Dorothy A. Wyrick

Dorothy A. Wyrick, 80, passed away peacefully on August 28, 2025, at her daughter’s home in Colby, Kansas. She was born October 20, 1944 on the family farm near Hume, New York, the daughter of Merle and Marie Spencer Daley.

Dorothy was a dedicated professional whose career spanned various industries and states, notably including her tenure at Acme Electric in Cuba, New York, American Olean Tile Company in Olean, New York, and Motorola in Arcade, New York. Her work also encompassed significant contributions to agricultural organizations such as the New York Dairy Herd Improvement Cooperative, Heart of America Dairy Herd Improvement Association in Kansas, Central Star Dairy Herd Incorporated Association in Nebraska, and the Wolf Creek Generating Station Burns Security in Burlington, Kansas. Additionally, Dorothy served in a commendable role with the State of Kansas Highway Patrol Troop K in Topeka, Kansas.

A proud alumni of Fillmore Central School, Dorothy graduated on June 22, 1962. Her commitment to education and personal development remained a cornerstone of her life.

Dorothy was married three times, first to Lawrence Sawdey on October 27, 1962, followed by her union with James McMillen on July 27, 1971, and later to Wayne Wyrick on May 30, 1984. Throughout her life, she embraced diverse interests and hobbies that enriched her character. She was passionate about farming, sewing, gardening, and planting flowers. Her culinary skills were evident in her love for making bread and goat milk soap, while her compassionate nature shined through in her care for the elderly. Dorothy also enjoyed her leisure time at casinos, shared moments of joy in games of Bingo, and was known for her quirky aversion to snakes and turtles, which she eliminated in every opportunity.

Dorothy’s legacy continues through her children: Rodney (Marge Mullin) Sawdey, Patricia “Sawdey” Mead, and Kevin (Kristi Jensen) McMillen. She was a loving grandmother to Miranda Sawdey, Austin Sawdey, Aaron (Lacie Kirby) Mead, Melinda Mead (Jack) Mayfield, Calvin McMillen, and Evelyn McMillen. Dorothy was also a proud great-grandmother to Nicholas, Emma, Aleczander, Kailey Mead, Jacob and Addyson Mayfield.

Dorothy is survived by her two sisters, Mildred Vosburg and Esther Howell, along with numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews. She will be fondly remembered by those who knew and loved her.

Dorothy was preceded in death by her son, Lynn Sawdey, who lived from July 27, 1965, until September 13, 1965; her siblings Arthur Daley, Francis Daley, Roger Daley, David Daley, and Pauline Myers. Her parents, Merle Daley and Marie Spencer Daley, step brother, Lee Schaeffer and Step sister, Edna Mae Schaeffer.  

Dorothy A. Wyrick’s vibrant life was marked by her unwavering spirit, dedication to her family, and her profound impact on her community. She will be dearly missed and lovingly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing her.