Ann Durham

Ann Durham, age 88, passed away peacefully in Boise, Idaho on July 9, 2024.

She was born on February 17, 1936 to Cleal “Dode” Harrison and Muriel “Murt” Harrison in Hays Kansas. Ann married Gene Durham on June 12, 1955 in Oakley. Ann was a beloved mother, wife and grandmother. She grew up in Oakley before moving to Lawrence to attend the University of Kansas. Ann lived in Lawrence for nearly 60 years and devoted more than three decades of her life to inspiring young minds as a high school art teacher.

Her passion for art extended beyond the classroom. Ann was an avid collector of artwork, particularly paintings and pottery with Southwestern influences. She frequently spent time in Taos, New Mexico, where she often sought inspiration and new additions to her collections. New Mexico was not her only travel destination over the years. She loved to travel and explore new places and cultures with an adventurous spirit. Ann was a talented artist herself, who brought to her watercolors the same vibrancy and passion that characterized her life.

In recent years, Ann and her husband moved to Boise, Idaho to be closer to her family. She is survived by her devoted husband of 69 years, Gene, her daughter Kinon, her son Craig, and her beloved granddaughters Chloe and Kate. Ann’s love of color, creativity, and family will be forever remembered and celebrated by those who knew and loved her. A Celebration of Life Service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, August 3, 2024 at Oakley Cemetery with Pastor Dan Hutton officiating. Interment will follow.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Lawrence Art Guild (lawrenceartguild.org/donate), where Ann was a member for many years. Her memory lives on in the hearts of her family, friends, and the countless students whose lives she touched. Memorials to the Lawrence Art Guild may also be sent to Kennedy-Koster Funeral Home, PO Box 221, Oakley, KS 67748.

Sign the online guestbook at www.kennedykosterfh.com.