Carol Jean Acuna

Carol Jean (Knight) Acuna was born on November 21, 1929, in Lebo, Kansas, and passed away on July 12, 2026, in Wichita, Kansas at the age of 96. She was the only child of Charles and Juanita (Lewis) Knight.

Carol attended school in Lebo from first grade through high school before enrolling at Emporia State Teachers College, where she earned her Bachelor of Science in Education. After graduating, she married David Acuna on June 10, 1951. They made their home in Wichita, where Carol began her teaching career at Grieffenstein Elementary School.

In November 1952, David and Carol welcomed their first child, Deborah. Over the next ten years, their family grew with the births of DiAnne, Douglas, and Dawn. Carol often affectionately referred to them as "Carol and her five Ds." Being a wife and mother was not simply a role for Carol, but it was her life's calling. She loved her family deeply and faithfully and remained a constant source of encouragement, wisdom, and unwavering support throughout their lives.

Carol was known for her quick wit, infectious sense of humor, and spirited personality. Her spunk endeared her to everyone she met, including the many friends and devoted caregivers at Via Christi McLean Assisted Living, where she lived for the past eight years.

Faith and service were central to Carol's life. She devoted countless hours volunteering at her church and was a lifetime member of the United Methodist Women's Organization. She also gave generously of her time at her children's schools.

As her family grew, so did Carol's capacity to love. She treasured her grandchildren, who affectionately knew her as both "Mema" and "Meme." She celebrated their accomplishments, supported them through life's challenges, and delighted in being present for every stage of their lives. Her greatest joy was simply being with her family. She willingly set aside many of her own dreams so she could pour herself into the lives of those she loved, leaving a legacy of selfless devotion that will continue for generations.

Carol was preceded in death by her husband, David Acuna; her daughter, Deborah Acuna; her daughter-in-law, Laurie Acuna; and her parents, Charles and Juanita Knight.

She is survived by her children, DiAnne Acuna, Douglas Acuna, and Dawn Chisholm (Robert); her grandchildren, Jennifer Deazvedo (Herbert), Arika Brown (Juana), Jesika Erivez (Michael), Andrew Acuna (Heather), Ashley Theodoran (Nick), Grace Lockerbie, Christopher Chisholm, Matthew Chisholm (Emily), and Kathryn Chisholm; and fourteen great-grandchildren.

She also leaves behind countless dear friends whose lives she touched and whose friendships she faithfully nurtured throughout her lifetime.

Carol's legacy is one of faith, laughter, generosity, and unconditional love. She devoted her life to caring for others, and those who knew her will forever remember her strength, humor, servant's heart, and steadfast love for family.

Memorial contributions can be made to New Covenant Methodist Church, 1710 W Douglas Ave. Wichita, Kansas 67203.

Visitation will be held at Resthaven Mortuary, 11800 West Highway 54, Wichita, KS 67209, US, on July 30, 2026, from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm.

A Funeral Service will take place at the New Covenant Methodist Church, 1710 W Douglas Ave, Wichita, KS 67203, US, on July 31, 2026, at 1:00 pm.

A Committal Service will follow the service at Resthaven Mortuary, 11800 West Highway 54, Wichita, KS 67209, US, on July 31, 2026.