Timelines Archive - Downing & Lahey Mortuaries and Crematory

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Vernon D. Harding's Timeline

Uncle Vernon & fond memories

June 1, 1962

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Died: 03/20/2026

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Customer Reviews

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February 5, 2026
The staff is very sensitive and caring. They were very clear regarding merchandise, finances, and services. Very punctual in communication.

Anonymous
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February 5, 2026
I really appreciated how good they were able to make my husband look. He looked like he did before he got sick. I also appreciated everyone's kindness and compassion. Such a beautiful and perfect service.

Pam D.
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February 5, 2026
Staff was kind, patient, and detail-oriented. They walked us through each step of the process and were very accommodating and sensitive to our requests.

Anonymous
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February 5, 2026
All of the staff went out of their way to help from care home to cemetery.

Bob S.
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January 10, 2026
Everything was perfect. Director went above and beyond to provide military personnel and a bagpiper, as per my request.

Thelma L.
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November 29, 2025
The firm was very professional and sensitive. Many of the Sisters remarked on the courtesy, sensitivity, and professionalism of the director and representatives of the firm. Their thoughtfulness throughout the entire time (before, during, and after) was noticed and greatly appreciated.

Anonymous
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November 29, 2025
Every aspect of our experience with Downing & Lahey was excellent. They were so very accommodating with our every and need and request. Such kind and supportive staff.

Anonymous
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November 29, 2025
The staff is very polite and considerate. Patiently waited for us to make the final decisions and helped us through the process.

Darryl N.
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October 31, 2025
The entire staff from initial meeting to end of funeral service were very professional and helpful - extremely happy with them!

Alan S.
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I can't say enough good things about the way everything was handled during this extremely difficult time. The service was exemplary. The entire staff that I encountered were very caring and made an unbearable situation somewhat easier.

Melissa E.
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October 31, 2025
We very much appreciated Downing & Lahey's ability to provide transportation across state lines and their willingness to communicate with the out of state cemetery so that was one less phone call I had to make!

Lisa S.
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October 31, 2025
The entire staff was professional in appearance and helpfulness. They answered all our questions and guided us in decisions.

Anonymous
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Extremely impressed with the courtesy and care shown to myself and my family. Great organization. They took charge so I had no worries. Everything was handled very professionally. Any specific wishes I had were taken care of.

Mary Lou R.
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Excellent reputation, family owned and operated, knowledgeable staff, beautiful facility, and attention to detail by all staff. I felt the prices were reasonable, services were exactly what my family wanted. 10 out of 10.

Laura M.
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October 4, 2025
We needed someplace that held more guests and the team went above and beyond to help find a place - and they did!

Anonymous
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October 4, 2025
As a family, we were so impressed with Jenny and her absolute professionalism. Every aspect of the services were outstanding. Because of Jenny and her accommodating dedication, we would whole-heartedly recommend Downing & Lahey.

Kevin D.
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August 6, 2025
Everyone we worked with at Downing & Lahey was very helpful and comforting. They went well beyond my expectation. I can't thank them enough.

Anonymous
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August 5, 2025
They did everything perfectly! Couldn't ask for better. Used them for my mom, dad, and uncle in recent years. I worked with Doug Chartier and Allison Walden and they were just amazing!

Morgan C.
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August 4, 2025
The entire staff at the Downing & Lahey West was amazing. Always accommodating our every request. So gentle and compassionate. They took care of EVERYTHING! It was great that they paid the florist, priest, servers, musicians, etc. I only had to make one payment to Downing & Lahey. They simplified things so we could focus on my husband. Since my husband was transferred from Colorado to Kansas, they were wonderful to always keep us updated.

Brenda H.
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August 3, 2025
The process was made as easy as possible at this sad and difficult time by everyone we encountered at Downing & Lahey - we highly recommend them.

Betty S.
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August 2, 2025
Everything was as professional and compassionate as it could have possibly been. We so much appreciate the whole staff, especially Brian Goudie. He truly helped us through the most difficult decisions and time of our lives.

Cindy L.
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August 1, 2025
Based on the service they provided for my wife, I want to have them provide the funeral service for me.

Paul I.
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June 18, 2025
We have been overwhelmingly satisfied for the services for both our mom and dad done by Downing & Lahey. The staff is kind, thoughtful, and professional. Attention to every detail, no matter great or small, was so greatly appreciated.

Jennie L.
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June 18, 2025
Exceptional service and care. Could not have asked for a better experience.

