Donna L. Cutright

CHARLESTON, IL – Donna Lynn Cutright, age 55 of Charleston, passed away in the comfort of her home and in the loving presence of her family and friends on Thursday, November 1, 2012 following a courageous battle with cancer.  Visitation for family and friends will be held Saturday, November 3, 2012 from 4:00 – 7:00 p.m. at Adams Funeral Chapel in Charleston.  A Memorial Service honoring and celebrating her life will begin at 7:00 p.m. immediately following visitation with Reverend Phil Nevius officiating.  In accordance with Donna's wishes her physical body has been unselfishly gifted to the Anatomical Gift Association for the training of medical personnel and the advancement of medical science through education and research.  It is requested that in lieu of flowers memorial gifts in her honor be made to Lincolnland Hospice or to Sarah Bush Lincoln Regional Cancer Center.  Gifts may be left on the memorial table at the visitation or service, or mailed to Adams Funeral Chapel, 2330 Shawnee Drive, Charleston, IL 61920. 

Donna was born on the 4th of July, 1957 in Charleston, Illinois the daughter of Clinton "Shine" and Nancy (Kruger) Oakley.  She married Steve Cutright on December 4, 1976 and they have shared nearly thirty-six years of marriage and friendship.  In addition to her loving husband Steve, she is survived by her two devoted daughters, Lindsey Cook and husband Brandon of Mattoon and Amanda Hackett and husband Judd of Charleston; three grandchildren, Kaden, Hailey and Maya Cook of Mattoon; her mother, Nancy Oakley of Charleston; three brothers, Jeffrey Oakley and Chris Oakley, both of Denver, Colorado and John Oakley of Chicago; her sister-in-law, Denise Stewart and husband Greg of Champaign; and several nieces and nephews including Bella Oakley of Denver.  Donna was preceded in death by her father, her father-in-law and mother-in-law, Howard and Charlotte Cutright and a brother-in-law, Brad Cutright. 

Donna was a Charleston High School Graduate, Class of 1975.  She was employed for numerous years as a legal secretary for the Brainard, Bower and Kramer Law Office and later accepted a position with Linda Nugent and Associates as office manager.  Donna was a member of First Christian Church and a charter member of the Palm Tree Necklace Club. 

Donna was known to be a wonderful baker, especially known for her delicious cookies, and generously shared the savory treats from her kitchen.  She loved the beach and she recognized the importance of friendship as she was a faithful friend to many.  In addition to creating memorable scrapbooks for her grandchildren, Donna considered housekeeping to be a hobby – she loved to clean and her house was always spotless.  Donna devoted her life to her family.  She was the older sister who kept her three younger brothers in line and she and her mother shared a special bond - not only as mother and daughter but as neighbors.  She was a loving and supportive wife and mother, and a doting grandmother.  Her two grand-puppies, Chopper and Moose were also the beneficiaries of her love and attention. 

Donna embraced life and she never let the "cancer" take control.  She faced it head on with a positive attitude always allowing her best to shine through.  She allowed her circumstances to deepen friendships as well as to unite her family with deeper, stronger and more loving family ties.  Her courage and fortitude serve as an example for many and her smile remained ever present.   What an inspiration and blessing she has been to her family and friends and they will cherish the many ways she has enriched their lives.