Jeannie Kay VanGotten

Jeannie Kay VanGotten, 78, of Chanute, Kansas, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away at home on Wednesday, July 30, 2025, in her husband’s arms.

Born on January 17, 1947, to Ora and Nella (Neil) McCracken in Portland, Oregon, Jeannie graduated from Lyndon High School in 1965.

Shortly after graduating from high school, she was united in marriage to Corky VanGotten in Lyndon, KS on September 25, 1965. He survives at home.

Jeannie dedicated her professional life to education and community. She worked as a bookkeeper for Hillside Auto Parts, served as a para-professional for ANW COOP, and retired as a teacher's aide for USD 413. Throughout her career, she was known for her laughter, smile, and bubbly personality, leaving a lasting impression on those she worked with.

Jeannie was particularly passionate about her family. She cherished her husband, Corky, and held enormous affection for her daughter, Michele (Greg) Lewis of Altoona, Kansas. As a grandmother, she took tremendous joy in spoiling her grandchildren, Kendra (John) Sullivan, Darin Lewis, Kolby Lewis, and Jeffrey Lewis, and she delightfully embraced the role of great-grandmother to eight wonderful little great-grandchildren.

In her leisure time, Jeannie found happiness in various activities, including bowling and attending car races and car shows. Showing the 1950 Chevy TRK was her favorite. Throughout the years, Jeannie owned several dogs, and she treated them like family. She loved her dogs dearly. She was an avid shopper and enjoyed cleaning and decorating her home. A spirited competitor, she enjoyed playing cards, especially when she was winning. Jeannie’s warmth and love for her family were evident in every aspect of her life, and she will be profoundly missed.

Jeannie is preceded in death by her father, Ora McCracken; her brother, Neil McCracken; and her niece, Tennille McCracken.

Her legacy of love and laughter will forever remain in the hearts of the family and friends she touched throughout her life.

Memorials are suggested to Cherry Street Youth Center and can be left with or mailed to the Wickham Family Funeral Home, 500 North Forest Ave. Chanute, KS, 66720.

A Celebration of Life Memorial Service will be held on Friday, August 8, at 10:30 A.M. at First Christian Church, Chanute, Kansas 66720.

Services are under the personal care of Wickham Family Funeral Home, 500 North Forest Ave. Chanute, Kansas 66720.