A Visitation will be held from 2:00pm to 3:00pm pm on Thursday, August 13, followed by a 3:00pm Memorial Service at Mt. Moriah, Newcomer & Freeman Funeral Home, 10507 Holmes Road, Kansas City, Missouri. Masks are required and social distancing will be practiced.
Donna was born January 12, 1940 in Kansas City, Missouri, to Marie and Robert DeShaffon. After graduating from Center High School, she attended KU for one year before marrying the love of her life, Al Kennedy. She was a homemaker and also taught preschool at Colonial Presbyterian Church, where she was known for her fun and creative crafts, art projects and music lessons with the kids. She was also actively involved in her own two children’s (Heather and Scott) school, sports and music activities, including Cub Scouts and Brownies, PTA, Center High School Band Aids and swim team. She and Al always enjoyed cheering and supporting their children and grandchildren in all their activities. She always looked forward to seeing the latest school and Facebook pictures and updates from her four granddaughters, and she loved and was so proud of each of them. Her face would simply light up when talking about their latest adventures.
Donna was an animal lover, and was devoted to all the dogs in her adult life, including Benji, Rudi, Clancy, Gabby and Kirby. For many years, her days began with a long walk with her dogs. They were family to her and you can be sure they were well loved.
Donna was a member of Broadway United Methodist Church, where she sang in the church choir. She was also a member of The Lighthouse Gang, a prayer group made up of Colonial Presbyterian pre-school teachers, as well as the Fun Lunch Group.
Donna enjoyed interior decorating, gardening, reading, attending art shows, musicals and the KC Symphony. She also could be found on Saturday nights watching the featured Hallmark movie with her daughter, Heather. She enjoyed many weekends and vacations at the Lake of the Ozarks and Hutchinson Island, FL. The lake and the beach were her “happy” places. She was a wonderful cook and baker, and we always looked forward to a batch of her chocolate chip cookies, lemon bars or baked cheese grits.
Donna was a terrific listener and loyal friend. She always had a big hug ready for her family and friends. She had a 100 Watt smile that lit up the room, and a sense of humor that always made us laugh. She truly believed in keeping your inner child alive, and helped others to do the same.
She was preceded in death by her parents, and husband, Al Kennedy. Donna is survived by: daughter, Heather (Mike) Misel, son, Scott (Lisa) Kennedy, and granddaughters Sydney, Caroline, Peyton and Reese.
Donna’s family wishes to thank Spectrum Home Health and KC Hospice for their loving care during her illness.
The family suggests contributions to Friends of Parkville Animal Shelter or KC Pet Project.
