Delila June DuBois, 84, of Horton, Kansas passed away on August 12, 2026, in Topeka, Kansas, leaving behind a beautiful legacy of family, tradition, service, laughter, and a life lived with joy.
Delila was born on June 7, 1942, in Horton, Kansas, the daughter of Frank and Alberta (Williams) Cadue. She attended Whiting High School and later Haskell Institute, where she was a cheerleader, graduated, and met her future husband, Leslie A DuBois. Delila and Leslie were married on June 17, 1964, in Lawrence, Kansas.
Through the Indian Relocation Program, Delila relocated to Cleveland, Ohio, where she began building a life and career. She worked for St. Paul Insurance Company as an assistant underwriter before retiring after many years of dedicated service.
Delila and Les had two children, the late Curtis DuBois and Cheryl DuBois. Family was always at the heart of Delila's life, and she took great pride in the generations that followed her. After returning home to the Horton area, Delila worked for the Kickapoo Nation Health Center. It was there that another special part of her personality shined through—her love for children. Delila especially enjoyed spoiling the children who came to visit her office, greeting them with the warmth, humor, and kindness that came so naturally to her. Delila truly enjoyed life and stayed active throughout the years. She loved softball, bowling, and golfing, but her greatest joy was Traditional Women's dancing. When Delila danced, she carried herself with pride and grace, honoring a tradition that was deeply meaningful to her. Dancing was more than something she enjoyed—it was a part of who she was. Delila was also a founding member of the Kickapoo Women's Auxiliary, Post 415, where she at times served as President. Through the Auxiliary and throughout her life, Delila generously gave her time and cared deeply for her community and its people.
Those who knew Delila will remember far more than the places she worked or the positions she held. They will remember her beautiful smile, her laughter, her kindness, and her joyful spirit. Whether she was dancing, playing softball, bowling, golfing, spending time with family, or spoiling another child who wandered into her office, Delila had a way of bringing happiness with her.
Delila is survived by her daughter, Cheryl (Richard) DuBois Mendoza of Green Bay, Wisconsin; her sister, Nellie Cadue of Horton, Kansas; her brother, Wesley “Bucky” Cadue of Horton, Kansas; her grandchildren, Olivia Mendoza, Raymond Mendoza, Richard Mendoza, and Rachel Mendoza; her 7 great grandchildren; along with her beloved nieces, nephews, extended family members, and many friends.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Frank and Alberta (Williams) Cadue; her husband, Les DuBois; and her son, Curtis DuBois.
Kennekuk Church services will be at 6:00 P.M. on Thursday, August 13, 2026, at the Kickapoo Community Building. Burial will be on Friday morning at the Kennekuk Cemetery on the Kickapoo Reservation.
