Donna Marie Newland

Donna Marie Newland, a beacon of kindness and warmth, passed away peacefully at her home on October 4, 2025, at the age of 78. The family will host a Life Celebration for Donna on Sunday, October 12, 2025, at 1:00 PM at the Sodalis Trail Pavillion located on Ely Street. Arrangements for cremation are under the direction of the James O'Donnell Funeral Home of Hannibal, MO. Born in Hannibal, Missouri, on August 13, 1947, to the late Marion and Geraldine Roland Otten, Donna's life was a tapestry woven with love, service, and simple joys. Donna's heart found its match when she married Charles Newland Sr. on a beautiful autumn day, September 25, 1965, in her hometown of Hannibal. Their enduring love was the cornerstone of a family that grew to include four devoted children: Charlie (Martha), Debbie (Roger), Daniel (Jen), and Craig (Kristina), all of whom carry her legacy forward in Hannibal. Donna's ten grandchildren-Julia, Ashley, Micha, Danielle, Dakota, Ava, Noah, Jude, Carlie, and Chase-and eight great-grandchildren-Kate, Kynsley, Journee, Emmett, Hattie, Winnie, Aspyn, and Ayla-were the lights of her life, each a testament to her boundless love. She is survived by her cherished siblings, Bob Otten (Belinda) and Oney Otten, both of Hannibal, MO, along with her sisters Judy Kurz of Hannibal, MO, and Kathy Otten of Moberly, MO. Donna's family extended to numerous nieces and nephews, each of whom felt the unique warmth of her affection. Her passing was preceded by her loving parents, her brothers Bill and Frank Otten, and her sister Sue Otten. Donna's professional life was marked by her compassionate spirit, serving as a certified nurse's assistant in local nursing homes. Her gentle touch and friendly demeanor brought comfort to many during their most vulnerable times. Her Christian faith was the compass that guided her through life's trials and triumphs, instilling in her a sense of purpose and grace. Anyone who knew Donna understood her passion for life's simple pleasures. She relished times spent with her family, particularly the laughter-filled moments with her grandchildren. Donna's hobbies included playing bingo, the occasional visit to the casino to enjoy the slots or Keno and engaging in puzzles and coloring on her phone. A St. Louis Cardinals fan through and through, she also found solace in the daily ritual of reading newspapers. Donna's culinary skills were unmatched in the family, known especially for her delectable potato soup and perfectly fried potatoes. Her words were always kind; she never spoke ill of anyone, embodying a spirit of positivity that drew people to her. Adventures with her sisters were treasured chapters in her life's story, as were her love for dining out on Mexican and Greek cuisine. Those who had the privilege of knowing Donna would describe her as loving, kind, and friendly-an individual whose presence was a comfort and joy. Her life was a living example of the adage that the simplest things are often the most precious. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.