Virginia Conard

Graveside services for Virginia Powell Conard, 86, Lawrence, KS will be held at 3 p.m. Saturday, April 27, 2013 at the Fairview Cemetery in Greensburg, KS.  The family will greet friends from 5-7 p.m. Friday, April 26, 2013 at the Warren-McElwain Mortuary in Lawrence.  A Celebration of Life service in Lawrence will be announced later. She died in Lawrence on Monday, April 22, 2013.

She was preceded in death by her husband, John J. Conard, on October 12, 2007, and by her oldest son, Joseph Harvey Conard, age seven, on May Day 1960.  She is survived by three sons and daughters-in-law; James P. and Diana Conard, of Olathe, KS, Spencer D. and Cheryl Conard, of Charlotte, NC, John J. and Jan Conard, of Lawrence, KS, eight grandchildren: Isaac and wife Kris, Lauren and husband, Drew, Risa, Jessalyn, Emily, Libby and husband Josh, Katie and Spencer; one great-grandson, Ayden John, and two great-granddaughters, Avilyn June and Auryn Jane.

Virginia was the youngest of eight children of James Osborn and Maude Amber Powell.  She was born in the Powell family farm home in Johnson County, KS, south of Olathe at what is now 183rd and Lone Elm Road.  Her parents and seven siblings have preceded her in death.

She was a 1944 graduate and valedictorian of Olathe High School.

John and Virginia met at the University of Kansas while Virginia was an undergraduate student and John was a graduate student in Political Science.  They were married on September 13, 1947, at the Methodist Church in Olathe with Rev. C. Fosberg Hughes of the Plymouth Congregational Church officiating.

Two years later, they moved to Paris, France, where John was a Rotary Scholar at the University of Paris (the Sorbonne) and Virginia began work with the United States Foreign Service in the Marshall Plan economic recovery program.

One of Virginia’s bosses was Mr. John M. Carmody, who had been in President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s cabinet as Head of the Rural Electrification Administration.

They lived in Paris for five years.  Two sons, Joseph Harvey and James Powell, were born there during that time.  In 1954, they moved from Paris to Chevy Chase, MD., where John worked for the U.S. Government and Virginia taught in private business colleges in Maryland.

In 1956, they moved to Greensburg, KS. During the next 14 years, they owned and operated two country weekly newspapers, “The Kiowa County Signal” and “The Havilland Journal”.  For a while, they also owned “the Mullinville News”.

Sons Spencer and John Jr. were born in Greensburg, in 1960 and 1963 respectively. They moved to Lawrence in 1970.

Virginia won many state and national awards for her writing.  She was twice chosen “Kansas Woman Journalist of the Year”.  She served a term as president of the Kansas Press Women and a term as vice-president of the National Press Women.

Since 1968, she has been active in interdenominational prayer and Bible study groups.  Over the years, she has conducted Conversation Prayer sessions in the Mid-West.

Virginia was well-known in the area for her costumed portrayal of famous women’s lives such as: Fanny Crosby (famous hymn writer), Harriet Beecher Stowe (author of Uncle Tom’s Cabin), Susanne Wesley (the Mother of Methodism), and Clara Booth (co-founder of the Salvation Army).

She wants to be remembered for her love and commitment to her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ; and to her family and friends.

The family suggests memorials in her name to the Lawrence Salvation Army and may be sent in care of the mortuary.
 

35 Condolences

  1. Jonya Redwine on April 23, 2013 at 3:40 pm

    A precious woman, mentor and friend. I will miss her beyond description. She loved well, taught me to pray, love the Lord, the Word of God and others by her example.



  2. Jim Clark on April 23, 2013 at 4:24 pm

    What a wonderful person. She helped make Greensburg home for us Clark kids, and when I would see her here in Lawrence, it was like having a little bit of Greensburg again. I saw her in January at a memorial service. She hugged me, and told me she loved me. But I always knew that.



  3. Roger E. Harmon on April 23, 2013 at 4:44 pm

    Virgina was a role model for many young people growing up in Greensburg, as was her beloved late husband, John. Both were tremendous examples of individuals who had traveled far–both geographically and in the world of ideas–and returned to small town Kansas to make a difference. They did so by being thoughtful, loving, solid citizens. We are forever grateful. Rest in Peace.



