Maryellen Batt, 94, of Salina, Kansas, died May 17, 2022. She was the only child of Walter and Alice Justice born on November 20, 1927. The family moved to Salina from Canton in 1935. She went through the Salina school system, graduating from Salina High School in 1945. She earned an AA degree in Design Merchandizing from Christian College, a 2-year girl’s school in Columbia, Missouri, and a BA degree in education from Marymount College in Salina.
Maryellen taught English and art in the 7th and 8th grades in Hays, Kansas, for two years before moving back to Salina to marry Robert Alan Batt who graduated from Kansas State University with a degree in architecture and worked for Wilson and Company Engineers and Architects. They were married in the First Presbyterian Church July 7, 1951.
That same year Grace Stewart, director of Elementary Education, asked Mrs. Batt to teach a 4th grade class during a teacher shortage. This led to 10 more years of teaching in the 4th and 5th grades. She was honored by a life membership in the PTA, a parent-teacher association. Maryellen taught art in 7th and 8th grades at Roosevelt Junior High School and taught Business English at Brown-Mackie School of Business for 5 years. While Bob and Maryellen were building a house in the country, she worked as Interior Decorator for TL Collins Decorators.
She enjoyed membership in the American Association of University Women, serving on Salina and state boards and honored by a named fellowship in 1977 – 78 by the Salina branch to be used for women working on doctoral degrees. Maryellen loved to read and was a member of the Current Literature Club of Salina, the Salina Art Center since its beginning in Salina, and served on the Salina Arts and Humanities Commission and worked in various capacities; a lifetime member of Midwest Weavers Organization and helped organize the Smoky Valley Weaving Guild in Salina. She was also a member of PEO, chapter ED, and the First Presbyterian church.
Maryellen and Bob traveled to many wonderful places throughout the world. While in China they watched people playing Mah-Jongg on the streets. She too enjoyed playing Mah-Jongg for many years with her friends.
She enjoyed many years of weaving materials and garments using yarn dyed with plant materials that were collected in the woods around their house in the country. Their dogs went on these hikes too.
Christopher Morley wrote “a successful life is living your own life in your own way.” Maryellen believed this to be true.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to the Salina Animal Shelter in memory of their many dogs. Memorial services will be Tuesday, May 24, at 11 AM at the First Presbyterian Church, 308 S. Eighth Street. Ryan Mortuary, 137 N. Eighth Street, is in charge of arrangements.