Vida C. Stanton

Vida C. Stanton, a woman whose life was a testament to grace, profound intellect, and unwavering kindness, peacefully entered God’s eternal Kingdom on December 14, 2024, from Luther Manor in Wauwatosa, Wisconsin. Her journey began on August 3, 1930, in the comforting embrace of Holyrood, Kansas, born to Elsie and John Cummins, who instilled in her a deep appreciation for learning and life’s simple joys.

Vida’s early years in Holyrood laid the rich foundation for a life dedicated to the pursuit and sharing of knowledge. After graduating high school in 1947, her inherent curiosity and scholarly spirit led her to the University of Kansas in Lawrence, where she earned her undergraduate degree in library science. Not content to rest on her laurels, she continued her academic ascent, securing a master’s degree from the esteemed University of Wisconsin-Madison. With a heart full of purpose, Vida spent years as a cherished public-school librarian across various Kansas communities, meticulously cultivating a love for reading and the thrill of discovery in countless young minds.

A true trailblazer in her field, Vida’s dedication culminated in her achieving a Doctorate of Library Science from the University of Indiana in Bloomington in 1972. This remarkable accomplishment paved her way to the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, where she graced the campus as an esteemed associate professor in library science. Until her well-deserved retirement in 2000, she not only imparted invaluable knowledge but also illuminated the paths of aspiring librarians, leaving an indelible mark on the profession.

Vida’s life was a beautifully woven tapestry of deep connections and enduring love. She has now been reunited in eternal peace with her beloved husband, Dale, with whom she shared a lifetime of cherished moments and laughter. Her parents, John and Elsie Cummins, and her dear sisters, Bertha Cummins Dresden and La Dene Cummins Terry, also awaited her in heavenly embrace. Vida leaves behind a legacy of profound love carried forward by her devoted son, David, and his cherished wife, Carolyn. Her memory will also be tenderly held by her nephew, Greg Terry, and her nieces, Janna Dresden-Cervero and Danielle Dresden, all of whom were touched by her warmth and wisdom.

A Service of Remembrance and Lasting Legacy to celebrate Vida’s remarkable life and enduring spirit will be held on Saturday, August 2, 2025, at 1:00 PM at Berea Lutheran Church, 4873 North 107th Street, Milwaukee, Wisconsin. A private entombment will be held for the immediate family.

In lieu of floral tributes, the family kindly requests that you consider honoring Vida’s memory with a donation to the KU Endowment for the benefit of the Vida Cummins Stanton Scholarship. This scholarship will serve as a living testament to her lifelong passion for education, continuing her legacy of empowering future generations of scholars and enriching the world through knowledge. Checks should be made payable to “KU Endowment,” with “In Memory of Vida Cummins Stanton” noted in the memo line, and mailed to:

KU Endowment Memorials

P.O. Box 928

Lawrence, KS 66044

For those who prefer the convenience of giving online, you may visit kuendowment.org/memorials.

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