Violet Jane Donahoe

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Violet Jane Donahoe, often lovingly referred to as “Jean”, who left this world on August 14, 2025, at the remarkable age of 97. She lived a full life, rich in love, laughter, and a little bit of sass—just the way she liked it. 

Born Violet Jane West to the late John Henry and Delza West on May 24, 1928 in Brasstown, North Carolina, Violet was a force of nature from the very beginning. She was a true lover of life’s simple pleasures: shopping trips with loved ones, catching up on her favorite soap operas, country music, and most of all, spending time with those she held dear. Family gatherings were never complete without her candid opinions, sharp wit, and unforgettable stories. She had a gift for telling it like it is—never afraid to speak her mind, and always doing so with a sparkle in her eye. You always knew where you stood with her, and that honesty, combined with her fierce love, made her unforgettable. She poured her heart into cooking for those she loved, and no one could match her biscuits and gravy—they were simply unforgettable. 

Living to cherish her memory are her children Juanita (Jim) Ullman, James Sparks, Debra Sparks, daughter-in-law Charolette Sparks, her grandchildren Christopher (Alexis) Sparks, Greg (Cathy) Sparks, Shaun (Stephanie) Sparks, Rhonda (Jason) Rice, Raquel Collett, Ronnie (Lisa) Winters, Anita Ullman, Jimmy Ullman, Lance (Sarah) Ullman, Chad (Amy) Ullman, Jamie (Jamie) Novak, Jeromy (Rikki) Sparks, Debra (Jason) Vasilev, Danielle (Zak) Lutz, Jacob (Jessie) Jones, loving niece June (Kenneth) Tillman, 27 great grandchildren and 3 great-great grandchildren who will miss her spunk, her laughter, and the unwavering love she gave so freely. She is reunited with those who went before her, her husband Franklin Donahoe, her adored sons Charles and Harold Sparks, grandsons Charles, Keith, and Ronald Sparks, her parents, and siblings. 

Violet’s legacy lives on in the stories we share, the memories we treasure, meals we share, and the music that will forever remind us of her vibrant spirit. Per her wishes a small celebration of Violet’s life will be held at a later date.