Donna Caley

Donna Marie (Anderton) Caley, age 84, passed away on December 1, 2022 in Lawrence KS. Donna was born the oldest of three daughters in Kansas City, MO and grew up in both Brooklyn, NY (during World War II) and Kansas City, MO.  A talented pianist, she graduated from East High School in 1956 and attended William Jewel College. She married the late John David Caley in 1958 and devoted her life to being the mother of their four children, playing the organ during services at several churches, and actively participating in several political campaigns. The family resided in Kansas City MO, Phoenix AZ, and Tucson AZ before she and John spent their retirement years in Coronado CA and Lawrence KS. Her homes were always filled with the joys of family, children, food, and music. 

Donna was preceded in death by her husband of 58 years, John David Caley. She is survived by her children: son John David Caley Jr and wife Candace, daughter Carolyn Caley Kisner and husband Anthony, son Jeffrey Alan Caley and wife Tracy, and son James Edward Caley and wife Krista.  She is also survived by two sisters, Priscilla Esther Neils (Scott) and Jeanne Heather Holland (Bill).  Donna also had nine grandchildren, Jeff Caley (Emily), Katie Brown (Tony), Thomas Caley, Elizabeth Caley, Annie Kisner, Joey Caley, Sophia Caley, Scott Caley, and Peter Caley.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials to be sent to the Washburn Alumni Association Scholarship Fund c/o Washburn University Alumni Association and Foundation, 1729 SW MacVicar Ave, Topeka, KS 66604 or may be sent in care of Warren-McElwain Mortuary, 120 W. 13th Street, Lawrence, KS 66044.

A memorial service has been planned for the family at a later date. 

7 Condolences

  1. Rynette Reiling on December 5, 2022 at 8:37 pm

    Donna was so sweet…. she will be missed. I have enjoyed decorating for her over the years. ♡♡♡



  2. Dimple and Bob Jones on December 5, 2022 at 8:59 pm

    Our thoughts and prayers are with this Caley family as you grieve the passing of your loving
    Mother and Grandmother.



  3. Kelly Luke on December 6, 2022 at 11:32 am

    I treasured the time shared with Donna and her family and so grateful for the sweet memories. She was kind, generous, brilliant and I miss her already. My sincere condolences to the Caley family, keeping you in my prayers.



  4. Teri Hallock on December 6, 2022 at 1:04 pm

    My heart is sad for all of you.❤️ I remember your beautiful and fun Mom from when I would come over to see Carolyn during high school. Praying for all of you!! 🙏

    Blessings!
    Teri Hallock



  5. Sherry and Doug Horne on December 6, 2022 at 1:43 pm

    Prayers for you my Special Friend Carolyn and Tony. Love ❤️ you and asking God to give you Comfort and Peace during the coming days ahead.



  6. Tamara Jarrow on December 6, 2022 at 2:05 pm

    So sorry to hear that your mother passed away. She sounds like such a loving person who contributed much to her family, church and community. I know you will miss her. May God comfort you and your family during this sad time. Prayers, hugs and love, my friend💕



  7. Carolyn Schultz on December 7, 2022 at 8:28 am

    So sorry for your loss , sending lots of love , hugs and many prayers to you Carolyn and Tony and your family . I’m so glad your momma got to go to her granddaughters wedding, she was adorable. What good memories that night for you all . Love you so much. ♥️🙏🙏. Carolyn Schultz



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