Danielle R.
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June 18, 2025
Downing & Lahey is an excellent mortuary all the way around. This was (sadly) the third time in recent years we have worked with them. Their owners and employees are all kind, sensitive, helpful, and professional.

Anonymous
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June 18, 2025
The flexibility and care with which they handled everything was very much appreciated. We were treated as people working through a loss, not a client or sale. Taking time to share personal experiences and best practices helped us feel confident in our decisions, and the details they covered for us, from flowers and programs to memorials and thank you notes was critical in allowing us to focus on supporting each other.

Shane B.
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October 31, 2025
Downing & Lahey provided superior service. They worked seamlessly with family, church, and service organizations - Knights of Columbus, VFW, and Kansas Veterans' Cemetery. We received numerous comments praising their team.

Maureen H.
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September 30, 2021
Your services have been great everytime our family was in need.

Marcia Schultz
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November 25, 2023
Downing & Lahey is always a class act, providing the best possible service.

Delia Jackson
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March 18, 2023
Your firm has helped our family with a total of 7 deceased loved ones in the past years we keep coming back because of professional, compassionate care we received.

Cheryl W.
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December 23, 2020
19 years ago was our first experience with Downing & Lahey when my father-in-law passed away; then three months later his wife. Those two experiences were filled with compassion, empathy, personalization, and professionalism. I knew I wanted to use them again for my brother's cremation.

Anonymous
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April 22, 2021
The celebration of life held for my husband was beautifully handled, and so succesful. Our requests were followed to the letter. The west side chapel is lovely and perfect for what we needed.

Charisse K.
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May 23, 2022
Every step of the way was handled perfectly and we understood everything. The facility was calming and very beautiful. Everything was prepared for the Rosary… we didn't have to do anything but receive our guests

Karen G.
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March 21, 2020
To view our son, Julio was extremely caring and patient with us. He sat with me outside of room while my wife spent time alone with our son. We were a complete mess but he sat next to me and gave me comfort.

Scott R.
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September 30, 2022
My husband was cremated with no service. We were able to say goodbye one last time. Someone had combed his hair and beard and he looked so peaceful. That was a comfort to me.

Vicki M.
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February 21, 2019
Our mother was prepared and was so beautiful and looking at peace. It was wonderful to have that final memory.

Mary M.
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January 29, 2023
How the staff is trained is impressive. I would never be able to hold it together watching others grieve. Julio, Tami, and Allison were excellent, fast when we needed, understanding and listened to us. Very warm environment to us.

Michelle R.
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January 31, 2019
My husband passed away suddenly at home on a Sunday morning. During the most difficult time of my life, D&L, was there for me. From the two wonderful people who came to the house, to the first meeting at the mortuary and even afterwards, they were always there to inform and support me. The kindness of the whole staff meant more to me than I can put into words.

Anonymous
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January 2, 2022
We were extremely impressed and very pleased with the entire process from pre-planning to the final arrangements.Staff was very compassionate and thoughtful. Services surpassed expectations.

Patsy H.
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August 16, 2024
Our mother's passing came unexpectedly and we were devastated. Thank goodness, my mother had clearly defined her wishes for her services in her will and shared them openly with her family. My mother did not select a mortuary, so that decision was left to me as the family member living here. I chose Downing & Lahey because we had been to several services for friends' parents. We were impressed with how peaceful we felt while there. This choice was a godsend because it made the entire process one we will never forget. My mother's body, cremation, and our family were treated with the utmost care and respect. The pricing was straightforward and I did not feel that we were being taken advantage of or pressured into doing or purchasing anything we did not need or want.

Shelli E.
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May 29, 2022
We were given exactly what we wanted with no pressure to upgrade or add additions. We were told of other options available to us but our wishes were unquestioned and honored

Anonymous
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November 11, 2020
Downing & Lahey gave the best customer service. They made sure all aspects of the funeral were done and taken care of.

Patty W.
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September 30, 2022
You went above and beyond to make the process as smooth and personal as possible for our family. It felt as though you were a friend I had always known, guiding s through every step- your listening ear and thoughtful approach truly helped ease our burdens.

Anonymous
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September 22, 2021
We greatly appreciated different suggestions for our loved ones service as during the difficult time we didn’t think of some things.

Anonymous
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August 7, 2022
My parents and my husband's parents were at this funeral home. My family would always come here. The staff treat the family with utmost respect. They know when, and what to do they made me, feel at ease during a difficult time.

Anonymous
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September 29, 2020
Fantastic, Empathetic and caring - each member of the staff displayed compassion and professionalism.

