Donna Hulen Thompson

Donna Hulen Thompson, born November 30, 1930, in Pleasant Hill, Missouri, to Willie Lee (Billie) Hulen and Harold Park Hulen, passed away peacefully November 3rd, 2024. She was raised in Kansas City, Missouri, by her divorced mother, Willie (Billie), alongside her brother, Harold Park (Hal) Hulen Jr. Donna attended Central High School, where she was a lettered cheerleader. Her early career in modeling for Kansas City’s downtown clothing stores led her to meet Leonard Edward Thompson, whom she married on September 12, 1952. 

Shortly after their wedding, Donna and Leonard moved to Morocco for five years, using the opportunity to travel extensively throughout Europe. Upon returning to Kansas City in 1958, they built the first home in the Cherry Hills subdivision. They welcomed their son Greg, followed by daughters Ann and Janie. Donna was a cherished member of her community, forming a women’s investment club and serving as PTA president at Linwood School. She was a Cub Scout leader and later a Girl Scout leader in Saudi Arabia. A skilled gardener and cook, Donna's culinary creations, often inspired by her travels, were even featured in the *Kansas City Star*. She was known to her family and friends as a natural hostess, exuding elegance and creativity long before the “Martha Stewart” era.

In 1970, Donna and her family embarked on another overseas adventure, living in Saudi Arabia for two years. During this time, she arranged trips across Europe, Africa, and Asia, navigating roads and customs, and travel logistics with three young children in tow, leaving her family with unforgettable memories. 

Returning to Kansas, Donna pursued a liberal arts degree and began a distinguished career in real estate. Starting at ERA Homestead and eventually working for Summerson-Burrows, which later became Prudential and then Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate, Donna earned her place in the 2 Million Dollar Club multiple times during an era when average home prices were in the 70 thousand dollar range. She dedicated over 30 years to Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate, retiring at age 86.

Donna was preceded in death by her father Harold Hulen, her mother, Willie Wyatt; her husband, Leonard Thompson; and her brother, Harold (Hal) Hulen. She is survived by her children: Greg Thompson (Audrey Thompson), Ann Iiams (Jeff Iiams), and Janie Thompson; her grandchildren: Christine Hill (Karel Hill), Vance Thompson, Curtis Thompson, Brent Iiams, Dylan Iiams, and Cole Fornal; and her two great-grandchildren: Luka Thompson and Micah DeLap; Her nieces: Sarah Hulen Brown (Ward Brown) Julie Hulen Johnson (Keith Johnson) and nephew: Clay Hulen (Collen Hulen). All were truly loved. 

Graveside services will be held on Donna’s birthday, November 30, 2024, at 3 p.m. at Johnson County Memorial Gardens, 11200 Metcalf Ave, Overland Park, KS 66210