Donna Stribling

Donna Mae Stribling, age 84, of LaPlata, MO passed away peacefully on Friday, June 27, 2025 at LaPlata Nursing Home. She was born on July 10, 1940 on a farm in rural Hurdland, MO. Her parents were Willard (Butch) Long and Velma Mae Queen. 

Donna graduated from Kirksville Senior High School and soon went to work for the telephone company as an operator. On August 27, 1960, she was united in marriage to James M. Stribling at the Kirksville United Methodist Church and began her career as a farm wife, homemaker, and mother. The farm was located near Gibbs, MO. Donna and Jim farmed until moving to Kirksville. After selling their farm, they maintained their parent's farm in Gibbs, still planting a garden and canning. 

Donna is preceded in death by her parents; husband; brother, Hollis Long and in-laws, Wilson and Noema Stribling. She is survived by her daughter, Teresa (Mark) Detwiler of Troy MO. Grandchildren are Rachel Detwiler of Lexna, KS; Meghan Deal (Chris) of Columbia, MO; and Thomas Detwiler (Allison) of Troy, MO. Great-Grandchildren are Theo Deal, Lillian Deal, Jase Detwiler, and Kade Detwiler. Donna was a member of the Gibbs Christian Church and Brashear Community Bible Church. 

Donna was known for her excellent cooking and gardening. She tended her large garden and was proud of her vibrant zinnia and canna beds. She canned and froze her produce, along with helping her in-laws with theirs. She was also an accomplished seamstress, making extraordinary clothing for her daughter and grandchildren. For many years Donna was a member of the Sunshine Club. She made delicious candies, cookies, and charming crafts that she shared with family and friends. In later years, Donna lovingly babysat many children.

A visitation service celebrating Donna's life has been scheduled for Saturday, July 12 from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm at Playle-Rimer-Millard Family Funeral Chapel. There will be a private burial.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to Hospice of Northeast Missouri