Donna Lynn Mead

Donna Lynn Mead, born on September 9, 1968, entered this world as the beloved youngest
child in a vibrant family of eight siblings. She was preceded in death by her parents, Lillie
Joe Mead and Louis Clark, and by her siblings Albert, Doris, and Kenneth Mead.
After a five-year battle with diabetes, Donna passed away peacefully in her sleep on Friday,
November 7.
Affectionately known as "the baby," Donna embraced her special place in the family with
humor and pride. She was truly the apple of her mother's eye and a bright, unifying force
who kept her siblings closely connected and informed on the latest happenings of the world.
Her radiant beauty, captivating smile, and unmistakable charm reflected the confidence she
carried throughout her life. She loved sharing her beauty tips, encouraging others, and
showing anyone who asked how she managed to look so youthful and vibrant.
Donna graduated from Lindblom High School in 1986. She went on to earn her BA in
Education from Chicago State University in 1994. Deeply committed to nurturing young
minds, she dedicated more than 20 years to teaching public school students from
kindergarten through eighth grade. Her passion for education and her big heart for children
were evident in every classroom she entered.
In 2023, Donna earned her MSN in Social Work, expanding her calling to help others. She
worked for a nonprofit organization for two years before joining VITAS Hospice in 2025,
where she brought compassion, comfort, and dignity to patients and families during some of
life's most tender moments.
One of the high points Donna was quick to recall was her life-altering trip to Amsterdam at
just 15 years old, traveling as part of Stevie Wonder's entourage while accompanying her
sister Windy. That unforgettable experience opened her eyes to the world and remained
one of the brightest, most cherished memories of her youth.
Donna lived boldly, joyfully, and entirely on her own terms. Curious by nature, she loved
learning and shared wisdom far beyond her years. She adored God, her sons, her family and
her cherished fur babies. With a contagious laugh, sharp wit, and the gift of storytelling,
Donna could keep you laughing for hours. Whether telling a joke, offering advice, or simply
being herself hanging with her sister Roshelle and talking "ish", Donna brought fun and light
to everyone around her.
She leaves to cherish her memory her two "Kings," her beloved sons, Stone Sawyer and
Deville Turner; her granddaughter, Novah Sawyer; her siblings, Arthur Mead Jr., Ida
LaVerne "Cookie" Mead, Windy Barnes Farrell (Robert), Michael Lee Mead, and Roshelle
Mead; her nieces and nephews Vincent Mead, Sunny Daye, Kevin Denson, Jordan Anderson,
Ashira Anderson, Kia Mead, Kayla Mead, Kenneth Mead Jr, and Marsinette Mead; along with
countless cousins, aunts, uncles, cherished friends, colleagues, and co-workers.
Donna's legacy is one of love, courage, perseverance and unwavering faith. She will be
profoundly missed and forever remembered by all who knew her.
Her Favorite Gospel Lyrics – Walter Hawkins
"What is this that I feel deep inside?
What is this that keeps setting my soul on fire?
Whatever it is… whatever it is… whatever it is…
It won't let me hold my peace.
What is this that makes me do right when I would do wrong?
What is this, when I'm down low, it gives me a song?
Whatever it is…whatever it is….whatever it is
It won't let me hold my peace."