Shela Chilton

Shela Mae Chilton (56) of Ottawa, Kansas passed away peacefully at her home Wednesday, September 4, 2024 with family by her side.

Born in Decatur, Illinois September 23, 1967, Shela grew up in Stilwell, Kansas and attended Blue Valley Public Schools with the Class of 1986. During her teens, she entered the medical field as a CNA, later working as an CMA, home health care provider and delivering meals to the elderly and disabled. Taking care of others was at the core of who she was and what she dedicated her life to, right up until she was no longer able to continue.

While her passion and caring for others was a priority, it paled in comparison to her love for her children and grandchildren. She was ever present in their lives. They were always her first priority and the most cherished part of her life.

She will be remembered for her love, laughter, compassion, dedication, feisty nature and as a fierce protector of those she loved.

Shela was preceded in death by her dad, Sam Stuteville and grandparents Arlie and Esther (Benton) Hines and Junior and Margaret Stuteville

Left to celebrate her life are her mother, Donna Stuteville of Garnett, KS; Joe Geist, of the home; Children: Crystal Vagenas of Wellsville, KS and Nikos Vagenas of Lawrence, KS; granddaughters: Grace and Faith Farrar of Wellsville, KS; Siblings: Angela Bellware (Mark) of Orleans, NE, James Durbin (Lana) of Beaver City, NE; Nieces: Arlie Herrick of Gothenburg, NE, Clorisa Abel of Norton, KS, and Katy Christensen of Alma, NE; 15 grand-nieces/nephews, numerous extended family members, co-workers and friends.

A graveside service will be held at Aubry Cemetery Thursday, September 12, 2024 at 2 p.m.

To help defray funeral costs, the family suggests memorial contributions to Crystal Vagenas c/o Dengel & Son Mortuary, 235 South Hickory Street, Ottawa, Kansas 66067.