Gena Lee Keas, 87, of Palco, Kansas, passed away on June 8, 2026, at Trego County Lemke Memorial Hospital in WaKeeney, Kansas.
Gena was born on February 28, 1939, in Geneseo, Kansas, to Calvin L. and Dorothy A. (Hiser) Soper. At the age of five, she moved with her family to Palco, where she spent the remainder of her life. She graduated from Palco High School in 1957 and attended one year of college.
On May 9, 1959, she married Jakie “Jake” Keas in Plainville, Kansas. Together they built a life centered on faith, family, and service to their community. Jake preceded her in death in 2000.
Gena worked as a bookkeeper for Soper Tank Service and Keas Oil Treating Service. She also became a certified EMT in Palco, reflecting her lifelong desire to help others. She was a devoted member of the Palco United Methodist Church and the Eastern Star.
Gena was known for her caring and loving nature. She was always willing to help others, often taking people to appointments and putting her own struggles aside to serve those in need. She mentored many people throughout her life and taught valuable lessons through her example of kindness, generosity, and perseverance. Her faith, family, and church were at the center of her life.
She possessed a wonderful sense of humor and was known for speaking her mind. An excellent cook and baker, Gena loved sharing her food with others and found great joy in caring for those around her. She truly spoiled everyone she loved.
Gena is survived by her son, Gordon Scott (Sandy) Keas of Plainville, Kansas; daughter, Kim (Mark Wood) Cunningham of WaKeeney, Kansas; three grandchildren, Christopher (Caroline) Keas, Jacob Keas, and Amelia (Davis) Glass; eight great-grandchildren, Corbin, Caden, Cooper, Carson, Khloee, Addi, Elyse, and Sophia; niece, Kelli Shoemaker of Junction City, KS; and nephew, Shawn (Kristi) Shoemaker of Emporia, KS.
She is preceded in death by her parents; husband, Jake Keas; and sister, Sue Ann Shoemaker.
A funeral service will be held on Friday, June 19, 2026, at 10:30 A.M. at the Palco Methodist Church in Palco. Inurnment will follow at Pleasant View Cemetery in Palco.
Memorials are suggested to McKenna Center – Palco and McKenna Youth and Activity Center and may be sent to Plumer-Overlease Funeral Home, 320 SW 2nd, Plainville, KS 67663.