Evelyn Fitz Roy

Florence “Evelyn” (Mather) Fitz Roy 89, died peacefully on August 26, 2023, at Harry Hynes Memorial Hospice Center in Wichita, Kansas. On June 16, 1934, Evelyn arrived the ninth of 12 children born to Jacob P. and Susie (Bigbee) Mather on a farm 10 miles S.W. of Grinnell, Kansas. She grew up in a happy Christian home.  At a young age she helped cook and feed the harvest crews during wheat harvest. In 1952 she graduated from Grinnell High School continuing her education at Wichita Business College for one year.

Evelyn married Walter Hayes in 1957 and worked with him in his business.  In 1975 she married Don Fitz Roy. At this time, she began working at Learjet as a secretary until her retirement in 1996.

Evelyn is survived by her children Kelly & Denise Hayes; Kathleen Hayes; Steven and Sue Hayes; Rebecca Marcus; and Marc and Lisa Fitz Roy. She is also survived by her sister Wilma Taylor and Marge Wilson; seven grandchildren, seven great grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.

Evelyn was a devoted NASCAR fan watching every race. Sunday afternoon was a “no visit” time when a race was on.  She loved to spend time with family, friends and traveling. Some of her travels included Germany, touring the east coast lighthouses, Alaska and a few cruises.

She is preceded in death by her parents, husbands Don Fitz Roy and Walter Hayes, 7 brothers, 2 sisters and stepdaughter Traci Eason.

Memorials may be made to the Grinnell Methodist Church and left with Petersen Funeral Home.

A graveside committal service will be 10:00 a.m., Wednesday, August 30, 2023, at Greenwood Cemetery in Newton. Visitation will be 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Tuesday evening at Petersen Funeral Home.