Evelyn Zabel Wilson

Evelyn Zabel Wilson, 66, of Topeka, passed away Saturday, April 4, 2026 after a courageous battle with ALS.

She was born December 6, 1959, in Smith Center, Kansas, the daughter of Clarence and Phyllis (Hermanns) Zabel. She graduated from Smith Center High School. Later graduating from Bethany College in Lindsborg and earning her law degree at Washburn University School of Law in Topeka. She practiced law in Topeka and northwest Kansas before becoming a judge.

Evelyn proudly served as a Justice on the Supreme Court from January 2020 to July 2025, when she resigned following her diagnosis. Before that, she served as a district judge in the 3rd Judicial District from 2004 to 2019. She served as the district’s chief judge from 2014 through 2019.

Mrs. Wilson was a member of Grace Episcopal Cathedral in Topeka.

Evelyn married Mike Wilson on September 20, 1986 in Athol, Kansas. He survives. Other survivors include children, Keri (Matt) Houts and Greg (Lisa) Wilson; grandchildren, Payne, Gabe & Ella Houts and Olivia & Lane Wilson; and siblings, Christy Masleid, Deb Weltmer, and John Zabel.

She was preceded in death by her parents.

Evelyn enjoyed spending time with her family and friends and was a proud member of the "Fab-Five" alongside close friends Leslie, Natalie, Cindy and Susie.

Evelyn's wishes were to be cremated. A memorial service will be held at 10:00 a.m., Saturday, May 23, 2026 at Grace Episcopal Cathedral, 701 SW 8th St, Topeka, KS 66603. Her final resting place will be at Saint John Lutheran Cemetery in Athol, KS.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Justice Evelyn Wilson Scholarship at Bethany College, here.

To share a memory of Evelyn or leave a special message for her family, visit the guestbook below.