong cross- generational friendships; warmth for the soul; stories of the past; and laughter and love in the present.

These gatherings that bring back such good memories also provide for me just a brief glimpse of what it must be like one day to visit in joy with our Savior, Jesus, around His banqueting table in heaven.

Mary Lou really loved all the relatives and truly enjoyed serving them.

The egg casseroles served at breakfast were always a delight.

Prayers of thanksgiving to Jesus for His provision were made before every meal.

I remember Mary Lou asking about how things were going in life, and being so interested.

She was diligent at sending cards at birthdays, holidays, and other special times.

I know she cared so much for everybody and prayed for us.

She was engaged with all our lives.

Beyond the Travis and Sohn families, Mary Lou's work as a teacher with special needs children impacted so many in the community in a positive way.

Mary Lou reminds me so much of her mother.

I will miss her greatly on this side of heaven, just as I continue to miss Rebecca Cline.

I am thankful that both made decisions to receive Christ as their personal Savior, and sought to follow Him through their Bible studies, and living their lives in a way to please Him.

They are great examples to all of us.

In our Eternal Home I will so enjoy seeing them both again.

Many thanks for sending the link for Mary Lou's website.

Love, and missing you all,

David Sohn, Maggie, Rebecca, and Amy

My sweet precious Mother who loved the Lord always was telling me to "Trust in the Lord" (Proverbs 3:5) She instilled good in my heart and very wholesome values in all of us for all of our life. We all have so many memories of her caring for others, sense of humor, laughter and just a very kind spirit. Mom loved her "girls" and the whole family. She was very proud of each person and told them so. What an example to all of us with her determination, strong faith, and advice along the way of raising us. Mom did not always have it easy but she continually put others first instead of himself. Over the years you appreciate your parents more and more with each passing year for all the sacrifices they made for you to be a better person.

When I first got married and moved so far away to Alabama it was tough at times not having her near. I looked forward to my letter from her faithfully each week. She would go to the beauty shop and write a carbon letter. Each of her girls would get a copy. This was in place of a phone call to let us know what was going on with her. Then later when the phone bills were not such an issue she would call weekly on Saturday at a set time to talk to each of us. We would have our time and we better be home to get her call. It was such a joy to talk over our week and it helped me to stay connected with Mom.

It is hard to find the words to thank her for all the wonderful memorable times we had together. We were very close and know she loved each of her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren so very much. Mom would pray for each of them and their futures each day until the end of her life. She was truly cared for her family, friends and care givers. My Mom dear will always have a special place in my heart forever.

Love always and miss you so much, Sheryl

What a great matriarch,.Her strong Christian faith ,positive influence, overcomer of life's challenges , encourager not only to her family but all who met her. Mary Lou's fragrance will live on in all the lives she touched in her journey of 93 years on this earthly home ,now with a new body finally home with Jesus in her eternal home. Wanda Hendrix (Tuscaloosa,AL)

What can I say about someone so beloved and respected? I remember meeting her and Pops at the YMCA of the Rockies, the summer of 1988 when she and Pops, along with other family stopped by to see Haley. Haley was with them on her day off and I was with a cleaning crew and was nearby when Haley called me over to introduce me around. Even then, I knew she was going to be future family, just didn't know how all the details were to shake-out! She was always warm and welcoming- to me it was Jesus shining His light through her every word and deed, even if I didn't know it at that time, I see it so very clearly now. I'll see you in Heaven some day Nonnie and that is certainly something to look forward to! Thank you for loving me here on earth and I am at peace knowing your love is now complete in the Lord. Scott Owen Leonard, Ashley, Ohio

As I reflect on my mom, I will try to express in words her impact on my life. She was a woman who kept growing in her daily walk with the Lord. In trials, she did not abandon God or her Christian principles. As anyone who lives a long life (93 years), she had ups and downs on her life journey. My mom emerged like a butterfly into the mirror-image of her mom, my grandmother, Nonnie Becky. Galatians 5:22, "Fruits of the Spirit" describes my mom's core character in her actions and example to others. The imprint that she left on me is her perseverance, giving unselfishly, an incredible positive outlook and sense of humor toward any situation. In the end she "aged with grace".

In March 2010, I had the privilege of becoming her caregiver (along with staff of three senior facilities) in Colorado Springs. She continued to be gracious, friendly and thankful to all who cared for her.

I love you and will miss our joyful, fun times and conversations together.

Love, Jan

It is with pleasure that I found a friend in your sweet mother. Mary Lou was a special, classy lady, who was a wonderful Christian. It was my privilege to introduce your mother to the First Presbyterian Church. I recall she was drawn to the church by the choir and the stained glass. Mary Lou found special joy and support through our church's Stephen Ministry.

