Michelle Denny Obituary

Michelle L. Denny of Tyro, Kansas passed away on May 16, 2025 at her home surrounded by her family at the age of 75.

Born on January 27, 1950, in Kansas City, Missouri, Michelle was the cherished daughter of Daniel J. and Dorothy F. (Gilstrap) McAtee. She spent her early years in Wichita, Kansas, before moving to Edna, where she completed her education at Labette High School.

While traveling back from Florida in August on the 9th of 1969 Michelle married her best friend, Earl E. Denny in Folkston, Georgia. After 52 years of marriage Earl preceded her in death on November 6, 2021. They were friends long before their courtship, they truly took their vows very seriously and were there for each other through richer or poorer and in sickness and in health. The couple were blessed with 3 children, Dorothy, William “Bill”, and Stephanie. Following the tragic loss of their daughter Dorothy in an automobile accident, Michelle and Earl raised their granddaughter Amanda.

Family meant everything to Michelle, and she devoted herself to supporting her children in all their endeavors. Alongside Earl, she actively participated in 4-H activities, fostering a sense of community among their children and later their grandchildren. Michelle had a special bond with each of her grandchildren, who were truly the apples of her eye.

Professionally, Michelle made significant contributions at Emerson Electric in Independence, where she worked her way up from the assembly line to foreman over more than 25 years. Together She and Earl owned and operated 2 businesses, Ty-Kan Inc and Michelle's Pugs. After retiring, she returned to Tyro, where she embraced farming and ranching alongside Earl.

Michelle had a passion for animals, particularly horses, pug dogs, and cats, Thomas, Trey, Lady and Top Cat who were her cherished companions. She enjoyed trying her luck at the casino, savoring prime rib and crab legs, engaging in family game nights, and winding down by crocheting beautiful gifts for her loved ones. Her crocheted towel toppers and afghans were treasured tokens that she shared as expressions of love and gratitude. An active member of the Bingo Club in Coffeyville, Michelle valued the friendships and camaraderie she found there.

Michelle's legacy lives on through her family: William "Bill" Denny, Stephanie and her husband Michael. Grandchildren Dakota and Alyssa Denny, Mitchell Simmons and Carly Phillips, Riley & Shay Denny, Amanda Denny, Gregory and Allison Simmons, Aaron and Tabby Simmons and Maggie & Noah Bannon.

Michelle was preceded in death by her parents; her husband Earl; her daughter Dorothy Ann Denny; and her brother Terry McAtee, daughter-in-law Kathianne Denny, and her cat Top Hat.

A graveside service to honor Michelle’s life will be held on Friday, May 23, 2025, at 11 a.m. at Fawn Creek Cemetery near Tyro, Kansas. The family invites friends to visit and share memories on Thursday, May 22, 2025, from 6 to 8 p.m. at Ford-Wulf-Bruns Chapel, 2405 Woodland Ave, Coffeyville, KS. The family requests memorial contributions be made to assist with expenses or to Montgomery County 4-H, which can be left in care of the chapel. To leave an online message of condolence, share a memory with the family or view live streaming of her service under her obituary tab visit www.fordwulfbrunschapel.com