WICHITA, KS
Smith, Donna Jeanne, 69, retired Horace Mann teacher, beloved sister, aunt and friend, passed away Friday, March 23, 2012 after a courageous battle with numerous illnesses. Donna's strong will and sense of humor helped her fight these illnesses. She was born on Christmas day, 1942 in Boone, Iowa to James Wellington Smith & Florence Ethel (Risinger) Smith. She attended Dodge City High School, graduating in 1960, and Emporia State Teachers College, completing her degree in 1965. Her first job was teaching Physical Education at Horace Mann Junior High where she spent the majority of her teaching career. Her interests before becoming ill were camping, fishing, and following a traveling women's softball team as a fan. Donna, following in her mother's footsteps, had an active role in the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) until her illness prevented her actual participation. She is preceded in death by her parents; sister and brother-in-law, Diane and Stephen Ackerman; sister-in-law, ChaRee Smith. She is survived by her brother, Douglas Smith, Dodge City; niece, Kacee Smith, Dodge City; and numerous other nieces & nephews. We would like to thank Donna's life long friend and guardian, Nancy Koontz & caregivers, Kathy Hudson, Karilyn Kuhns & Donna Johnson for taking such good care of our beloved Donna. Visitation 5-7 p.m., Thursday, March 29, Baker Funeral Home, Valley Center. Service 10 a.m., Friday, March 30, at Baker Funeral Home, 100 S. Cedar, Valley Center, KS. Graveside 3 p.m. at Maple Grove Cemetery, Dodge City, KS. In lieu of flowers, the family request donations to the American Cancer Society, 330 S. Main, Ste 100, Wichita, KS 67202. www.bakerfhvc.com Baker Funeral Home - Valley Center