TOPEKA — Jo Kay Lepej, 72, passed away May 24, 2019, at Woodhaven Care Center, Ellinwood. She was born January 31, 1947, at Great Bend to Joe F. & Elma M. (Laughlin) Lepej. Jo Kay was a 1965 Council Grove High School graduate, then pursued her higher education from K.S.U., graduating in 1969.

A longtime Topeka resident, Jo Kay was a CNA at Stormont Vail Hospital. She was a member of the First United Congregational Church and the Hot Air Balloon Club in Topeka. She enjoyed QVC, Royals baseball, Jeopardy and was a passionate Marion High School sports fan.    

Survivors include, her mother, Elma M. Lepej; sister, Patti Smith and husband George of Isle, MN; two nieces and one nephew, Tyler Mermis of Marion, Taryn Baca of Goodyear, AZ, and Tierney Mermis of Great Bend; and five great nieces and nephews, Blaine, Bryce and Brynn Mermis of Marion, Haley Suchy of Great Bend, and Kamryn Baca of Goodyear, AZ. She was preceded in death by her father, Joe F. Lepej. 

There will be no visitation as cremation has taken place. Services are pending with Bryant Funeral Home. 

Condolences may be sent and notice viewed at www.bryantfh.net.