Virginia Brunner
January 4, 1940 - October 10, 2021
Wichita, Kansas - Virginia Faye Fields Brunner age 81, passed away on October 10, 2021. Faye was born January 4th, 1940 in Scottsville, KY to Fayette and Virginia Opal Fields. The family later moved to Wichita, KS in 1952, where Faye graduated from East High in 1957. She graduated from McPherson College in 1960; this is where she met her husband of 56 years, Dennis Duane Brunner. Dennis and Faye had 2 sons, Jeff and Chris. Faye was a dedicated teacher, beginning her career in Roxbury, KS, before moving to Durham, KS, and finally, to Wichita. She taught English and coached countless young cheerleaders at Horace Mann, Robinson and John Marshall junior highs, before finishing her career joining Dennis at North High School. Faye was active in her church, her teacher's society, ACAP travel club, bowling leagues and with her Thursday night domino group. She also volunteered for years with the American Red Cross. Faye was preceded in death by her maternal grandparents Robert and Vertie Nichols, paternal grandparents Robert and Sarah Elizabeth Fields, parents Fayette and Opal Fields, her husband Dennis and her in-laws Henry and Mary Brunner. Survivors include sons, Dr. Jeff (Rebecca) Brunner of Aurora, CO, Dr. Chris (Stan Gilbert) Brunner of Wichita; sister, Glenna (Roger) Hackerott, of Russell; grandchildren, Luke (Ashley) Brunner, Chelsea Brunner, and Nathan Gilbert; numerous nieces, nephews, friends, and students. Memorial Service, Saturday, October 16, 2021 at 10:00AM at First Church Of The Brethren, 1103 Jefferson Wichita, KS 67203. In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established with Church of the Bretheren, and Harry Hynes Hospice, 313 S. Market St. Wichita, KS 67202. www.CochranMortuary.com

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Published by Wichita Eagle on Oct. 13, 2021.

Memories and Condolences
for Virginia Brunner

11 Entries

Debbie Baker-Pick

October 22, 2021

This is a teacher that I had at Horace Mann for English. I will just say that at a time in my life that I could have gone down the wrong path she took me aside and reminded me of the right track to be on. For a teacher to be that insightful and caring to speak to me about my life choices was life altering . I think of her often with the struggles teachers today have. Her family is surely blessed with such a legacy.

Timi Poling Caro

October 20, 2021

Sending my deepest sympathies to your family. Mrs. Brunner was my English teacher at Robinson and one of my favorite teachers. Her beautiful smile and upbeat personality kept me engaged in class and she helped me write an article that was published in the Wichita paper. My father had delivered my little brother while he drove my stepmom to the hospital and I thought the whole world needed to hear the story. I went to school and asked your Mom if she would help me write the story. She gladly obliged and made me sound like a real reporter! I've thought of her often throughout the years and wish I would have written to her personally to let her know the impact she had on my life. Hope this note uplifts you at this very sad time. Sincerely, Timi Caro

Michael Seis

October 19, 2021

My deepest sympathies. Mrs. Brunner was one of my mostfavorite teachers at Robinson Jr High.

Patricia Watson-Ellis

October 18, 2021

To the family of Mrs. Brunner I am so deeply sad for your loss. Mrs. Brunner was my eighth grade English teacher and Cheerleader Coach. She was the Best teacher I had ever had. Mrs. Brunner was so compassionate, loving, and caring. It was so easy to learn from her teachings. She also taught three of my siblings. When I was going thru some hard times she was there for me. I referred to her as my 2nd. mom and even called Mr. Brunner Coach Daddy. I can not say enough good things about Mrs. Brunner she will always be a vital part of my life.

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Robert Gerald Watson

October 18, 2021

Mrs. Brunner was my 8th grade English teacher at Horace Mann. She was no doubt one of the best teachers I ever had. Very kind, patient and cared for all of her students. I remember going to a North High basketball game when I was in my 40's and saw her and Coach Brunner in the stands. I approached them both, identified myself and she immediately remembered who I was along with other siblings that had her at Horace Mann.
Sending sincere condolences to the two Son's, family and friends.

Paul Phillips, Santa Clarita CA

October 15, 2021

To the family, I'm sorry to hear of your loss. I had Mrs. Brunner as a teacher for 7th grade Science and 8th grade English at Horace Mann Junior High. Many of us called her Mom even though we came from two parent homes. Her compassion was heartwarming. We had enjoyable years at Horace Mann because of teachers like her.

Connie Gilmer/Berry

October 13, 2021

Mrs. Brunner was my favorite teacher! She was my 8th grade English teacher at Horace Mann JR High. She was not only a teacher, but a passionate caring person. She brought out the best in her students.

Kathy Wheeler

October 13, 2021

Mrs B was my 9th grade English teacher at Horace Mann as well as my cheerleading coach in the early 70´s. She was perhaps my favorite teacher & a friend. My condolences to the family in her passing but I know that she is at peace with our Lord. She made a difference in a lot of lives & will be missed.

Jean Glazier/Nance

October 13, 2021

Mrs. B was a wonderful inspiration to the young women she coached. I was one of her "girls" at Horace Mann. She was always so vibrant. Always had a smile. She will be missed but I´m sure God has a special place for her.

John Morton

October 13, 2021

Faye was a true original. My thoughts and prayers are extended to her family.

Larry and Lisa Becker

October 13, 2021

So sorry for your loss. Many fond memories of Dennis and Virginia Faye!

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