Elsie Lea (Mays) Bryan, 90, of Atwood, died November 18, 2017 at the Good Samaritan nursing home in Atwood. She was born October 22, 1927 at the family home near Beardsley, Kansas.
Elsie was the last survivor of the Charles and Mable Mays family, preceded in death by her parents and 7 siblings, and three husbands.
Elsie was orphaned at the age of six, and spent her formative years with a succession of relatives and friends.
At an early age she became a professional waitress and hostess, serving in many cities across the United States during the Great Depression and Dust Bowl years and World War Two.
Her career led her to Honolulu, where she became manager of a large hotel and resort chain. She led an exciting and charming life traveling the tropical Pacific for nearly four decades.
Upon retirement she returned to Northwest Kansas, to be with friends and family. Having no children, she is mourned by a multitude of nieces, nephews, neighbors and relatives.
Cremation was chosen. A memorial service will be held at the Atwood First Christian Church, on Wednesday, Nov. 22, at 11 a.m. There will be no visitation or graveside service. In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to Rawlins County High School Band or Rawlins County 4-H, in care of Baalmann Mortuary, PO Box 391, Colby, KS 67701.
