John Hamilton Marye

John Hamilton Marye, born on July 24, 1936, in Kansas City, Missouri, passed away peacefully on June 15, 2026, in Topeka, Kansas.

John lived a life devoted to education and sports. He began his teaching career in Great Bend in 1964 and completed it in Valley Falls in 2000. Alongside teaching, John served as a Junior High coach and Athletic Director for Valley Falls for many years, shaping the lives of many young people through his dedication and guidance.

He was a proud graduate of Great Bend High School, class of 1954. He went on to earn a Bachelor's degree in Education from Sterling College in Sterling, Kansas, followed by a Master's degree in Education from Washburn University in Topeka, Kansas.

John was known for his warm sense of humor. He loved to make jokes and tease people, often showing his ornery side. His playful nature brought smiles to those around him and made time spent with him memorable and joyful.

Family was very important to John. He absolutely loved his grandchildren and treasured every moment with them. John enjoyed watching sports, cheering for the Kansas University Jayhawks, the Kansas City Chiefs, the Kansas City Royals, the Green Bay Packers, and the St. Louis Cardinals. Music was another passion in his life, especially rock ’n’ roll. He was also an active member of Crestview United Methodist Church.

John is survived by his loving wife, Marilyn Marye, whom he married on February 13, 1960, in Great Bend, Kansas. They shared a life filled with love and companionship. He is also survived by his sons, John "Rusty" Marye and Jeff Marye, along with Jeff’s wife, Mandy. John's grandchildren, Bailey and Nicholas Marye, hold a special place in his heart.

He was preceded in death by his daughter, Nancy Boyer; his sister, Dorothy Jean Kaufman; and his parents, Fred Russell Marye and Lucille Mary (Rumsey) Marye.

John will be remembered not only as a devoted teacher and coach but also as a loving family man who brought laughter and spirit into the lives of everyone who knew him. His legacy of education, humor, and love will live on through his family and the many lives he touched.

Cremation is planned and no services are set at this time.

Dove Southwest is assisting the family. 

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