Donna Jean JoRay

“I know a woman of strength and beauty, I have watched her for years... She is my mother.”

Donna Jean JoRay, age 85, was a remarkable person who lived her life with grace, dignity, and an unwavering commitment to family. She showed perseverance in the face of adversity through the help of her faith and loving spirit. Generosity was one of her defining qualities; she always had a kind word or gesture for anyone she met, whether it was a stranger on the street, her family, or one of her many friends.

Her legacy included not only the memories we shared with her but also the values she instilled in us: kindness, compassion, and generosity. She left you better for having met her, and was a “battle tested warrior queen.”

Donna was born in Atchison, Kansas. Upon graduation from high school, she moved to Kansas City, where she met and married Tom JoRay. Donna worked at the Shawnee Mission School District, in the field of data entry, and as an assistant to the owner of a small independent business over the course of her life. The job she held most dear was the title of “Mom”.

She loved nothing more than spending time with her family and imparting words and acts of wisdom that we will carry with us for the rest of our lives. It’s hard to imagine life without her warm smile and gentle presence, but we find solace in knowing that she lived a full and meaningful life surrounded by those she loved most. We are comforted by the knowledge that she was welcomed into Heaven by the warm embrace of her son, Dennis, and husband, Tom.

Nonny loved hard and easily. To her daughter, Barbara she was simply the best. Beauty, warmth, and compassion, all wrapped up in a five-foot-frame. To her granddaughter, Aria, and grandson, Dawson, she was a soft, guiding hand who never missed an opportunity to express her love. She was adored by Dennis, by whom she was called “his angel”, as well as her countless chosen children who claimed her as their own.

The JoRay house was the place everyone was drawn to. Where you knew you would always be fed, and where no person or furry friend ever went without. All of those who were blessed enough to share a meal at Nonny’s house will be left longing for one last Texas chocolate cake, Nonny egg, or slice of lasagna. Donna left a fingerprint on your heart, and left you better for ever having met her.

To Dawson, your unwavering heartfelt dedication and love shown to your Nonny is something everyone has praised and will always be remembered. For the past year of Friday nights Cindy spent with Donna, for the last two months of her life that Rancy, Jeff, Scott, and Vic selflessly gave their time to be at her side, and for the thoughts and prayers of countless friends and family, we are eternally grateful.

To St. Luke’s hospital, the staffs of MSTICU, East 4, and Neuro 4, the Doctors, nurses, nursing assistants, chaplins, and therapists, who all treated Donna as if she were your own, we thank you for your care. You made a difficult journey so much easier, and we will never forget you.

Donna made it a habit of reaching for your hand, but touching your heart. Nonny always asked what she could do for others, not what they could do for her. In her memory, we ask that donations be made towards St. Agnes Catholic Church, or KC Pet Project in honor of the animals she loved so much.

We love her more than words can ever say.

A memorial visitation for Donna will be held Saturday, June 3, 2023 from 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. at St. Agnes Catholic Church, 5250 Mission Rd, Roeland Park, KS 66205, followed by a memorial mass at 10:00 a.m. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.mcgilleymidtownchapel.com for the JoRay family.