Beverly A Willis

Beverly Ann Willis, 80 passed into eternal rest with the Lord on September 4, 2026 at Plaza West in Topeka, Kansas. Beverly was born on November 2, 1945, in Horton, Kansas. Her parents were James and Justine Willis (Compton) of Willis Kansas. Beverly attended elementary and high school in Willis, where she graduated in 1963. She then graduated from Highland Juco in 1965 and Emporia State Teachers College in 1967. She later received her Master of Mathematics degree from Emporia State.

She began her teaching career in Linwood, Kansas, teaching high school math. She then started the remainder of her teaching years in Independence, Kansas. She was a sponsor of Kayettes, and organization for Kansas high school girls, and spent several summers helping with camps at Rock Springs Ranch. She assisted with many of the sporting events at the high school and thoroughly enjoyed volunteering for the annual Neewollah celebration each October in Independence.

Some of her senior class and former students affectionately called her B. Willie because her signature was apparently too hard to decipher. She enjoyed traveling and accompanied several school classes on trips to Mexico and Canada. She taught in Independence until her retirement. She was and active member of the First Christian Church in Independence, Kansas. She enjoyed playing bridge with a group of friends in Independence and was always a willing volunteer for community, school and church events.

She relocated to Topeka, Kansas to be closer to her family members, especially her mother, becoming a wonderful caregiver when needed. She became a member of Highland Park United Methodist Church and volunteered through the church to tutor children needing help with math. She also volunteered at the Topeka Performing Arts Center for many years. Beverly had a kind soul, whose generosity extended far beyond her family and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents and brother-in law Dwayne Burlison. She is survived by her brothers; Stand (Terry) Willis, of Eldorado, Kansas, Marty (Eva) Willis of Topeka, Kansas and Bob (Debbie) Willis of Topeka, Kansas and sister Patty Burlison of Valrico, Florida. She is also survived by several nieces and nephews, as well as great nieces and nephews.

Plans for a celebration of life will be announced at a later time.