Janet Kay Killough

Janet Varenhorst Killough, 76, of Marion, Kansas, passed away peacefully on June 30, 2026. She was born on August 1, 1949, in Marion, Kansas, to Richard and Dorothy Varenhorst. A proud graduate of Marion High School, Janet continued her education at Kansas State Teachers College (now Emporia State University), where she earned her degrees in Education and Library Science. She began her teaching career in Sylvan Grove before returning home to Marion High School, where she devoted decades to educating and inspiring generations of students until her retirement in 2013. To simply call Janet a teacher would never fully capture the impact she had on her community. While she faithfully taught in the classroom, countless hours of her life were spent long after the school bell rang. She directed school musicals and melodramas, coached the Forensics team and dance teams and edited yearbooks. She believed every student deserved a place to shine and worked tirelessly to develop a safe space where they could discover their talents and build their confidence. Janet's creativity extended far beyond the walls of the school. She co-owned a photography studio and a local motel. She worked alongside her mother at Van's Department Store, where her artistic eye transformed the storefront window displays. Her talents were on display yearly at Art in the Park, where visitors sought out her handcrafted pillowcases, taggie blankets, kitchen scarves, and other creations. Children and the arts remained at the center of Janet's life after retirement. She delighted young imaginations as the beloved "Story Lady" in Marion County daycares and brought joy to countless children at church as the "Candy Lady." Whether reading stories, making crafts, sewing gifts, or encouraging a shy student to step onto a stage, Janet had an extraordinary gift for making people feel seen, valued, and loved. Those who knew Janet will remember her quick wit, impeccable comic timing, graceful eloquence, and genuine kindness. Her words encouraged, her laughter was contagious, and her unwavering belief in others left a lasting impression. Janet is survived by her devoted husband, Chris Killough of Marion; children, Danielle Longhofer Bartelli (Brian Bartelli), Gabrielle Longhofer Darrow (Chris Darrow), Nicholle Longhofer, Shane Killough, Ryan Killough (Tracy Killough), Savannah Killough Brown, Jordan Timm, Chris Heslet Renna, and sister-in-law, Pam Varenhorst. She leaves behind the greatest joys of her life, her grandchildren: Berlyn and Bella Bartelli; Casen and Cambelle Darrow; Sienna Jones; Kennedy, Grady, and Logan Brown; Lydia and Maxwell Killough; and Mason, Gannon, and Lawson Killough. Her legacy will forever live on in their hearts and smiles. She was preceded in death by her parents, Richard and Dorothy Varenhorst, and her brother, Dick Varenhorst. Janet leaves behind a legacy that reaches far beyond her own family. Through every student she encouraged, every production she directed, every story she shared, every craft she lovingly stitched, and every life she quietly influenced, she made Marion a more beautiful, more creative, and more compassionate place. Her family finds comfort in knowing that while Heaven has gained a gifted teacher, artist, storyteller, and faithful servant, the lessons she taught, the laughter she inspired, and the love she so generously gave will continue to live on through all who were fortunate enough to know her. She will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever cherished. Visitation will be held on Wednesday, July 8 th , 6:00 p.m. – 7:30p.m. at Yazel-Megli Funeral Home, Marion, KS. The funeral service will be on Thursday, July 9, 10:00a.m., Marion Christian Church. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the Marion Library or the Marion County Food Bank.