Gayle P. McKinley (80), a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away on March 28, 2024, in Goddard, KS. She was born on June 21, 1943, in Sibley, Iowa, to Jack R. Verhage and Hilda B. Verhage. Gayle was a light in the lives of all who knew her, and her memory will forever be cherished.
Gayle's family meant everything to her. Gayle is survived by her loving husband William "Bill" G. McKinley, with whom she shared a beautiful life since their marriage on June 19, 1965, in Overland Park, KS. Gayle is also survived by her children: Christopher McKinley and wife Debbie of Meridian, Idaho, Scott McKinley and wife Janessa of Topeka, KS, Marci Bogle and husband Kevin of Wichita, KS, and Jeffrey McKinley and wife Catherine of Manhattan, KS. Her legacy lives on through her cherished grandchildren: Keean Bogle, Mitch (Kristin) McKinley, Mindy McKinley, Korin Bogle, Samuel McKinley, Mark McKinley, Maci McKinley, Kyden Bogle, and Le'Angelo McKinley. Gayle is also survived by her best friend and sister Karen Palmer of Tucson, Arizona.
She was preceded in death by her parents, brother Terry R. Verhage and brother-in-law Bobby Palmer.
Gayle met Bill while attending Kansas State University. They grew in love for each other, for their family and most important, for their united love and faith in Jesus Christ. Over their years together they enjoyed working together in helping and counseling young people, leading marriage focused small groups as well as many other group Bible studies. Gayle spent several years as a leader in a local chapter of Bible Study Fellowship that met in Wichita. Gayle had a passion for helping others that led her to earning a degree in nursing from Kansas University. She worked at Wesley Medical Center as a pediatric and postpartum nurse, touching the lives of countless mothers, babies, and families. Beyond nursing, Gayle was a teacher, school secretary, and even operated her own daycare, always putting the needs of others first.
Gayle was unwavering in her faith and she loved and longed for Jesus, not just for herself, but she longed for all of her family and friends to experience and know the eternal security found only in a relationship with Jesus Christ. She found happiness in serving and volunteering in her community and she loved to sing both Christian and patriotic music. She also loved tending her gardens and greenhouse and taking care of her beloved flowers. Gayle's warm and welcoming nature meant that she was always surrounded by loved ones and ready to care for anyone who crossed her path.
A funeral service to honor and celebrate Gayle's life will be held at Church at the Cross, 2901 Taft Street, Wichita, KS, on April 3, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. Burial will follow at Maize Park Cemetery at 12733 W 53rd Street North, Maize KS 67101.
If you would like, you can plant a flower in remembrance of Gayle, reflecting her love for nature and beauty.
Gayle P McKinley leaves behind a legacy of love, compassion, and selflessness. Her memory will continue to inspire all who were fortunate enough to have known her. Her family takes comfort in believing she is in Heaven with her Savior and we will see her again.
Baker Funeral Home Valley Center is handling arrangements. Condolences may be left for the family at www.bakerfhvc.com.