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BORN
1943
DIED
2025
Donna Eccleston Obituary
February 4, 1943 - June 25, 2025
With deep love and heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Donna June Eccleston (Hunt) on June 25, 2025. A gifted professional photographer, Donna had an extraordinary ability to capture the world's beauty and humanity through her lens. Her work reflected not only her artistic eye but her deep empathy and spirited curiosity for life and the people in it.
Donna was preceded in death by her beloved husband, David Eccleston, and her cherished son, Douglas Eccleston. She is survived by her twin brother Dennis Hunt and his wife Beth and their children and grandchildren, her younger brother Gary Hunt and his wife (beloved sister in law) Valerie, her daughter's Dana Eccleston and Dianna Colton with her husband Chris Colton, her dear sons (from another) Eric Kessel and Preston Browning (and their lovely wives) and her treasured grandchildren: David McKay his partner Savannah Cohen, Dawn Davis, Lindy Colton, and Caden Colton and her chosen grand daughter Iffy Roma. She is also survived by many relatives and friends across Texas, Montana and Washington states.
Affectionately known by many as "The Oracle," Donna's wisdom, warmth, and wit left a lasting impression on everyone who knew her. She was a source of light and guidance not just for her family, but for countless friends and admirers across the globe. Whether offering sage advice, a compassionate ear, or simply a perfectly timed laugh, Donna had a rare gift for making people feel seen, heard, and deeply loved. She was a lover of human stories, curious about life, passionate about justice and the person who waited until the perfect time to tell you the hard truths.
Her legacy lives on in the photographs she took, the lives she touched, and the family she fiercely adored. Though the world feels dimmer without her, her spirit endures in every image, memory, and moments of love she helped create.
A celebration of her life will be held in the coming months. In lieu of flowers, the family encourages acts of kindness and storytelling, Donna's favorite way to keep love alive. The family moves forward missing her deeply but living a life honoring her unforgettable essence.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Donna Eccleston
4 Entries
Shirley Baustian
July 30, 2025
Donna and I were classmates at Butte High School. I always admired her beauty, and she consistently attended our reunions. She was a truly beautiful soul, and I'm so sorry for your loss.
Shirley Westfall Baustian
Janiece Teichmann
July 16, 2025
What can I say about a best friend? Someone who was always there for me; who took a chance on hiring someone who didn't have a clue about being a photographer's assistant. She did and patiently taught me. What a ride! We had tough and hilarious moments in each assignment. I won't forget
As a friend, she understood me, and I her. I saw how bravely and steadily she fought her illness, while taking care of Dave, her family and me. Inspirational.
I miss her, and will always have a huge part of me lost.
I'll remember how much fun we had just watching her crazy shows and the Tick Tock crazies! Fun.
She loved her family, and I was included in hers. Honored.
I will always remember with love my dear sweet friend. I will see you again!
Nic Hartley
July 16, 2025
Donna was such a sweet heart. She will be missed. What a sad day for Midland.
Taffy Richardson Singletary
July 16, 2025
The Eccleston family holds a place in my earliest memories. So so so many stories about that house on Michigan Street. Dana and DiDi, my deepest condolences to you in the loss of your mom. I will cherish the many photos I have that she took of my family and myself. Each one comes with a memory that includes her. Prayers for you all.
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