Kay Elizabeth Shaner

Kay Elizabeth Shaner, 86, of Danville, passed away with her family by her side on April 10, 2026.

Kay was born on February 14, 1940, the daughter of William and Myrle Izetta (Goodall) Kilbourne in Danville. She was the special granddaughter of Myrtle Carter and niece of the Doyle and Lionel Goodall families. 

Survivors include her husband of over 18 years, John Shaner; stepsons, William (Kristen) Shaner, Mark (Jennifer) Shaner; step-grandchildren, Matt (Tristan) Shaner and Isabelle Shaner; step-great grandchildren, Ellen and Ralph Shaner; as well several cousins. 

Kay is preceded in death by her parents. 

Kay attended Danville Public Schools and graduated high school in 1958. She then graduated from the University of Illinois in 1962 with a bachelor's degree in Spanish and from Eastern Illinois University in 1965 with a master’s degree in Guidance. Kay taught second and third grade at Tilton and Garfield Grade Schools for over 34 years. After retiring, she owned Dona’s Cards and Gifts Shop in Danville, IL. 

Kay and John enjoyed traveling throughout the United States, England, and Europe. Kay was a very social person and active in various Danville organizations including Garden Club, Clover Club, Altrusa, P.E.O., Danville Symphony Orchestra; various church groups; and Illinois Retired Teachers Association on a state and local level. A significant highlight for Kay was recently having the DACC Theater named after her and her husband, John.

Visitation will begin at Noon with a Tribute to Kay starting at 1:00 PM on Saturday, April 25, 2026 at the Danville Country Club, 2718 Denmark Road, Danville, Illinois 61834. Friends are invited to come pay tribute to Kay, share stories and memories.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to DACC Foundation in support of the John and Kay Shaner Theater or to a charity of the donor's choice. For DACC, please make checks payable to DACC Foundation, 2000 E. Main Street, Danville, IL 61832 or donate online at dacc.edu/foundation/giving-dacc.

Sunset Funeral Home and Cremation Center, 3940 N Vermilion St., Danville is assisting the family with arrangements.

Please join Kay’s family in sharing memories, photos, and videos of her life through her tribute wall at www.sunsetfuneralhome.com.