Hortense Bedell McDuffee

Hortense (Horty) McDuffee, 95, of Glen Mills, PA died September 20, 2022.  She was born July 30, 1927 in Augusta, KS to Harold and Frances (nee Bilby) Bedell.

Hortense was a lifelong learner and teacher.  She graduated from University of Kansas with a degree in English.  She taught high school English, Special Education and elementary school students.

Christian faith was fundamental for Hortense.  She taught Sunday School, sang in the choir, directed the bell choir, and served on lots of committees.  She took a number of courses in theology, and pastors of her various churches recognized her as both a resource and a challenge.  Most recently, she was a member of Westminster Presbyterian Church in West Chester, PA.

Hortense was also active in the Girl Scouts, both as a child member and as an adult leader.  She inspired her daughters and grand-daughters to do the same.  She and her husband were past officers for their local Habitat for Humanity chapters.  Hortense was a proud member of P.E.O. International (a philanthropic educational organization for women) for 73 years.

Hortense and her husband lived in a variety of states while raising their family, but she always had a special place in her heart for Kansas.  Hortense and her beloved late husband, Clinton Earl McDuffee, grew up as neighbors in Augusta, Kansas.  They knew each other since infants, were married for 72 years, and were true soulmates.  

Hortense was the loving mother of Robert McDuffee (Philis), Jane Dmytryk (John), Alice Bogert (Chuck), and Katharine McDuffee; adoring grandmother of 8, and dear great-grandmother of 10.  She was predeceased by her sisters, Anita Chappuie (her twin) and Margorie Greer.  Her husband, Clint, passed away June 8, 2022, the day after their 72^nd wedding anniversary.

A memorial service will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Cottey College, a four year college owned by P.E.O., at www.cottey.edu/give/