Donna Holcomb

Donna M. Holcomb, 94, wife of the late Orla Leroy "Lee" Holcomb, passed away peacefully due to natural causes on November 1, 2025, in Niles, Michigan. Born on June 15, 1931, in Cleveland, Ohio, Donna's life was a testament to the power of love, family, and her faith in Jesus Christ. Her enduring faith and caring spirit left an indelible mark on the hearts and lives of all who knew her.

The daughter of the late Cleo (Rodd) Butler, Donna grew up in Gibsonburg, Ohio in a nurturing environment under the care of her grandmother, Donna Marie Rodd and grandfather, Harry Rodd. Her grandmother, who also cared for Donna's disabled aunt, Laura (Honey) imparted a passion for caring for others and shaped her into the selfless and compassionate person she became. Observing the sacrificial love and care given to her aunt led to her choosing nursing as her profession. Her journey through life was shared with her beloved high school sweetheart, Orla Leroy "Lee" Holcomb, whom she wed on July 7, 1951. Although Lee preceded her in death on September 16, 2023, the memories they created together continue to live on.

A dedicated mother, Donna is survived by her children, Mark (Ellen) Holcomb, Linda Holcomb-Kubiak, and Matthew Holcomb. She took immense pride in her role as a grandmother to Lisa Holcomb-Rathsack, Heather Morris-Littlefield, Carla Holcomb-Lindblad, Jennifer Holcomb-Balo, and Ryan Kubiak, and as a great-grandmother to three cherished great-grandchildren, Denes and Lee Balo, and Gracie Lindblad. Her family was the cornerstone of her life, and each member felt the warmth and care of her loving embrace. Donna's legacy also lives on through her brother, Robert Butler, and her sister, Geneva Flaff. She was a beloved aunt to several nieces and nephews, each of whom benefited from her wisdom and care. She was predeceased by her brother, William Butler, whose memory she held close to her heart.

Professionally, Donna was a respected registered nurse, having graduated with a nursing degree from the University of Toledo. Her nursing career started with working on the pediatric ward at Toledo Hospital, then at Memorial Hospital in South Bend, followed by being the head nurse at Heaven Hubbard Home in New Carlisle, Indiana and The Brothers of Holy Cross Nursing Home. Her caring nature found its true calling in this role, where she provided comfort and care to countless individuals throughout her tenure.

Described by those who knew her as loving, kind, and thoughtful, Donna's impact on those around her demonstrated her deeply held belief the dignity of every human being rooted in being created in the image of God. She approached life with determination and endurance, placing the needs of others before her own. Her greatest joy was in the time she spent with her family, especially her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She enjoyed crocheting and made many blankets for family and friends.

We say goodbye knowing she is at home with the Lord Jesus Christ, who welcomed her into his kingdom with these words "Well done, thou good and faithful servant, enter thou into the joy of the Lord". Matthew 25:21.

Memorial contributions may be made in Donna's memory to The Salvation Army 1707 Miller Drive, Niles, Michigan 49120. www.salvationarmyusa.org/mi/niles. or Samaritan's Purse, PO Box 3000, Boone, NC 28607. www.Samaitans purse.org.

Funeral services will be held on Monday, November 17, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. at Brown Funeral Home with a time of visitation one hour prior. An interment will follow at Silverbrook Cemetery.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Brown Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Niles. www.Brown FuneralHomeNiles.com.