Donna Casey

Donna Kathryn Casey, 69, of Topeka, Kansas, passed away peacefully and surrounded by her loved ones on February 24, 2026.

She was born on June 9, 1956 in Princeton, New Jersey to Donald and Phyllis Rogers. Donna's family moved to Topeka when she was in grade school and she grew up in the Oakland neighborhood of the city, graduating from Highland Park High School in 1974.

Donna possessed a steady, calming personality that endeared her to those around her. Adjectives often used to describe her include kind, sweet, thoughtful, caring, generous, and at times even a little sassy. Donna was a staunch supporter of those she loved, always offering encouragement and love without hesitation. Her gentle nature drew people in, creating lasting friendships and cherished memories.

Donna spent nearly 30 years working in the circulation department at the Topeka and Shawnee County Public Library, which she enjoyed immensely. She also worked at Capper’s Insurance Services and Luce Press Clippings. In 2012, she graduated from Washburn University with a bachelor’s degree in English, reflecting her lifelong love of reading and creative writing.

She was a founding member of Ballet Midwest, a local ballet company, and danced with them for over 20 years. She remained devoted to the arts throughout her life. Her love of dance and unwavering optimism shone through in many ways, but none so brightly as when she attempted arabesques in areas that were much too small. She was also a devoted older sister, making sure her younger sister was prepared for classes and performances by taking care of the small tasks like hair, makeup, and sewing the ribbons on her pointe shoes.

Donna enjoyed reading, gardening, singing, genealogy research, volunteering and spending time with her family and pets, and threw herself into each hobby with enthusiasm. She especially loved visiting with her grandchildren and enjoying a glass of Dr. Pepper with lots of ice; at the holidays she enjoyed a glass or two of sweet wine, also with lots of ice.

Donna was a member of Oakland Presbyterian Church, where she sang in the choir for many years, sharing her innate musical talents inherited from her parents with all those around her.

Donna is survived by her two daughters, Kirsten Casey and Alyssa Casey; her grandchildren, Ava Starforth, Ciara Sumpter, Kieran Sumpter and Bria Sumpter (Kirsten); her sister, Cheryl Rogers; and her former husband and lifelong friend, David Casey, who remained by her side until the end. She was preceded in death by her parents, Rev. Donald W. Rogers and Phyllis K. Rogers.

She is remembered fondly and is dearly missed.

In lieu of flowers, family requests that donations in her name be made to the hospice house that took such good care of her in her final hours: https://give.saintlukeskc.org/give/488429/#!/donation/checkout (St. Luke's Hospice House can be selected in the drop down menu) or the American Humane Society: https://www.americanhumane.org/support-our-work/donate/

A visitation will take place from 5:00pm to 7:00pm Friday March 13, 2026 at Parker Price and Davidson Funeral Home. The memorial service will be held at 10:00am Saturday March 14, 2026 at Parker Price and Davidson.

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