Gerald Wayne Scott

Gerald “Gary” Wayne Scott, age 87, passed away peacefully at his home on November 1, 2025. He was born on February 23, 1938, in Sumner County near Portland, Kansas.

Gary graduated from the University of Wichita in 1961, where he proudly played on the Men’s Tennis Team—winning numerous tournaments—and was a charter member of Phi Delta Theta fraternity. He earned his degree in Mathematics with double minors in Economics and Business.

In 1962, Gary met Barbara Nibbelink in Topeka, Kansas. They married in 1963 and shared 62 wonderful years together. Following his time at the University of Wichita, Gary attended Washburn University School of Law, graduating in 1964. He then served two years in the U.S. Army.

Gary was preceded in death by his parents, Raymond and Eunice Scott; his sisters, Eleanor Egy, Nellie Russell, and Doris Keifer; and his brothers, Raymond, Eddie, and Eldon Scott.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Barbara “Nibbelink” Scott; his sisters, Donna “Scott” Fowler (Milt) and Marian “Scott” Coffman; his daughter, Kelly “Scott” Schwantz (Ty); and his son, Mark Scott (Gianna). He is also survived by his grandchildren, Alyssa “Scott” Hoffine (Dakota), Alexandra Scott, Leo Schwantz, and Tyler Schwantz; and by his great-grandson, Henry Hoffine.

Gary was proud of his long and loving marriage to Barbara and was an enthusiastic supporter of her artwork. Together, they traveled the world with their children and grandchildren—visiting Africa (Tanzania), Indonesia, Russia, Egypt, Thailand, Myanmar, China, Belgium, The Netherlands, Spain, Portugal, Peru, Argentina, most notably, France, a favorite destination. Gary’s love of travel and photography inspired a deep passion for exploration in his family. He also enjoyed domestic adventures, particularly to Yellowstone National Park, New Orleans, and Natchez, and attended many major sporting events including the NCAA Final Four, Wimbledon, the U.S. Open, and the Olympics—twice.

During his distinguished legal career, Gary was deeply involved with the Kansas Bar Association and the Kansas Trial Lawyers Association (KTLA), where he served as President and as a member of the Board of Governors. He was instrumental in shaping insurance legislation in Kansas and represented numerous clients before the Kansas Supreme Court and Kansas Court of Appeals. In 1983, Gary opened his own law practice in the historic Buttermilk Lion Building across from the Sedgwick County Courthouse. He served as a mentor to many young attorneys and was known for his passionate and principled advocacy—practicing law for many years alongside his son, Mark.

Gary will be remembered for his generosity, wisdom, integrity, and selfless compassion for others. Though quiet by nature, he had a quick wit that brought laughter to those around him. He was deeply respected by colleagues, friends, and family, and leaves behind a lasting legacy of kindness, intellect, and love.

The family welcomes friends and colleagues to visit and share stories about Gary at the family home on Wednesday, November 5, from 4:00 to 6:30. Please reach out to Mark Scott at mark@ras.law if you can attend for further details. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions to any of the following are appreciated: Sedgwick County Zoo, Kansas Humane Society, the Washburn Law Fund for Excellence.

Share condolences at www.cozine.com. Arrangements by Cozine Memorial Group-Cozine Life Events Center.