READING, Kan. – Malonne I. Davies, 78, passed away Monday, Jan. 19, 2026, at Osage Nursing Center, Osage City, Kan. Malonne Irene Rioth was born Feb. 18, 1947, in Council Grove, Kan., the daughter of John Marion and Vera Belle (Schubert) Rioth.
She graduated from Derby High School, Derby, Kan., in 1965, and attended Ottawa University for her undergrad. Later, she received master’s degree in chemistry and biology at Emporia State University. She went on to receive her doctorate degree in education from the University of Kansas.
She was joined in marriage to Dale Melvin Davies, July 27, 1975, in Ottawa, Kan.
Malonne had been a teacher in Osage City for several years, and then on to be a professor at Emporia State University.
She was very active in her community serving as mayor and on the city council, and serving as a certified lay preacher at Olpe United Methodist Church, Olpe, Kan., teaching Bible study and being a part of the United Methodist Women. Also, she was member of the Reading Book Club. In her spare time, she loved drawing, painting, and gardening.
Malonne will be forever remembered by her two daughters, Dawn (Bruce) Schoepflin, of Osage City, and Dorene Davies, Olathe, Kan.; and four grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Dale; and an infant brother.
Funeral service will be 1 p.m. Monday, Jan. 26, at Reading United Methodist Church, Reading, Kan. Family will receive friends 4-6 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 25, at the Jones VanArsdale Funeral Home, Lebo.
Memorial contributions can be made to Reading United Methodist Church, and sent in care of Jones VanArsdale Funeral Home, PO Box 43, Lebo, KS 66856. Condolences can be left at vanarsdalefs.com.
