Voni Kone

Voni Kone, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and cherished friend, passed away suddenly and unexpectedly on May 4, 2026, at the age of seventy-four. Born Edelle Von Hartford on May 17, 1951, in Levelland, Texas, Voni was the daughter of Elmer Lester Hartford and Edith Frances Baxter. She was predeceased by her parents, her sister Rose Oney, and her brother Jimmy Hartford. Voni's journey in life was marked by dedication, compassion, and a love for the natural world. After graduating from Pecos High School, she pursued her passion for geology at West Texas State University, earning her Bachelor's degree in 1980. In a groundbreaking achievement, she became the first female geologist hired by Diamond Shamrock Exploration and Production, a position she held with pride and enthusiasm for several years. On May 17, 1979, Voni married James Kone in Amarillo, Texas. Together, they celebrated nearly 47 years of marriage, building a life rich with love and laughter. Voni is survived by her devoted husband Jim, her son Jimmy, her daughter Kimberly, and her five treasured grandchildren: Meadow, Ava, Austin, Emma, and Caroline. A woman of deep faith, Voni was a long time member of St Andrew's Episcopal Church. In her younger years, she taught Sunday school, was a Lay Eucharist Minister and a member of the Alter Guild. Her nurturing spirit extended to her hobbies, where she found joy in sewing and selecting clothing and gifts for her grandchildren. She was a sustaining member of the Junior League and a co-chair of Funfest. An ardent animal lover, she cherished her two Yorkies, Libby and Lizzy, and had a profound affection for animals of all kinds. Despite enduring nearly two decades of persistent pain, Voni's resilience and warmth never wavered. She often expressed how much she missed her friends and regretted being unable to participate in the activities she once enjoyed. Her strength and grace in the face of adversity were a testament to her enduring spirit. In honor of Voni's generous spirit and love for others, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the Amarillo SPCA or St. Jude's Children's Research Hospital. They also extend their heartfelt gratitude to BSA for the compassionate care provided during Voni's final days. Voni Kone will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her. Her legacy of love, kindness, and perseverance will continue to inspire those she leaves behind.