Paola Resident Jan L. Wooddell Dies at 75

Longtime Overland Park police officer and community volunteer remembered for her creativity and family devotion.

Apr. 7, 2026 at 8:25pm

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An impressionistic, out-of-focus photograph depicting a blurred scene of a person tending to a flower garden, with soft pools of warm light and color creating a dreamlike, atmospheric quality.The passing of a beloved community member leaves behind cherished memories and a legacy of devotion to family and nature.Shawnee Today

Jan L. Wooddell, a 75-year-old resident of Paola, Kansas, passed away on April 4, 2026 at her home. Wooddell had a career with the Overland Park Police Department before marrying Dale Wooddell in 1979 and settling in Paola. She was known for her creative talents, love of nature, and devotion to her family, including her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Why it matters

Wooddell's passing marks the loss of a longtime community member and public servant in the Paola area, where she was involved in various local activities and events over the decades. Her life story reflects the changing demographics and evolving community dynamics of the greater Kansas City metropolitan region.

The details

Jan L. Wooddell was born on July 6, 1950 in Shawnee, Kansas, the third of four children to Marsden N. and Greta D. (Spitzli) Thomas. She grew up in the Shawnee Mission area and worked for the Overland Park Police Department for several years before marrying Dale Wooddell on July 6, 1979. The couple then made their home in Paola, Kansas. In her free time, Wooddell enjoyed painting, gardening, and spending time with her family, including her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

  • Jan L. Wooddell was born on July 6, 1950.
  • Wooddell married Dale Wooddell on July 6, 1979.
  • Wooddell passed away on April 4, 2026 at her home in Paola, Kansas.

The players

Jan L. Wooddell

A 75-year-old resident of Paola, Kansas who had a career with the Overland Park Police Department before retiring and becoming involved in her local community.

Dale Wooddell

Jan Wooddell's husband, with whom she lived in Paola, Kansas.

Marsden N. and Greta D. (Spitzli) Thomas

Jan Wooddell's parents, with whom she grew up in the Shawnee Mission area of Kansas.

Gary Thomas

Jan Wooddell's brother, who preceded her in death.

Ted Thomas and Ward Thomas

Jan Wooddell's surviving brothers.

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The takeaway

Wooddell's life embodied the values of community service, family, and creativity that have long defined the Paola, Kansas region. Her passing marks the end of an era for a dedicated public servant and beloved local figure.