Kourtney JoAnn Letterman

Kourtney JoAnn (James) Letterman passed away on October 27, 2026, at the age of 44. She was born on October 23, 1982, in Chanute, Kansas, to Larry R. and Mary L. (Bartholomew) James.

Kourtney was a graduate of Chanute High School, Class of 2001, and later continued her education at Mary Grimes School of Nursing, graduating in 2016. She went on to serve others as a nurse, a role that reflected the compassion and care that came so naturally to her.

She was united in marriage to Michael Letterman on July 7, 2001, in Chanute, Kansas. They later divorced. During their union, they were blessed with two beautiful babies, Karsyn Mykal and Karter Ray, who were the most cherished part of her life.

Karsyn and Karter, along with her big “James Gang” family, were the most important people in her world. The titles of Mom and Aunt “Kookie” were ones she wore with great pride. Her love extended far beyond her own family, as Kourtney was known for her compassionate heart and her willingness to welcome others with generosity and kindness. She always had open arms for anyone in need, even those she had just met. Her warmth and acceptance left a lasting impression on the many lives she touched.

Kourtney found joy in all things dirt track racing, trips down to the river, whether to fish, float, or simply sit and enjoy the moment. She had a deep love for music and singing. No matter the genre, she could recite and sing songs as though she had written them herself. She also enjoyed riding horses and had a love for every animal she crossed paths with.

Kourtney is survived by her father, Larry James (Anna), and her mother, Mary Bartholomew-James. She is also survived by her siblings, Tyler James (Samantha), Molly Wrestler (Derek), Kaylee Matlock (David), Larryn Davis (Tad), and Tevyn James (Josie). Her memory will also be treasured by her nieces and nephews, Tenlee James; Chanlynn, Ryker, and Brant Wrestler; Brock and Jensyn Matlock; Asher and Hunsley Davis; and Henry James.

She was preceded in death by her sister, Lindsey James; her grandparents, Ray and Ina James and Charles and MaryAnn Bartholomew; and her uncle, Charles Bartholomew.

Kourtney will be remembered not only for her caring nature, her deep love for her family, and the kindness she extended so freely to others, but also for the unwavering strength she carried. Even during her hardest trials, she never once showed signs of giving up. We will forever be so proud of that part of her.

Her memory will live on in the love she gave, the strength she showed, and the determination she carried through every situation. We will carry her love with us always and strive to live up to that same strength and determination, no matter what circumstances life may bring our way. She will forever be a part of us, and her memory will remain incredibly close to our hearts.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Kourtney Letterman Memorial Fund in care of Home Savings Bank in Chanute, Kansas.

Contributions will be used to help honor Kourtney’s memory and support her children’s future. There is also a Venmo account linked to the Fund for donations. @Kourtney-Memorialfund.

Cremation has taken place under the guidance of Wickham Family Funeral Home, 500 North Forest Avenue, Chanute, Kansas.

A visitation will be held on Thursday, November 12, 2026, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Wickham Family Funeral Home, 500 North Forest Avenue, Chanute, Kansas.

A funeral service will be held the following morning, Friday, November 13, 2026, at 10:30 a.m. at Wickham Family Funeral Home, 500 North Forest Avenue, Chanute, Kansas. Burial will follow at Earlton Cemetery, 15765 Earlton Cemetery Road.