Donna Jean Bates, age 100, of Leawood, KS, passed away on January 8, 2024. Donna, also known as DJ, had many loves, but first and foremost was her family. She enjoyed music and was a piano teacher for many years, bringing the joy of music into many lives. Donna was an avid bridge player until her eyesight prevented her from playing. She also had a deep love for all things KU and enjoyed traveling with the Flying Jayhawks.

Donna is survived by her son, Michael Bates MD., her daughters-in-law Janet Bates and Francine Bates, her grandson Sean Bates ESQ., her granddaughter Colleen Foxworthy MSPT., her grandson Brett Bates MBA., her great-granddaughter Taylor Foxworthy, her great-grandson Connor Foxworthy, and her great-grandsons Beckham Bates and Brody Bates. She was preceded in death by her parents, Ray and Ila Nichols, her brother Michael Nichols, her husband Clifford Bates, and her son Patrick Bates.

Donna graduated from the University of Kansas with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in 1945.

Cremation was planned.  A private family graveside will be on April 20th, 2024 at the Fairview Cemetery, Phillipsburg, KS. In lieu of flowers, the family requests contributions be made to the University of Kansas Alumni Association at 1266 Oread Ave, Lawrence Kansas 66045: https://kualumni.org/give/