Donna Lee Leek

Born in Toledo, Ohio in 1948 to Jessie & Fred Van Noy, Donna’s childhood experiences included living in El Centro, CA, Toledo, OH, Atchison & Kansas City, KS and ultimately Independence, MO. Donna was raised by her parents in the Salvation Army Church where her grandparents served as ministers and began a life of service and love for the Lord at an early age. Throughout her life, Donna loved traveling and expressing her gifts for the visual, performing and literary arts.

Donna attended William Chrisman High School, where she graduated in 1966 and earned various awards for her visual and literary artwork. Prior to graduation, Donna participated in several school activities, including choir (one of her favorites) and yearbook club. Donna was also inducted into the prestigious Quill & Scroll International Honor Society for High School Journalists for exceptional journalism skills exhibited throughout her education.

Thereafter, Donna pursued her passion for the arts and humanities through her work in the early education and community-led nonprofit sectors. Donna also served in multiple community volunteer capacities, always emphasizing service and advocacy for children, families and youth. Donna loved spending time with her family and friends, antiquing, crafting, gardening, and her favorite pastime of baking with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Donna will also be remembered for her love of music, which she expressed by singing at church, listening to The Beatles, and her lifelong commitment to being Elvis Presley’s #1 fan.

Donna is preceded in death by her parents, Fred & Jessie Van Noy, and many aunts and uncles, who are now all rejoicing together in their eternal reunion. Donna is survived by her bother Fred Van Noy, five loving children Jeffrey, William (BJ), Lawrence, Dawn (Che’) and Derek, 7 grandchildren, and 16 great grandchildren. Donna also leaves behind her nephews, niece and a host of extended family, friends and adopted children she loved and cared for throughout her life.

A celebration of Donna’s life will be held May 17, 2025, at 1:00pm at the Independence Salvation Army. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials be sent to: The Donna L. Leek Memorial, c/o Operation Liberation PO Box 270691, Kansas City, MO 64127.