Maryan June (Havas) Priest

Maryan June (Priest) Brock passed away on October 30, 2024 in Kinsley, Kansas.  She was born on January 14, 1927 in Wichita, followed shortly by her twin sister Marjorie J. Fisher, born to Ivy Seward and adopted by Matt Havas.  Maryan was raised in Kinsley and attended Kinsley High School where she played baritone in the band.  Her love for all types of music, especially music she could dance to, endured throughout her life.  As teenagers, she and her sister worked at the Palace Theatre.

Maryan married Melvin Priest in 1944.  Eight children were born to that union.  Maryan married Jim Brock in 1978 and acquired two stepsons.  Maryan and Jim lived in Dodge City and Denver before returning to Kinsley.

Maryan enjoyed various jobs including as a cook at Kinsley High School and instructor for developmentally disabled adults through Arrowhead West.  She served the community as chairman of the Edwards County Area Agency on Aging and led local efforts to develop public transportation for seniors.  Her hobbies included playing the piano, painting, and cooking.  In lovingly caring for her large family, she passed on strong values to her children.  She was a long-time member of the First Christian Church.

Maryan is survived by daughters Linda (Joe) Frazier and Lorilee Maxwell, sons Tim (Tammy) Priest, Marty Priest, Melvin (Denise) Priest, Gale Priest, Michael (Laura) Brock, and John Brock and daughters-in-law Glenda Priest and Alma Trujillo; 20 grandchildren; 23 great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild; along with numerous nieces, nephews and other extended family.  Maryan is predeceased by her husband Jim Brock, sister Marjorie J. Fisher, and sons Eric Priest and Kenny Priest.

A family graveside service will be held at Hillside Cemetery at a later date.