Mary Jane Bahr

Mary Jane Bahr, a devoted educator, loving mother, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully on January 10, 2025, in Meriden, Kansas. Born on May 5, 1939, in Stella, Missouri, Mary dedicated her life to nurturing young minds and shaping the future through education.

With a career that spanned over four decades Mary taught in various school districts across Kansas. While living in Topeka for 13 years, she made a notable impact in the local schools, she transitioned to the Royal Valley School District in Hoyt. There, she spent 17 fulfilling years teaching Special Education, demonstrating remarkable patience and love for her students. Her dedication did not wane as she later moved to Howard, Kansas, where she continued to inspire young learners at the West Elk School District 282 for over 20 years until her retirement. Her influence touched countless lives, and her commitment to education was unwavering.

Mary's educational journey began in Altamont, Missouri. She further pursued her passion for learning, graduating from Kansas State University with her Master's Degree in 1981. She continued her academic pursuits, earning another Master's Degree from Emporia State University in 1992. Her thirst for knowledge was a testament to her character—as a life-long learner and teacher, she inspired those around her to strive for excellence.

Family was a core part of Mary's life, and she instilled values of kindness and hard work in her children. She is survived by her beloved daughter, Marla (Chris) Bailey; son Robert Gaddis; sisters Carolyn Bernard, Patsy Hicks, Cathy Barker, Charlene Kunkler, and brothers Jim Russell and Mike Lewis. She also deeply cherished her grandchildren, Steven Gaddis, Nicole Biteniks, Cassidy Bailey, and Alexis Bailey, as well as her four great-grandchildren.

Mary is preceded in death by her loving husband, Fred Bahr, whom she married on July 29, 1977, in Scranton, Kansas, and who passed away on September 2, 2018. She is also reunited in spirit with her parents Ivan Russell and Ethel (Harvey) Russell, her son Ed Gaddis, and her sisters Hester Haney and Cleta Colleen Russell.

With her career marked by a commitment to education, her family life enriched with love, Mary Bahr leaves behind a legacy of devotion, care, and an enduring passion for teaching that will forever resonate in the hearts of those she touched. In every lesson taught and in every heart warmed, her spirit will continue to shine brightly.

Cremation is planned. No services will be held. She will be laid to rest next to her husband at Memorial Park Cemetery in Topeka, Kansas.

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