Melissa A. "Missy" Whitney, 78, of Winfield, Kansas, just took a ride in the arms of the angles to be with her Savior and Heavenly Father on January 21, 2019. She fought the battle with cancer for many years.

Born February 11, 1940 in Washington D.C., she was the daughter of John and Vivian (Weadon) Poole. She was raised and received her early education in Greer Children's Home in upstate New York, returning to Washington D.C. when she was eight years old. She graduated from Coolidge High School before receiving her degree as a Registered Nurse from Washington School of Nursing.

Missy was united in marriage to Lawrence "Larry" Whitney on June 13, 1964 in Tacoma Park, Maryland. The couple made their home in Maryland where Missy began her career as a Surgical Nurse. She worked at Washington Hospital Center, Walter Reed Army Medical Hospital, and Providence Hospital in Maryland. She later worked as a Psychiatric Nurse at St. Elizabeth Hospital in Washington D.C. and as a Psychiatric Reviewer in Arlington, Virginia. Missy and Larry moved to her grandparent's farm in Winfield in 1996 where Missy served as Parish Nurse at the First Presbyterian Church of Winfield.

She was a member of New Hope Fellowship Church as well as serving on the Home Health Advisory Board, the Red Cross Board, the Patient and Family Advisory Council, and CERT with Emergency Management in Cowley County. In addition to helping set up and working entry at Winfield Isle of Lights, she enjoyed crocheting baby blankets for many babies and families of her church and the community.

Her family includes her husband Larry Whitney of Winfield; daughters Lynn Whitney Smith and husband, Steve of Sanford, FL; Lori Whitney of Newnan, GA; granddaughter Sarah Whitney; grandson Camden Smith; and many nieces and nephews.

Missy was preceded in death by her parents.

Missy lovingly donated her body to the University of Kansas for medical research, always helping others even after her death. A celebration of life service will be held at a later date. Miles Funeral Service is in charge of arrangements.

A memorial has been established in Missy's name for the Winfield Food Pantry. Contributions may be made through the funeral home.