Marna McAferty

Marna McAferty, a beautiful spirit, dedicated professional and beloved member of her community, passed away on Saturday, December 28, 2024 in Overland Park, Kansas. She was born on August 14, 1947 in Kansas City, Kansas to Milton and Doris (Kelly) Roberts. She spent her early childhood years in the family home in Olathe, Kansas. They moved to Lenexa Kansas in 1955 where she attended Don Bonjour Elementary School, Milburn Junior High School and graduating from Shawnee Mission West in 1965.

She attended Pittsburg State University (PSU) where she was active in the Sigma Sigma Sigma sorority. It was during her studies at PSU where Marna met Larry McAferty. They married in 1967 and were together until his death. She interrupted her studies to work in the health care industry primarily at Truman Medical Center.

She resumed her educational journey with determination and passion in the early 1980s. She earned her Bachelor of Arts degree from Avila College in 1986, followed by Master of Arts degree from University of Missouri in 1988. Her academic journey culminated in a PhD in Psychology from University of Missouri in 1993. Marna dedicated her career to counseling, including her own practice, and served as the Director of Counseling Services at the University of Kansas Medical Center, where she made a lasting impact on countless lives.

Marna enjoyed bowling, playing golf, growing flowers, and dancing. About 15 years ago she started taking dance lessons and has been dancing ever since. She met a great group of friends that danced together, dined together, and traveled together. That is where she met Ron her long-time friend and now partner. 

Marna grew up attending the Lenexa United Methodist Church and was currently attending Heritage United Methodist Church.

Boy, could she spin a yarn. She has been keeping all her friends entertained telling stories about her “geezer” moments and telling funny tales about her Roomba and its antics. She lit up a room and had a beautiful smile.

Marna is survived by her sister, Vicki Roberts, partner, Ron Walker, 2 nephews, 1 niece, 10 great nieces and nephews, 7 great great nieces and nephews and her god-children, Alexis and Michael.

She was preceded in death by her husband Larry McAferty, parents, Joseph and Doris Roberts, and sister Beverly Archer.

In Lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in Marna's memory to Lenexa United Methodist Church or Heritage United Methodist Church.

To leave a special message for her family or to share a memory of Marna, please visit the guestbook below.