Donna M. Rhodes

1940 - 2025

Donna M. Rhodes

January 21, 1940 - May 1, 2025

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Donna M. Rhodes, a beloved friend to all and a lifelong lover of horses, who departed this world on May 1, 2025, at the age of 85.

Donna was born January 21, 1940, in Gibson City, the daughter of Oren and Hester (Payne) Donner. She married Jim Rhodes on September 17, 1960. He preceded her in death on September 4, 2000.

Donna was a true horsewoman in every sense of the word. From her earliest days, she felt most at home in the saddle, and her bond with these magnificent animals shaped not just her life's passion, but her generous spirit as well. She spent countless hours caring for, riding, and sharing her love of horses with friends. If you were her friend, you were immediately welcomed into her heart, home, and part of her huge extended family.

Donna was a source of kindness, laughter, and enduring support. Whether at the barn, a local show, or around a dinner table, she brought warmth and joy into every space she entered.

Her life was a testament to compassion, strength, and deep connection, to both people and animals. Though she has ridden on ahead of us, the trail she blazed will never fade.

She was preceded in death by the love of her life, Jim Rhodes; her brother, Don Donner; and parents. She is survived by her family and hundreds of friends, as well as a devoted community of horse lovers, and her "adopted kids" who will miss her dearly.

A graveside service will be held at 12 p.m., "High Noon," Monday, May 5, 2025, at Point Pleasant Cemetery, Long Creek. Calvert & Wikoff Funeral Home, Mt. Zion, is assisting the family with services. Messages of condolence may be shared at Calvertmemorial.com.

Happy Trails.