  4. Bonnie Wibbeler Burtraw on April 23, 2013 at 5:06 pm

    I remember Virginia as a beautiful and ’classy’ woman, always gracious and loving, always wearing a beautiful smile. She was a role model to many young girls, showing us that we could break out of societal molds for women without losing femininity or sacrificing moral standards. I remember being in awe of her, and look forward to chatting with her in heaven about the impact she had on my life. Many blessings to her family as you mourn her passing.



  5. Jerry Heidrich on April 23, 2013 at 5:28 pm

    John and Virginia and my parents, Hank and Evelyn purchased businesses across the street from each other in 1956. On the passing of my father three weeks ago I wondered if Virginia might be one of two remaining people who were a part of the rich tapestry, to borrow a term from classmate Serena Seacat, who were a part of the main street that helped make Greensburg such a vibrant place to live. Virginia was the gentle soul of the newspaper that was a true champion of Greensburg and Kiowa county. The Conards will always be missed.



  6. Gaynell Perry Lindo on April 23, 2013 at 5:45 pm

    Virginia and my mom, Katherine Perry were very good friends. She was such a special person, showing the love of Christ always.



  7. Rebecca Perry Irons on April 23, 2013 at 5:51 pm

    I remember Virginia as a gracious lady. She was a good friend to my mother through the years, and I treasure the words she wrote about Mom when she passed away.



  8. Rebecca Perry Irons on April 23, 2013 at 6:01 pm

    I remember Virginia as a gracious lady. She was a good friend to my mother through the years, and I treasure the words she wrote about Mom when she passed away.



  9. Caroline (Gebhardt) Huffman on April 23, 2013 at 7:49 pm

    Virginia was one of my mother’s (Arlene Gebhardt) dearest friends from Greensburg. When my mother died back in 2002, Virginia sent me a lovely note that I will always cherish. Virginia (and John) truly exemplify how smart, cultured people can stay true to their roots and treat others with kindness and respect…they both did that with class and dignity. What a great, great lady Virginia was…flooding the heavens with prayers for her family.



  10. Jimmy Conard, son, age 58 on April 23, 2013 at 7:58 pm

    She went to the gym yesterday evening (sure,like everyone who is 86), worked out, got into the hot tub, closed her eyes euphorically, and woke up in heaven. What a way to go! I got the news last night. It’s all too sudden–so surreal. I had trouble sleeping. But I woke up last night with the strongest impression: she and my dad danced in Paris; now they are dancing on streets of gold. That handsome rascal, my dad; he knew how to pick ’em! They will outlive the stars. Join them. I miss my mommy. I tear up if I think too hard. I do, yet I know that although I have tears tonight, “joy comes in the morning.” (Ps. 30:5) Selah.



  11. Steve Elliott on April 23, 2013 at 8:07 pm

    Mrs. Conard was a comfort to us at my dad’s funeral in November, 2011, and again at my mom’s service in August, 2012. We immediately knew her by her smile and personality, even after 45 years. This year we have lost so many of her generation who made Greensburg such a wonderful place for us to grow up. Eternal rest grant unto her, O Lord, and may perpetual light shine upon her.



  12. Dennis Maack on April 23, 2013 at 8:44 pm

    Virginia and John were such wonderful, gracious people. Dad’s produce house was just a half-block down the street from the Signal office, and they and Dad seemed always to have business together, so as a kid I saw them often. Later, as I finished graduate school at KU, and they lived in Lawrence, they tried to provide help as I looked for a job. As son Jimmy notes above, surely Virginia and John are dancing in heaven — and greeting everyone warmly.



  13. Dennis Maack on April 23, 2013 at 8:45 pm

    Virginia and John were such wonderful, gracious people. Dad’s produce house was just a half-block down the street from the Signal office, and they and Dad seemed always to have business together, so as a kid I saw them often. Later, as I finished graduate school at KU, and they lived in Lawrence, they tried to provide help as I looked for a job. As son Jimmy notes above, surely Virginia and John are dancing in heaven — and greeting everyone warmly.



