Dana Kay Thorpe

Dana Kay Thorpe (Lee) passed away peacefully in her home on July 27, 2026 in Hays, Kansas. Dana was born July 17, 1948 in Hays, Kansas, the daughter of Richard and Virginia Lee (Johnson).

Dana grew up in Hill City but moved to Garden City, Kansas with her family where she attended high school her junior and senior years. After graduation Dana attended Emporia State University and earned a bachelor’s degree in elementary education. With her certification she obtained a position in Mesa, Arizona teaching elementary students.

While teaching in Arizona, Dana married but later divorced. After 30 years of teaching she retired in 2003. Following the death of her mother in 2003, Dana returned to Kansas and bought her mother’s home in Hays. Dana had no children but enjoyed her nieces and nephews, their children, and her pet Shih Tzu. Reading, yard work, and her flowers occupied a great deal of her time as well as walking her dog and chatting with neighbors. She followed KU basketball and attended volleyball and basketball games at Hays High. Dana was a great traveler and thoroughly enjoyed her trips to Arkansas, Oregon, Colorado and Puerto Vallarta, Mexico plus family gatherings during the holidays and weddings.

She was preceded in death by her parents and brothers Dennis Lee and Mike Lee. Surviving family includes her siblings Paulette Krannawitter (Ken) of Russell and Patrick Lee (Glenda) of Greenland, Arkansas.

Graveside Services will be held at the Hill City Cemetery at a later date. Arrangements in care of Keithley Funeral Homes and Crematory - Brock's Chapel 2509 Vine Hays, KS 67601.

In lieu of flowers donations are suggested to: Humane Society of the High Plains 2050 Old Hwy 40 P.O. Box 311 Hays, KS, 67601

Memories may be shared on Dana's tribute page at www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com