Kathy Studebaker

Kathy Marie Studebaker, 75, Topeka, Kansas, peacefully went home to heaven on June 25, 2025, surrounded by her loving family. She showed tremendous strength, courage and perseverance throughout a long and difficult battle with multiple illnesses. Kathy’s life was marked by her kindness, generosity, and her deep devotion to her family. Her joyful nature lit up every room she entered. Her love for God and her family were central to her life. She was always available to offer abundant love and support to others. Kathy’s dedication to her faith was apparent in all her relationships. She was a devoted follower of Christ and a true example of Chrisitan love. Kathy found joy in prayer, strength in scripture, and peace in the promises of eternal life. She was a member of the Susanna Wesley United Methodist Church of Topeka. Kathy was born on November 11, 1949, in Topeka, the daughter of Thomas Gail Kingsley and Ila Marie Winter Kingsley. She attended Washburn Rural High School, where she graduated in 1967. Kathy married John Paul Studebaker on March 2, 1968, at Topeka Bible Church in Topeka. She worked for the Topeka Public School district for 30 years in the Visually Impaired Program. Kathy was a true asset to the program and highly proficient in Braille and all things pertaining to visual impairment. She developed many friendships during her career that lasted throughout her lifetime. Kathy is survived by her husband, John, Topeka; son, Jeff Studebaker (Janet), Topeka; daughter, Julie Hafenstine (Mark), Lawrence; four grandchildren, Brianna Quarles (Brady), Roeland Park, Ryan Hafenstine, Shawnee, John “Jack” Studebaker, Lawrence, and Carter Wirth (Stephanie), South Carolina; many extended family members; and their beloved dog, Cocoa. Kathy was preceded in death by her parents, Gail and Ila Kinglsey; brother, Thomas Kingsley and wife, Dianne; brother, Michael Kingsley; and her cherished daughter, Michelle “Shelly” Studebaker. Visitation will be 10 a.m. Thursday, July 3, 2025, at Susanna Wesley United Methodist Church, 7433 SW 29th Street, where Kathy’s Celebration of Life will begin at 11 a.m. Memorial contributions may be made in her honor to Susanna Wesley United Methodist Church and sent in care of Kevin Brennan Family Funeral Home, 2801 SW Urish Road, Topeka KS 66614. Condolences may be sent online to www.kevinbrennanfamily.com.

Kathy Studebaker

November 11, 1949 - June 25, 2025