Donna

[Jan214]

It is with a very heavy heart that I bring this news to you.  Donna passed away at 4 AM this morning.  Johnny called very early and I know I should have posted this earlier, but there were several people Donna wanted me to call personally and I could not go against those wishes.  I am sorry for those of you who have not returned my phone calls but I tried desperately to get ahold of you by every means available & I didn't feel that I could withhold this information from the rest of the forum any longer.  It has been 12 hours or so since he called.  Donna passed away quietly in her sleep with Johnny by her side.  She is finally at peace and although they never allowed her to be in pain, I know she was very fearful at the end.  We all like to think that we go quietly in our sleep, but that is not how it always is.  At the end I know she fought to cling to life.  She is most definitely in a better, more peaceful, pain free place now.
I know none of you will be able to make it, but Cory and I will be going down tomorrow afternoon, the visitation will be tomorrow night and we will stay overnight for the funeral on Saturday. The videos they do now will be on a website and I will get that to you after the funeral.  Her obituary will be in the paper tomorrow and I will send you that link in the morning.
After much consideration, I have decided not to do flowers.  If any of you feel so compelled, I can give you the number of a florist down there, but I think donations to ovarian cancer research or perhaps a small scholarship to a photography school in Memphis would better honor Donna, but that is an individual choice.  Besides, Donna was allergic to flowers so.  That sounds stupid doesn't it?  I am all over the place & I am sorry.  If any of you would like to participate in something like a small scholarship than I will let you know what I can set up.  RIght now I can't think anymore and that doesn't have to be decided today.  Donna loved you all and this forum meant more to her than you can ever know.  It was her lifeline to the world, and it made her feel like she was not alone.  I know that she expects you all to keep fighting and win.  Towards the end she realized that she should have fought harder, but by than it was to late.  Don't let that happen to you.  If you are all agreeable I will print out whatever prayers and comments you all make and take it to her family tomorrow.
With much sadness, sorrow, and joy that she is in God's loving embrace,
Jan  

[vallieanne]

Donna,
Thank you for being such a kind and gracious woman, for sharing you love of all things bright and beautiful with us, and for giving us so much love and friendship.

I am sending my deepest sympathies to Johnny and her family, may God Bless and give you strength and peace.
Love,
Valerie

[Angie_Lou]

My deepest sympathy to Donna's husband and family.  I hope that knowing she is at peace will give you some comfort during this time.

Sincerely, Angie

[butterflytc]

   Donna,
     Though you are no longer with us here on earth, I know that you are with us always.
As hard as it will be, we will try not to mourn, but to celebrate the life that you had. I know that you are home now.

    To Donna's family I send my deepest sympathy. She will be missed by us all.
          Love Chris Recco

[coogeegirl]

I am sending my condolences to Johnny and it is good to know she is now free of pain and at peace

Jenny

[PPhelps]

I really never got to know Donna, but her posts were always so heartfelt. She made you feel like she was your friend no matter that she really didn't know you. I will miss her posts greatly. Paula

[Cindy809]

Even though our friendship was just beginning I had a deep connection to you.  Thank you for reaching out to me first at this forum.  I will miss you.  You were such a kind sweet lady.  Johnny, I will be praying for the strength you will need during this difficult time.  God Bless you...Cindy