Karla J. Thrush, beloved wife, devoted mother, proud grandmother, and cherished friend to all who knew her, passed away peacefully March 5th at the age of 82. Born to Vert V. Ellis and Mary Ellen Ellis, Karla lived a life defined by deep love, joyful devotion to family, and an indomitable spirit that touched every heart around her.

Karla built a distinguished career in service to her country, working and retiring as the Secretary to the Adjutant General for Fort Leavenworth, Kansas — a role that reflected her professionalism, dedication, and quiet pride in supporting those who served. Her commitment to excellence and her warm, capable presence made a lasting impression on all who had the privilege of working alongside her.

Above all else, Karla's greatest joy was her family. She adored her husband Cecil Thrush and carried the warmth of their love with her always. She poured her heart into raising her children, Cynthia Dawn Thrush Chastain-Tong (Douglas) and Travis Ellis Thrush (Regan), and found immeasurable delight in her grandchildren — Perry F. Tong (Rani), Zachary Thrush, Benjamin Thrush, Brenley Thrush, Kiera Thrush, Norah Thrush, Emery Tong, Parker Rundell, and Aiden Rundell. Each grandchild held a very special place in her heart, and she cherished every moment spent with them.

Karla's passions were a vivid reflection of who she was — full of life, color, and warmth. She was a fiercely proud Kansas City Chiefs fan who never missed a game, and equally loyal to her beloved KU Jayhawks. In quieter moments, she could be found tending to her garden or watching the birds that gathered at her feeders — simple joys that brought her daily peace and happiness.

Karla was preceded in death by her husband Cecil Thrush; her parents, Vert V. Ellis and Mary Ellen Ellis; her sisters and brothers, Vincent Ellis (Tilly), Mary Bradley (James) Kai Bradley (Phyllis), Adean Connell (Richard) and Vila Brandle (Ed). She is survived by her children, grandchildren, and great grandchild as well as family Eddy Field (Dan), Ken Brandle (Corrine), and Lynnie Pasqual (Craig); and her cherished extended family, Steve Yates, Stan Yates, Regina Marshall, Rena' Kowalewski, and their families — all dearly loved.

In remembrance of Karla's beautiful life, a gathering will take place at a later date at Leavenworth National Cemetery Columbarium, 150 Muncie Road, Leavenworth, KS 66048, on October 2, 2026 at 11 AM where Karla will be interred alongside her beloved Cecil.

In lieu of flowers, the family invites contributions in Karla's honor to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), or any animal rescue organization of your choosing — causes that reflect the generosity and compassion she embodied every day of her life.

"Blessed is she who has believed that the Lord would fulfill His promise to her" Luke 1:45