Evora Wheeler’s life and legacy will be celebrated in several ways this weekend after her recent passing.
Thursday, Kansas Governor Laura Kelly announced that flags across Emporia and Lyon County will fly at half-staff from sunup to sundown. In a news release from the Governor’s office, Kelly stated, “For decades, Evora Wheeler was a committed leader in Emporia, from her time serving as mayor to her extensive community engagement. My condolences go out to her loved ones and the community during this difficult time.”
Wheeler passed away Jan. 2 at age 94 after a rich life of service, including a term on the Emporia City Commission, 16 years with the Emporia Area Chamber of Commerce, a nearly-decade-long real estate career and a long list of community service ventures like 4-H, Parent Teacher Association, Lyon County Historical Society, Kiwanis Club, Lyon County Crime Stoppers, the David Traylor Zoo and other entities.
Services for Wheeler will be held Saturday from 1-4 pm at the Lyon County Fairgrounds Anderson Building with a special remembrance service beginning at 2 pm. Residents wanting to make a memorial contribution can donate to the Evora Ann Rees Wheeler Memorial Fund through VanArsdale Funeral Home. Proceeds will be designated by family members at a later date.
