NEWTON—Maria Elena (Nena) Llamas (formerly Olmos) passed away on Oct. 13, 2022, at the age of 69.
Maria was born in Juarez, Mexico, on Jan. 10, 1953, the youngest of nine children. She moved to Hutchinson, Kansas, to live with her sister’s family, where she attended Sherman Junior High and Hutchinson High School. She later moved to Wichita, Kansas, and attended Wichita North High School, where she graduated in 1972. That same year she married Michael Llamas; they later divorced.
Maria worked as a clerk for the Harvey County District Court, beginning in 1974, and retired after 32 years of service. Even in retirement, she chose to work a variety of jobs for USD-373, Harvey County Health Department, Prairie View, Health Ministries, and Heart to Heart Child Advocacy. She made many friends during her years of employment.
Maria was passionate about her family and making sure they knew she loved them. She loved to cook—not only for her family but also for her friends. She was a huge fan of KU basketball and insisted they were going to win the championship every year.
Maria is survived by her three children, Michael Xavier (Cheryl) Llamas, Shannon Llamas, and Jennifer Beard; sister, Remedios Navarro; grandchildren, Isabella, Gaige, Robert, Adyson, Emarie, Hendrix, Celia, and Asher; and numerous cousins, nieces, and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Antonio and Juana Olmos; stepfather, Pablo Llamas; daughter, Renee; and siblings: Manuel, Ramon, Francisco, Kiko, Jesus, and Mercedes.
The Recitation of the Holy Rosary was at 6 p.m., Sunday, Oct. 16, at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church in Newton. The casket was to be open at the church after 4 p.m.
The Mass of Christian Burial was at 10 a.m., Monday, Oct. 17, also at the church. Interment was in St. Mary’s Catholic Cemetery in Newton.
Condolences may be left at www.broadwaycolonialfh.com. Arrangements are by Broadway Colonial Funeral Home, Newton.
