
Deana McClure’s life is a testament to passion, perseverance, and the joy that the arts can bring to a person’s soul. Her story, which begins in the small town of Osawatomie, Kansas, unfolds as a journey fueled by her love of dance and her unwavering dedication to education.
As a nine-year-old girl, Deana’s love for dancing became apparent when she began taking lessons in Kansas City. This was no small feat for a young girl from a small town. Her father, who worked for the railroad, made the experience seamless, as Deana would board the train in Osawatomie and travel to Kansas City for her lessons. It was during these train rides that her passion for dance took root, laying the foundation for a lifelong love affair with movement and music.
A photograph from this time shows Deana as a poised young dancer, her expression full of determination and grace. It’s a poignant reminder of the early beginnings of a passion that would stay with her for the rest of her life.

As Deana grew older, dancing became an integral part of her social life. The black evening dress she wore to a dance is an emblem of her vibrant spirit during these years. Every weekend, she would seek out opportunities to dance, sometimes traveling out of town with friends to avoid the scrutiny of the school where she taught. At the time, dancing wasn’t seen as a suitable activity for teachers, but Deana’s love for it was too strong to be stifled by societal expectations.
Her commitment to dance persisted well into her later years. Even in her 90s, Deana’s graceful moves won her an award at a local dance studio competition. Going through her belongings reveals an abundance of dancing shoes and dresses from the late 1930s and 1940s, a testament to the central role that dance played in her life.
Beyond her passion for the arts, Deana was an accomplished educator, making significant contributions at both the state and local levels. In 1970, she was honored as Kansas Teacher of the Year, a recognition of her dedication and leadership in shaping young minds. Her influence extended far beyond the classroom, leaving a lasting impact on the community she served.

Deana’s life came full circle when she celebrated her 104th birthday, an occasion organized by her close friends. The joy and love present at this celebration were a fitting tribute to a woman who had brought so much light and energy into the lives of others. The photograph from this milestone birthday is a reminder of the vibrant spirit that defined her life.
Deana McClure left a lasting legacy not only through her remarkable life but also through a generous gift in her estate plans to the Kansas City Ballet. This contribution ensures that future generations will have the opportunity to experience the transformative power of the arts, a cause that was so dear to her heart.
Through her passion for dance, her dedication to education, and her zest for life, Deana’s story is one of inspiration and joy. Her memory lives on in the hearts of those who knew her and in the countless lives she touched through her teaching and her love of the arts.

Leave Your Legacy
Once your family and friends are provided for, we hope you’ll consider making Kansas City Ballet part of your Legacy. It is one of the most meaningful things you can give to future generations, and we’d be honored by your thoughtfulness.
CREATE YOUR LEGACY WITH KANSAS CITY BALLET
We would gladly assist you with ways to make a gift that is meaningful to you and has a lasting impact for Kansas City Ballet. For more information, please contact impact@kcballet.org or 816.216.5612.
Header image: Deana McClure at her 104th birthday party.
All photos courtesy of Deana Dean.