  14. Jan Perry Durham on April 23, 2013 at 9:09 pm

    Virginia was a gracious and beautiful person. She was a great friend to my mom, Katherine Perry, since the time the Conards moved to Greensburg and after we all moved to other places. I remember going to her house when I was very small (maybe 4 or 5 years old) and thinking that she was the nicest lady I ever met…



  15. Mary Dowell Cukjati on April 23, 2013 at 9:38 pm

    Virginia was my first boss, my mentor and beloved role model. John and Virginia gave me my first job. For two summers I after graduating from high school, I worked at the Kiowa County Signal (and Haviland Journal). She let me write, design ads, sell ads, help Harold in the press room and even gave me a column to write in the Haviland Journal my second summer…a source of unending embarrassment to my mother. I remember her as exotic..She had lived in Paris!! …Demanding, in that she expected excellence. And very, very intelligent. She had a career and a family in the late 50s and 60s. And I will never forget the day her seven year old first born fell from a tree and died. She took great comfort from my mom, who saw her son, Mike, become a paraplegic in an accident. I sat at their feet, listening to their heart ache, many times. And it made motherhood very serious, and very scarey for me. Virginia, I loved and respected you. And loved your Paris clothes.



  16. Megan Fisher on April 24, 2013 at 7:36 am

    Virginia was my neighbor. She always had a smile and a kind word when we met. I will miss seeing her on her walks around the block.



  17. Clare Monroe on April 24, 2013 at 8:59 am

    I have only known Virginia for a couple of years. She was a remarkable woman who was full of wisdom, love for God and all of life. She deeply loved her family and wished only the best for her sons, her daughter-in-laws, and her grandchildren. She was always full of warmth, stories, sparkling energy and fun! She will be missed.



  18. Elaine Wilson on April 24, 2013 at 10:39 am

    Virginia and John were members of Big Springs United Methodist Church for several years and lived in our community. Virginis delighted in writing about the people in our church and how they found God. She was a leader, friend and always there to help when neede. We all loved both Virginia and John.



  19. Brenda Glidewell Koehn on April 24, 2013 at 1:59 pm

    Life is full of wonderful events and people if we are open to them. Virginia and John lived south of my in-laws,Anna and James Koehn,in Greensburg. She was a wonderful friend to Anna. I met John & Virginia at my home church in Big Springs. She was a wonderful friend and church mentor to my mother Inez Glidewell. They traveled many miles going to UMW meetings and legislative coffees. She stretched my moms world so much. Virginia had a zest for life on earth and her eyes fixed on heaven. I was lucky to have met her.



  20. Linda Elliott Fegley on April 24, 2013 at 4:16 pm

    I so admired Virginia–as a writer, professional woman, world traveler and a Christian who set an example of how to live life. (Jimmy, hold those memories close for when the tears come.)



  21. Shirley and Rod Bradley on April 24, 2013 at 7:15 pm

    Virginia and John: Two wonderful people who did so much for,and who influenced and blessed so many people. I know the heavens are celebrating Virginia’s arrival.
    Sincerely, Shirley and Rod Bradley



  22. Shirley and Rod Bradley on April 24, 2013 at 7:15 pm

    Virginia and John: Two wonderful people who did so much for,and who influenced and blessed so many people. I know the heavens are celebrating Virginia’s arrival.
    Sincerely, Shirley and Rod Bradley



  23. Jeff Kilgore on April 24, 2013 at 8:17 pm

    Everyone below has written truly about Mrs. Conard, which is how I will always think of her. As a boy in the 1960s, the Conards and Sons made me feel so welcome and loved when I was with them. Their family made Greensburg a special place for so many people. Love, Jeff and Rena Kilgore



  24. Jeff Kilgore on April 24, 2013 at 8:23 pm

    Everyone below has written truly about Mrs. Conard, which is how I will always think of her. As a boy in the 1960s, the Conards and Sons made me feel so welcome and loved when I was with them. Their family made Greensburg a special place for so many people. Love, Jeff and Rena Kilgore



  25. Ann Anderson on April 25, 2013 at 8:30 am

    Virginia was a woman of culture, good manners, loved her God and family and always made you feel like you were special. She shared so many gifts with the world. She was the Coco Channel of Kansas.



