Lucille F. Christmore

Lucille Frances Christmore, age 98, a cherished wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, transitioned to her eternal resting place on May 7, 2025, while surrounded in the love of her family.

Born on August 4, 1926, to Andrew Paul and Bessie (McCullam) Adamson in the serene setting of rural Cherryvale, Kansas, Lucille’s journey through life was marked by dedication, warmth, and an unwavering spirit. She attended grade school in Montgomery County and graduated from Parsons High School in 1945. During her high school years, she worked at Stewart's Pharmacy in Parsons, where she met her beloved husband, Bill, destined to be her lifelong partner. The couple united in marriage on June 18, 1945, in Cherryvale, Kansas, and made their home in Coffeyville, Kansas. In 1960 Bill started selling used cars as a side business and together, they began a lifelong business venture, establishing Christmore's Used Cars in 1964 on 8th Street, a cherished endeavor that continued until their retirement in February 2015.

Lucille found her greatest treasures in her three children—Gail, Joyce, and Danny—who surrounded her with love and joy throughout her life. In her later years, she relished daily moments with them, whether watching game shows, engaging in spirited games of Uno, or sharing cherished memories that echoed the laughter and warmth of family gatherings.

A devoted member of the First Baptist Church for over 30years prior to becoming a member of Grace Fellowship Church, Lucille later transferred her membership to the First Southern Baptist Church on August 25, 2013. Her faith in the Lord and Savior Jesus Christ was central to her life, a sentiment she shared with Bill. For Lucille, attending church on Sundays remained a cherished priority, steadfast even in her later years.

Throughout her vibrant life, Lucille was actively engaged in various community and church activities. She was a proud member of TOPS and the CRMC Auxiliary, served as a Sunday school teacher, and volunteered for Vacation Bible School. An avid NASCAR fan not only watching the races on TV she attended The Daytona 500 alongside Bill for 22 years holding the same seat for years. She also participated in a local rummy club, teaching this beloved card game to her great-grandchildren and fostering valuable connections with other young mothers. Lucille took immense joy in attending the events of her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, cheering them on during ballgames and dance competitions.

Her passion for baking was evident as she lovingly prepared cakes, cookies, pies, and desserts for numerous community gatherings, notably contributing twice daily throughout an entire month during the flood of 2007. Lucille had a remarkable way of making others feel special, by sending heartfelt cards to convey her thoughts and love. Each Christmas, she transformed ordinary card boxes into beautifully adorned and lined candy boxes, filling them with an array of perfected confections. These delightful creations were not merely sweets; they were gifts of love and care, graciously shared with family and friends. These simple gifts created cherished memories that will linger in the hearts of all who had the pleasure of receiving such heartfelt gifts.

Together, Bill and Lucille instilled the vital lessons of faith, hard work, compassion, and genuine love for others in their children. Beloved for her radiant smile and timeless words of wisdom, Lucille and Bill celebrated their 71st wedding anniversary before his passing in 2016.

Lucille leaves behind her daughters, Gail Stevens and Joyce Ehmke, and son, Danny Christmore—each residing in Coffeyville, Kansas. Her legacy also includes her grandchildren: Michelle Harrison and her husband John, Richard Ehmke and his wife Shanna, Melissa White, Glenn Ehmke and his wife Kelly, Charlie Ehmke and his wife Amanda, Nichole Christmore and Raul Marquez, and Paul Christmore, along with son-in-law Jim White. Blessedly, Lucille is survived; by thirteen great-grandchildren and three great-great-grandchildren, with another on the way. She is preceded in death by her parents, her husband, three sisters, one brother, and three sons-in-law: Phil Ehmke, Elroy Kettleman, and Gary Stevens.

As we remember Lucille, let us celebrate a life rich in love, faith, and kindness a legacy that will continue to inspire those who were fortunate enough to know her. Her family welcomes visitors to call on Monday, May 12, 2025 from 5 to 7pm at Ford-Wulf-Bruns Chapel, 2405 Woodland Ave. in Coffeyville, Kansas. A Celebration of Life Service will be held on Tuesday, May 13, 2025 at 10am, at First Southern Baptist Church with Pastor Matt Friese officiating. For those wishing to make a monetary contribution in Lucille’s memory the family request those to be made payable to First Southern Baptist Church and those may be left in care of the chapel. Lucille will be laid to rest in Fairview Cemetery next to her husband following services. To leave a message of condolence, share a memory or view the live stream of the service her obituary page at www.fordwulfbrunschapel.com