Donna Starnes Smith

Donna Starnes Smith, 72, of Dyersburg, Tennessee, died on Friday, March 28, 2025, at her residence in Dyersburg, Tennessee.

Born Saturday, May 24, 1952, in Dyersburg, Tennessee, she was the daughter of the late Billy Joe Starnes and the late Peggy Jean Byrd Starnes.

Donna was a woman of unwavering faith, boundless love, and a caring spirit that touched the lives of many.

Donna had a passion for nurturing children, a gift she shared through her work as a daycare employee and as a trusted babysitter. Her kindness and patience left a lasting impact on every child she cared for. In addition to her devotion to children, she was a dedicated businesswoman, having successfully run her own cleaning business for several years.

She was an active member of the Dyer County Rescue, always willing to lend a helping hand to those in need. Donna found joy in life’s simple pleasures—she loved shopping, cheering at stock car races, and, most of all, spending time with her family and friends. Her greatest joy came from her grandchildren, Karlee and Karsyn, who affectionately called her “Memaw.” They were the light of her life, and she cherished every moment with them.

Her strong faith in the Lord guided her through life, and she was a source of inspiration to those who knew her. Donna’s warmth, laughter, and love will be deeply missed but forever remembered by her family and friends.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 11:00 AM on Saturday, March 29, 2025, in the Chapel of Johnson-Williams Funeral Home. Officiating this service will be Bro. Chuck Richardson.

Visitation will be held on Saturday from 10:00 AM until 11:00 AM on Saturday.

She leaves to cherish her memory; one sister, Pennie King (Joe) of Dyersburg, Tennessee; two grandchildren, Karlee Smith and Karsyn Pilgrim both of Dyersburg, Tennessee; special friend, Stan Watson of Dyersburg, Tennessee and a host of friends and extended family that she loved her dearly.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Jerry Smith, one son, Jeremy Starnes Smith and one brother, Steve Starnes.

Online condolences may be made to the family at johnsonwilliamsfuneralhome.com. Johnson-Williams Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Donna Starnes Smith.

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