  26. Liz Hughes on April 25, 2013 at 10:56 am

    I came to know Virginia when she and John took me into their home during Thanksgiving, more than 15 years ago. I was an exchange student from the UK and they were part of the host program at Kansas University. As they had once lived in France they had asked KU for a French speaker if possible and I, being British, was the closest thing available! They took me into their home, introduced me to their family and made me feel loved beyond measure. The bond we formed in that week has lasted and will continue to last until I see them both again. To be able to have them come to the UK and meet my family and to have been able to see their family mature and expand over the years has been wonderful. Virginia, I am so proud to have been your ‘British daughter’. I will never forget you and I look forward to seeing you and John again! With love, always xx



  27. Rebecca Smith on April 26, 2013 at 2:47 pm

    Virginia was the most sincere and loving person I have ever met. She was an example of poise and grace. I am fortunate to have met her and been a part of her family circle. She will be missed!



  28. Frank & Sue Kline on April 26, 2013 at 4:17 pm

    I (Sue) had known John and Virginia and my late husband, Doc and I had mowed the Jana Dr house for a while. We had seen the country place by Big Springs and they knew the Minneapolis, Ks newspaper people where we had grown up. We loved them so much and are sorry for your loss. They were wonderful and unique people and will never be forgotten. Virginia and I traded emails when my husband died and she was helpful and loving as you might imagine. We at Big Springs UMC are going to miss her greatly and want to say how much she did for our church and the newsletter and more. Hugs and love to you, her beloved family, from Sue Kline



  29. Deann Bartell on April 26, 2013 at 4:20 pm

    Virgina was a woman that gave inspiration to those around her. Her dedication to God and family was a living example for all. She was an excellent teacher. Her counscel and wisdoms will be greatly missed.



  30. Glee and Jerry smith on April 27, 2013 at 1:10 pm

    Dear members of the Conard family.

    Each person that knew Virginia has lost a good friend. She sought the best in everyone.

    Virginia was a talented writer and teacher. She was also generous, kind and loving, and she lived an exemplary life. Her faith was central to her, and each one of us is stronger for her influence in our lives.

    John and Virginia were long time friends — when John served in the House of Representatives and Glee served in the Senate.

    Our prayers will be with all of you, with special caring.

    Glee and Jerry Smith



  31. Donald and Cherie Conzett on April 27, 2013 at 9:32 pm

    Sorry to read about the loss of your mother. You are in our thoughts and praying God will release His Grace and Comfort for your entire family.



  32. Donald and Cherie Conzett on April 27, 2013 at 9:35 pm

    Sorry to read about the loss of your mother. You are in our thoughts and praying God will release His Grace and Comfort for your entire family.



  33. Wayne Boyer on April 28, 2013 at 3:28 pm

    I talked to her several times. The conversations were about family and ’conversational prayer,’ one of her passions. She had a gift for making an impact in people. This seems obvious to me since I moved away from Lawrence and had not talked to her in 33 plus years, yet I can still hear her voice. Maybe that gift only came DUE TO the praying; it seems likily.

    I read the compliments above and I gotta believe that we all know that words don’t describe the depth of qualities in her. Likewise, those of you who knew her better will agree with Jonya: we “miss her beyond description.”



  34. Karen Jacks on April 29, 2013 at 8:57 am

    “I will rejoice in the day that The Lord has made!” This is the greeting I remember so well from dear Virginia! She lives in my heart as a magnificent spokeswoman of our Father God. I was thrilled, years ago, to hear for the first time, the simple concept of “conversational prayer” from her. I can even picture where we were sitting on her porch when she explained it. From the moment I met Virginia during a bedside visit to her dear friend Susan, who was in her last month among us, I instantly felt a kindred sisterhood with her. Her soothing voice, confidence in her God, and joy in her heart were always very precious to me, and all who knew her. So, it is with sweet memories to cherish, that I “rejoice” in picturing her presence with our Savior Yeshua Jesus! Our remarkable friend Virginia.



  35. Dani on October 18, 2014 at 6:04 am

    Λέει ο συγγραφέας: “Productive stupidity means being igonnart by choice.” και συνεχίζει: “The morecomfortable we become with being stupid, the deeper we will wadeinto the unknown and the more likely we are to make bigdiscoveries.”



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