Donna was born in Cleveland County on May 19, 1959 the daughter of Shelva Jean Wilson and the late Robert William (Bill) Wilson. In addition to her father, Donna is preceded in death by her sister Debbie Bridges and grandparents, Lillie Hawkins, Lawrence Hawkins (Grandpa) and wife Sophia (Grandma), Malcolm Wilson (Granddaddy) and wife Leila (Nannie).

Donna grew up and lived at the family home in Shelby, NC. Donna used her God given gifts and talents in many ways. She loved spending time with and helping her family. She was also the first to volunteer to help with projects and taking care of others. She loved playing with Happy, her little lap dog. Donna loved researching our family history and genealogy, so it was no surprise how much she loved our family reunions and preparing BINGO and prizes each year.

Donna graduated from UNC at Chapel Hill in 1981 with a Bachelor of Arts in Education Degree. She taught in the Cleveland County Schools System for one year and then chose to move on to a different career. She held many titles and roles during her 36 years at KMart. Donna's love for children made her a perfect preschool and Sunday School teacher. She taught Sunday School at Double Springs Baptist Church for 35 years.

She was an excellent photographer and loved taking photographs of all God's creations. In her role as photographer at Double Springs Baptist Church, she compiled many photo albums of the church family history and she also recorded sermons for the shut-ins.

Donna loved to travel and see new places but she was always happy to be back home. Donna has reached her final destination and is now home with our Lord and Savior.

Left to cherish Donna's memory is her mother Shelva Jean Wilson, two sisters Deedee Canipe and Denise Rankin husband David. Also left to cherish her memory is her nieces and nephews Amanda Carpenter, John Bridges wife Crystal, Matt Rankin of Oklahoma, Mike Rankin wife Nicole of Alaska, Siera Canipe, Shane Canipe, as well as, great nieces and nephews, Cheyenne Carpenter, Savannah Carpenter, Dakota Carpenter, Mason Carpenter, Carter Bridges, Weston Bridges and Kinsley Rankin of Alaska.

A funeral service will be held 3:00PM Wednesday February 8, 2023 at Double Springs Baptist Church with Rev. Ron Arndt officiating. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service from 2:00PM - 3:00PM in the Family Life Center of the Church. Burial will follow the service in the church cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the children or youth departments at Double Springs Baptist Church: 1130 Double Springs Church Rd Shelby, NC 28150.

Online condolences may be made at www.cecilmburtonfuneralhome.com

Cecil M. Burton Funeral Home & Crematory is serving the family.