Deanna Marie “Dee” Mumma, a cherished member of the Emporia, Kansas community, passed away on February 24, 2025, at the age of 65.
Born on August 25, 1959, in Olathe, Kansas, Dee’s life was marked by unwavering dedication to her family, a strong work ethic, and a passion for collecting owls.
Early Life and Family Responsibilities
Dee’s early years in Olathe were shaped by significant challenges. After the passing of her mother in 1970, young Dee assumed the responsibility of caring for her father and younger sister.
This early experience instilled in her a profound sense of duty and resilience.
Professional Journey
Over the past 42 years, Dee made significant contributions to the Emporia community through various roles:
| Position | Organization | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Deli Department Manager | Wal-Mart, Emporia | 20 years | Stepped down due to health but remained until 2020 |
| Manager | Dollar General Store | 1990s | Managed both downtown and Westside locations |
| Employee | Dillon’s and Grave’s Drug Store | Recent years | Continued working at Dillon’s after Grave’s Drug Store closed |
Personal Interests and Hobbies
Dee had a deep affection for owls, a passion inherited from her mother’s collection. Her home and car were adorned with owl-themed decorations, reflecting this love.
Beyond collecting, Dee was a talented custom wreath maker, often gifting her creations to friends and family. When asked about her hobbies, she would lovingly mention her children and grandchildren as her primary interests.
Family and Legacy
On November 4, 1977, Dee married Kenneth Preston Mumma in Ottawa, Kansas. Their union spanned over 47 years, marked by love and mutual support. Dee is survived by her husband, Kenny, and their children:
- Fawn Klock (Rick): Resides in Ft. Worth, Texas
- Travis Mumma (Kelsee): Resides in Holton, Kansas
- Kayla Mumma: Resides in Paekhill, Oklahoma
- Step-daughter: Cheri Mumma of Gardner, Kansas
Dee was a proud grandmother to twelve grandchildren: Anecia, Kane, Kai, and Addison Klock; Merritt Williams; Maxwell Kealani Robinson; Marinn, Hayes, and Aren Mumma; and Austin, Trey, and Kennedi Jackson. She is also survived by her mother-in-law, Margaret Mumma of Garnett, Kansas.
She was preceded in death by her parents, John and Margaret Bollig; her sisters, Catherine “Cathy” and Janis Bollig; and her father-in-law, Louie Mumma.
Memorial Service
A memorial service to honor Dee’s life is scheduled for 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, March 8, 2025, at Roberts-Blue-Barnett Funeral Home.
Following the service, the family will receive friends during a visitation until 3:00 p.m. In accordance with Dee’s wishes, cremation will take place.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed to Kenny Mumma, to be designated at a later date, c/o Roberts-Blue-Barnett Funeral Home, P.O. Box 175, Emporia, KS 66801.
Deanna Marie “Dee” Mumma’s life was a testament to resilience, love, and dedication. Her unwavering commitment to her family, her diligent work ethic, and her vibrant personal interests have left an indelible mark on all who knew her.
As the Emporia community reflects on her legacy, Dee’s memory serves as an inspiration of a life well-lived, filled with love, hard work, and cherished moments.