Danyne R. Killham

Danyne Rice Killham, 85, of Bumpass, Virginia, died in Palmdale, California, on January 30, 2014.

Danyne was born in Laramie, Wyoming, on March 3, 1928, the second of six daughters and one son born to Daniel and Helen Ellis Rice.  She was raised in Kimball, Nebraska. After two years at the University of Wyoming, she taught elementary school, later receiving her degree when she was in her 40s.  A life-long teacher and learner, she also taught religious education and bridge.  Her last formal teaching assignment was a bridge class for Louisa Parks and Recreation in 2011.

Danyne is survived by her husband, Kenneth, who was the center of her life. They were married in Kimball on May 29, 1950.  After her stroke in 2011, he devoted himself to assisting her.  In addition to Kenny, she is also survived by her son, Michael, and daughter, Kenyne/Kate; grandchildren Lisa (Jason), Anastasia, Tim, Elizabeth (Mike), Matthew, Alison, Jared, and Byron (Alyssa); and eight great-grandchildren.  She was preceded in death by her parents, an infant daughter, and her oldest sister, Emily Ann.  She is survived by her sisters Peggy, Zita, Codell and K.C .; her nieces and nephews; and many friends, especially Carol, Ramona, Judy, Clint, Helen and Heather.

Danny and Kenny lived in North Platte, Nebraska, from 1951 until 2010 when they moved to Bumpass to live with their daughter.  Danyne was a member of Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Bumpass, Holy Spirit Catholic Church in North Platte, and P.E.O.  Since moving to Virginia, Danyne was active in Book Buddies and the Lake Anna Garden Club.  In January, 2014, she earned her Silver Life Master in the American Contract Bridge League.

Arrangements for a Celebration of Danyne Killham's Life are pending.  She will be cremated and upon the death of her beloved husband, they will be interred at Fort McPherson Cemetery near North Platte.  In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the P.E.O. Foundation which supports higher education for women or a charity of choice. Condolences may be sent to Ken and his family at 2610 Moody Town Road, Bumpass, Virginia 23024.