Thelma "Loretta" Broughton Cunningham French, 83, passed away on Dec. 31, 2014. She was born to Leonard and Theora Broughton on Sept. 28, 1931, at the family farm in Francis, Okla. The family moved to Hoisington, KS, where she graduated from high school in 1949. Loretta moved to Hutchinson to attend Salt City Business College, graduating in the fall of 1950.

On Feb. 21, 1952, she married Vernon Cunningham Jr. The newlyweds settled in Hutchinson having two children, Laura and Ray. The Cunninghams were married for 31 years until Vernon's death on July 26, 1983. Loretta later married Bill French on Oct. 16, 1992, until his death on March 27, 2004.

Loretta worked for abstracting, insurance, and realty companies over the years. Hall Abstract, Hayes Agency, Jayhawk Realty, and Reno County Abstract and Title were all companies she worked for in a business career that lasted over 40 years.

Away from work she was a avid bowler, winning team titles in city and state tournaments, while also competing at nationals on several occasions. After her retirement, she became a painter and was a patron of the Hutchinson Art Center. The Moose Lodge #982 of Hutchinson was also a passion of hers and her late husband, Bill. She held the office of Senior Regent, the highest post for a female officer. When she wasn't involved with her many activities, she enjoyed watching the Kansas Jayhawks.

She is survived by: her daughter, Laura Cunningham Rivera and husband Tom of Glenn Heights, Texas; son, Ray and wife Geri of Merriam, KS; brothers, Jack Broughton of Fort Dodge, KS, Bill Broughton and wife Carol of Oklahoma City; and sister, Rosalie Renz of Rush Center; along with many nieces and nephews.

Memorial service will be at 11 a.m. Wednesday, January 7, 2015, at Elliott Chapel, Hutchinson, with Chaplain Luke Helmuth presiding. Friends may sign her book from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday and Tuesday, and from 9 a.m. to service time Wednesday at Elliott Mortuary, Hutchinson.

Memorials may be made to the Hutchinson Art Association, or Hutchinson Animal Shelter, in care of Elliott Mortuary, 1219 North Main, Hutchinson, KS 67501.