Heather Bliss Obituary

Dr. Heather Nicole Bliss, 38, of Manhattan, Kansas passed away at St. Francis hospital in Topeka, KS on August 13th, 2025, surrounded by family. She was born on August 4, 1987, in Emporia, KS to Glenn (Joey) Bliss and Kimberly Messerschmidt Geiss.

Heather graduated from Emporia High School in 2005 and later received her bachelor's degree from the University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS. Heather obtained her master's degree and doctorate from the University of Mississippi in Oxford, MS.

After graduating, Heather taught psychology at the Mississippi University for Women in Columbus, MS before returning to Kansas to teach at K-State and finally KU. Teaching at KU was Heather's "dream job" and she was looking forward to the upcoming semester. Performance of and feedback from the students is evidence of Heather's dedication and commitment to the students she taught.

Heather is survived by her parents, Kimberly of Overland Park, KS and Glenn (Angela Westcott) of Emporia, siblings Amanda (Clay) Phillips of Allen, KS, Brandon Miller of Moline, KS, and Justin Geiss of Emporia, KS; grandmothers Alice Bliss and Anita Westcott of Emporia, KS; niece Parker Phillips; and her beloved pets, Pancake and Chomper. She is also remembered by a large extended family, countless friends, and her cherished students.

A memorial service is planned for September 6th at 10:00 a.m. at Hammond Park in Emporia, KS.

Memorial contributions can be made in Heather's honor to the University of Kansas Psychology Department, sent in care of Midwest Cremation, 525 SE 37th Street, Topeka, KS 66605.