Kendra J. Ryser

Kendra Janel Krier Ryser was born on September 6, 1984, to Gary and Jean (Finney) Krier at Asbury Hospital in Salina, Kansas. She passed from this life just as beautifully as she lived it—surrounded by love—on June 29, 2025, at the age of 40, at her home in Beloit, Kansas.

Kendra grew up on the family farm near Simpson, Kansas, a place she held dear and proudly called home. She spent her childhood with her older sister Kelsey, playing in the wheat fields, riding the three-wheeler at full speed, and loving her farm animals. Even from a young age, her spirit was adventurous and kind.

As a teen, Kendra committed her life to Christ and was baptized—an early testament to the deep and lasting faith that guided her throughout her life. She graduated from Beloit High School in 2003 and completed her studies at Vernon's School of Cosmetology in Emporia in 2007.

On April 12, 2008, Kendra married her best friend and the love of her life, Justin Allen Ryser. Together, they built a life filled with love, faith, and laughter. Kendra cherished Justin deeply—he was her rock and the partner with whom she shared her dreams. Their bond grew stronger with each passing year, and through their love, they created a home where their children, Daysen Allen (2011) and Layna Janel (2014), were raised with security, joy, and faith.

Kendra's greatest joys were found in her role as a wife and mother. She considered Daysen and Layna her greatest blessings—two incredible children who brought her boundless pride and joy. Every moment spent with them was a treasure.  Kendra was fiercely protective of her children, always striving to provide them with a life full of happiness, safety, and a strong foundation of faith. She saw them as her legacy, and her love for them was unwavering and unconditional. Daysen and Layna were the center of her world, and she cherished every milestone and moment spent by their side.

The connection she shared with her father was a profound one—quiet yet powerful, full of unconditional love and understanding. Her bond with her mother and sister was just as special, rooted in years of shared memories, deep affection, and an unwavering sense of togetherness. As a family, they were inseparable, creating a love that transcended time and will remain forever in their hearts. The love they shared will continue to guide them, even in this difficult time of loss.

Kendra also had a deeply special bond with her niece, Breckyn, who lovingly called her "Aunt Titi." Their connection was filled with pure, unconditional love. Kendra cherished every moment with Breckyn, taking great joy in watching her grow and flourish. The time they spent together was full of laughter, joy, and the kind of love that only an aunt and niece share—a bond that will forever remain in Breckyn's heart.

Kendra was a woman of grace, strength, and unwavering love. Her beautiful soprano voice brightened worship services and warmed the hearts of all who heard it. She inherited her mother's creativity—arranging stunning floral bouquets, painting with a natural eye for beauty and baking delicious treats like her Grandma Charlotte. Her father's influence taught her resilience and courage; when told to haul wheat to the elevator—despite never having driven a grain truck—she did so without hesitation. Even during illness, she longed for combine rides and looked forward to helping with harvest.

Kendra's stubbornness was a defining part of who she was, but it was never about being difficult. It was about never giving up, no matter how tough the road ahead. Whether it was in her professional role as Weatherization Director for NCRPC or continuing to care for her family during her illness, Kendra's unshakable resolve and tenacity kept her moving forward, even when faced with the hardest challenges. Her children, in particular, witnessed firsthand the power of her will and the depth of her love, as Kendra fiercely protected them and guided them with unwavering strength.

Kendra had a brilliant memory, much like her Grandma Irene, and could recall the most specific dates and details, often surprising those around her. She was always present, always genuine, and always giving.

Kendra is preceded in death by her grandparents, Dwight & Charlotte Finney and Edmund & Irene Krier; uncle Garron Finney; aunt Jan Siegel & uncle Steve Motes. Cousins: Kevin Heidrick, Brandon Jordan & Nathan Krier.

She is survived by her devoted husband, Justin Ryser, and their beloved children, Daysen and Layna, all of the home; parents Gary & Jean Krier of Simpson; sister Kelsey (Charles) Loader of Abilene, Breckyn Loader (Abilene), Destinee Loader (Salina), and Karsen (Kyah) Loader (Hays); parents-in-law Richard & Sandy Ryser (Delphos); sister-in-law Melissa Brummer (Salina), Zach (Jayde) Brummer, Tonganoxie; brother-in-law Sean (Tori) Ryser (Beloit), Kamdyn (Danyelle) Ryser, Superior, NE, Kyera Ryser & Kashtyn Ryser, Beloit and two great nephews.  Aunts and Uncles: Conene Turner, Patricia (Vernon) Adams, Janice Motes, Wayne Krier, Steve (Tammy) Krier, Roger (Pamela) Krier & Ronald Krier, among many cousins whom she loved dearly.

Though cancer touched Kendra's life, it never defined her. She met each day with courage and resolve. She was not a victim—Kendra was a warrior. She lived fully, loved deeply, and never wavered in her faith or her fierce devotion to her family.

Proverbs 31:25
She is clothed in strength and dignity, and she laughs without fear of the future.

Funeral services will be at 10 AM Thursday, July 3 at the Beloit Methodist Church. Visitation will be from 1-7 PM, with family present from 5-7 PM Wednesday at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to Ryser Education Fund, Beloit Church of Christ, and Solomon Valley Hospice.