Wendy Lynn Paradise of Overland Park, Kansas passed away surrounded by her husband and children on September 3rd, 2018. She spent her life as a devoted wife and mother, and had a tender heart for anyone who was hurting. She was an extraordinary woman and she lived a remarkable life.
Wendy was born on January 12, 1954 into the Lysaught family as the 4th of 6 tightly bonded siblings, and spent her childhood attending St. Ann’s grade school. She went on to Loretto Academy and to Kansas State University. During her time in school, she made friendships that lasted her lifetime. Many of those friends were calling and sending cards until her last days.
Wendy was strong, brave and unique. She lived life fearlessly. She was part artist and part conductor. She loved to entertain and to organize family, friends, and adventures. She said yes when others said no: to skydiving, to swimming in street clothes, to May Day baskets, to holiday gift packages sent across the country to distant nieces and nephews, to crafts (spray paint and glue guns), to road trips, to fanny packs, to Converse shoes, to custom logoed Mini Coopers, and to bright colored attire from head to toe. She had enthusiasm for every holiday, with an extra special love for Christmas.
Over her life, Wendy cultivated a diverse group of friends who she treasured dearly. She accepted her friends where they were, and was fiercely loyal to their hearts. To have Wendy in your corner was to have an ally for life. She was likely to show up unexpectedly, and to help when you needed it most. Then she would disappear, checking her list for her next friend in need of help. Wendy only knew how to serve, and never much liked being served.
Wendy fought the last 201 days of her life with the same zeal she lived with her first 63 years: never give up, never give in. Although her body lost her horrific, no-win battle with cancer, her heart and soul undoubtedly won as the Lord welcomed her back into His arms and reunited her with her daughter, Jacquie, her mom and dad, Jeen & Don, her dear friend, Polly, and her mom, Jacque A, in heaven.
Following in her mother’s footsteps, she spent her last days at home gardening, enjoying the summer sun and the feeling of dirt in her hands.
Above all else, Wendy was a devoted wife and mother to her 5 children and 9 grandchildren. She spent most of her time thinking up ways to brighten their days, and to touch their hearts.
Wendy is survived by her husband, Jimmy, her children, Mike, Ricky, Sam and Cody, her daughters-in-law, Jenn and Shae, her son-in-law, Shawn and her nine grandchildren: Will, Andrew, Amelia, Canaan, Scarlett, Sawyer, Millie Jeen, Jamison and Scottie.
Services will be held Tuesday, September 11, 2018 at Church of the Resurrection, Building C, at 135th and Nall. A visitation will be held at 10:00, the funeral will begin at 11:00, and a reception will follow the funeral. A private burial will be held later in the day. Wendy specifically requested no flowers, and that bright colors are worn to celebrate her vibrant life.
To honor Wendy, please consider donations to Advice & Aid in Overland Park: www.adviceandaid.com/donate