Sally Allison Duckworth Hansen

Sally Allison Duckworth Hansen was a true force of nature, a woman whose wide-open heart and infectious laughter acted as a universal welcome mat. The daughter of T.A. Duckworth and Nell Edwina Nelson, her journey began in Missouri and blossomed in Wisconsin, where she formed an unbreakable bond with her sisters, Jane and Celeste. The spark of her greatest adventure was ignited at Camp Manito-wish when she met her lifelong love and co-pilot, David. After earning her Bachelor’s degree from Beloit College, the two embarked on a 60-year voyage that spanned continents. Their marriage served as a lighthouse of devotion, radiating a warmth that made everyone feel safe and seen through the pillars of education, community, and faith.

Sally believed that with a good map and enough love, every person could reach their full potential. This belief fueled a brilliant career in education, anchored by her Master’s from the University of Oregon. She acted as a steady current, lifting others toward success – from shaping young minds in Hawaii and mentoring teachers in Kansas to her vibrant years teaching middle schoolers in California. Alongside her own career, Sally was an anchor in her husband’s ministry. She walked with her heart open into every opportunity to serve, supporting David’s work and building up their church communities with tireless grace and a spirit of true partnership.

In every port of call, Sally built a harbor of friendship. She was a devoted lover of dogs and a tireless cheerleader for the underdog, her laughter serving as the fuel for every Bridge game, PEO meeting, sporting event, and gathering.

Sally’s legacy is carried forward by her beloved children and grandchildren: Alex, Bethany, AJ, Noah, Abby, Mason, Rubie, Maxx, and Rowan Hansen; Allison, Evren, Dilara, Seha, and Asim Celik; and Elizabeth, Milena and Matis Hansen Devaux.

A Celebration of Life will be held on June 13^th, 2026, at 3:00 PM at Pine Valley Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in Wichita, Kansas.

Memorials have been established with: Alzheimer’s Association, Central & Western Kansas, 535 W. Douglas, Suite 150, Wichita, KS 67213; KMUW Radio, 121 North Mead Street, Suite 200, Wichita, KS 67202; Kansas Public Radio, 1120 W. 11th Street, Lawrence, KS 66044; and YMCA Camp Manito-Wish, P. O. Box 246, Boulder Junction, WI 54512.

Arrangements through Downing & Lahey East Mortuary.