Stephanie C. Upson passed away peacefully in her residence at Meadowlark Hills, Manhattan, KS, on June 30, 2025.
Born in Henderson, TX, Stephanie spent her early childhood in Texas and Houma, LA, before moving with her family to Pretty Prairie, KS. Stephanie was the first member of her family to attend college, graduating in 1955 from Kansas State University where she was a member of the Alpha Xi Delta sorority. After graduation, she taught kindergarten in San Diego, CA, before marrying Dan and moving to Manhattan. Stephanie cherished her large and extended family in Texas, delighting in annual family reunions full of music and laughter. She and Dan enjoyed traveling, their large circle of friends, K-State athletics, boating at Tuttle Creek every summer, spending time picnicking in the country, and playing tennis. Stephanie was an avid reader and movie aficionado. She was a member of First Presbyterian Church and the local PEO chapter. Most of all, Stephanie was extremely proud of her three children and four grandchildren. Her greatest joy was sharing in their lives and celebrating them and their accomplishments.
Stephanie is survived by her brother, Roy (Sheryl Ballard) Clayton, Manhattan; daughter Connie (Tom) Johnson, Calistoga, CA; son Ron (Jonna) Upson, Taylorsville, KY; daughter Elizabeth (Ed) Wells, Lebanon, OH; four grandchildren, Sabrina Johnson, Alexis (William) Johnson Brown, Jacob Wourms, Joe Wourms; nephew Bryan (Kristy) Clayton and great-nephews Haiden Clayton, Brady Clayton, and great-niece Scarlett Clayton, as well as several cousins.
Stephanie is preceded in death by her husband, Dan W. Upson, parents Roy E. and Clodell J. Clayton, and nephew Blake Clayton, as well as many beloved aunts, uncles, and cousins.
The family is making funeral and graveside service arrangements and anticipate a date in early September.
The family wishes to thank all the staff at Meadowlark Hills for the exceptional care and professional, compassionate service over the years that Dan and Stephanie lived at Meadowlark.