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Ann Durham Obituary

Born in Oakley, Kansas

Passed away at the age of 88 on July 9, 2024

Ann Durham, a beloved mother, wife, and grandmother, passed away peacefully in Boise, Idaho. She was raised in Oakley, Kansas before moving to Lawrence to attend the University of Kansas. Ann made Lawrence her home for nearly 60 years, dedicating over three decades of her life to inspiring young minds as a high school art teacher.

Her passion for art extended beyond the classroom. Ann was an avid collector of artwork, particularly southwestern influenced paintings and pottery. She frequently enjoyed time in Taos, New Mexico where she often sought inspiration and new additions for her collections. New Mexico was not her only travel destination through the years. She loved to travel, exploring new places and cultures with an adventurous spirit. Ann was a talented artist herself, infusing her watercolor paintings with the same vibrancy and passion that characterized her life.

In recent years, Ann and her husband relocated to Boise, Idaho to be closer to family. She is survived by her devoted husband of 69 years, Gene, her daughter Kinon, her son Craig, and her cherished granddaughters Chloe and Kate. Ann's love for color, creativity, and family will forever be remembered and celebrated by those who knew and loved her.

A brief graveside service for family will be held in Oakley, Kansas. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Lawrence Art Guild (lawrenceartguild.org/donate), where Ann was a member for many years. Her memory lives on in the hearts of her family, friends, and the countless students whose lives she touched.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Lawrence Journal-World on Jul. 17, 2024.

Memories and Condolences
for Ann Durham

Not sure what to say?





Tad Harrison

August 2, 2024

Tad Harrison

August 2, 2024

Tad Harrison

August 2, 2024

One of Ann´s paintings in my home. A picture of Ann and Jay playing outside in Oakley Kansas.

Tad Harrison

August 1, 2024

Tad Harrison

August 1, 2024

Tad Harrison

August 1, 2024

Tad Harrison

August 1, 2024

Tad Harrison

August 1, 2024

Tad Harrison

August 1, 2024

I love and miss my sister. In looking at old pictures, brought back memories. Ann was a very gifted artist, and I gained my interest of the Taos and Santa Fe areas through her paintings and discussion of the area.

Judy Mongod

July 21, 2024

My deepest condolences. Ann was a wonderful and kind teacher who cared for her stdents. I am proud to have been one.

Jeanette Frevele

July 20, 2024

A beautiful woman, and excellent teacher. She brought beauty to the world, through the power of teaching. She was my teacher and my children´s also. The world is a more beautiful place because of her.

Kristina Stine

July 18, 2024

I would often find myself wondering how she was doing, if she was enjoying retirement. She coined the phrase "just sit on it" if we weren't feeling inspired. She also helped encourage my love for Georgia O'Keefe. Thank for being such a great teacher and inspiration during your earthly presence Mrs. D.

Alisa Palmer Branham

July 17, 2024

Mrs. Durham always encouraged me in our high school art classes in Tonganoxie. I eventually earned a studio art degree and a masters in art history; she encouraged me when my family offered zero support. I was able to reconnect by email with Mrs Durham a few years ago and let this wonderful, caring teacher know how much she meant to me. I am so sorry to hear she´s passed, and so grateful to have known her.

John Fevurly

July 17, 2024

Mrs Durham shared her love for art and her enthusiasm for learning. I will always remember her for the impact she made on my life l!

Amy Lawson

July 17, 2024

I have very fond memories of Mrs. Durham. She was a class act. She was one of my favorite teachers. Thinking of her family.

Pam Lamb

July 17, 2024

Ann was such a wonderful person and teacher! I truly enjoyed working with her at Tonanoxie High School. Prayers to the family. Pam Lamb.

Showing 1 - 16 of 16 results

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Memorial Events
for Ann Durham

Aug

3

Graveside service

11:00 a.m.

Oakley Cemetery

Oakley, KS, Get Directions

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