Nyla Jean Hobbs (Smith, 85, went to be with the Lord, Feb. 13, 2020. She was born Oct. 16, 1934 in rural Walnut, KS to Carney and Ruby Smith. A loving and devoted wife, mother, grandmother and great grandmother, Nyla was blessed with an infectious personality that brought joy to those around her. At the age of three months, Nyla’s father Carney passed away and she grew up with her single mother Ruby.
She graduated from Chanute Junior College and went on to achieve a Bachelor of Science degree at Emporia State Teachers College. Her work experiences included being a fire lookout in the mountains of Glacier National Park and teaching in a one room schoolhouse. Beautiful flowers and delicious meals (the best pies ever) were products of Nyla’s active life. As a faithful lifelong member of the United Methodist Church, Nyla demonstrated a love for missions and ministry to children, especially those in need.
Nyla was preceded in death by her mother Ruby.
She is survived by her husband of 66 years, Jack of Hesston, KS, son, Kent (Shari) Hobbs, daughters, Lori (George) Glover, Kara (Mike) Hoover, Jena Hobbs; thirteen grandchildren and eight great grandchildren.
Visitation will be 4:00 to 6:00 p.m., Saturday, February 15, 2020 at Miller-Ott Funeral Home in Hesston. Funeral services will be at 2:30 p.m., Sunday, February 16, 2020 at Hesston United Methodist Church. Private family burial will be held at Hesston Cemetery at a later date. Memorials may be made out to the Hesston United Methodist Church and may be sent to Miller-Ott Funeral Home, P.O. Box 32, Hesston, KS. 67062.