Elaine Waverly Hanna was born in Wisconsin, 1947 — the daughter of Neil and Helen Stoffle. Always intellectually curious and astute, Elaine excelled in academics. She graduated from San Diego State University with a bachelor's in nursing. Afterwards, her studies in nursing continued culminating in a master's in nursing from Wichita State. Finally, she finished her studies by completing a PhD in Adult Learning from Kansas State University.

Family: Lloyd and Elaine have four children: Kim Hanna, Beth Hughes, Steve Hanna and Tyler Stearns from which are 11 grandchildren who have 4 children. When the family gathers, there is always enough for a party with Grandma Elaine at the center of attention.

She loved big and was loved by many friends beyond the family. She had a network of friends domestically and internationally through her medical work, the ASQC and Dr. Charles Deming. She was a US Army reservist of 21 years, active in Desert Storm, and retired as a Col. Also the co-founder of the Medical Loan Closet in Wichita with her husband in 2013 which leads to another network of non profits serving the underserved.

After retirement, travel became a staple of Elaine's life. Along with her husband, the two traveled the world over. After a particularly memorable trip to Ireland, she decided to become the Hanna's travel agent. She made arrangements for trips to Cuba, Antarctica, Singapore, Normandy Beach, and many more.

Elaine's presence and warm heart made a lasting impact on anyone she met. Her legacy will continue through both her work and family.

Please join us at College Hill United Methodist Church (CHUM) on Saturday, January 24th at 10:00AM. We will gather and celebrate Elaine.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Medical Loan Closet of Wichita and the food pantry at College Hill United Methodist.