Donna Marie Richards

Donna Marie Richards, 98, of Gaston, IN died peacefully at her home on Wednesday, March 18, 2026.

Donna was born on March 30, in Gaston, IN, to the late John and Agnes (Waymire) Richards. She married Mearl E. Richards on May 31, 1946, sharing their loving partnership until his passing on November 10, 1982. She later married Donal Johnson on September 29, 2006, who preceded her in death on February 27, 2020.

Donna graduated from Gaston High School in 1946, furthering her education at Muncie School of Practical Nursing, graduating in 1963. She devoted 27 years of her life to serving others as a Licensed Practical Nurse at Ball Memorial Hospital. When she wasn't dedicating her time to her patients, she was devoting her energy to the Lord at Grace Community Church in Marion, IN, praising Him until her last day on Earth. Nothing gave her more joy than the love she received from her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, surrounding them with mountains of love in return.

She is survived by her daughter-in-law, Cheryl Richards; son-in-law, Michael Carter; sister-in-law, Helen Richards; grandchildren Leslie (Shawn) Zolman, Lindsey (Jeff) Cook, Lucas Carter (Sydney Schrock), Jason Richards, and Jed Richards; and great-grandchildren Marissa Zolman, Chandlor Cook (Adelyn Thomasson), Michael Zolman (Abigail Brooks), Jonathon Cook, Eli Cook, Leah Cook, Bailey Richards, and Dakota Richards.

Donna was preceded in death by her parents, husbands Mearl and Donal, children Fred Richards and Wanda Carter, and brother Robert Richards.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Jones-Smith Chapel, Armes-Hunt Life Celebration Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 259 N. Main St., Upland, IN 46989. Funeral services will be held on Monday, March 23, 2026 at 1:00 p.m. at the Jones-Smith Chapel, with public visitation from 11:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, please make contributions to Gilead Ministries of Marion, IN.