Micheal G.
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January 26, 2021
My aunt was cremated in Arizona so we did not really need the mortuary, but I decided to use them anyway. They took care of all the details and contacts for me. It was worth the money to me to not worry about cemetery, church, priest, meal, military honor, ect.

Anonymous
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People went above and beyond to make my husband's funeral beautiful! People were contacted for us which I believed they didn't have to but was a huge weight off our shoulders and made it easier for us to greive and enjoy our time with our beloved!

Anonymous
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October 24, 2022
Making sure that the viewing and service was as needed per our traditions. The respect my daughters body was granted. The overall view was more than expected. Delaney talked to me and my husband in a way that put us at ease during our difficult time.

Kimberly P.
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December 4, 2022
The most meaningful to me was they were professional, yet personable, supportive, compassionate and knowledgeable in helping to guide me in making needed decisions during a difficult time in my life.

Anonymous
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July 14, 2021
Most meaningful was the fact that we did not need to think about anything at the service except to comfort each other. Mike and his team took all the worries away and gave us that time to be with our family and friends.

Kaye B.
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December 16, 2021
My husband was a funeral director, so I thought I was prepared but when I walked into the facility all of that went away. The staff at Downing & Lahey were kind, patient, never pressured us in any way. They simply waited for us to decide and then proceed.

Betsy M.
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March 23, 2022
The entire experience was handled with such professionalism, patience, support, empathy and understanding. You turned a difficult situation into feeling like it would all be O.K.

Pam F.
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February 15, 2024
You could not want any Better Company to handle your loved one's trip to heaven. Everyone was so kind and gentle to us all.

Norma R.
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April 28, 2020
I understand there are less expensive crematoriums, but it was nice being managed by a company that is independent and long standing.

Anonymous
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September 27, 2022
In my opinion Downing & Lahey could have not been better with the services provided. I'm sure they are the best Funeral Home in Wichita. Downing & Lahey was excellent in all aspects of services provided

Sidney M.
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After using another mortuary for another family member, I was not happy with the service. After a family recommendation I called Downing & Lahey and from the initial phone call, through the entire process, I was comforted, encouraged and thankful!

Angie D.
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When someone passes away suddenly the emotions are overwhelming, and it takes time to process everything. We experienced patience and understanding from the staff.

John L.
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The compassion of the staff and their attention to detail. Wheen we made the decision to do the cremation of Mom, their kindness and gidance was immeasureable. THANK YOU! THANK YOU! THANK YOU!

Karen M.
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The service was excellent; keep on doing what you do best, caring, loving, always there for us.

Gary S.
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I've never had to plan a funeral before, but I can't think of any way it could have been easier. This is a top notch mortuary

Linda L.
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Downing & Lahey is by far the best funeral home in the Wichita area. I sing for many funerals at many different churches, so I've seen a lot of funeral homes in action. Downing & Lahey provides dignity and smoothness so people know what to expect. Staff are all friendly and compassionate, knowledgeable and efficient.

Anonymous
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Attention to detail was superb! Every aspect of the service was spot on.

Rufus F.
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I had very little to do because options were explained and the funeral home followed through so well. A great deal of support and respect was extended and appreciated.

Mary J.
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I was very impressed and pleased with how everything was explained and managed. I can think of no way services can be improved. The staff- excellent, beyond expectation, as well as the service.

Mary J.
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We had very little in the way of having to make decisions; they stepped up to the plate and took care of everything.

Debbie M.
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Kind and courteous service from everyone we had contact with. Always prompt, very thorough and the communication was exemplary! Great support in a difficult time.

Karen S.
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January 31, 2025
Their attention to detail and their suggestions were most meaningful. All of our questions were always answered

Terry S.
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October 12, 2024
I have attended numerous funerals serviced by other funeral homes. They are never as organized or professional as Downing and Lahey. The expertise, thoughtfulness and professionalism of Downing and Lahey cannot be equaled.

Sarah H.
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Downing & Lahey did a wonderful job on my mom's funeral service. The staffs at Downing & Lahey were very courteous and accommodating. They did everything within their powers to make sure the service went smoothly. My family was very pleased with the outcome. Furthermore, the facility has a lot of private rooms and plenty of space to make it feels comfortable. We were glad that we picked Downing & Lahey West Mortuary for my mom's service.

Alex L.
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Always professional.

JC K.
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Thanks to all the staff for completing my mothers wishes. The graveside service was wonderful. All the follow-up concerns were really appreciated. The professionalism and respect of everyone was really appreciated. Thank you.

