Jonathan Matthew Mulanax

Jonathan Matthew Mulanax, 19, passed away peacefully on April 19, 2026, surrounded by his family and beloved service dog, Ian, leaving behind a legacy of joy, resilience, and deep love.

Jonathan was born on July 21, 2006, at St. Francis Hospital in Tulsa, Oklahoma, to Janelle Hammock and Jason Mulanax. From the very beginning, he brought light and meaning to those around him.

Jonathan loved being outdoors and spent countless happy hours visiting zoos and wildlife parks. He found joy in swimming, camping, riding scooters, and especially in spending time with his cousins — his favorite people.

At the age of four, Jonathan began attending Special Care, Inc. preschool in Edmond, Oklahoma, where he received early childhood education and therapy services that helped shape his learning and growth. In 2012, at age six, he moved with his mother to Louisville, Kentucky, where he attended the Bluegrass Center for Autism. There, dedicated staff continued to support him with exceptional care and resources, helping him live life as fully as possible.

During this time, Jonathan was joined by a special companion from Paws with Purpose, Ian “the Wonder Dog”, who opened up new ways for him to explore the world and navigate life with greater independence.

In 2019, Jonathan moved to Wichita, Kansas, to be closer to family as his medical needs increased. Living with Lennox-Gastaut Syndrome (LGS), a rare and complex seizure disorder, Jonathan faced many challenges with incredible strength. Through every procedure, surgery, and hospitalization, Ian remained faithfully by his side.

Jonathan graduated from Maize South High School in Wichita, Kansas, in 2024, a milestone that reflected his perseverance and the unwavering support of those who loved him.

Jonathan was deeply loved by so many. His family is profoundly grateful to every person who cared for him, supported him, and poured love into his life over his 19 years. They extend a special and heartfelt thank you to his dedicated 24/7 home health care team of nurses, as well as the compassionate staff of the St. Francis Emergency Department, where his mother serves as a nurse, who walked alongside Jonathan and his family through many emergency room visits and ICU stays over the past two years. Their care, skill, and kindness will never be forgotten.

Jonathan is survived by the heart of his world, his devoted mother, “MOM!” Janelle Hammock; his “Auntie” Laura and “Uncle Mike” Kelly; and his beloved cousins, who were like siblings to him, Anders, Britton, Shaeffer, Levi, and Eden Kelly. Together, they formed the constant, loving nucleus of support that carried Jonathan through every season of his life.

He is also survived by his extended family: Uncle Matthew Hammock of Austin, Texas; “Aunt” Elizabeth King and cousins Jameson and Olivia of Tulsa, Oklahoma; Uncle Randy (Tammy) Martin of Harrah, Oklahoma; Uncle Richard Martin of Woodward, Oklahoma; Aunt Rhonda Maker of Buffalo, Wyoming; Uncle Brian (Amanda) of Owasso, Oklahoma; and “Uncle” Matt (Dena) Kelly of Bentley, Kansas, along with many other cherished cousins.

Jonathan is further survived by his grandparents: “Nana” Sandra Sima of Jenks, Oklahoma; “Gram” Barbara Mulanax of Tulsa, Oklahoma; “Papa” John and Karen Kelly of Wichita, Kansas; and “Pepa” Curtis (Marcy) Martin of Boulder, Montana.

He was preceded in death by his “Mema” Betty Ham, “Gramps” Gerald Mulanax, “Uncle” Scott King, and “Aunt” Ronna King.

Jonathan’s Celebration of Life will be held on Tuesday, April 28, 2026, at 2:00 pm, with a live stream beginning 15 minutes prior to the service. A garden reception will follow, and guests are invited to dress in colorful, casual attire in honor of Jonathan’s joyful spirit.

Central Community Church Chapel
6100 W. Maple Street
Wichita, Kansas 67209

Jonathan was the light of his family’s life. He is loved “so much,” as he would say.

In lieu of flowers, please consider Memorial contributions to:

Paws with Purpose
https://www.pawswithpurpose.org/donate/

Checks can be sent to:
P.O. Box 22184
Louisville, KY 40252
*note in Memory of Jonathan Mulanax

Arrangements through Downing & Lahey West Mortuary