Ava Lee Maydew

Ava Lee Barcus Maydew, 94, of Smith Center, Kansas, passed away January 1, 2026. Born June 25, 1931, in Portis, Kansas, to William and Carrie Barcus, Ava Lee grew up on her family's Crystal Plains farm, a homestead established by her grandparents in 1879. She graduated from Lebanon High School in 1948 and began teaching that same year, launching a 42-year career in education. She taught in rural schools and the Lebanon Public School, earning the Golden Apple Award for her dedication. Even after retirement, she continued substitute teaching, sharing her love of learning with generations of children.
On her birthday in 1950, Ava Lee married Robert Maydew, the love of her life. Together they built a home centered on faith, family, and service. A lifelong member of Lebanon United Methodist Church, she taught Sunday School for 60 years, served as lay leader, and helped organize a handbell choir in Robert's memory. She was known for her warm hospitality, preparing meals for church dinners and funerals, and decorating with cheerful seasonal bulletin boards.
Ava Lee was deeply committed to preserving local history and pioneer heritage. She volunteered with the LHS Alumni Association, the Ladies of the Grand Army of the Republic, and the Daughters of the American Revolution. She delighted in bringing pioneer life to classrooms, dressing in period attire and sharing stories and artifacts.
She loved quilting, gardening, baking, and crafting, and her home was filled with projects ready for the next holiday. Her grandson Evan was the joy of her life, and she cherished time with family and friends.
Preceded in death by her parents, husband Robert and brother Dean Barcus, Ava Lee is survived by her son Marcus (Catherine) of Omaha, NE; grandson Evan of Carbondale, CO; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins. Her legacy of faith, kindness, and education will live on in the countless lives she touched.