Hazel Dean McClure

Hazel Dean "Deana"  McClure of Olathe KS was born June 30, 1920 in Paola KS and died October 18, 2024 in her home at the age of 104. Deana never married but as an educator she touched the lives of countless students, individuals, and friends. 

Her teaching career in Osawatomie, KS, spanned from 1942-1986, in itself was an outstanding accomplishment and was only interrupted for approximately a year when she worked at the Belgian Embassy in Washington D.C.

Deana graduated from Osawatomie High School in 1938, received an AB Degree from University of Kansas, Masters Degree from Emporia State University and pursued Doctoral studies at the University of Wyoming. 

Some of the honors Deana received were Kansas Teacher of the Year (1970), Colonial Dames of America Secondary Teacher of the Year, (1982), and was inducted into the Kansas State High School Activities Association Hall of Fame in 1988

In addition to belonging to the Tri-Delt Sorority in college, she was President (local and state) of Delta Kappa Gamma Honorary, Member of General Federation of Women’s Club (GFWC) of Kansas City, Kansas Council of Women (President and Life Member) Olathe Garden -Civic Club, AAUW (Olathe Branch) President 1967-1969 and selected Chairman of All State Presidents (Washington D.C.). In her spare time was elected Republican Precinct Committee Woman Ward 3 Precinct 7. 
Most recently Deana has been an active member of the Local Women’s Reading Circle. 

Deana is preceded in death by her parents, father Archibald Dean McClure, mother Hazel Trilby McClure (Pardee) and brother A.D. McClure Jr. age 7.

Deana dedicated nearly 40 years to the K.A.Y. organization guiding young people to earn 37 state awards for service to school, community, nation and world. The Osawatomie Kays, and Kayettes have been recognized by state and national service organizations for their many contributions to humanity. 

Ms. McClure’s memorial will be held on Friday, November 15, 2024 at 2:00, at Penwell-Gabel Mortuary, 14275 S. Black Bob Rd, Olathe, KS, reception to follow.

Private interment will be at the Chalk Cemetery near Council Grove. Deana requested that contributions be given to the Osawatomie Alumni Association Scholarship Fund, PO Box 421, Osawatomie KS 66064

As a testament to the many individuals Deana has influenced, she received over 400 birthday wishes on her 100th birthday. She will be missed by many. 

To share a memory of Hazel Dean McCLure, or to leave a special memory for her family, visit the guestbook below.