Gwendolyn "Darst" Spillman

Gwendolyn "Gwen" Spillman, 96, of Arkansas City, KS passed away peacefully Saturday, July 19, 2025 at the Arkansas City Presbyterian Manor.

There are no services scheduled. Memorials in Gwen's name may be made to the Cowley County Humane Society and left in the care of the Shelley Family Funeral Home.

Gwen was born on June 5, 1929 in Fredonia, KS to parents Frank and Maud (Skaggs) Darst. She attended high school in Fredonia and later went to cosmetology school. Gwen was married to Theo Spillman on June 18, 1973. She would go on to open the Charme Beauty Salon here in Arkansas City, KS, operating it for 10 years, and after moving to Bella Vista, AR she opened another cosmetology shop. Gwen and Theo moved back to Arkansas City and became cherished members of the community. Eventually, they moved into the Ark City Presbyterian Manor and lived there happily for many years. Gwen loved to spend quality time on the greens golfing, she also enjoyed playing cards and she adored her dog and even more, her many grandchildren.

She is survived by her daughter, Cindy Beach (Dennis), daughter in law Ann Cook, grandchildren Christopher Beach (Mary), Danielle Reyes, Micheal Beach (Stephanie), Shane Cook (Shelby), Cara Hayden (Keith), great-grandchildren Christa Archambeau, Bethany Torrence, Becca Beach, Madison Reyes, Chloe Reyes, Hunter Reyes, Campbell Cook, Keller Cook, Milo Hayden, and Henry Hayden, great-great-grandchildren Lane, Easton, Dela and Waverly. She is preceded in death by her husband, parents, and son, Terry Cook.