Donna Evon McIntyre

Donna Priest McIntyre, 93, of Livingston, Texas, passed away peacefully on January 4, 2026. A beloved mother, grandmother, and friend, Donna will be remembered for her creativity, generosity of spirit, and unwavering devotion to family, faith, and community.

Born on August 17, 1932, in Spring, Texas, Donna's life was marked by her early passion for sewing and crafting. On October 6, 1951, Donna married Ernest (Sonny) McIntyre and they spent many years traveling throughout the United States and Canada with his work and had many adventures. From her days in Home Economics, she discovered a lifelong love of design that would later blossom into remarkable artistry. Whether creating clothing for her daughters or hand-stitching quilts that told stories of home and heritage, Donna's craftsmanship reflected her care and imagination.

Professionally, Donna built a respected career spanning several decades in real estate and property management, beginning in the early 1970s. For 12 years, she worked at the Polk County Title Company, where her integrity and attention to detail earned widespread admiration. Still, it was her community service and passion for preserving local history through the Polk County Heritage Society that most clearly defined her civic impact. For over 30 years, she played an active role in numerous events, chairing the Christmas Tour of Homes and the Pine Cone Festival Quilt Show. Donna also served an impressive 18 years on the Society's Board of Directors. In 1999, she was honored with the J.R. Maxwell Award for Individual Achievement, recognizing her dedication to safeguarding the heritage of Polk County.

Her love of quilting led her to become a charter member of the Livingston Piecemakers Quilt Guild, where she served as Historian and Chairman of the Fun Session Committee. Judith Montano featured Donna's distinctive crazy quilt skirt in the book *Crazy Quilt Odyssey*, highlighting her ability to merge artistry with practicality. In 1999, her "Sampler" quilt represented Polk County in the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo Go Texan Quilt Show, earning the distinguished Best of Show award.

Donna's faith guided her through all aspects of life. As an active member of the First Assembly of God Church, she served both administratively and creatively, participating in the choir and crafting Muppet-like puppets for the children's ministry.

She is survived by her daughters: Karen and Garvey Jackson, and Paula and Mike Gowdy, her grandsons: Andrew Jackson, and Samuel and Ashley Jackson, as well as her great granddaughters McKinley, Mattie, and Roxie Jackson. Her love for her family, especially her grandchildren, was boundless.

Donna was laid to rest on January 7, 2026, at Forest Hill Cemetery in Livingston. Her legacy of creativity, faith, and kindness will forever inspire those fortunate enough to have known her.