Alberta R. McChesney of Cowley County, Kansas, passed away peacefully April 29, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of love, faith, and quiet strength, and if you really knew her, a deep vein of orneriness.

Alberta, was born April 4,1931 at their family home outside of Arkansas City, Kansas. One of three daughters born to Harvey Rowe and Marion Ibach, Alberta grew up on the family farm outside of Arkansas City, Kansas which was the subject of many a story and happy memory. Alberta was a woman of many simple joys and meaningful talents. She found great happiness in tending her garden, where her green thumb and patience brought beauty to life season after season. She was an avid reader, always eager to learn and reflect, and she shared her gift of music by playing the piano for her church—an expression of her deep and steady faith. She was known as the family historian and dedicated years to caring for her parents and in laws. Known for her quick wit , a mind for trivia and a crafty spirit, Alberta could often be found in mountains of books, recording her "stories" ( better known as soap operas) or a new project she was undertaking.

She delighted in following her husband Joe from work location to work location throughout their married life and always supported his career with Cities Service as an engineer, the McClouth Threshing Bee and local volunteer fire department implementations.

She was preceded in death by her father Harvey Albert Rowe, mother Marion Rachel Rowe (Ibach), sister Myrna Walton (Rowe) , her beloved husband, Joseph McChesney; her daughters, Shavaun Vernon and Brenna Dwight; and her son-in-law, Duane Vernon.

Alberta is survived by her sister Carol Jordon; son-in-law, Tim Dwight; her grandchildren, Drew (Heather) Vernon, Sean (Kizzi) Vernon, Rachel Dwight, and Mark Dwight; and her cherished great-grandchildren, Josiah, Braden, Gavin, Rennick, and Stanley Vernon. She also leaves behind her bonus chosen family: Dr. Brad and Stephanie Farr and family, chosen great-granddaughter, Sarah Folsom, and bonus great-great-grandson, Hendrix Folsom.

Alberta's life was rooted in love—for her family, and the simple, beautiful moments that make a life well-lived. She spent her final years surrounded by family and friends, lots of laughter, the Andy Griffith Show and loads of homemade pie. She may have been known as an introvert and happiest at home with her books and family but for those she allowed in her private world, it was one of rich conversations, a mind like a vault, laughter and the biggest hugs. "WHAT are you WATCHING Grandma!?! " Will forever be used as an inside joke and common household phrase to remind us all to keep life spicy.

Cremation has taken place with a private family inurnment at the Cambridge, Kansas Cemetery in Cowley County.

Memorial contributions in her name may be sent in care of Chapel Oaks Funeral Home, 124 S Seventh Street, Hiawatha, KS 66434, who is assisting the family.  A special message to the family or note of remembrance may be sent to www.chapeloaksfuneralhome,com