Leona Kay Hanson of Manhattan, Kansas, passed away peacefully in her sleep in the early morning hours of December 22, 2025. Born on November 6, 1949, in Nebraska, she was the daughter of the late Leo and Anna Hanson. She was the youngest of three children. As a devoted and loving mother, she dedicated most of her years to raising her children and helping with her grandchildren but also worked various jobs including waitressing and working as a CNA.

She had a contagious, bright and friendly smile and never knew a stranger. She enjoyed spending time with her family, watching her grandkids in their various activities, playing games, traveling, photography, going to zoos, gardening and just observing the beauty and miracles of Gods creations.

Leona is survived by her children, Dawn Allen, Cheryl Degand and Lynda (Michael) Cooper; ten grandchildren Arthur, Veronica, Amelia, Bobby, Stephen, Tyler, Brittany, Joshua, Krystyn, and Johnathan; three great grandchildren Rowan, Wrenley and Nathanial.

She was preceded in death by her father Leo, mother Anna, two brothers Lonnie and Daryl; daughter Jeannette; and granddaughter Brandi

A celebration of Leona’s life will be held at Irvine Parkview Funeral Home 1317 W Poyntz Ave, Manhattan, on Saturday, January 3, 2026 at 11:00 AM, followed by a reception.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Cattails Feline Rescue 5508 Cliffside Dr., Manhattan, Ks 66503 or Tanganyika Wildlife Park Goddard, Kansas at https://foundationtw.org/donate/

Please choose memorial for the donation purpose and put Leona’s name under additional information. Both are organizations she supported and were very near and dear to her heart.

We will miss you everyday but what a gift you have received to spend Christmas with Jesus this year.

Rest peacefully Momma.