Pamela (Pam) Kay Schneider, 59, of Overland Park, Kansas and formerly of Chanute, peacefully passed away on September 11, 2024 at Hospice House Olathe.
Pamela Harris was born on August 18, 1965 in Salina, Kansas to Sandy and Mike— the first of their three daughters. She spent the entirety of her childhood in Chanute, Kansas, where she was captain of the drum line and commonly referred to as “Pammy.” Pam graduated from Pittsburg State University in 1987 with a degree in Business Administration. After dating for six years, Pam married Douglas Schneider in 1996. Together they had two children, Dylan, born in 1999 and Addie Jo in 2003. The family made their home on five acres outside of Edgerton, Kansas. Until the birth of their daughter, Pam worked in the sports law field as a legal assistant before ultimately making the decision to dedicate time to her favorite job title, mom. Doug and Pam were married for 24 years until deciding to continue growing as friends and co-parents.
Pam was a devoted, loving and incredible mother. Her gift wrapping skills were top tier, she made the world’s best lasagna and loved a Sonic Dr. Pepper (with as much ice as you can put in it) more than anyone. She dedicated her time to the PTO at Edgerton Elementary and serving on the Booster Club at McCrackens Gymnastics. However, the most important thing was being there for her kids. Throughout her life, “being there” looked a little different than most, but she did so with the biggest smile, greatest heart and best hugs.
During the final years of her life, Pam ran, well, wheeled, into new challenges after having her right leg amputated. We want to extend the greatest thank you to her medical team at the University of Kansas Health System, the staff of Sunrise Senior Living for making the little things that much easier, and Alexis Rice, who selflessly volunteered her time to take Pam to and from appointments, the almost daily Sonic run and to get the newest magazines the day they hit the shelf. Pam loved you as a daughter and we could not be more thankful she had you as a friend.
Pam is survived by her mother, Sandra Emery; father, Frederick Milo Harris (former Chanute Tribune Publisher); her children, Dylan and Addie Schneider, who she loved more than anything in this world; her favorite two sisters, Molly (Jeff) Laughlin and Betsy (David) Heitman; Henry, Ann, Adam and Andy who were the greatest nieces and nephews she could have asked for; and former husband, Douglas Schneider. She is preceded in death by her step-father, Dr. Frank Emery.
In lieu of flowers, we ask that you make a charitable donation to Children’s Mercy Kansas City if able. Pam held Children’s Mercy close to her heart and gave annually in honor of her nephew, Andy. It was her wish that we continue supporting accessible healthcare for newborns, youth and their families.
Live one day at a time and hold close those you love most. We will miss Pam every moment of every day.
It was Pam’s wish to have her life be celebrated through sharing memories and reconnecting with old friends. We will hold a Celebration of Life for Pam on Sunday, October 6 from 3:00-7:00 pm at Warren Place in Gardner, KS- feel free to come and go. We would love for you to join us as we cater her favorite restaurant, cheers with a Dr. Pepper and watch an afternoon football game. Beer, wine and soft drinks will be provided. Please wear anything but black and dress comfortable— she was a simple gal.
