Mary Trefethen

Mary Ellen Trefethen, 75, of Wichita, KS passed away at Harry Hynes Memorial Hospice from natural causes on July 31, 2026.

Mary was born in Wichita, KS on June 2, 1951, to Golden and Nelly (Nambo) Smith. Mary graduated from East High School and attended Business College. Mary worked for Microtech in circuit board assembly and then at Norland Plastics in parts assembly. Mary changed professions to cleaning offices for Mid America/Superior and housekeeping for Haysville Nursing Home.

Mary was preceded in death by her parents, Golden and Nelly (Nambo) Smith and her sister, Anita (Smith) Valliant.

Mary is survived by her husband, Howard Trefethen; children: Darrell (Rebekah) Callahan, Shawn (Jennifer) Callahan, Eva (Anthony) Gutierrez, Donald Trefethen, Christa Burke, and Rebecca Weilert; brother-in-law, William Valliant; niece, Lisa (Valliant) Godfrey; nephew, Billy Valliant; longtime caregiver, La’Tecea “TC” Bell; 23 grandchildren, 21 great grandchildren; and 4 great nieces and nephews.

Mary treasured time spent with family and friends. She found happiness in those moments – shared meals, a good movie, laughter, traditions or the conversations that brought people together. Mary was one whose laughter was infectious and her heart full of love and generosity. When Mary loved someone, she loved them deeply and no visit or conversation was ever left without the words I love you. Mary’s memory will live on in our hearts, she will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

Funeral Service will be at 10 am, Monday August 10, 2026, at Downing & Lahey East Mortuary, 6555 E. Central Wichita, KS 67206.