Donita Kaye Canady

Ms. Donita Kaye Canady, lovingly known as “Dee-Dee,” came into this world on a special day—February 29, 1968—born to Hubert Hawthorne and Gloria (Massey) Douglas in Kansas City, Kansas. A leap-year baby with a leap-year spirit, she moved through life with brightness, boldness and a heart that beat to its own joyful rhythm.

Though she was the youngest at home, Donita carried herself like the big sister—strong, confident and full of spark. She grew up in the heart of Kansas City, attending Grant Elementary , Rosedale Middle School, F.L. Schlagle High School and Harmon High School before continuing her education at Excelsior Springs Job Corps, where she proudly earned her GED. Later, in 2004 she followed her ambition to the Kansas City Area Technical School, where she earned her Medical Administrative Assistant certification.

Hard work came naturally to Donita. Determined and reliable, she landed her first job at Gates Barbeque on 10th Street in Kansas City, KS. She later brought her dedication and warmth to Providence Medical Center, a place she truly loved. Her commitment and strong work ethic earned her the honor of Employee of the Month, a testament to her drive and her love for helping people. She continued her work there until her health challenges required her to retire.

In 1993, Donita’s heart found its greatest purpose when she welcomed her daughter, LaShay Mona’ Brown, into the world. From that moment on, her life overflowed with a new kind of love — deep, beautiful and unbreakable. Donita embraced motherhood wholeheartedly — her and her daughter grew together through every season of life, building a bond that blossomed into a true best friend relationship. She loved nothing more than spending time with her daughter, laughing, talking and simply being together. Donita often said LaShay kept her young, fly and full of life.

Donita had many passions and developed a love for blooming plants, flowers and the cheerful presence of her beloved dog, Phat Daddy. She loved to cook her favorite meals; fried chicken, french fries and of course she had a soft spot for those famous peanut butter cookies from Fast Fred’s. A proud Kansas City Chiefs fan – she was always ready for football on Sundays, Mondays and Thursdays.  She cheered loudly, laughed often and celebrated every victory. She was overjoyed to witness their three Super Bowl victories.

Donita’s life was full of laughter, music and movement. She loved shopping and listening to music, especially her favorite artist, Ice Cube. She loved getting her hair styled weekly by Tyda and she enjoyed playing spades like a champion with her sister-friend Monique and their crew. Dee-Dee was a great dancer and danced with freedom, loved gatherings and having fun at the 42 Lounge.  She absolutely enjoyed being around family and close friends.  She lit up every concert, comedy show and Chiefs game-day party. Wherever she was, the celebration came with her. She was the energy. She was the joy. She was the life of the party.

On the morning of November 20, 2025, at 57 years young, Donita answered God’s call and entered her eternal rest. Waiting to welcome her home were her parents: Gloria (Massey) Douglas and Hubert Hawthorne; sisters: Patty Scott, Ora Ewing and Anita Easly; her dear cousin: Cedric Cambell; aunts: Ruby (Massey) Branham and Corrine Massey, all awaiting her arrival at Heaven’s gate.

Donita’s tribe of love includes: her only child: Lashay Brown and (bonus daughter) Tahmaria Moore; special friend and child’s father: Tyrone Brown; eleven siblings: Rodney (Vivian) Canady, Cynthia (Willie) Crayton-Dorsey, Avenell Tate Hawthorne, Denise Hawthorne, Evelyn Mcgough, Gloria Labott, Hubert Hawthorne, Janice Hawthorne, John Wilson and Steven Hawthorne. She is also survived by a loving circle of aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, friends and her cherished extended family at Gateway Plaza Townhomes.  Everyone who loved Dee-Dee will forever carry her laughter, light and love in their hearts forever.

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