Mary Lou's love of cats was a bonding connection between us. She often came to my room to love and pet my cat. I appreciated that Sheryl brought your mother to my home where my cat sat on Mary Lou's lap the entire visit. I will cherish this memory forever.

May God bless and comfort you during this time of loss. My prayers are with you.

Lovingly in Christ,

Judith McPeak Bullock

Whether it was at her home or at our family Cabin, Nonnie always had a warm welcome and made you feel loved and cared for. Whatever stage of life I was in at the time, she took a genuine interest in what I was doing and wanted to hear all about it. She laughed easily, she gave generously, and she always looked great.

Such a sweet dear soul, with an infectious laugh, that surely now is shared with the angels.

I prepared Mary Lou's taxes for over 20 years but over that time our relationship become much more - we discovered that we had similar beliefs and that made us friends. I always looked forward to our visits and our chats - especially since she always had coffee and cookies for me!

They may not get cable tv in Heaven but if they do, it's going to be turned to Fox News from now on!

Nonnie leaves a lasting legacy to her family. She gave an abundance of love and encouragement to all her children and grandchildren, and imbued us with a sense of self-esteem, mission, and optimism.

Having her around for so long as someone to point to as a role model, it is her memory now that we will have to call up for inspiration. I am grateful to have seen her just before she passed, but know that she is in a better place now, and looking down favorably upon us.

We are indebted for all you gave to us over so many years, Nonnie.

Love,

I will forever cherish many fond memories of Mary Lou. She was always so special to me as a child and as an adult. I remember many fun family times at the Travis home in Wichita. One of the most special childhood memories I have is of Mary Lou bringing me with her to "help out" in her classroom one day. She made me feel so special and I was proud to call her my Aunt.

In later years, we shared some very special times with her at Tablerock Lake when she joined the entire Sohn clan on a few vacations. We all had many fun visits and laughs together. My children still remember her playing with them on the floor with their little trains, dolls, etc. She was very special to them as well.

We will always love Mary Lou for the way she lit up a room with her kindness, sincerity. warm smile, contagious laugh and bright outlook. She truly left a lasting impact on all our lives.

Sending prayers for healing and hope, to Mary Lou's three wonderful daughters and all of her family.
I was May Lou's Stephen Minister and we were in our fourth year together. She became a good friend and we shared so many happy times. We will miss her upbeat personality but know she is in the better place.
With Love,
Terry and Ron Roehrich
Colorado Springs, Co

Mary Lou was a wonderful friend and had lead a good life loving God. We all thought a lot of her.

I met Mary Lou many years ago. She was a beautiful lady with a great sense of humor. A joy to be around. She leaves behind a legacy of love and caring for others throughout her whole lifetime. She is gone from earth to her heavenly home and one day we will all join her there.What a day that will be. My Prayers and love are extended to her family.

Mary Lou was such a beautiful lady inside and out. It was truly a joy to be around her. Celebrate her fabulous life and remember a part of her will always live on in all of you. We were all blessed to have known Mary Lou. Heaven is now blessed to have their newest angel. My sincerest sympathy to each member of her wonderful family. May God give you the strength, courage, and peace you need in the days ahead. May God continue to bless the entire Travis and West families, Mary Lou's legacy of love.

My prayers for peace and comfort are with all of the family of Ms. Mary Lou, especially my dear friend, Sheryl. I was blessed to get to spend some time with Ms. Mary Lou on several occasions and knew her to be filled with love and joy. I know that she had struggles and sadness in life, as everyone does, but she faced those times with that inner peace and joy that was so much a part of her. I will always remember with a smile the Druid Hills UMC family retreat to Camp Sumatanga where she added joy and laughter for all of us. Treasure your memories and show honor by loving as she did. Carolyn Lindsey

At 89, Mary Lou was still a caregiver. At Wynwood in Colorado Springs, my mother, Nancy, and Mary Lou became "best friends".
Nancy's dementia was starting to be a factor, so Mary Lou would faithfully "pick up"mom so they could go down to meals together and attend the activities and programs that were on the calendar. They both especially enjoyed any music performance.
They were table mates and enjoy talking about their families. My brothers (3), husband, and sons were all
privileged to have some meals with her, and we could always count on Mary Lou to keep the conversation lively. Her humor and laugh were infectious.
I so enjoyed reading all the comments left at this site. I get such a warm feeling thinking of Mary Lou.
Jan, Mary Lou's daughter, and I have become such good friends through all of this, and I want to thank her for all her kindnesses and advise that has helped me with my mom.
Nancy's special, stuffed snowman from Mary Lou, is now in her room at Emeritus.
Love, Maren

