Pamela B. Navarre

Pamela Bea Navarre, affectionately known as Pam, passed away on April 7, 2025, at the age of 77. Born on April 26, 1947, in Rexford, Kansas, Pam was the cherished daughter of Robert and Clara Jane Langley and a beloved sister to her brother Jay Langley. Pam’s journey through life was marked by resilience, love, laughter, and an infectious spirit felt by everyone she met.

Pam’s childhood was filled with adventure, spending time on camping trips with her family, boating, fishing, swimming, and shopping at local novelty shops. She especially treasured the annual trips to Twin Bays in the Ozarks and family visits to the Canadian and Alabama coasts. Her vibrant spirit and curiosity for life were evident from a young age.

A graduate of Washburn Rural High School, Pam was known for her sociable and friendly nature, making countless friends along the way. It was during her time as a car hop that she first met Don Navarre. Don knew then that Pam was going to be the one he loved for the rest of his life. Following the Langley family’s move to Salina, their paths diverged for a short time, but Don and Pam’s love story was far from over.

Living in Salina, Pam became a dedicated and loving mother to her three beautiful children, Kimberly, Brian, and Luke. Her career was diverse and just as vibrant as she was, from working at the family-owned motel and café in Salina to her favorite role as a cocktail waitress at Eddie’s Club, where her brilliant personality and love for life flourished.

Though Pam’s life was filled with hard work, joy, and love for her children, she knew something was still missing. After more than 15 years apart, Pam and Don reconnected and were married on May 17, 1980, sharing a remarkable 44 years of love and life together.

Upon returning to Topeka, Pam was a dedicated employee for the Hardee’s franchise. She later found fulfillment working as a long-term caregiver, bringing comfort and compassion to those in need.

Pam’s life was not without its challenges; she tragically lost her beloved son Brian in 1996. Yet, with her resilience and grace, she carried his spirit with her, finding strength and inspiration in his memory.

In her retirement, Pam enjoyed spending time with her children and indulging in garage selling and shopping trips, particularly at her favorite store, Craft-ee Crafters in Topeka. She inherited a love for cardinals from her mother and a fondness for angels, anything bold, exciting, and animal print. Pam will always be known for her bright spirit, quick wit, and great sense of humor, always bringing laughter and joy to those around her. Her lightheartedness and love for life will forever leave a lasting impact on those she encountered.

Pam is predeceased by her mother Clara Jane Langley, father Robert Langley, and son Brian Shatto.

Pam leaves behind her devoted husband Don Navarre of Meriden, along with her beloved children Kimberly Coon of Meriden and son Luke Bennett of Topeka. Her brother Jay Langley and his wife Wilda of Olathe, nephews Matthew Langley (Jenna), Scott Langley, and a niece Amanda Bargallo. She will be dearly missed by her five grandchildren Bobby Coon (Kristen), Donald Bennett (Angel), Breanna Briggs (Joshua), Gabriel Bennett, and Isaac Bennett, along with nine great-grandchildren.

Pamela Bea Navarre will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her. May her legacy of love, humor, and resilience forever remain in the hearts of her family and friends and inspire all who knew and loved her.