Garnetta Ella Blair, 96, passed away Jan. 28, 2026, at Medicalodges of Great Bend, Kan. She was born Oct. 11, 1929, in rural Otis, to Jesse and Minnie (Schlegel) Queen. She married Kenneth L. ‘Kenny’ Blair on Jan. 21, 1951, in Great Bend. He passed away on April 24, 2015. 

Garnetta moved to Great Bend in 1951 from Otis. She was owner and operator of the “Handy Market” in the 1960’s. She obtained her Certified Nurses Aide training from Dominican Nursing. With her compassionate nature and her gentle hands, she helped many patients at Central Kansas Medical Center. Garnetta was a longtime member of Trinity Lutheran Church. She loved to go shopping and watch television. Her greatest accomplishment and love, were the legacy her and Kenny built. 

Survivors include her daughter, Cynthia ‘Cindy’ Carson and her husband Rusty of Great Bend; sister, Marjorie Adams of Wilson; daughter-in-law, Gail Harold; four grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; and three great-great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents; beloved husband of 64 years; son, Kenneth L. Blair, Jr.; brothers, James Queen, Allen Queen; and sister, Esther Jenkins. 

Per Garnetta’s wishes, cremation has taken place. Services are pending at this time with Bryant Funeral Home. Memorials have been designated to Gentiva Hospice, in care of Bryant Funeral Home, 1425 Patton Rd., Great Bend, KS 67530. Condolences may be sent and notice viewed at www.bryantfh.net.

Funeral arrangements provided by

Bryant Funeral Home

1425 Patton Rd.

Great Bend, KS 67530

Great Bend (Kan.) Tribune, Feb. 5, 2026