Donice Mae Medina, a luminary in her community and a cherished family member, made her journey to Heaven on Tuesday, March 11, 2025, in Hugoton, Kansas, surrounded by those who loved her the most. She was born on June 16, 1957, in Ulysses, Kansas, to Moises and Pauline (Leal) Arellano, and spent her life dedicated to serving others while nurturing her family and friends with the warmth of her spirited personality.

Donice married the love of her life Michael “Taco” Medina on January 10, 1976 in Hugoton, Kansas. To this union they had two children Seth and Aidreah. She was welcomed at the Heavenly gates by her loving husband and daughter.

Donice lived life to its fullest, embodying a zest for fun and creativity that drew people to her. She had a profound love for cooking, which was highlighted by her achievements in chili cook-offs—first alongside her mother and sister and then triumphantly on her own with her signature green chili. She found joy in cooking, dancing, and listening to a diverse range of music. A vibrant participant in her community, she was well-known for her love of games and arts, often spreading her creativity through coloring and crafts, proudly taking part in spelling bees at the Manor. She also won Valentine’s Queen twice, one most recently being on February 14, 2025.

A beloved Athletic Director’s Assistant at Hugoton High School, Donice’s career began with many years at Premier Alfalfa, where she not only honed her professional skills but also earned the respect and admiration of her coworkers. Her contributions to the community extended far beyond her employment; she was an influential member of various local organizations, including serving as a Girl Scout Leader and engaging in initiatives such as blood drives, charity dinners, city council endeavors, volunteering for cancer walks, and heart associations. Her efforts to improve her town were recognized when she was honored as Citizen of the Year and Ambassador of the Year by the Chamber of Commerce.

Additionally, she was an active participant in the St. Helen’s Church and the First Church of God, exemplifying her strong spiritual foundation. Her personality sparkled with joy and compassion, welcoming those around her with a loving smile and embrace. Donice’s motto, “Play to win or Don’t play at all,” reflected her passionate approach to life—a testament to her indomitable spirit that endeared her to many. She often reminded her family and friends that “God is Love; Love is God,” emphasizing the strong faith that guided her everyday actions.

Survived by her son, Seth Medina; two brothers, Moses Arellano & wife Gloria and Phillip Arellano & partner Eloy; four sisters, Lita Talbert & husband Ray, Ruby Watkins, Mary Romero & husband Tom, and Shirley Hale; two grandchildren, Teddy Stewart and Kathleen Medina; along with many cherished God-Children, nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends, Donice’s legacy will forever be woven into the fabric of her community.

She is preceded in death by her loving husband Michael (Taco) Medina, her parents Moises and Pauline (Leal) Arellano, and her daughter Aidreah Medina. Though her physical presence will be deeply missed, her spirit of love and service lives on in the hearts of those who knew her.

In lieu of flowers the family asks for memorials to be made for USD 210 Athletics Department, Pioneer Manor, or First Church of God of Hugoton, in care of Robson Funeral Home, P.O. Box 236, Hugoton, Kansas 67951.

Visitation to honor Donice Mae Medina will be held on Friday, March 14, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM at Robson Funeral Home in Hugoton, Kansas. The family will receive friends from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM.

A Celebration of Life will follow at the First Church of God on Saturday, March 15, 2025, at 2:00 PM.

Burial will follow at Hugoton Cemetery, Hugoton, Kansas.

Her vibrant spirit and the myriad of memories she created will be cherished forever.