Joann Louise Richards

JoAnn Louise (Mayfield) Richards, 81, of Hays, Kansas, passed away on April 13, 2025, at Via Christi Village in Hays. She was born on October 2, 1943, to Melvin “Bud” and Leona (Werth) Mayfield in Wichita, Kansas. JoAnn married Darrell Karlin on June 17, 1961, and together they were blessed with two sons: Kevin and Keith. They later divorced. In December of 1981, JoAnn married Roger Richards and later they divorced.

JoAnn grew up in Hays and throughout her life worked as a waitress and later as a pilot car driver for Schult Mobile Homes. She was a member of the Epsilon Sigma Alpha (ESA) International and a member of St. Fidelis Basilica in Victoria.

JoAnn had a zest for life and loved spending time outdoors, especially at the lake, fishing and swimming. She found joy in visiting casinos, playing BINGO and cards —especially Texas Hold 'Em. Her dogs were a special part of her life, and she cared deeply for them. Her laughter, quick wit, and love for family will be dearly missed.

JoAnn is survived by her sons, Kevin (Robyn) Karlin of Victoria, KS and Keith (Jolene) Karlin of Salina, KS; brother, Cliff (Fran) Mayfield of Hays, KS; six grandchildren: Dustin (Danielle), Dillon, Dallas, Desirae, Krystal, Kassandra (Zach); and nine great-grandchildren.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Bud and Leona Mayfield; ex-husband, Roger Richards; brother, Gary Mayfield; and sister Rebecca “Becky” Ganoung.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held on Monday, April 21, 2025, at 10:30 at St. Fidelis Basilica in Victoria. Inurnment will be at the Plainville City Cemetery at 2PM.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to Via Christi and Hays Hospice and may be sent to Plumer-Overlease Funeral Home, 320 SW 2nd, Plainville, KS 67663.