Diann Farmer

Diann (Layson) Farmer passed away peacefully on July 1, 2026, in Kansas City, Kansas, at the age of 79. Born on September 1, 1946, in Kansas City, Missouri, she lived a full and meaningful life, cherished by all who knew her.

Diann grew up in Overland Park and graduated from Shawnee Mission West High School, laying the foundation for a lifetime marked by kindness, dedication, and unwavering love for her family. On January 8, 1965, she married Gene Farmer in Overland Park. Together, they built a life filled with warmth and partnership. They resided in Overland Park until 1976, when they moved to Paola. For Diann, the move to the country was more than a change of address—it was the beginning of years spent enjoying the peace and beauty of rural life, something she truly treasured.

As a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, Diann touched countless lives through both her personal and professional endeavors. For 15 years, she worked at the Lakemary Center in Paola as a paraprofessional, making a significant impact on those she worked with. In 1991, she and Gene founded Electric Shop, where she managed the bookkeeping with diligence and care, supporting the business with her steadfast commitment.

Family was always at the heart of Diann’s world. After retirement and with the arrival of grandchildren, her days were centered around creating special memories with them. The kitchen became a place of laughter and learning, as she lovingly taught her grandchildren how to cook and bake. Her legendary peanut butter cookies were a family favorite, passed down and enjoyed in each new generation. She was also known for her green thumb, tending to her flowers with joy, and her skill with a needle and thread, sewing cherished pieces over the years.

Diann relished Friday nights spent playing bingo with her dedicated bingo group, sharing friendship and fun. Her love for animals brought added happiness to her home, and together with Gene, she explored the country in their RV, savoring the simple pleasures of travel and discovery.

Diann will be deeply missed by her loving husband, Gene Farmer; her son, Mark (Lisa) Farmer; her daughter-in-law, Carol Farmer; and her grandchildren, Keaton Farmer and Jacob Farmer. She is also survived by many nieces and nephews, as well as extended family members and friends, all of whom were touched by her kindness and generosity.

She joins in eternal rest her beloved son, Matthew Farmer; her parents, Gary and Patricia Layson; her brother, Tim Layson; and her sister, Ann Harris.

Diann’s memory will live on in the hearts of her family and friends, her legacy marked by her devotion, her gentle spirit, and the many lives she brightened throughout her remarkable life.

Visitation will be held from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm, Tuesday, July 7, 2026, at Dengel & Son Mortuary - Paola Chapel, 305 N Pearl Street, Paola, KS 66071. Graveside service will be held at 10:30 am, Wednesday, July 8, 2026, at the Paola Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made payable to the Lakemary Center, 100 Lakemary Drive, Paola, KS 66071.

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