Margaret L (Bright) Vestal

Margaret Lea (Bright) Vestal passed away on Thursday, March 12, surrounded by her loving children Steve and Pam.

Margaret was born on February 8, 1934, in Hale, Kansas, to John and Lola (Hughe) Bright. She attended school in Elk City, Kansas. On October 22, 1950, she married George “Bud” Vestal in Elk City. From this union, two children were born: Pamela Susan and Stephen Hugh.

Mama was a devoted wife, mother, and homemaker who was known for her strong work ethic and loving heart. She was truly Daddy’s right hand—wherever he was working, Mama was right there beside him. Together, there was nothing they couldn’t accomplish. Whether it was farming, baling hay, building farm structures, repairing equipment—especially Daddy’s beloved Cub tractors—or tending to a large garden. Mama took great pride in canning and providing meals for her family, always making sure their home was filled with care and nourishment.

She attended the First Christian Church in Elk City.

Margaret was preceded in death by her parents, John and Lola Bright; her three brothers, Russel (Norma) Bright, Wilber (Lela) Bright, and Williard Bright; and her three sisters, Treva Lea (infant), Claudine (Francis) Wells, and Twila (James) Morris.

She is survived by her children, Pam (Bob) McKenzie of Independence and Steve (Teresa) Vestal of Independence; one sister-in-law Sara Bright of Independence; five grandchildren, Jeremy (Carol) Vestal of Hot Springs, Arkansas, Jason McKenzie of Independence, Angie (Drew) Achong of Independence, and Mandy (Chris) Cook of Fort Scott, Kansas; one step-grandson, Justin Cunningham of Kansas City, Missouri; six great-grandchildren; and two great-great-grandchildren.

Margaret’s legacy of hard work, partnership and unwavering love for her family will be cherished and remembered always.

Memorials can be made to harry Hynes Hospice or Elk City Christian Church.