Donnie Lee Royse, beloved brother and friend, unexpectedly passed away Tuesday, January 31, 2023, at the age of 63. Donnie had lived in Lexington most of his adult life, although he travelled extensively and never met a stranger.

Donnie worked as the Department Academic Administrative Associate at the University of Kentucky, Gatton College of Business, and Von Allmen School of Accountancy.

Donnie was a graduate of Fleming County High School, Eastern Kentucky University, and had received his Master of Arts in Higher Education Administration from Morehead State University.

Donnie was preceded in death by his parents, Thomas Lee Royse and Naomi Ruth Rayburn Royse; his maternal grandparents, Charles "Bun" and Maude Rayburn; his paternal grandparents, Walter and Hattie Belle Royse.

Donnie is survived by his three siblings, Lisa (Rob) Ross of Flemingsburg, Scotty (Tina) Royse of Richmond, and Daryl (Brad Shepherd) Royse of Blackey;  his  five nephews,  Richie (Ashley) Gulley, Auston Young, Jay Royse-Shepherd, James Thornton, and Logan Ross;  his niece, Michaela Royse; his great niece, Olivia Gulley; and a host of uncles, aunts, cousins, and other relatives.

Donnie also is survived by many friends, both near and far, whose lives he touched in meaningful and significant ways. Donnie loved the friends he held close to him and gave of himself without hesitation. His willingness to help others in need is one of his lasting legacies.

A visitation and family gathering will take place at Boone-Nickell Funeral Home on Sunday, February 26, 2023, from 1:00 – 3:00 pm. Friends, family and community are invited to attend.

A larger public memorial service will follow in Lexington in the Spring, where the larger community of Lexington will remember the impact Donnie made.

To honor Donnie's memory, contributions are suggested to the Alzheimer's Association of Kentucky  ( act.alz.org ), the American Diabetes Association ( diabetes.org ), the No Kill Central KY Regional Humane Society ( www.mightycause.com ), or the Lexington-based non-profit organization the Imperial Court of Kentucky ( imperialcourtkentucky.org ).

Boone-Nickell Funeral Home in Flemingsburg is caring for Donnie and his family.

Online condolences may be offered at www.boonenickellfuneralhome.com