Ann Durham, age 88, passed away peacefully in Boise, Idaho on July 9, 2024.
She was born February 17, 1936 to Cleal "Dode" Harrison and Muriel "Murt" Harrison in Hays Kansas. Ann married Gene Durham on June 12, 1955 in Oakley. Ann was a beloved mother, wife, and grandmother. She was raised in Oakley 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 Celebration of Life Service will be held at 11:00 am Saturday, August 3, 2024 at the Oakley Cemetery with Pastor Dan Hutton officiating. Inurnment will follow.
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. Memorials to the Lawrence Art Guild may also be sent in care of Kennedy-Koster Funeral Home, P.O. Box 221, Oakley, KS 67748.
Sign the online guestbook at www.kennedykosterfh.com.