Violet Windham

An Inspirational Life: Major Violet Windham

Major Violet Windham, a woman whose life was a vibrant tapestry of faith, family, and boundless joy, passed away on October 8, 2025, in Wichita, Kansas. She was born on June 7, 1944, and lived a life of extraordinary service, both in uniform and as the cornerstone of her loving family.

A dedicated officer with The Salvation Army for nearly 25 years, Violet served alongside her beloved husband, Major George Windham. Her exceptional organizational skills and accounting background were woven directly into her ministry, ensuring the efficient operation of the units they led. Violet took a meaningful 20-year leave from ministry to focus entirely on raising her children, during which time she continued applying her sharp mind in various accounting roles for outside organizations, always bringing diligence and integrity to her work.

Violet's devotion to her family was her greatest passion. Her extraordinary marriage to Major George Windham spanned 59 years—a testament to enduring love and partnership. Though Violet is now reunited with her husband and her mother, Isabelle, she leaves behind a family who will forever cherish her memory and the "legacy of love, laughter, playfulness, and inspiration" she instilled in them.

She is survived by her two loving sons and their wives: Chris (Julie) Windham of Wichita, KS, and Dr. Chipp (Dawn) Windham of Lake Elmo, MN. Violet was the proud and doting grandmother to four grandsons: Taylor (Veronica), Jacob (Melissa), and Brent (Houa), all residing in Minnesota, and Walker (Allison) of Wichita. Her joy was multiplied by her four precious great-grandchildren: Lucas, Jayce, MaKenna, and Samford.

Violet had a special love for all things purple and the bright, cheerful faces of sunflowers, two symbols that perfectly reflect her own vibrant and sunny disposition. Her life was a masterpiece of devotion—to her God, her family, and the many lives she brightened. She will be profoundly missed but never forgotten.