Malia A. Rich

Malia A. Rich, of Wilson, KS, passed away on December 22, 2024, at HaysMed in Hays, KS at the age of 69. She was born on April 3, 1955, to Terry Lee and Karen (Krentzel) Small in Wilson. She was married to Mike Fink in 1973 until they later divorced and John D. Rich in 1993 until they divorced in 2003. She was blessed with five children: Ember, Arkala, Michael, Jocelyn, and John.

Malia lived and grew up in Wilson. She attended school in Wilson and Dorrance and graduated from Meade High School in 1973. She earned an associate degree in Applied Sciences from Garden City Community College. Malia lived and raised her family in Ulysses and Garden City before returning home to Wilson. She worked as an Accountant for the Kansas Department of Transportation and retired after many years of service. During her retirement Malia worked part-time as the Parish Secretary for St. Wenceslaus Catholic Church.

Malia is survived by her children: Ember (Mike) Dortch of Garden City, KS, Arkala Cullens, Michael (Tina) Fink, Jocelyn (Justin) Soukup, all of Wilson, KS, and John (Micha) Rich of Ellinwood, KS; siblings: Tanaya White of Dorrance, KS, Desdia (Steve) Prockish of Louisville, KS, Greg (Mary Ann) Lee of Calhoun, GA, Scott Lee of Cartersville, GA, and James Martin of Dorrance, KS; 18 grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; and many cousins, nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Terry Lee and Karen Small; foster mother, Mayme Martin; grandparents, Francis and Henry Krentzel; former husband, John D. Rich; brothers, Jerry (Loretta) Small and Gary Small; sister, Sherryl Kennemore; and granddaughter, Eliza Fink.

A Graveside Service will be held on Friday, December 27, 2024, at 11AM at the Wilson City Cemetery. A Vigil and Rosary Service will be held on Thursday, 7PM at the funeral home inWilson.

Memorial contributions are suggested to help with funeral expenses and may be sent to Plumer-Overlease Funeral Home, PO Box 533, Wilson, KS 67490.