August 22, 1951 – October 29, 2025
Donald Eugene Tu ly, affectionately known as Don to his friends and family, passed away
Wednesday, October 29, 2025, in Ft. Scott, Kansas. Born on August 22, 1951, Don’s life was
marked by his kindheartedness, friendly demeanor, and generous spirit. His passing leaves a void
in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.
Don was raised by his mother and maternal grandfather, R.C. Smith. Don was a proud graduate of
Ft. Scott High School, class of 1969.
Don’s professional life was rooted in the food industry, beginning with a position at Pizza Hut in
Ft. Scott while still in high school. His entrepreneurial spirit led him to own and operate several
establishments, including Spanky’s Bar & Gri l and the Silver Spur both in Ft. Scott. Don’s journey
took him to Dallas, Texas, where he contributed over two decades of service at Judge Roy Beans
Restaurant. While in Dallas, Don took up tennis and even restrung rackets as a side job.
Eventually, he returned to Ft. Scott to own and operate the Bombay Bicycle Club and later shared
his culinary talents at the Nu Gri le.
Beyond his professional endeavors, Don was always ready to lend a helping hand, often putting
others before himself. He enjoyed playing the guitar and sharing his passion for music by giving
guitar lessons to his granddaughter during her visits to Ft. Scott.
Don’s legacy is carried on by his daughter, Valarie Ward of Broken Arrow, Oklahoma; his
granddaughters, Samantha Garnecky, Kimberley Parkinson (Jacob), and Izzabe la Ward; and his
great-grandchildren, Freya, Daemon, Weston, and Keagan. Also surviving is his sister, Jane
Clements (Terry) of Galena, Kansas. Don was preceded in death by his parents, Tom Tu ly and
Maxine Tu ly McMichaels.
Don’s life was a testament to the power of kindness, friendship, and generosity. His warm smile
and willingness to help others have left a mark on the community of Ft. Scott and beyond. His
departure from this world is not the end of his story, as those who loved him will continue to
honor his memory through acts of kindness and the sharing of fond memories.
A celebration of Don’s life will be held at a later date. Arrangements are under the direction of the
Cheney Witt Chapel, 201 S. Main, Ft. Scott, KS 66701. Words of remembrance may be submitted
to the online guestbook at cheneywitt.com.
