Orpha I. Severn
Orpha I. Severn, 93, of
Newton died Wednesday (Dec. 6, 2006) at Newton Medical Center. She was born
Oct. 1, 1913, in Weeping Water in Cass County, Neb., to Samuel Asa and Dennie
Mae (Roberts) Rector. On Aug. 21, 1935, she married Clayton W. Severn in
Weeping Water. He preceded her in death. Orpha earned her bachelor of science
degree in education from the University of Nebraska. During her teaching career
she taught school in Nebraska, New Mexico and Kansas. She was a foster grandparent
in the Wichita school system working with special-needs children.
Orpha was proud to be a
pastor's wife and supported his ministry throughout their marriage. She was a
member of First Missionary Church in Newton. Orpha enjoyed sewing and
crocheting. She also enjoyed playing the piano and looked forward to spending
time with her many friends and loving family.
Survivors include: daughters,
Alvera and Jack (Severn) Sandberg of Wichita, and Ramona Little of Flint,
Mich.; sons, Eldon and Susan Severn of Newton, and John and Margie Severn of
Albuquerque, N.M.; nine grandchildren; and 12 great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by
her parents; brothers, Ivan Rector, Dwight Rector and Lowell Rector; sister,
Leona Damon; and daughter, Sharon Mae Severn.
Visitation will be from 1 to
9 p.m. Friday at Petersen Funeral Home in Newton with family receiving friends
from 6:30 to 8 p.m.
Services will be at 10 a.m. Saturday
at Cornerstone Missionary Church with Pastor Ray Adams of First Missionary
Church in Newton officiating. Burial will be in Maize Park Cemetery in Maize.
Memorial contributions may be
made to First Missionary Church or Gideons International in care of the funeral
home.
