Bernard Raymond Townley, 90, of Glade, Kansas, passed away peacefully on July 31, 2026, at Logan Manor.

Bernard was born on May 8, 1936, in Phillips County, Kansas, to Raymond and Neva (Hays) Townley. He graduated from Phillipsburg High School and later attended the Kansas Highway Patrol Training Academy in Salina, Kansas.

On March 7, 1957, Bernard married the love of his life, Myrna (Groom) Townley, in Phillipsburg, Kansas. Together they shared 69 years of marriage and built a life centered on family and hard work. Their union was blessed with four children.

Bernard dedicated 36 years of service to the State of Kansas before retiring at the age of 62. Throughout his career, he was known for his integrity, commitment, and strong work ethic. After retirement, he continued what he considered his second full-time job, raising cattle and farming.

Bernard enjoyed livestock, farming, gardening, and collecting antiques. He took great pride in working with his livestock and caring for the land, pursuits that brought him great satisfaction throughout his life. Whether setting with his two cats Ornery and Mischief, tending his garden, working cattle, spending time on the farm, or searching for a treasured antique, Bernard found joy in the simple pleasures of rural life and the rewards of hard work.

Family was the cornerstone of Bernard's life. He is survived by his beloved wife of 69 years, Myrna Townley; daughter, Melody (Dennis) Frazee of Converse, Texas; sons, Brent (Zina) Townley of Ben Franklin, Texas, and Brian (Joan) Townley of WaKeeney, Kansas; grandsons, Tanner (Marissa) Townley and Ryan Townley (Mateo, his seeing-eye companion); great-granddaughter, Emerie Townley; sister-in-law, Donna Jean Townley. Along with many nieces, nephews, and friends who will cherish his memory.

Bernard was preceded in death by his daughter, Michella Townley; his parents, Raymond and Neva Townley; his in-laws, Earl and Laura Groom; his brother, Richard Townley; his sister and brother-in-law, Hope and Harvey Janssen; and his brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Wayne and Lois Groom.

Bernard will be remembered for his devotion to his family, his years of dedicated service to the State of Kansas, his love of farming and livestock, and the quiet strength and kindness he shared with everyone he knew. His legacy lives on through the family he loved and the values he passed on to future generations.

He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Per Bernard's wishes, a private family service will be held for immediate family members only.

Memorial contributions may be made in Bernard's honor to Freedom Guide Dogs and for memorial benches. Contributions may be sent in care of Olliff-Boeve Memorial Chapel, 1115 2nd Street, Phillipsburg, Kansas 67661.