Darla Leann Hesse

1961 - 2025

In Loving Memory Of

Darla LeAnn Hesse
August 5, 1961 – August 21, 2025

Darla LeAnn Hesse, 64, of Lawrence, Kansas, peacefully passed into the presence of Jesus on August 21, 2025. Born in Wichita, Kansas, Darla was the beloved daughter of Ernest Lee Ward and Doris “Darlene” Travis.

A proud graduate of Andover High School (Class of 1979), Darla pursued her passion for helping others at Wichita State University, where she earned her degree in Social Work, graduating Summa Cum Laude. Her heart for service led her to Lutheran Social Services, but it was the devastating F5 tornado that struck Andover in 1991 that truly shaped her calling. Volunteering with victims of the storm ignited a lifelong mission, and Darla devoted over two decades to the American Red Cross, working in Family Services and Disaster Relief. She later retired from Midwest Transplant Services, leaving behind a legacy of compassion and care.

In 2001, Darla married the love of her life, Jon Hesse, at St. John’s Episcopal Church. Their marriage was filled with joy, adventure, and deep companionship until Jon’s passing in 2017.

Darla was the queen of hospitality. Her home radiated warmth, always ready to welcome guests with open arms—and a chorus of tail wags from her cherished pups: Alli, Lucy, Lexi, Minnie, and Mickey. She treasured “Ward Women” days, filled with baking, game nights, Christmas decorating, gardening, and movie marathons with her niece, nephew, and later her great-nieces and nephews. Her love for family was boundless, and she embraced each member with grace and generosity.

She also cultivated lifelong friendships, including Holly and the GNO Girls, whose laughter and loyalty brought her endless joy. Darla’s adventurous spirit took her across the country—from the beaches of Hawaii through the mountains of Colorado, the hills of South Dakota, to the monuments of Washington D.C.—and she never forgot the longest road trip known to man with only American Pie on the stereo.

Darla is preceded in death by her husband, Jon Hesse; her parents, Ernest Lee Ward and Doris “Darlene” Travis; and her stepfather, Vernon Herrman. She is survived by her brothers, John Travis Ward and Christopher Ward (Stephanie); her nephew, David Ward (Amber); her niece, Kimberly Nye (Paul Sr.); and her great-nieces and nephews: Heidi Ward, Elaina Nye, Elijah Ward, and Paul David Nye Jr.

Darla’s life was a testament to love, resilience, and faith. She leaves behind a legacy of kindness and a family forever grateful for her unwavering presence.