Raymola Lee Kirby Shuford

Raymola Lee Kirby Shuford, 84, of Topeka, was received into the loving arms of her Savior, Tuesday, February 9, 2010 at her home surrounded by her family.

She was born October 15, 1925 at home in Nemaha County, KS, the daughter of Jerome Charles and Minnie A. (Milsap) Martin. Raymola was a lead singer for several Big Bands during WWII and a full-time homemaker. She was a member of Christ the King Catholic Church, Topeka.

Raymola married George Woodrow Kirby, Sr. October 3, 1946. He preceded her in death in 1989. She married Ernest C. Shuford on October 11, 2003. He preceded her in death in 2005. Survivors include her children, George W. Kirby, Jr., Michael R. Kirby, Joann (Jim) Kirby LaCrone and Lisa K. (Shane) Kirby Smith; step-children, Ernest (Marlene) Shuford, Glenda (Rick) Fowler, Donald (Linda) Shuford and Barbara (James) Fregon; 16 grandchildren including Sharon, Stacy and Martin Kirby, Lance Smith, Macie (LaCrone) Smith and Adam and Amanda LaCrone; 34 great-grandchildren and 3 great-great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her sisters Betty Wilson and Jeannie McCoy, her brother, Jake Martin, her parents and step-father, Andy Puhl.

Raymola was a devoted Christian who was a loving mother and grandmother and loved by all who knew her. She would open her door to anyone in need and gratefully provided for many people during her lifetime.

Mrs. Shuford will lie in state after 3 p.m., Friday, February 12, 2010 Penwell-Gabel Parker-Price Chapel, 245 NW Independence Ave, Topeka, where the family will receive friends from 7-8 p.m. Cremation will follow the visitation. A memorial ceremony will be 1 p.m., Saturday, February 13, 2010 at the funeral home. Interment will follow at Rochester Cemetery, Topeka. Memorial contributions may be made to Midland Care Hospice, 200 SW Frazier Circle, Topeka, KS 66606.