Dedra (Dee) Cavaness

Dedra (Dee) (Goins) Cavaness, 65, passed away peacefully at her home on May 5, 2026, surrounded by the family she cherished deeply. A woman of profound love and dedication, Dedra lived a life centered on her most treasured roles as a wife and mother.

Dedra was born to Olin Harold Goins and Alice Marie (VanMeter) Goins on December 31, 1960, in Chanute, Kansas.

She gladly married Tim Cavaness on September 22, 1979, at the Holiness Church in Independence, Kansas.

A devoted homemaker, Dedra found great pride and fulfillment in nurturing her family. She was renowned for her culinary talents; every meal she prepared was a testament to her care and skill, delighting all who were fortunate enough to taste her cooking. Beyond her immediate family, she extended her generosity by being the first to bring nourishing food to those in need in her community, embodying a spirit of warmth and compassion.

Dedra also contributed her efforts as an Auction Clerk, working alongside her brother-in-law, Larry Marshall, demonstrating her willingness to support those close to her in their endeavors.  She was a strong and independent woman who delighted in spoiling her grandchildren, often indulging their desires during her joyful shopping excursions.

Her educational journey culminated with her graduating from Independence Bible School in 1979; she was Valedictorian of her class, a foundation that likely influenced her devotion to her family and community. Dee faithfully attended Parkview Holiness Church until failing health would no longer allow her to attend. 

Dedra is survived by her beloved husband, Tim, with whom she shared a wonderful life with full of love. She is also lovingly remembered by her children: Shanda Nichols of Mahomet, Illinois; Benton Cavaness of Thayer, Kansas; and Chesna McGovney of Creighton, Missouri. Her sister, Gayle Garretson of Thayer, Kansas, and her grandchildren, Malachi, Jaden, and Owen Nichols; Justus Graff; Zane, Timothy, and Alice Cavaness; and Elliot, Nolan, and Lane McGovney.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Olin and Alice Goins, and her sister, Patty Marshall, whose memories she treasured.

Memorials in honor of Dedra are suggested to Parkview Holiness Church, Chanute, Kansas, and can be left with or mailed to the funeral home.

The community is invited to pay their respects and celebrate Dedra’s life during the visitation on Friday, May 8, 2026, from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm, at Wickham Family Funeral Home, 500 North Forest Avenue, Chanute, Kansas. A Celebration of Life Funeral service will be held on Saturday, May 9, 2026, at 1:00 pm., at the funeral home, followed by burial at Thayer Cemetery, Thayer, Kansas.

Dedra (Goins) Cavaness leaves behind a legacy enriched by her unwavering dedication to her family, her kindness to those around her, and a life well-lived in quiet strength and gentle love.

Services are under the personal care of Wickham Family Funeral Home, 500 North Forest Avenue, Chanute, Kansas 66720.