Donna Moore

Throughout her rich and rewarding life, Donna Moore was a blessing to those around her. She was a gracious and kindhearted woman who was social and outgoing with a fantastic sense of humor to boot. Although Donna experienced so many things that enriched her life along the way, there was nothing that made her heart sing more than being surrounded by her loved ones. She was blessed to find love not once, but twice, and her devotion to her family was unmatched. Donna was never one to be concerned with what she had, rather, she made it her primary focus to live fully in each moment she was given. Life will never be the same without her here, but the brilliantly colored mosaic of memories that she leaves behind will be forever cherished.

The Roaring Twenties brought us some of the most exciting days we have ever faced as a nation. Innovation fueled countless changes that transformed the way we lived our daily lives. Motion pictures came to life with color and sound, cars were more affordable thanks to the efficiency of the assembly line, and the world of flight soared to new heights with the fearless spirits of Amelia Earhart and Charles Lindbergh. It was during this eventful time that a young couple from Wheatfield, Michigan, was pleased to announce the birth of a healthy baby girl on January 15, 1922. Donna A. was the youngest of eight children born to her parents, Hoyle and Lydie (Potter) Swan, and she was raised in the family home alongside her siblings.

In many ways Donna experienced an upbringing that was a reflection of her generation. As the youngest of the Swan children she was greatly spoiled by her older siblings, and she was also outgoing, talkative, and articulate at a young age. Donna enjoyed playing with her friends and cousins in her free time. She was a student at Dansville School throughout her entire school career. Donna was a good student who enjoyed learning. She was captain of the girls basketball team and played tennis. In everything she did Donna strived to succeed and was known for her competitive spirit.

New and exciting changes were in store for Donna when she became better acquainted with a young boy who lived nearby. His name was David Woods, and they developed a relationship while she was still in school. After getting to know one another it wasn’t long before the couple found themselves deeply in love. With a desire to establish a life together, Donna and David were married on November 7, 1942, while he was home on furlough from serving in the United States Army. Together they welcomed two children into their hearts and home, Elizabeth and Kenneth. Donna was an outstanding cook whose skills were showcased when she prepared the wild mushrooms that her husband and son often picked alongside her fresh bread for their Saturday evening meal. She was deeply saddened with David’s death after 28 years of marriage.

Brighter days were on the horizon for Donna when she was introduced to Emery Parr Moore through a mutual friend. They were married on September 29, 1974, and settled into a home they built in St. Johns. Emery had four children from a previous marriage. Together they were members of Duplain Church of Christ. Once he retired from farming they bought a motorhome and enjoyed traveling all over together. They left the cold Michigan winters behind every year to spend their days in warm Ocala, Florida, and their summers were spent in Tawas City, Michigan.

As one who liked to be busy, Donna was a woman of many interests. She was athletic and also enjoyed playing cribbage, often hosting girls card parties with friends. As her friends and family can attest, Donna always had quite a sweet tooth. She liked watching birds and had an extensive collection of swans. Donna was a lifetime member of the Order of the Eastern Star, Ingham County Chapter.

In 1995, Donna was given another trial to face with Emery’s death after battling a lengthy illness. In the weeks, months, and years that followed his death she focused her attention on spending as much time with her family as she could. Donna treasured her picture collection of all her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, and she never missed acknowledging their birthdays with just the perfect card. Christmas was a special time of year, and they celebrated as a family on the Sunday between Christmas and New Year’s Day.

With a life that spanned times of war and times of peace, times of plenty and times of want, Donna Moore made a significant impact in the lives of those around her. She was bubbly, outgoing, and fun-loving, which made her so much fun to be around. Donna viewed her family as her greatest gift, and it will be the generations who follow her that will carry on her timeless legacy. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

Donna A. (Swan-Woods) Moore died on January 23, 2014. Donna’s family includes her children, Elizabeth (James) Stephenson of St. Johns, Thomas (Agnes) Moore of Fowler, Albert (Kelly) Moore of St. Johns, Kenneth (Karen) Woods of Allen Park, Ina (James) Taylor of Eureka, and Bruce (Eileen) Moore of Laingsburg; 22 grandchildren; 45 great-grandchildren; and 8 great-great grandchildren, 2 sisters-in-law, Viola Swan, Gerry Moore; and many, many nieces and nephews. Donna was preceded in death by her husbands; son, Thomas Moore; grandchildren, Scott, Tommy and Bethany Moore. Funeral Services will be 1:00 p.m., Monday, January 27, 2014, at the Duplain Church of Christ with Pastor Marty Moore officiating, burial will be at a later date. The family will receive friends, 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. on Sunday at the Osgood Funeral Home, 104 E. Cass St., St. Johns. Contributions may be made to Duplain Church of Christ in memory of Donna. To learn more about Donna and view her Life Story film, please visit her personal webpage at www.lifestorynet.com/memories/96934. The family is being served by the Osgood Funeral Homes.