Ladonna Jean Spears

Ladonna Jean Spears/Phillips, known affectionately as Donna to her friends and family, passed away on January 11, 2024, after a courageous battle with illness. Born on October 4, 1952, in Hulbert, Oklahoma, Donna's life was a tapestry of love, laughter, and service, woven through the years with the threads of her many talents and passions. Donna spent her final days in Tahlequah, Oklahoma, surrounded by the love of her family and the community she had so deeply impacted. Her warm presence and infectious humor were a source of joy and comfort to all who knew her. As a proud graduate of Hulbert High School, Donna carried with her the spirit of her hometown throughout her life, infusing it into her work and relationships. Professionally, Donna dedicated many years as a beloved cook at Woodall School, where she nourished not only the bodies but also the hearts of the students and staff with her culinary skills and motherly affection. Later in her career, she worked for the log cabin store where she enjoyed interacting with customers and brought joy to all who knew her. Donna's creativity shone brightest in her personal hobbies. An avid sewer, cook, and embroiderer, she crafted beautiful garments, delicious meals, and intricate designs that were the envy of her peers. These interests were more than pastimes; they were extensions of her love, given form in fabric and flavor, and shared generously with all. Known for being creative, funny, and loving, Donna's character was the foundation upon which her life was built. Her humor could light up a room, and her love was a constant source of comfort to her family and friends. Donna's legacy is reflected in the lives of those she touched, taught, and embraced with her kindness. Donna's memory is cherished by her loving family. She was preceded in death by her devoted husband, Robert Phillips; her father, Gerald Potts; her mother, Lily Mae Potts; and her brothers, Allen Potts, Jimmy Potts, Herbert Potts, and sister Starlet Potts. She is survived by her siblings, Dean Potts, Pat Potts, Judy Webster, Felicia Potts, and Rhonda Potts, who will miss her deeply. The family line continues with her son, Michael W. Spears and his wife, Valerie Spears; stepdaughter, Kandee Turnpaugh and her husband, Paul; and her adored grandchildren, Sierrah Burch, Kabrina Harwell, Jimmy Hamlin, Shawna Spears, Ryan Isbell, and Michael Spears Jr. Donna's joy was multiplied by her great-grandchildren, Kyler Slayton, Case Cooper, Katura Harwell, Sean Harwell Jr., Emersyn Hamlin, and Laredo Thompson, who brought her immeasurable happiness in her later years. Donna's life was a testament to the beauty of family, the value of community, and the enduring power of love. Her impact will continue to be felt through the lives of those she has left behind, and the countless memories she has given them to cherish. With her passing, the world has lost a remarkable woman, but her spirit will live on in the hearts of her family, friends, and all those fortunate enough to have known her. As we say goodbye to Donna Jean Spears/Phillips, we celebrate a life well-lived, full of passion, generosity, and a boundless capacity to care for others. Her story does not end here, for it is carried forward in the laughter of her grandchildren, the stories shared at family gatherings, and the quiet moments when her presence is felt, guiding and inspiring us from beyond. Donna's life was one of purpose and joy, and though she will be greatly missed, the essence of who she was remains with us. In our hearts and memories, Donna will forever be remembered as a beacon of love and a creator of happiness, a woman who truly made the world a better place just by being in it.