Donna Jean Charles

Donna Jean Charles was born on March 3, 1948, in Conway, Arkansas to her beloved parents, Warren Dee and Rachel Edgmon. She was the third of four children and is survived by three siblings: David Edgmon (Tommy), Peggy (Darlene) Spradlin (Tim), and Michael Edgmon (Cheryl). 

Donna graduated High School in 1966, and went on to attend Beauty School, graduating in 1968. She went on a road trip with her friend Bobbie Pemberton to Jacksonville, Florida thinking she was only going on a vacation for about 3 days. That 3 days turned into 6 years. While she was in Jacksonville, Florida she began dating Dennis Charles. The two married in Jacksonville, Florida on July 26, 1974. They were later sealed in the Washington D.C. Temple on September 4, 1975.

Donna was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt and friend. Her true joy in life was found in her relationships with her family, and with her Heavenly Father and her Savior, Jesus Christ. She served diligently in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. She served in many callings including teaching children and youth the gospel of Jesus Christ. Donna loved gardening, collecting dolls, reading books, singing, cooking, baking, and canning. She enjoyed sewing (she actually sewed her own wedding dress), researching family history, genealogy, coloring with watercolors, and drawing. She loved the home she created with Dennis. Donna definitely knew how to have fun. For example, she could be seen riding many miles on the back of Dennis’ motor-scooter. But more than anything, being a mom was her greatest joy; she was a great listener, very patient, and always knew exactly what to say. She was the definition of humility, a true follower of Jesus Christ.

Donna passed peacefully on December 16, 2025. She is reunited with her parents, Nathan & Nathaniel, Samantha, and Michelle Charles. 

She is survived by her husband of 51 years, Dennis; children, Shane (Tara) Charles, Krista Charles, Sara Gates, Julie Johnson, Brittany (Philip) White, Chelcy (Tyson) Williams, Alexandra (Spencer) Castleberry, Rayven Charles, and Khaitlyn (Michael) Hammon; grandchildren, Oliver, Gabe, Logan, Lana, Andrew, Sydney, Haley, Carly, Isaac, Enoch, and Ephraim; great grandchildren, Paisley, Caroline, and Aiden. 

The visitation is Monday, December 22, 2025, at 10:00 am. followed by a funeral service at 11:00 am. These services will be held at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 2045 Dave Ward Drive Conway, Arkansas 72032.

In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate contributions to assist with funeral expenses.