09/01/2025
Howard Lynn Silvey, a man whose life was deeply rooted in the fertile soil of dedication – to agriculture, to community, and above all, to family – peacefully departed this world on August 31st, 2025. Born on June 8, 1940, in Guymon, to Cecil and Rosalie (Smith) Silvey, Howard's journey was a testament to the enduring values he held dear: an unwavering work ethic, a passion for farming, horses, and cattle, and a boundless devotion to his loved ones.
His formative years saw him graduate from Walsh CO High School in the spring of 1958. He attended Panhandle A&M College, now Panhandle State University. Here, he pursued a Bachelor of Science degree in Animal Husbandry, immersing himself in the science of the land. Howard wasn't just a student; he was a prominent member of the Livestock Judging team, he traveled to national events, those journeys expanding the horizons of the small-town boy as he experienced the bustling life of larger cities. His competitive spirit shone bright, earning him an intramural meat judging contest win and even a season on the PSU baseball team. But it was not in the fields or on the diamond that his most profound connection was forged; it was in the vibrant, everyday setting of the school cafeteria that he first met Joyce Chase, the woman who would become his life’s beloved companion.
Howard and Joyce's love story began amidst college life, culminating in their marriage on July 16, 1961. They resided on campus until his graduation, then set out for Walsh. Their early years took them from Walsh to Wichita, then to Liberal, and Elkhart, as he explored various job opportunities.
A turning point arrived in 1972 when Howard accepted a position with Production Credit Association (PCA), prompting a family relocation to Kingman, Kansas. For 15 years, he dedicated himself to PCA, meticulously building a reputation for his deep expertise and unwavering integrity in agricultural finance. His commitment to the farming community didn't wane; after PCA, he seamlessly transitioned to Citizens Bank of Kansas, serving as a vice president specializing in agricultural loans. In both roles, Howard was more than a lender; he was a trusted advisor and a partner in the success of countless farmers.
Beyond his professional life, Howard cultivated deep personal connections. In January of 1973, a meeting between his wife Joyce and Jeanene Baker blossomed into a profound and enduring friendship between the Silvey and Baker families. Their bond was legendary; it was rare to see one couple without the other. Together, these families created a tapestry of shared memories – countless hours of laughter, support, and companionship that will be cherished by all who witnessed their remarkable connection.
Howard’s spirit was defined by kindness and generosity. Whether it was pitching in as a harvest hand, serving diligently as a Lions Club member, sitting on the hospital board, or delivering meals on wheels. His presence was a constant source of support for his children and grandchildren, as he enthusiastically attended their activities, cheering them on with boundless pride. Even between the generations, his loyalty to Kingman High School athletics remained steadfast.
He leaves behind a legacy of love, anchored by his devoted wife of 64 years, Joyce (Chase) Silvey. His memory will be cherished by his children: Jolinda Goetz, Tressa (Troy) Anderson, Janene (Tim Whitney) McCormick, and Shannon (Susan) Silvey. Howard’s proudest legacy shines through his nine grandchildren: Jennifer (Nathan) Baker, Travis (Jodi) Kaufman, Brandy (Dusty) Mitchell, Brad (Jessica) Anderson, Scott (Morgan) Anderson, Chase (Amanda) McCormick, Chandler McCormick, Adrianah Silvey, and Garrett Silvey. The joy of his life was further multiplied by his great-grandchildren: Andrew, Cannon, and Jayla Reed; Sophia, Kevin, and Isabelle Kaufman; Reagan and Andi Anderson, Emma Burke, Kennedi and Hadli Baker, and William White. Howard had one great-great grandchild who lit up his heart, Asher Kaufman. Other family memeber include his brothers Jim Silvey and Travis Silvey, brother-in-law Rick Sharpe. his mother-in-law Wilma Chase, sister-in-law Karen Johnson, sister - in law Janice Summers, brother-in-law Mike Comer, brother-in-law Paul Chase; and sister-in-law Judy Silvey.
Howard was preceded in death by his beloved parents, Cecil and Rosalie Silvey, his sister Shirley Sharpe, his father-in-law, Albert Chase, sister-in-law Sandy Silvey, brother in-law Terry Chase, sister-in-law Marilyn Comer and brother-in-law David Summers.
Howard Silvey’s life was a rich harvest of purpose and love, a true patriarch who cultivated not just the land, but an enduring family and community spirit that will continue to flourish in his absence.
Funeral services will be 11:00 a.m., Friday, Sept. 5, 2025 at the Livingston Funeral Home, Kingman. The family will receive friends from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., Thursday at the funeral home. Graveside services will be at a later date.
Memorials may be made with Wheatlands Healthcare Center or Kingman Healthcare Services Oncology Department, and be sent to Livingston Funeral Home, 1830 N. Main, Kingman, KS 67068.
