Geraline Aye

Geraline Aye, 86, affectionately known as Geri, passed away on November 12, 2025, in Burlington, KS. Geri was a long-time resident of Emporia, KS.

Geri was born in Jacksonville, FL, the daughter of Pearl and Walter Kittrell, on June 27, 1939. She was married to Phillip Aye, a Navy man, in 1954 and Geri spent her early family life staying at home with their children. In 1969, she began sharing her role as a mother with others as well, serving as a foster caretaker. When the couple divorced, Geri worked in many positions, including paraeducator in the Emporia School District, Johnson's Answering Service, and the owner of a bar. She remarried, first to Bud Johnson and later to Albert Wamser, both concluding in divorce. 

Geri loved many things, most of which brought joy to the people and places around her. This included dancing, laughing, and making others laugh too. She enjoyed people watching as much as she enjoyed a good murder mystery and she adored animals. Three things Geri believed in: Jesus, naps, and good story telling. 

Preceding Geri in death are her parents; a son, Phillip Aye, Jr.; granddaughter, Maya Padilla; great-grandson, Michael Golden; and a son-in-law, Randy Thurston.  She is survived by her 5 daughters, Cindy Rhudy (Mike); Debbie Weaver (JD); Vicki Padilla (Ray Tait), Sheri Thurston, and Linda Elopre; one son, Sam Aye (Dawn); and numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and even a few great-great grandchildren. 

Cremation will take place upon the completion of her role in the body donation program at the University of Kansas Hospital. In lieu of flowers, contributions in Geri's Memory may be given to St. Jude’s Children's Hospital, c/o Jones VanArsdale Funeral Home & Crematory, PO Box 43, Lebo, KS 66856.