HUTCHINSON — Thelma “Loretta” Broughton Cunningham French, 83, passed away on Dec. 31, 2014. She was born to Leonard and Theora Broughton on Sept. 28, 1931, at the family farm in Francis, Okla. The family moved to Hoisington, where she graduated from high school in 1949. Loretta moved to Hutchinson to attend Salt City Business College, graduating in the fall of 1950.
On Feb. 21, 1952, she married Vernon Cunningham Jr. The newlyweds settled in Hutchinson having two children, Laura and Ray. The Cunninghams were married for 31 years until Vernon’s death on July, 26, 1983.
Loretta later married Bill French on Oct. 16, 1992.   He died March 27, 2004.
Loretta worked for abstracting, insurance, and realty companies over the years. Hall Abstract, Hayes Agency, Jayhawk Realty, and Reno County Abstract and Title were all companies she worked for in a business career that lasted over 40 years.
Away from work she was a avid bowler, winning team titles in city and state tournaments, while also competing at nationals on several occasions. After her retirement, she became a painter, and patron of the Hutchinson Art Center. The Moose Lodge #982 of Hutchinson was also a passion of her and her late husband Bill. She held the office of Senior Regent the highest post for a female officer. When she wasn’t involved with her many activities, she enjoyed watching the Kansas Jayhawks.
She is survived by her daughter, Laura Cunningham Rivera and husband Tom of Glenn Heights, Texas; son Ray, and his wife Geri of Merriam; as well as brothers Jack Broughton of Fort Dodge, and Bill Broughton, and wife Carol of Oklahoma City, Okla.; and sister Rosalie Renz of Rush Center; along with many nieces and nephews.
Memorial service will be 11 a.m. Wednesday, Jan. 7, at Elliott Chapel with Chaplain Luke Helmuth presiding. Friends may sign her book 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Tuesday, and 9 a.m. until service Wednesday, at Elliott Mortuary.
Memorials may be made to the Hutchinson Art Association and the Hutchinson Animal Shelter, in care of the mortuary.

Funeral arrangements provided by
Elliott Mortuary**
1219 N. Main
Hutchinson, KS 67501
Great Bend (Kan.) Tribune, Jan. 6, 2015