Donna Janette Shocks

Donna Janette Shocks, beloved daughter, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, cousin and friend, passed away peacefully on September 6, 2025, at the age of 72. She was born June 8, 1953, in Checotah, Oklahoma, the only child of Cleveland Green and Carol Ann Green. Her family later moved to Topeka, Kansas, where she attended Monroe Grade School and graduated from Highland Park High School in 1971.

Donna pursued a lifelong dedication to nursing and education. She earned her BSN and RN from Washburn University in 1987 and her MSN from Wichita State University in 1992. Donna taught in the Denver schools and served as Past President of the Colorado Council of Black Nurses. She was a member of Sigma Theta Tau (the International Honor Society of Nursing) and the Kansas State Nurses Association, among other professional organizations. Her determination, leadership, compassion, and commitment to her patients, students, and colleagues were hallmarks of her career.

Donna’s warm spirit, generous heart, and infectious smile left an indelible mark on everyone who knew her. She took great pride in and joy from her family.

She is survived by her father, Cleveland Green; her children Reginald Griffin, Larry Griffin Jr., Joshua Shocks (Lauren Shocks), Timothy Shocks (stepson), and stepdaughter Yendelela Shocks; her partner Howard Cirwithian; 14 grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; and many cousins and extended family. She was preceded in death by her mother, Carol Ann Green, and both sets of grandparents.

Donna’s legacy of love, strength, service, and dedication will continue to inspire all who knew her.