1949-2025
Jeanne Marie Dorrell, 76, of Wichita, Kansas, passed away peacefully on Thursday, October 2, 2025, at the Harry Hynes Hospice Center of Ascension Via Christi Medical Center-St. Francis Campus.
Born on March 2, 1949, in Bloomington, Illinois, Jeanne grew up surrounded by the warmth of family and community. After graduating high school in Bloomington, she married Merlin Cole Dorrell on August 19, 1967, in her hometown. Together, they raised four children and built a life rich in love, laughter, and unwavering devotion to family. Their 32 years of marriage were grounded in the joy of parenthood—Jeanne’s greatest pride was being a mother. Though their marriage eventually came to a close, the years they spent together remained filled with love and lasting memories that each of their children hold close to their heart.
For the past 50 years, Jeanne made her home in Kansas—living in Winfield, El Dorado, and Wichita. She briefly lived in California, where she worked with the Easter Seal Foundation. She especially loved the train ride from Kansas to California, finding joy in the rhythm of the journey and the quiet moments of reflection they offered.
She dedicated herself to caring for others, working as a Direct Support Professional at KETCH in Wichita and Flint Hills Service in El Dorado. Her work with adults with special needs was not just a job — it was a calling that reflected her boundless compassion and patience.
Faith was a guiding light throughout Jeanne’s life. She was raised in the Catholic church and, in time, found spiritual belonging in the Lutheran church, she carried her beliefs with quiet strength and grace.
Jeanne also found joy in life’s simple pleasures — especially browsing the aisles of Goodwill, where she delighted in uncovering little treasures for herself.
Above all, Jeanne’s heart belonged to her family. She poured her love into her children —Karen Kilmer (Max) of Granite City, Illinois, Todd Dorrell (Laura) of Newton, KS, Michael Dorrell (Ashlie) of El Dorado, KS, and Kali Dorrell of Wichita, KS, — and found immeasurable joy in her grandchildren: Tony, Alex, Tanner, Amanda, Austin, and Liam. Her face lit up in their presence, and she cherished every moment spent with them, whether it was a holiday gathering, a phone call, a quick message, or a quiet afternoon together. Her love extended to her three great-grandchildren, each a precious gift in her eyes. Though distance and time created space between Jeanne and two of her grandchildren, Secorra and Ashli, her love and prayers for them remained unwavering.
Jeanne also leaves behind her sister Joanne Stevens, niece Jennifer Borklund, and nephew Eric Borklund — each of whom held a special place in her heart. She also has a brother Steve Durham.
Though no services are currently planned, Jeanne’s legacy lives on in the lives she touched and the family she adored. Her love was fierce, her spirit gentle, and her devotion to her children and grandchildren will be remembered always.
In lieu of flowers, please donate in honor of Jeanne Dorrell to support Direct Support Professionals through Flinthills Services, 455 Sunflower Drive, El Dorado, KS 67042.
Arrangements are with Affordable Cremations Plus, Wichita, Kansas.
