Evelyn Foley

(From Derfelt Funeral Home)

Evelyn Lourine Foley, 79, passed away peacefully on May 21, 2026, following a brief hospital stay.

Evelyn was born on August 16, 1946, in Kansas City, Missouri, to Oscar and Audrey Robertson. She grew up in Baxter Springs, Kansas, and graduated from Baxter Springs High School in 1964. On November 20, 1965, she married Charles "Doc" Foley. Together they raised two children, Erin and Nick. Although their marriage later ended, Evelyn and Charles maintained a close and enduring friendship until his passing in 2009.

Evelyn’s career reflected her strong work ethic and versatility. She worked at Consolidated Supply Co. in Treece, Kansas, and later cared for patients as a nurse's aide at Baxter Memorial Hospital. She then served as the secretary and co-owner of Foley Trucking Co. in Baxter Springs until her retirement in the late 1990s.

A woman of deep faith, Evelyn was a long-time member of the Central Christian Center in Joplin, Missouri. In recent years, when her health prevented her from attending in person, she faithfully watched services on television.

Evelyn loved hosting her family, cooking large meals, and going all-out with decorations for holidays. She was an avid fan of the Kansas City Chiefs and the Kansas Jayhawks, and she spent her quiet time at home in the company of her devoted cat, Cissie. Known for her gentle nature and genuine interest in others, she had a quiet way of making everyone feel welcome and comfortable in her presence.

She is survived by her daughter, Erin Busby; her son, Nick Foley (Felix); her grandsons, Richard Foley (Brittany) and Charles Cassell (Cheyenne); her granddaughter, Ashley Lake; fourteen great-grandchildren; and many beloved cousins and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents; her sister, Ruth Ann Schlink; her great-granddaughter, Audrey Smith; and her former husband, Charles (Doc) Foley.

The family extends their sincere gratitude to the many caregivers and medical professionals who provided dedicated support and care to Evelyn over the years, as well as to everyone who enriched her life.

Arrangements are under the direction of Derfelt Funeral Home, 328 E 12th St, Baxter Springs, KS 66713, where floral tributes may be sent.

A graveside service will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, June 6, 2026, at the Columbus City Cemetery, 1130 SE Wyandotte Rd, Columbus, KS 66725. In honor of Evelyn’s love for her teams, attendees are welcome and encouraged to wear Kansas City Chiefs or Kansas Jayhawks gear to the service. Online condolences may be expressed at www.derfeltfuneralhomes.com.