Doris Mae Lansdown Pendergraft

Doris Mae Lansdown Pendergraft, 98, passed away peacefully at home on Tuesday, May 27, 2025, after several years living with dementia. Born on October 4, 1926, in Belmont, Kansas, Doris was the daughter of James S. and Lulu M. Yeager. She graduated from Norwich High School and worked as a telephone operator in Norwich. Later, she commuted via the beloved "Doodle Bug" train to Wichita, where she worked as an insurance assistant. Doris also spent many fulfilling years as an oil industry secretary, where she formed lasting friendships. On April 5, 1952, she married Sylvester R. Lansdown. Together, they raised three children: Janet Mae Rhodes, Steven Ray Lansdown, and Linda Lea Anderson. Doris was a devoted mother and an entrepreneur. From 1971 to 1982, she owned and operated “Virginia Hardy's Oven,” a beloved local bakery where she was affectionately known to customers as "Virginia." After Sylvester's passing in 1993, Doris found comfort and connection in service. She volunteered regularly at East Heights United Methodist Church, assisting with communion and other church activities. Her lively spirit and commitment to helping others made her a treasured part of the congregation. In her later years, she delighted in traveling and family time. Many cherished spring break vacations and annual October birthday celebrations were spent on the family farm in Kingman County, where memories were made with children, grandchildren, and friends. On March 12, 2011, Doris married Roger Pendergraft. The couple shared a deep bond and a love for travel, enjoying many adventures together. In her final days, Roger lovingly cared for Doris at home under hospice support. Doris was preceded in death by her first husband, Sylvester; her children, Steven and Janet; her parents; and her siblings, Thomas Yeager, Alvira Rollmann, Durfey Yeager, and Ed Yeager. She is survived by her husband, Roger Pendergraft; her daughter, Linda Anderson (Steven); grandchildren, Christopher Lansdown, Colten Ray Anderson, and Cara Lea Smith (Andrew); and her son-in-law, Brian Rhodes; and many family members of Roger. A celebration of Doris's life will be held at East Heights United Methodist Church at 11:00 am, Friday, May 30, 2025. All who knew and loved her are welcome to attend and honor her remarkable life. A memorial has been established with: East Heights United Methodist Church, 4407 E. Douglas Ave., Wichita, KS 67218. Services in care of Downing & Lahey East Mortuary.