Mary Lou became a part of our Legacy Court family in an instant. She always had a smile on her face and loved being around people. It was a pleasure and honor getting to know Mary Lou here at Liberty Heights. When I interviewed Mary Lou for our Resident Spotlight that she was featured in, in April 2014 she stated that she lived a life full of love of her family and friends and enjoyed life to the fullest.
Mary Lou and I often would sit and share stories with one another, while sharing in laughter. That is when I found out that Mary Lou had the BEST laugh...it was contagious and full of life.
Mary Lou has been missed by me and Legacy Court staff. She will always hold a special place in my heart...she HAS a heart of gold that I surely do miss. LOVE YOU MARY LOU!
~Laura Kozlowski (Colorado Springs, CO)

My thoughts and prayers are with all of you during this sad time. I didn't know Mary Lou well but heard so any good stories about her from her daughter and my dear friend, Sheryl. Love to all...

Nonnie-
I've been thinking over the impact you've had on my life and our family's lives. You had an amazing drive and passion for life. Your strongly-held faith, was your foundation. You were raised on a solid-rock belief in God, which went on to bless three generations. Nonnie, You were unwavering in your principals. If there was a task to be completed you took it on, no matter how large or small. You had a loving, gentle side and a true caregiver's heart. I will never forget your encouraging words and seeing first-hand how you willingly counseled others. You always gave so much of yourself. Your energy level was limitless. Thank you, Nonnie. Love You & Miss You! I think of you often. Thankful I know you are in heaven, celebrating with our loved ones who passed before us. Love from your grandaughter,

My Aunt Mary Lou...
...took me with her, when I was a girl, to the school where she taught so that I could "help" her students dye Easter eggs. We did this each year for many years. It really helped me to grow in compassion and patience, and to begin to understand what teaching is really all about-- LOVE!
...fixed big dinners for the whole extended family when we came to Wichita to visit around the holidays. I remember the long table with probably at least 25 of us laughing and talking and sharing our blessings.
...shared the mountain cabin, and all of it's wonders, with me (and my family). I remember the sound of the rushing mountain stream passing by, humming birds perched on our fingers, chipmunks nabbing scraps of pancake from us, hiking up the mountain trail, the smell of pine trees, the laughter and joy and fun.
...encouraged me to be myself and follow my dreams.
...laughed, alot. Even at small and simple things.
...loved. A LOT!
...did kind things for folks, regardless of their circumstances, and often because of their circumstances.
...prayed deeply, lived her spirituality, and did not judge others, including me.
...dressed so colorfully! I loved her flair for fashion.

I will miss you, Aunt Mary Lou. Lots of love and a big hug for your journey.

May your wonderful memories comfort you. Your Mom touched so many lives; I was blessed to have met her. Sheryl and I are "blood sisters" and there is no better friend. Praying for you all. Much love and a big hug.

I first met Mary Lou when her daughter Sheryl and I became friends 53 years ago. She was always very warm, friendly, and fun. I especially recall her delightful, infectious laugh. I have very special memories of the summers I spent with Sheryl and her parents in Colorado. The loving care given to Mary Lou over the years by her three daughter's is a testament to the wonderful mother she was!

Prayers for the family for comfort and strength during this time of loss. Kathy Mason, Northport, AL

Sheryl, you and your family are in our prayers! love you! Cecilia & Freddie Hammond

Mrs Travis raised one of the best people I know, My Aunt Sheryl. Thank you so much for doing such a wonderful job as a mother.

Love and God's blessings to the entire family. I have always heard such wonderful things about Mrs. Travis. Special blessings to the entire West family. They are truly a reflection of Mrs. Travis's Godly love . .Spencer, Phyllis , Amanda Hendrix and Paul Burns

Praying for comfort and peace for you and your family, Sheryl. Your mom was a precious influence in the lives of everyone around her and leaves you with great memories til you all meet again. Love to each of you. -Bobby and Terri Noland

Mary Lou TRAVIS had the most beautiful wedding for her daughter Sherly and Hugh West. The Church was beautiful, elegant, and complete. She was a gracious hostess for our family in her lovely home. She will be missed.

Mary Lou was a very dear sister to me and was 3 years older so taught me many things as we grew up. When I married I even missed her advice. We lived in Missouri so went back to Kansas to visit and all 5 of my children remember the many fun things we did there. She was a perfect hostess and always pleasant to be with. She lived her life close to the Lord. Wanda Sohn, her sister