Surrounded by her husband and family, Donna Marie Kearce went to be with her Lord early Easter morning, April 9, 2023, at the age of 85.
She was born October 1, 1937, to Elvin and Ona Trapp in Grove City, Ohio. She moved to Orlando, Florida at the age of 14 and attended Boone High School. After graduation, she married her lifelong sweetheart, Clanton Odeen Kearce on June 17, 1955. They remained married for a beautiful 67 years.
She was preceded in death by their infant child, Lydia Marie Kearce.
She will be greatly missed every day by her husband, daughter Star Smith (John), her daughter Deena Moore, her son Douglas Kearce (Darla), her daughter Denise “Nece” Kearce (Dennis), 10 grandchildren and 16 great grandchildren.
She decided to dedicate her life to being a wonderful, unforgettable wife and mother. She faithfully loved her husband, always putting their marriage first. She introduced her children to Jesus and kept them in church. She created a warm, loving home; a safe haven for her family.
She made herself available to her family, placing herself second. She supported them and loved them through every situation whether happy times or difficult challenges. She lifted all generations in daily prayer asking for God’s blessings on her family.
Her sense of humor and contagious laughter made life fun for her family and friends. She brought a spark of joy to all who knew her. She was a master quilter and an excellent seamstress. Some of her favorite times were playing hymns and love songs on the piano joined by her husband on his guitar. Her passion was Bible Study.
Along with her husband, she was a co-owner of a car dealership working as its office manager for 15 years.
She gave her life to Christ at the age of eight and was a lifelong member of the Church of the Nazarene. Many remember and were blessed by her faithful and joyful service to God and the church. She actively supported the church any way she could including serving years as a Children’s Church Director, a Sunday School teacher, a Bible Study facilitator, Board member, and Mission Director.
She was unashamed of the gospel of Christ. She lived a strong life of faith being a righteous example to all she knew. A life well lived.
She will be forever loved and the legacy she left will never be forgotten.
A Celebration of Life Service will be held June 17, 2023, at United Church of the Nazarene in Orlando, Florida.