Jonetta Rae O'Brien, a beloved member of the Ness City community, passed away at the age of 65 on May 19, 2026, at the Ness County Hospital. Born in Ness City, Kansas, on November 8, 1960, she was the daughter of Gary and Mary (Ellis) O’Brien.

For 47 devoted years, Jonetta served as a dietary aide at the Ness County Hospital, touching countless lives with her kindness and gentle spirit. A dedicated member of the Sacred Heart Church and its Altar Society, she was known as a peacemaker both at home and at work, whose warmth and friendship left a lasting impression on everyone she met.

Jonetta’s love for horses was a defining part of her life. Whether showing her own horse or accompanying friends to horse shows, she found joy in every moment spent with these majestic animals. Her compassion extended to all creatures, wild or domestic, reflecting her deep and abiding respect for life.

Though her work and passion for horses were central to her daily life, Jonetta treasured her family above all else. She centered her world around them, finding strength and happiness in their presence.

She is lovingly remembered by her sisters, Jackie and Tina O’Brien of Ness City; her aunt, Lois and Charlie Shauers of Ness City; her uncle-in-law, Raymond Palkowitch of Burlington, Colorado; aunt-in-law, Joyce Ellis of Dighton; her dear cousin and best friend, Janet Dennis of Dighton; and a wide circle of cousins and friends who were blessed to know her.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Friday, May 22, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Sacred Heart Church in Ness City, followed by interment at Sacred Heart Cemetery. Friends and family may pay their respects on Thursday, May 21, 2026, from 1:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Fitzgerald Funeral Home, Ness City. A Rosary will be prayed at 6:30 p.m., preceding the evening visitation.

Memorial contributions may be directed to Sacred Heart Cemetery or the Kansas Western Horseman's Association.

The family welcomes words of sympathy and support at www.fitzgeraldfuneral.com.