Donna Irene Gay, 96, peacefully passed away on March 24, 2025, at the Caring Cottage home in South Bend, after a brief period of illness.

Donna was born on October 11, 1928, in Mishawaka, Indiana, to the late Howard and Bessie Irene (Havens) Beery, Donna was a loving daughter, sister, wife, and mother. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Russell Gay, in November 2007; her stepdaughters, Ruscella Carter, Bonnie Glaspie, and Wynelle (Fred) Vaughan; as well as her sister, Idella Figgle.

Donna graduated from Mishawaka High School in 1947 and later married Russell Gay on June 16, 1962. A longtime member of Gospel Center Missionary Church in South Bend, she led a life of quiet devotion and service. In her early years, she worked at Ault's Camera Shop, where her gentle spirit and strong work ethic were evident to all who knew her, and also worked at Ball Band (Uniroyal) in Mishawaka and later worked as a veterinary technician at Roseland Veterinary Hospital. She raised and bred Newfoundland dogs, which she still adored.

Donna is survived by her son, Dennis Wilson, and his partner, Janice Rowan; a stepdaughter, Betty (Allen) Gearhart; her cherished granddaughter, Erin (Chris) Hipsher; and great-grandsons Ethan and Caleb Hipsher. Donna's legacy also lives on through numerous step-grandchildren, step-great-grandchildren, her brother Russell (Janet) Beery of Mishawaka, her sister-in-law Betty Carter of Elkhart, and many nieces and nephews, including Deanna (John) Raven, Crystal (Dennis) Wall, Jim Carter, and Steve (Teri) Carter. Donna's extended family and friends were all dear to her, and she will be fondly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

The family will receive friends and family on Monday, March 31, 2025, from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM at Chapel Hill Funeral Home, 10776 McKinley Hwy, Osceola, IN. A funeral service will immediately follow the visitation.

Donna will be laid to rest at Chapel Hill Memorial Gardens.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Gospel Center Missionary Church, 930 S. 30th St, South Bend, IN 46615.