Paola Community Grieves the Sudden Loss of John Hunter Slayman, 46, in Tragic Motorcycle Accident on U.S. Highway 69
Paola, KS – October 16, 2025
It is with heavy hearts and profound sorrow that the community of Paola, along with family, friends, and colleagues, mourns the untimely passing of John Hunter Slayman, age 46, who tragically lost his life in a motorcycle accident on U.S. Highway 69 on Wednesday afternoon.
According to authorities with the Miami County Sheriff’s Office and Kansas Highway Patrol, the fatal crash occurred around 3:10 p.m. near mile marker 77, just north of the Paola exit. Preliminary reports indicate that Slayman was traveling northbound on his motorcycle when a vehicle attempting to merge into traffic from the shoulder made contact with the motorcycle, causing Slayman to lose control. Despite life-saving efforts by emergency responders, he was pronounced dead at the scene.
The accident led to the closure of northbound lanes for several hours as investigators worked to piece together the sequence of events and clear the scene. The driver of the other vehicle remained on-site and is cooperating with authorities. The incident remains under investigation, and no charges have been filed as of Thursday morning.
A Beloved Son, Father, Friend, and Community Member
John Hunter Slayman was more than just a name in a tragic headline. A native and lifelong resident of Paola, he was a devoted father, a respected tradesman, and a loyal friend to many. Those who knew him speak of a man full of life, always ready to lend a hand, crack a joke, or ride off into the countryside on his beloved Harley.
John worked for over two decades in construction and home renovation, where he earned a reputation for his skill, attention to detail, and unwavering honesty. Clients often became friends, and coworkers became like family. He was known for showing up early, working hard, and never leaving a job unfinished.
“John had a presence about him,” said longtime friend and coworker Terry Malone. “He was the guy you could always count on—whether you needed help moving, needed your roof fixed, or just needed someone to listen. He was real. He was steady.”
Slayman is survived by his two teenage sons, Landon and Wyatt, who were the pride and joy of his life. Friends say John rarely missed a football game or school event, and he spoke often of how proud he was of the young men his boys were becoming.
“He lived for his kids,” said Mandy Sullivan, a close family friend. “Every decision he made, he made with Landon and Wyatt in mind. He wanted to be the kind of father they could always count on—and he was.”
John also leaves behind his parents, Mark and Evelyn Slayman, his sister Tina Slayman-Ward, and a wide circle of cousins, friends, and neighbors whose lives he touched over the years.
A Community in Mourning
The tragic news has left the Paola community reeling. Social media has since been flooded with messages of grief, shared memories, and photos of John at barbecues, bike rallies, youth sporting events, and community fundraisers.
“His death is just devastating,” said Pastor Caleb Jennings of Paola First Assembly, where John occasionally attended. “He was a man who loved deeply, worked hard, and lived with purpose. Our prayers are with his family, especially his boys.”
A memorial ride is already being planned by the Miami County Riders Club, of which John was an active member. The group hopes to honor his legacy with a community ride later this month, followed by a fundraiser to support his children’s future education.
“John wasn’t just part of the motorcycle community—he was family,” said fellow rider Danny Alvarez. “Every time we rode together, he reminded us to enjoy the road and the people around us. He lived that way every day.”
Remembering the Man Behind the Helmet
John Hunter Slayman was a man of grit and heart, known for his loyalty, sense of humor, and love of the open road. Whether you found him fixing a broken fence, flipping burgers at a backyard party, or cruising the Flint Hills at sunset, John brought authenticity and warmth wherever he went.
He loved classic rock, especially Tom Petty and AC/DC. He had a weakness for strong coffee, barbecue ribs, and fishing trips with his boys. And he believed in working hard, speaking the truth, and keeping your word.
“He wasn’t perfect, but he was real,” said family friend Brianna Moore. “And in this world, that counts for a lot. We’ll miss him more than words can say.”
A Call for Road Awareness
As the investigation into the accident continues, John’s tragic passing serves as a somber reminder of the vulnerability of motorcyclists on the road. Local authorities and riding organizations are urging all drivers to exercise heightened awareness, especially during the fall months when visibility can change quickly and roads can become unpredictable.
“Look twice, save a life,” said Sgt. Matt Denison with the Kansas Highway Patrol. “Motorcyclists have just as much right to the road as anyone else, and we all need to do our part to prevent tragedies like this.”
Honoring John’s Life
Funeral arrangements for John Hunter Slayman are being handled by Wilson & Sons Funeral Home in Paola. A public visitation will be held on Sunday, October 19, followed by a celebration of life service on Monday, October 20 at 10:00 a.m. at the Paola Community Center.
In lieu of flowers, the family has asked that donations be made to the Landon and Wyatt Slayman Memorial Education Fund, which has been established at First Option Bank.
Though his life was cut far too short, John’s memory will continue to ride strong in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.
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