Etta Jean Webber

Etta “Jean” Webber was born on July 14, 1934, in Mexico, Missouri, to Winifred Rogers and Robert Roy Rogers. She was raised and nurtured by her beloved stepfather, Elmer O. Smith, from the age of 3. Her parents, husband Charles L. Webber, two grandsons James Jamaal Edwards and Charles Anthony Webber, Jr., and one great-grandson Chad Gordon Jr. preceded her in death.

She was a graduate of Garfield High School, where she attended from elementary school through high school. She was loved and nurtured in that community. Jean dedicated many years of service

as an educator with District 501 in Topeka, Kansas, retiring in the late 1990s. She was deeply respected and loved by both her colleagues and students, many of whom continued to greet her

warmly whenever they saw her around town. Throughout her career, she formed lasting friendships, including a special bond with her dear friend and fellow educator, Joyce Hayes.

Etta “Jean” accepted Christ as her personal Lord and Savior at an early age and was a member of Ward Chapel AME Church in Mexico, Missouri. After moving to Topeka, Kansas, with her husband, she joined St. John AME and later Greater Mount Zion Missionary Baptist Church, where she was very active as the Head Deaconess. As a cancer survivor herself, she made it her personal mission to support others facing the same journey. She faithfully transported individuals to and from their medical appointments and church services, and she consistently checked on them, offering

encouragement, compassion, and unwavering care.

She enjoyed traveling and embraced an active lifestyle. Walking was her favorite form of exercise, and she often encouraged others to prioritize their health and well-being. A saying often shared in

yoga is, “You are the parent of your elderly self.” She embodied this philosophy by taking excellent care of herself throughout her life.

She leaves to cherish her memory her four children: Tressa Brown (Isaiah), Denise Gordon Muhammad (Nathaniel Jr.), Charles Anthony Webber, Sr. (Kathryn), and Vonda Bridges (Demond);

ten grandchildren: Antoinette McNeal, Aaron Edwards, Nathaniel Gordon III, Chad Gordon Muhammad, Julien Webber, Maurice Webber, Rick Jackson, Brandan Jackson, Natasha Webber,

and Tina Kirtdoll; a host of great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren; as well as many beloved relatives, friends, and all whose lives were touched by her love, wisdom, and kindness.