JoAnn Fleharty

JoAnn Fleharty, a beloved sister, wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother and dedicated community volunteer, passed away peacefully on December 25, 2025, in Topeka, Kansas, at the age of 92. Born on October 27, 1933, in Nelson, Nebraska, JoAnn spent her life cultivating deep connections with her family and her community.

JoAnn's journey began in a small town, where she blossomed into a compassionate individual whose contributions shaped the lives of many around her. She married Eugene Dale Fleharty on August 12, 1955, and their union was a testament to enduring love, marked by shared adventures and cherished memories. JoAnn’s spirit will forever remain intertwined with those she leaves behind, including her daughter Debbie (Kevin) Culley, her son Chris (Donna) Fleharty, her sister Barbara (Dwight) Ittner, and her beloved grandchildren Ann Culley, John (Michelle) Culley, Renee (Chris) Stefani, and Kristen (Thayne) Griffin. She was also a proud great-grandmother to Shannon, Peter, Erin, Parker, Hudson, and Desmond, each bringing her much joy.

JoAnn was known for her tireless dedication to the Hays community where she served as the community Welcome Wagon Lady for many years, greeting newcomers to the city and reflecting her warm-hearted nature. JoAnn volunteered at Hays Medical Center for over thirty years, was actively involved in her church,and participated on the Hays Beautification Committee, where her efforts contributed to the charm and beauty of the town she loved.

JoAnn embraced every moment spent with her family and cherished summer vacations that took her and her loved ones across the United States. These adventures fostered strong bonds and wonderful memories. JoAnn’s enthusiasm for life extended to her hobbies as well, from working in her yard, to attending FHSU sports and activities, to indulging her sweet tooth for coffee ice cream and pecan pie. The bridge groups she played in and FHSU athletics provided social activity year around.

An avid baseball fan, JoAnn cheered enthusiastically for the Royals, and she was a dedicated supporter of the FHSU softball team, celebrating each victory as if it were her own. JoAnn’s quiet strength and unyielding commitment to those around her created a legacy of love that will be remembered fondly by all who were privileged to know her. The main words used to describe her are kind and gentle.

JoAnn is preceded in death by her father Dewey Dean Eckles, her mother Helen Eckles, and her sister Donna (Ray) Bise.

Friends and family will deeply miss JoAnn’s constant love, open hospitality, and steadfast service. She leaves behind a legacy that will continue to inspire kindness and compassion in the hearts of those she touched throughout her remarkable life.

A Celebration of her Life will be at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, January 24, 2025 at First Presbyterian Church, 2900 Hall St, Hays, KS 67601.

Memorial contributions may be made to FHSU Athletics or to the First Presbyterian Church in Hays.

To leave a message for her family online, please utilize the guestbook below.