Zelma Elaine Mead

Zelma Elaine Mead was born on October 28, 1935, to Lynn O. Wheaton and Opal Dorland Wheaton. She grew up in Lewis, Kansas, where she built the foundation for a lifetime centered around family, faith, and community.

Zelma met Jefferis “Jeff” Mead in 1952, and the two were married on November 8, 1953, in Hutchinson, Kansas. Together, Jeff and Zelma made their home near Lewis, where they raised their two children, Lynn Jefferis Mead and Janice Kaye Mead Murfield.Zelma was a devoted member of the Lewis United Methodist Church. Music was an especially important part of her service to the church. She served as choir and bell choir director and later as the church pianist, sharing her musical gifts with the congregation for more than 50 years.

Zelma was also deeply involved in the Lewis community. She generously gave her time and talents to many community activities and was a member of the planning committee for the very first Lewis Days celebration. She served on the following Boards: The Lewis Co-op Board, The Southwest Kansas Agency on Aging and The Edwards County Hospital fundraising committee.  Above all, Zelma was devoted to her family. She was a constant and loving presence in the lives of her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Whether it was a church program, sporting event, or school activity, Zelma could be counted on to be there, proudly supporting and encouraging the people she loved.

Zelma was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Jeff Mead; her parents, Lynn and Opal Wheaton; her brother, Garrett Wheaton; and her sister, Loretta Wheaton Sthole.

She is survived by her children, Lynn and Julie (Pattie) Mead, and Jan (Mead) and Jay Murfield; her grandchildren and their families, Nicole (Mead) and Blake Ploger and children Jaxon and Jemma; Dustin Mead; Tyler Dykhouse; and Faith (Dykhouse) and Taylor O’Connor and children Brooks and Julia. She is also survived by many nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, and friends.Zelma’s life was one of faithful service, steadfast love, and devotion to her family and community. Her music, dedication, and presence touched generations, and the legacy she created within her family and the community will live for years to come.

A Celebration of Life will be held Friday, August 21, at 2:00 p.m. at the Lewis United Methodist Church followed by a reception at the church. Arrangements are being handled by McKillip Funeral Home. In lieu of flower the family suggests donations to The Lewis United Methodist Church or the Kiowa County Senior Center.