Jari Kay Marietta, 80, passed away Sept. 30, 2026, at Brookdale Senior Living, Great Bend, Kan. She was born on July 20, 1946, in Concordia, Kan., to Vernon and Luewllyn (Carhill) Marietta. She grew up and attended school in Esbon, Kan. She earned her bachelor’s degree from Fort Hays State University.

A resident of Great Bend since 1970, Jari taught freshman English classes at Harrison Junior High School for many years until she moved to the High School. Jari loved teaching and had a lasting impact on many Great Bend students. Jari was active in many organizations before and after her retirement including her local and state chapters of the NEA, the Pilot Club and the Central Kansas Association of Retired School Personnel.

In retirement, Jari and her sister enjoyed traveling to many domestic and international locations – continuing her passion for learning and exploring.

Her sister, her close group of friends, and her students were her greatest treasures.

Survivors include her twin sister, Tari Marietta of Platte City, Mo.; and cousins, Kala Marietta of Colorado Springs, Colo., and Karla Norsworthy of Raleigh, N.C. She is preceded in death by her parents.

Cremation has taken place. Visitation will be held from noon to 8 p.m. Friday, Oct. 9, 2026, with family receiving guests from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m., all at Bryant Funeral Home. Memorials have been designated to Fort Hays State University Foundation or the charity of your choice, 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 Road

Great Bend, KS 67530

Great Bend (Kan.) Tribune, Oct. 3, 2026