Stories from Friday, July 25, 2025

Barbara Jean Dawson Swearingen, a cherished soul known for her friendly demeanor, generous spirit, and passionate love for horses, passed away peacefully on July 22, 2025, in her hometown of Fort Scott, Kan. Born on Dec. 10, 1944, also in Fort Scott, Barbara's life was a testament to her enduring love for her community and the people within it...

John Sackett, age 65, passed away on Tuesday, July 22, at Integris Baptist Medical Center in Oklahoma City, Okla. John was born in Fort Scott, Kan., to William (Jim) and Mary Sackett (Monroe). John enlisted in the Army in 1977. When he stepped onto the bus to travel to Fort Polk, La., for boot camp, he looked back at that moment as the most defining decision of his life. ...

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Leon Calvin Perry, who departed this life on Monday, July 21, 2025, at the age of 81. Born in Kansas City, Kan., on May 31, 1944, Leon lived a life full of passion, purpose, and an unwavering love for the outdoors...

Kathryn Lancellotti, 94, of Olathe, Kan., formerly of Fort Scott, Kan., died at 12:35 p.m. Monday, July 21, 2025 at Hoeger House at Olathe, Kan. Mrs. Lancellotti was born Dec. 7, 1930 at Camp 50, the daughter of Joe and Cloinde Selle Palazzari. Kathryn was a retired school teacher at Eugene Ware Grade School in Fort Scott, Kan., where she worked until retirement. ...

Bourbon County Commissioners on Monday discussed and heard concerns in the county’s public works department. Commissioners heard from Public Works Director Eric Bailey, who discussed issues with internet and a decrease in crew members, among other concerns, and Clay Campbell, who said he had retired and recently returned to work part-time with the department...

The Fort Scott Community College Board of Trustees has approved salary increases for faculty and staff for the 2025-26 academic year. On Monday, the board approved a tentative agreement with the Fort Scott College Association of Professional Employees (FS-CAPE) and also approved expenses toward salary increases for staff, according to unofficial meeting minutes...

Lance Leslie Sears, age 87, Hume, Mo., passed away on Wednesday, July 23, 2025. Funeral service will be 1 p.m. Tuesday, July 29, 2025 at the Hume Christian Church. Burial will be in the Hume Cemetery. Online condolences can be left at www.schneiderfunerals.com...