Wykeemah Chumley

Wykeemah M. Chumley, 86, retired telecommunications manager, passed away Saturday, May 9, 2026.

Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, May 16, 2026, at Downing & Lahey East Mortuary.

Wykeemah grew up on a farm and ranch near Coffeyville, Kansas, with her parents and brothers. During her childhood, the family moved to Venezuela when Sinclair Oil requested her father’s expertise in refinery operations. She later attended the University of Kansas and Wichita State University before beginning her career with Southwestern Bell in Wichita in 1959. Wykeemah was deeply proud of her Native American heritage and was a citizen of the Cherokee Nation of Oklahoma and the Delaware Tribe.

She married the love of her life, Loyd Chumley, in 1960. Together they built a loving family and welcomed their son, Price, in 1962 and daughter, Tracey, in 1965.

Wykeemah enjoyed a long and successful career with Southwestern Bell and AT&T, retiring in the early 2000s. She was a highly respected manager whose leadership and dedication earned the admiration of many, including company executives who attended her retirement celebration.

In retirement, Wykeemah found a passion for serving the children of Hillside Christian Church. She led the children’s education program and nursery for many years and was deeply committed to ensuring every child had the opportunity to attend Tawakoni, the church’s summer camp program.

She was a loving and hands-on grandmother to her granddaughter, Sydney. She was unwavering in helping her with homework, attending dance practices, and offering constant encouragement and support. She also lovingly cared for her husband, Loyd, during his battle with Parkinson’s disease until his passing in 2021.

Both professionally and personally, Wykeemah had a remarkable gift for recognizing people who needed guidance, encouragement, or help. She generously gave her time, mentorship, and support to others throughout her life.

Wykeemah was preceded in death by her father, Oliver Webster Powell; her mother, Ruth Morrey; her husband, Loyd Chumley; and her brothers, Robert Powell, Bill Powell, and Jerry Powell.

She is survived by her daughter, Tracey (Troy) Easterberg of Andover, Kansas; her son, Price Chumley of Houston, Texas; and her granddaughter, Sydney (Derrick) Amend.

A memorial has been established with Hillside Christian Church Kids Camp Fund, 8330 E. Douglas Ave., Wichita, KS 67206.

Services are in care of Downing & Lahey Mortuary – East Chapel.