Donna Jackson

Donna was born on February 16, 1954, to Cleo and Ida Lawler at her maternal grandmother Mama Lou’s home in Mount Pleasant, Tennessee, where three generations eagerly awaited her arrival. The family remained there for a short time before returning to Nashville to begin their journey together as a new family.

Donna was educated in Metro Nashville Public Schools, where she was an excellent student. She greatly enjoyed her years at Cameron High School; however, when the class was relocated, she graduated from McGavock High School. After earning her degree from Nashville Technical Community College, Donna began her career as a claims adjuster and trainer. She later transitioned to Baptist Hospital, where she wore many hats and filled several roles before eventually deciding to retire.

Donna was a creative soul who loved her family fiercely and found joy in helping others. She enjoyed trying new things, dancing, listening to good music, and having fun—but her true passion was cooking. She was an exceptional cook and made sure everyone was fed. No one ever left her presence hungry.

Anyone who knew Donna also knew she never hesitated to speak her mind. You never had to guess how she felt—she made it clear.

Her church family, under Bishop Hal Robinson (Mt. Moriah Community Baptist Church), was a constant source of strength for her. She often shared how the message or songs “really hit home today.” Donna worked diligently in the church, took pride in the Kitchen Krew and its improvements, and was always ready to help wherever needed. Her faith was unwavering, and she often said, “It can’t fail.”

But one thing for certain, and two things for sure—her two heartbeats were her children: Desiree (Tootie) and Anthony (Ant), who preceded her in death.

She was proceeded in death by her parents Ida, Cleo and WD, grandparents Minnie, Abe and Mama Lou, siblings Betty and Micheal.

Donna leaves to cherish her memories a loving devoted daughter, Desiree’ Jackson, son Terrell Burks, 8 grandchildren Orlando Patterson (Darlene), Jeryne Potter, Shanaye Sawyer, Jaylend (Potter) Jackson, Kasey Jackson, Justin Burks (Ciara) , Terriel Burks and Abriah Burks, 5 great children Jade, Serenity, Selene, Jayden and Azhania, Aunts Bettie (Robert) Fritts and Theresa Groves, uncles James (Alice) Hambrick, Leonard Hambrick and John Hambrick, host devoted of nieces and nephews devoted friends Elizabeth Thompson, Jackie Dotson and Ronnie McGlother