Gerald Kline Laws

Gerald Kline Laws, 79, of rural Hartford, passed away peacefully in his sleep at home on November 14, 2025, following a heart attack.

Gerald was born on March 23, 1946, to Kline and Mary (Baysinger) Laws in Hartford. He grew up with strong family values and a love for the land. He attended Patmos Country School through the 8th grade and graduated from Burlington High School with the Class of 1964. On June 4, 1965, Gerald married his high school sweetheart, Beverley (Hess) Laws, at the Christian Church in Burlington. This past June, they celebrated 60 wonderful years of marriage—a true testament of their love and devotion.

Together, Gerald and Bev built a life based on hard work, faith, and family. They raised two children, Gale Dawn Laws and James Robert Laws, on their small farm west of Hartford. Gerald worked as a welder for Aeroglide Corporation before helping local farmers with crops and hay. In 1978, he began his career with the Flint Hills Wildlife Refuge, where he operated heavy equipment and helped create marshes that would sustain wildlife for generations. He retired in 2007 after nearly three decades of service. Even after long workdays, Gerald and Bev spent weekends hauling hay—a reflection of their tireless work ethic and generosity.

Gerald’s commitment to his community was unwavering. He served on the USD 252 School Board, the Lyon County Extension Board, and supported countless 4-H activities. He also cared for the Hartford Cemetery as Sexton for several years. Gerald believed in giving back and took pride in helping others.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his beloved daughter, Gale Dawn, who passed away at age 25 after a courageous battle with Multiple Sclerosis. Gerald is survived by his devoted wife, Beverley, of the home; his son, James Robert (Melissa Mendoza) Laws of Hartford; and three granddaughters who were the light of his life. Doris (Keyghan) Reed of Wichita. Doris teaches Biology at Rose Hill High School, and Keyghan teaches Culinary Arts at Andover High School.  Julianna (Kristopher) Fletcher of Fort Bragg, NC. Juli manages a cleaning company, and Kris serves in the U.S. Army as a helicopter mechanic. Katelyn Laws of Wichita is working in the medical profession.

Gerald is also survived by his sister, Karen Skillman of Burlington, brother-in-law, Jim (Ann) Hess of Burlington and many nieces, nephews, and great-nieces and nephews who will miss his laugh and steady presence.

Gerald will be remembered for his quiet strength, his love of family, and his deep connection to the land and community. He leaves behind a legacy of hard work, kindness, and devotion that will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

In accordance with Gerald’s wishes, he will be cremated. A Celebration of Life will be held at the Hartford Community Building on Saturday, December 13, at 1:00pm. Interment will take place privately later at the Hartford Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Multiple Sclerosis Society and the American Heart Association, and mailed to: Jones Funeral Home, P.O. Box 277, Burlington, KS 66839.

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