Dortha Duerson

Dortha Lea Duerson, 85, passed away peacefully on Monday, September 16, 2024, at Wesley Medical Center in Wichita, Kansas. Born on May 10, 1939, in Liberal, Kansas, to loving parents Clista (Hopke) and Lewis Duerson, Dortha dedicated her life to helping others, serving her community as a teacher, mentor, and friend.
From an early age, Dortha embraced a passion for learning, which she carried with her throughout her life. After graduating from Turpin High School in 1957, she pursued a Bachelor of Science degree from Northwestern Oklahoma State University, graduating in 1961, followed by a Master of Teaching from Southwestern Oklahoma State University in 1965. Her teaching journey began in Zenda, but it was at Sublette High School where she made her greatest impact. Dortha taught business classes there for over four decades, guiding and inspiring countless students. She was not only an educator but also a leader, coaching the girls' basketball team and sponsoring the cheerleading and Pep Club, always encouraging her students to reach their full potential. Even after her retirement in 2002, she remained a beloved presence, lending her musical talents to the high school choir and continuing to serve in different roles.
Dortha's heart for service extended far beyond the classroom. Her faith in God was the foundation of her life, and for over 50 years, she was a devoted member of Sublette Southern Baptist Church. She shared her love for music by playing the organ and piano and leading children in song. Her commitment to her church family and her community was unwavering, and she quietly performed countless acts of kindness, offering financial help and support to those in need without seeking recognition.
Known for her warm smile, caring nature, and unmistakable southern hospitality, Dortha was a cherished figure in the lives of everyone who knew her. She was an avid supporter of OU Football and the OKC Thunder, and her lively debates with her brother Dan about the games will always be fondly remembered.
Dortha is survived by her sister-in-law, Berdie Duerson of Turpin, OK, and her beloved niece, Lea Ann Olson, and husband Dean of Louisville, KY. Known affectionately as "Aunt Do" to Riley, Maurissa, and Brekken, she was also cherished as "Grandma Do" by the Smith children: Andrew, Anna, Lydia, and Leah, and their children. She leaves behind a wonderful circle of friends who she loved dearly, creating countless cherished memories together.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Lewis and Calista Duerson, and her brothers, Jimmy Duerson III and Dan Duerson.
Visitation will be held on Friday, September 20, 2024, from 3:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. at Weeks Family Funeral Home & Crematory in Sublette, Kansas.
Funeral services will take place on Saturday, September 21, 2024, at 10:00 a.m. at Sublette Southern Baptist Church, officiated by Rev. Jerry Smith. Dortha will be laid to rest at Liberal City Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Sublette Southern Baptist Church, care of Weeks Family Funeral Home & Crematory, PO Box 1200, Sublette, KS 67877. Condolences can be shared online at WeeksFamilyFuneralHome.com