Mary Diane Dolton, 81, passed away on October 6, 2026, at Reflections Resort in Salina, Kansas. She was born on August 3, 1945, in Junction City, to Harry and Margaret Jones of Chapman, Kansas. Diane was the oldest of three siblings and spent her childhood in Chapman before making Salina her home as an adult.

Diane graduated from Chapman High School in 1963. On September 5, 1964, she married her high school sweetheart, Michael E. Dolton. They shared 43 years of marriage before his passing in 2007. Together, they built a life centered around their family, faith, and community.

Diane and Mike were longtime members of First Baptist Church in Salina, where they attended church and Sunday school for many years. They were both members of the choir and especially enjoyed sharing their love of music and singing with others.

Diane was a devoted mother who stayed home with her children, Michele, and Kevin, until they began school. She then began a long and fulfilling career with USO 305. She first worked as a typing aide at South High School before becoming a secretary in the school board office. After more than three decades of dedicated service to the school district, Diane retired.

Family was at the heart of Diane’s life. When she was not at church, she could often be found cheering on her grandchildren at school events, sporting activities, and graduations. She never wanted to miss an important moment in their lives. She also enjoyed reading and working on puzzles. Diane was an avid Kansas City Royals fan, a dedicated KU basketball fan, and a loyal supporter of the Dallas Cowboys and Kansas City Chiefs.

Diane will be remembered most for the love she gave so freely to those around her. She was a loving wife, mother-in-law, Gram Diane, grandma, great-grandmother, and friend. She was patient, kind, compassionate, and soft spoken, always willing to listen and offer thoughtful advice. And she gave the very best hugs. Her gentle spirit, loving heart, and unwavering devotion to her family left a lasting impression on everyone who knew her.

Diane was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Mike; their infant son, Chad Michael; her parents, Harry, and Margaret Jones; her brother, Danny Jones; and her grandson, Jason Hay.

She will be lovingly remembered by her children, Michele Hay (Doug) of Kansas City, KS and Kevin Dolton (Angie) of Salina, KS; her grandchildren Erin Hay, Kylie Kaifes(Conner), Morgan Farmer (Zach), and Brock Dolton; and her great-grandchildren, Peyton Hiskett and Elias Hay.

Diane’s family will forever cherish the memories of her gentle heart, beautiful smile, wise words, and loving embrace. She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who were fortunate enough to know her.

Visitation will be 5-7 p.m. Friday, October 9, at Ryan Mortuary, Salina, KS. Funeral service will be 10:30 a.m. Saturday, October 10, at First Baptist Church, 843 Lewis Ave., Salina. KS

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials to First Baptist Church, 843 Lewis Ave., Salina, KS 67401.