Elizabeth Layne (Turner) Whalen
Elizabeth Whalen of Leawood, Kansas, ascended in to the arms of God on October 4, 2013.
Beth was born to Gary and Julia Turner in Atchison Kansas on September 2, 1960. Beth was preceded in death by her father Gary Turner Sr. Beth is survived by her husband Steven G.Whalen, son Zachariah K. Whalen of Leawood Ks, and daughter Hawa Anderson (Gabe), Overland Park KS, Mother Julia Turner of Shawnee Ks, brothers Gary Turner (Heather), Olathe Ks, Scott Turner (Jennifer) Lees Summit MO. Auntie Beth leaves many nieces and nephews to mourn her loss.
Beth attended Shawnee Heights High School in Topeka KS and graduated from Kansas State University with a BS in Marketing.
Beth was a wonderfully talented marketing professional and worked at Midland Radio, Overland Park Regional MedicalCenter and The Christian Foundation for Children and Aging. Beth utilized her many talents as a volunteer member of the Kansas City Museum and Union Station.
Beth was happiest when around children. She was known as the “chief of fun and entertainment”. Beth spent many years with her friends and their kids; from organizing trips to the zoo, the state fair in Sedalia, to museums, art galleries and Science City. If there was a festival or event, we were sure Beth was organizing a car load of kids to attend especially the St. Patrick’s Day parade. Beth’s Halloween parties, Easter egg hunts and backyard campouts were legendary.
Beth was fearless in her fight against breast cancer over the last 3 years. Beth lived life on her terms and refused to let this disease slow her down. She continued to stay active in her family’s lives and attend her weekly bridge game with her girlfriends.
Visitation will be held at St. Ann Catholic Church, 7231 Mission Road, Prairie Village, KS on Tuesday, October 8th beginning with a Rosary at 5:30pm and concluding at 8pm. Funeral Mass will be Wednesday morning,October 9th at 10:00am at the Church.
The family wants to thank the St. Ann Community and our many friends and family who provided millions of prayers, thousands of meals and hundreds of trips to doctor appointments and treatments. We want to especially thank Katrina Henke and Sarah Grunhard for giving so much love and support to Beth.We are comforted through our faith and know we will join you again in heaven. Sleep with Angels sweet darling.
In lieu of flowers, a memorial fund is being established for Zach’s education through the Bank of America 7624 State Line Rd. Prairie Village, KS 66206 Assistance by Funeral Advocates, LLC