Vicky Jean Speaks

Vicky Jean (Darby) Speaks, 79, passed away, Sunday November 9, 2025, at Wesley Medical Center. Vicky had just celebrated her 79th birthday, having been born October 27, 1946, in Velasco Texas.

While visiting her grandparents in Fredonia, she met the love of her life while cruising the Fredonia Square, Dennis Speaks. They were married November 14, 1964, where she spent her last year of school, graduating in 1965 from Fredonia High School.

Of this marriage, Vicky and Dennis had three children, Troy, Tracy and Stephanie. They shared many years of love and memories with children and 8 grandchildren: Brandon, Brian, Adam, Christopher, Darby, Loren, Baylee and Zoie. Vicky and Dennis were also blessed with 8 great grandchildren.

Vicky enjoyed many things throughout her life. She loved her antiques and had a passion for history. She relished spending time with her family in Moberly, fishing, Surfside Beach, The Galveston Seawall, Lake Fagan, summers at Shorty's and Indian Creek. Vicky was extremely passionate in helping others and took the lead role for the Independent Living Program where she presented at the State Conference. She was a green-eyed blondie as a child becoming a spitfire red headed knockout.

Vicky is survived by her husband, Dennis of Fredonia. Her children Troy and Kimberly of McAlester OK, Tracy of Chanute KS and Stephanie of Fredonia KS. Her siblings, Carloyn Mrkwa and David (Carolyn) Darby all of Fredonia. Eight grandchildren, 8 great grandchildren, numerous nieces and nephews.

She is preceded in death by her parents Kenneth Darby, and Virginia (Frantzen) and Glen LaRue.

Please join the family in a Celebration of Life at The Venue, 1200 N. 2nd Street, Fredonia, Kansas from 3:30-6:00 pm, Saturday November 15, 2025.

In lieu of flowers, the family request donations to the Fredonia Food Bank. Those may be mailed or dropped off at Wickham Family Funeral Home & Cremation Service, 510 N. 7th Street, Fredonia Kansas 66736, they have been trusted with the arrangements.