Donna Karen “Donnie” Johnson age 66, has gone to be with the Lord on Wednesday, April 8, 2020, at Shands at UF, in Gainesville, FL. Donna was a true native of Gainesville, FL born on August 20, 1953 to the late Douglas Hunter and Wanda Wasdin Hunter. She was a wonderful big sister to all her siblings, often caring for them when they were young while their mother worked. Donna was a graduate of Gainesville High School, and she went on to work at UF for 25+ years, finishing at Health Policy and Epidemiology. After marrying “Big Doug”, she gave birth to her son “Dougie”, undoubtedly the greatest moment of her life. Donna and Big Doug were amazing parents to their only child, and she was so very proud of him. She later retired to be close to her family and enjoy her son’s sports career at the University of Florida and the NFL. Donna Karen was the matriarch of the family and will be missed by everyone she came in contact with. Even through all her trials and tribulations with illness, Donna found a way to be joyful. She never wanted to be a burden to anyone. She was selfless, independent, caring, considerate, quick witted and always up for a good laugh! Donna was a wonderful cook and spent many hours in the kitchen baking and cooking with her family. She loved all the holidays and was known for going “overboard” at Christmas. She was a problem solver; you could always count on her to help you through a decision or situation, big or small. She loved her family intensely, having a special bond with her nieces and nephews. “Donnie” never missed an opportunity to be with her grand kids. The loss of her extraordinary life is so painful, but we take comfort in knowing she is no longer suffering on this earth. “For I am sure that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.” Romans 8: 38-39 Donna was Christian by faith. Donna was preceded in death by her father (Douglas Hunter) and by her Brother (Douglas Hunter, Jr.) Donna is lovingly survived by her husband of 43 years, Douglas Johnson, Sr. Son, Douglas Johnson, Jr (Tara), Grandchildren: Trinity Johnson, Douglas III “Trace” Johnson, Mother, Wanda Hunter, Brothers, Timothy Hunter and Douglas Hunter, Sister, Elaine Grant, Nephew, Tyler Hunter, Nieces, Kristen McCallister, Rande Ferguson, Tarra Hunter, and Chancie Vice, as well as numerous other family members that she loved dearly. Donna’s care and arrangements are entrusted to the Forest Meadows Funeral Home, Gainesville, FL. Donna’s family and friends will gather on Wednesday, April 15, 2020 between 2-4 PM at the Forest Meadows Memorial Park “Chapel in the Meadows” 4100 NW 39 th Avenue, Gainesville, FL 32606. A Family Private Service will follow. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date where everyone is welcome with open arms.
Wanda and family,
My memories of Donna was of a time when Daddy was still alive. He loved her so and she took such good care of him. My thoughts and prayers for you all during this difficult time. I love you Wanda.
Our family is not complete without you in it. I remember when Doug brought you home to meet us so long ago and have felt ever since that you were my Sista. I will forever miss the connection we had.
Love you Donna! You will be missed by many,we where friends for about 48 years!! Will love and miss you always!!
I’m Very Sorry For Your Loss. Prayers From The Martin Family.