Donna Kae (Corey) Doede

Donna Kae (Corey) Doede December 25, 1943 – October 29, 2025 Donna Kae Doede, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister and friend, passed away peacefully on October 29, 2025, surrounded by her loving family. She was 81 years old. Born on Christmas Day in 1943 in Decatur, Indiana, Donna grew up the youngest of five children of Donald and Minnie (Fisher) Corey. During her childhood, she developed a love of animals and drawing. Days spent playing outdoors and watching her grandpa milk cows imbued her with a warm and creative spirit, traits that would define her life and the deep relationships she built with those around her. After graduating Decatur High School, Donna attended Purdue University where she met the love of her life, Wayne Doede, on a blind date. The two shared an instant connection rooted in friendship and laughter. They both graduated from Purdue and were married on June 18, 1966 — a partnership that flourished for nearly six decades, built on an enduring commitment to one another and their growing family. In 1979, the family established Doede Garden Center in New Lenox, Illinois, where Donna managed the greenhouses with dedication and care. Her green thumb and attention to detail helped the business thrive for many years. Also active in the community, she spent countless hours volunteering with the United Methodist Church, Lioness club and various other organizations. After nearly three decades in the garden and landscaping business, Donna and Wayne retired in 2007 and fulfilled their dream of building a beautiful log home on Tellico Lake in Maryville, Tennessee. Nestled in the Smoky Mountains, it was the perfect setting for Donna’s love of nature, art and family gatherings. Donna was a woman of many talents — a gifted artist, skilled cook and baker, seamstress and crocheter. Her creativity shone through in everything she touched. She had a wonderful sense of humor, a kind and patient demeanor, and always had a smile for everyone. Above all, Donna cherished her family. She is survived by her devoted husband, Wayne; her three children, Laura, Matthew (Sara) and Michael (Lindsay Craig); and her adored grandchildren, Alec, Eric, Elayna and Kendall. She is also survived by her brother Cletus Corey and sister Karen Corey, along with many nieces, nephews and dear friends. Donna was preceded in death by her parents, Donald and Minnie Corey, and her brothers Jon and Norman. Donna’s legacy will live on through the beauty she created, the love she shared and the laughter she brought to so many lives. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered. Friends and family may call on Sunday, November 9, from 11:30a.m. to 1:30p.m. at the family residence. In lieu of flowers, remembrance may be made to Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, Appalachian Bear Rescue or 1st United Methodist Church Maryville. A celebration of life will also be planned in 2026 allowing friends and family to gather in her honor. Kyker Funeral Homes, Sweetwater, is in charge of arrangements. www.kykerfuneralhomes.com

Donna Kae (Corey) Doede

December 25, 1943 - October 29, 2025