Jeanne Donham

Lenora “Jeanne” Donham, age 81, of Morgantown, West Virginia, peacefully transitioned to her heavenly home on Thursday, February 12, 2026, surrounded by her loving family.

Jeanne was born to the late Opal and George Davisson and was raised in the rolling hills along Hidden Valley Road. She cherished her childhood, growing up alongside her siblings in the simplicity and beauty of country life. One of Jeanne’s most treasured testimonies was witnessing her father—after battling alcoholism—take hold of God’s hand and find salvation right in their family kitchen. That moment forever changed their home and deeply shaped Jeanne’s faith, setting the foundation for a life wholly devoted to God.

Jeanne dedicated her life to the Lord from an early age, faithfully growing in church where she met the love of her life, Allen. They were soon married and began building the family that would become her greatest joy. Together, they raised six children, pouring love, faith, and devotion into their home. Answering God’s call into ministry, Jeanne and Allen began pastoring a small church in Chaplin. As the congregation grew, so did their vision, and in 1981, they helped establish HOPE Church.

Jeanne faithfully stood beside her husband as a devoted pastor’s wife and was lovingly known as the “mother of the church.” She ministered tirelessly—teaching, praying, singing, playing the organ, and loving deeply. Her compassion, humility, and unwavering dedication left a lasting imprint on the church family and all who knew her. She truly gave her whole heart to God’s work and to the people she served.

Jeanne had a kind word, a gentle smile, and genuine love for everyone she met—and people felt it. Nearly everyone who knew her carries a personal story of how she touched their life in a meaningful way. She was a bright light illuminating God’s love.

For 61 precious years, Jeanne and Allen remained sweethearts—inseparable in life, ministry, and love. Their bond was one most only dream of. Jeanne also shared a unique and deeply personal relationship with each of her children, loving them beyond measure. She was the proud and devoted MeMaw to her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, making each one feel as though they were her favorite. Her love shaped their lives and will forever live in their hearts as they carry on her legacy.

Jeanne was also a warrior—a powerful prayer warrior for her family, her church family, and anyone in need. She bravely battled cancer three times and emerged victorious with God by her side. Her final year was filled with both uncertainty and triumph, but her ultimate victory came as she entered eternal glory. Jeanne now proclaims,

“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness…” (2 Timothy 4:7–8).

Jeanne is survived by her loving husband of 61 years, Minor “Allen” Donham; her “baby” Annie; her six children and their spouses: Jeremy Donham (Wendy), Deanna Watts (Bobby), Shelly Cummings (Greg), Shawn Donham, Joseph Donham (Dorothy), and Janice Gaines (Grover); her 15 grandchildren/spouses, and 12 great-grandchildren; her sister, Irene Sims; along with many nieces, nephews, “honorary” children and grandchildren, her beloved church family, and countless friends.

In addition to her parents, Jeanne was preceded in death by her brother, Darrell “Butch” Davisson; her sister, Barbara Jackson; and her cherished granddaughter, Laura “Ashley” Donham.

Jeanne’s life was a living testimony of faith, love, and service. Though she will be deeply missed, we rejoice knowing she is now whole, healed, and embraced in the arms of her Savior.

The family would like to express their gratitude for the compassionate care Jeanne received at WVU Medicine and The Mary Babb Randolph Cancer Center. The kindness and attentiveness shown by the staff brought great comfort to her and to our family.

A special thank you to Dr. Saba Assar and Matt for your exceptional care and genuine compassion—it will never be forgotten.

To Dr. Emadi for your expertise and heartfelt kindness throughout her journey.

We appreciate you all!

Family and friends will gather on Monday, February 16, 2026 from 4-8 PM at HOPE Church, 519 Hornbeck Road, Morgantown, WV 26508 and again on Tuesday from 10 AM until funeral services at 11 AM with Bishop E.S. Harper officiating. Burial will follow at Beverly Hills Memorial Gardens.