Earl Hines Cartwright, Sr.

Earl Hines Cartwright Sr., 90, of Olathe, Kansas, peacefully passed away on Saturday, January 18, 2025. He was born on February 4, 1934, in Olathe to John Sr. and Maude (Baker) Cartwright.

Earl graduated from Olathe Senior High before serving honorably in the United States Army, where he spent 12 years, rising to the rank of Sergeant (E-5). He was accepted into Airborne and Ranger school, completing 87 parachute jumps during his service, which took him to South Korea and later to Germany. His time in the military shaped his character and gave him a deep sense of discipline and pride.

In 1959, Earl met the love of his life, Jimmie Battle, while stationed at Fort Benning, Georgia. The couple married on November 7, 1959, and two years later, they were blessed with their son, Earl Jr. In 1964, after his discharge, Earl and Jimmie moved back to Olathe to raise their family. Earl worked in construction and carpentry before transitioning to a long career with Kansas Power and Light (KPL), retiring in 1993. Despite retirement, Earl never truly stopped working, always with an inventive spirit and a strong work ethic.

Earl was preceded in death by his parents, John and Maude Cartwright, eight sisters, three brothers, and his beloved daughter, Nevelda Jean Burns.

He is survived by his devoted wife of 65 years, Jimmie; his brother Clifford Dean Cartwright (Arnita Cartwright) of Ft. Worth, TX; sons Earl Jr. (Kathleen Cartwright) of St. Simons Island, GA, and Lorenzo Battle of Columbus, GA; four granddaughters, Bridget Herman, Valerie Barnes, Brynn Thompson, and Rachel Malette; as well as nine

great-grandchildren and four great-great-grandchildren, all of whom brought him great joy.

Earl's life was one of service, love, and perseverance. He will be remembered for his dedication to his family, his unwavering work ethic, and the kindness he showed to all who knew him. His legacy will live on in the hearts of those who loved him.

A visitation will be held on Tuesday, January 28, 2025, from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM at New Light Bethel Baptist Church in Olathe, KS, followed by a funeral service at 12:00 PM. Burial will take place at Leavenworth National Cemetery.

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