Leonore Rowe was born in Washington, D.C. September 2, 1933 to Rev. Paul and Leone Hunter. She died in Overland, Park, Kansas on May 28, 2026.

Lee tried to make the world a better place for her family and her community.

She was predeceased by Edward Rowe, her husband for over 60 years, her sister, Mary Walker, and her brother, Jim Hunter. She is survived by her three sons, Craig (Carol), Paul (Deborah), and Alan (Eriko), five grandchildren, Emily, Katie, Ansley, Luke, and Breanna And two great-grand children Phoebe and Isaac.

Lee grew up in Arlington, VA in the Rock Spring Church community. She was a proud graduate of the college of William and Mary. Lee’s faith and passions, led her to a lifelong path of community service. Lee served on the city commission of Emporia, KS between 1977 and 1989.

She owned the H&R Block franchise in Emporia, served on the board of a community day care center and acted as treasurer for a number of community organizations. After Lee moved to Overland Park, she continued her political activism, and volunteerism including at the Johnson County Library.  

She requested that no service be held for her.  Her body has been donated to KU for medical research and after cremation her ashes will be buried with Edward’s in Arlington, VA at Rock Spring Church where they were married.

Donations in her memory may be made to Artists Helping the Homeless or Planned Parenthood.