Kay Lesser

Kay Lesser, age 87, of Chatham, Illinois, passed away on July 11, 2026, at the Arc at Sangamon Valley. Born April 9, 1939, in Butler, Pennsylvania, Kay was the daughter of William and Frieda (Roxbury) Dumbaugh. She was known for her kind heart, caring nature, and the genuine way she made others feel welcome and appreciated. Family and friends will remember her as someone who was always willing to lend a hand and put others before herself.

She attended McQuistion Elementary School and Butler High School before continuing her education at Penn State University and Grove City College. Kay worked as an insurance underwriter for 10 years. She approached her work with care and dependability, earning the respect of those who knew and worked with her.

On January 15, 1965, she married Howard "Bill" W. Lesser in Cherry Valley, Pennsylvania. Bill served in the United States Marine Corps, and throughout their marriage Kay was a loving and faithful partner whose steady support meant so much to him.

Her faith was an important part of her life and was reflected in the way she cared for others. Kay volunteered at the Senior Center, was a member of Chapter CA of the P.E.O. Sisterhood (Philanthropic Educational Organization) and served in several roles on her church council.

Kay was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Bill; and her brother, William Henry Dumbaugh, Jr.

She is survived by her stepchildren, Kimberly (Alan) Williams of Elk Grove, California, and Michael (Joyce) Lesser of Butler, Pennsylvania; four grandchildren, David McClymonds, Chad McClymonds, Rachel Bunting, and Allison Fox; and eight great-grandchildren.

Visitation and Funeral Ceremony: Family will receive friends from 9:30 to 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, July 16, 2026, at Butler Funeral Home – Springfield, 900 S. Sixth St., Springfield, followed by the ceremony at 10:00 a.m. A Committal Service will follow at Oak Ridge Cemetery.

Memorial donations may be made to Peace Lutheran Church (formerly Atonement Lutheran Church), 2800 W. Jefferson St., Springfield, IL 62702, or through the church's online giving page.

Please visit www.butlerspringfield.com to offer your condolences.