Edith Helenwillis Depew

Edith Helen Willis Depew, 86, of Topeka, passed away Saturday, June 26, 2010 at Brewster Health Center, Topeka.

She was born August 13, 1923 in Manhattan, Kansas, the daughter of Wayne W. and Helen (Wilson) Willis. She was a graduate of Manhattan schools and Kansas State University in 1945 with a BS in Home Economics and Dietary Management.

She was an active member of the Westminster Presbyterian Church, Topeka, Presbyterian Women's Circle, Church Choir, Mariners. She was a Sorority Sister Kappa Kappa Gamma, Chapter FI of P.E.O. She volunteered at Doorstep and the Topeka and Shawnee County Public Library.

Edith married Don D. Depew on May 27, 1945 in Orlando, FL. He preceded her in death on August 14, 2004. Survivors include her children, Greg (Vicki) Depew, Topeka, Carolyn M. Wadley, Topeka and Diane (Ken) Isaac, Meade, KS; 6 grandchildren, 8 great-grandchildren, 4 step-grandchildren and their families; a sister, Nellie Lou Reed, Bartlesville, OK; sisters-in-law, Peggy Willis, Wichita and Frances Depew, Neodesha, KS as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

She enjoyed cooking, gardening and spending time with family and friends.

Mrs. Depew will lie in state after 3 p.m., Wednesday, June 30, 2010 at the Penwell-Gabel Mid-Town Chapel, 1321 SW 10th Ave., where the family will receive friends from 5-6:30 p.m. Graveside services will be 9:30 a.m., Thursday, July 1, 2010 at Mt. Hope Cemetery, 4700 SW 17th St., Topeka. A memorial celebration will follow at 10:30 a.m., Thursday at Westminster Presbyterian Church, 1275 SW Boswell, Topeka, KS 66604. Memorial contributions may be made to Westminster Presbyterian Church Endowment Fund, sent in care of the Church or Topeka and Shawnee County Public Library, 1515 SW 10th Ave, Topeka, KS 66604.