James E.
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February 8, 2023
They helped me set up pre-burial arrangements for my brother and were thoughtful.

Marc H.
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We had a wonderful experience with Downing & Lahey for both of our parent's funerals. The staff were compassionate and caring and took care of all the details for us so we could worry less about things.

Angie B.
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We were treated with dignity and respect by ever staff member, losing a loved one unexpectedly is never easy but they helped our family through the process. Thank You

Todd S.
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February 14, 2024
If I could give a 10 star rating I certainly would! This is the 5th time our family has used Downing and Lahey to help us with a family member who has passed. They were great each and every time. This last time they were exceptional! I can’t say enough about how helpful, kind, caring and considerate they were! Everyone we came in contact there was very compassionate and professional. I recommend them to anyone I can. I would like to Thank Ren Scherling so very much. He went above and beyond to help us. He took care of everything from start to finish. He also took great care to prepare our son for viewing. Which was no small task considering he was killed in a motorcycle accident! THANK YOU! THANK YOU! THANK YOU Ren Scherling and Downing and Lahey for the best experience possible under such very sad circumstances.

Cheryl W.
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I was very happy with how they treated my family during our time of loss. They were truly helpful navigating the process

James L.
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Jenny was absolutely amazing to work with. Everything was so organized and seamless. Thank you so much!

April A.
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Very patient, compassionate and organized. My dad's funeral was 3 years ago. It was very nice and they accommodated his military service. They sent helpful tips through email following the service.

Lisa R.
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Everyone was so wonderful and caring. They made a very hard day a little easier to get through. Thank you.

Cindy K.
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Had there been a way to give Downing and Lahey a million stars it would not have been enough. Sharon and I pre-planned and pre-paid our services which made her passing one less thing for me to worry about. D&L showed me so much care and dignity from the initial planning process through the Graveside final. I was in aviation customer services for 47 years, so I know what it takes to make and keep 'customers' happy, and Downing & Lahey checked every box to my complete satisfaction. My darling Sharon entered the gates of heaven from her bed in our living room. Compassus Hospice made one call to D&L and they sent 2 people who handled Sharon's body with Dignity and Compassion, then Mike Bina handled EVERYTHING from there absolutely perfectly. Now I know that my children will be at ease when Jesus comes to call me and they begin the process of my final rites.
~ Frank LaForge, Wichita

Frank LF.
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August 6, 2024
The staff are always professional (no matter the time of day). We have had the honor of working with these people on several occasions. They make a difficult time easier with their quality care.

Beth N. R.
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February 1, 2025
Allison Walden is professional, compassionate and friendly. I would highly recommend Downing & Lahey for your loved ones.

Tyler P.
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August 8, 2024
We recently had our 2nd personal experience with Downing and Lahey.

They handled our mother’s funeral arrangements this month and my fathers 7 yrs. ago. Everyone we dealt with was professional yet warm and open to our desire to experience a beautiful tribute for our mother.

We would give them an A+

Thanks so much,

Colleen & Dennis Richardson

& Jim Scholfield

Colleen & Dennis R. & Jim S.
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May 23, 2023
We used Downing and Lahey 4 times in 4 years. They were VERY professional, very compassionate and very, very accommodating, especially considering two burials had to take place out of state. They made it work! Highly recommended.

Rita C.
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November 16, 2023
Family owned. Attention to every detail. Caring staff.

Marlane M.
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March 4, 2025
I highly recommend Downing and Lahey, their team was truly amazing through one of my most heartbreaking losses I’ve ever experienced, my mother. They coordinated with our funeral home in Charlotte, NC (Gaskins Funeral) on arrangements for my mother, picking her up in Kansas City and getting her back to Wichita safely. Rehn, Brian, Allison, Frank and Mike were awesome all around from the technology side to the burial in Newton, Kansas. They made this burden so smooth, every person we encountered was so kind and easy to work with. Thank you for your support through this difficult time and I highly recommend your services.

Erica W.
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October 14, 2024
My family has been taken care of over the last 35 years by Downing and Lahey. You provide such compassionate, professional and sympathetic encouragement during the most emotionally exhausting times in a family's life experiences. Doug Chartier, Allison Walden, Michael Morris and Tom Morris, I thank you so much for your exceptional care of our family as we said good bye to our son, Scott Simpson. Thank you. Anita Simpson

Anita S.
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December 11, 2024
Everyone was both kind and professional during the entire process. It helped lessen the burden of my loss.

Terence Lamb

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Wichita, KS 67206
(316) 682-4553

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ABOUT US
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