Ruth Ann Theis

Ruth Ann Theis, 85, of Hutchinson, Kansas, peacefully entered eternal rest on Sunday, March 23, 2025. She was born on May 20, 1939, in Pittsburg, Kansas, to Thomas and Ruth (Crane) Kelly. On September 1, 1960, Ann married the love of her life, Phillip "Phil" Harrison Theis, at Holy Cross Catholic Church in Hutchinson, Kansas. Together, they shared 65 wonderful years of marriage until his passing.

A proud graduate of Hutchinson High School, Ann pursued her calling in nursing at the Mercy School of Nursing in Fort Scott. Her dedication to learning led her to further her education in psychodrama in Camelback, Arizona. Throughout her career, Ann touched countless lives—beginning as a staff nurse at Susan B. Allen Memorial Hospital in El Dorado, Kansas, before transitioning to a psychiatric nursing role at South Central Mental Health, also in El Dorado. Her deep passion for mental health care eventually led her to St. Joseph’s Hospital in Wichita, Kansas, where she became known for her compassion and dedication, providing care for women and supporting youth who were victims of abuse. After years of service, Ann retired from St. Joseph’s Hospital in 1999, leaving behind a legacy of kindness and commitment to those in need.

Beyond her professional life, Ann was a devoted mother and an active presence in her children's lives. Whether attending sporting events or music performances, her support was unwavering. Faith was the cornerstone of her life, and she found purpose in serving her church community. As a dedicated member of St. John’s Catholic Church, Ann served on the Parish Council, taught religious education to high school freshmen alongside Phil, and guided engaged couples through marriage preparation classes.

Ann's interests reflected her warm and inquisitive spirit. She found joy in literature, nurtured beautiful gardens, and shared her love of films with those around her. Her greatest happiness, however, came from time spent with family and friends, engaging in heartfelt conversations and sharing laughter.

Ruth Ann will be deeply missed by all who were fortunate to know her. Her legacy of love, faith, and service will continue to inspire those whose lives she touched.

She was preceded in death by her parents and her beloved husband, Phil. She is survived by her sister, Pat (Ron) Means; her three children: Kelly Singer (Keith Hanson), John (Deb) Theis, and Erik (Jennifer) Theis; her grandchildren: Michael (Heather) Higgins, Derek (Kara) Higgins, Tyler Buck, Chelsea Buck, Adam (Moira) Theis, Jakob (Sierra) Stratton, and Justin Johnson (Nikki Moore); and six cherished great-grandchildren.

A recitation of the Holy Rosary will take place at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, April 5, 2025, followed by the Mass of Christian Burial at 10:30 a.m. at St. John’s Catholic Church, 302 N Denver St, El

Dorado, KS 67042. A luncheon will follow, offering an opportunity for fellowship and remembrance.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Butler Community College Foundation to establish the Phil and Ann Theis Memorial Scholarship. Donations can be made securely online at https://butlerccfoundation.org/give/ or by mailing a contribution to Butler Foundation, 901 S. Haverhill Rd, El Dorado, KS 67042.