Donna Jean Hodges

Donna Jean Hodges, born June 28, 1948, in Evansville, Indiana, to the late Marion E. “Sonny” and Jacqueline “Jackie” Hust, passed away peacefully on March 1, 2026, in Fort Myers, Florida, surrounded by her family and close friends.

A lifelong singer who has fronted several bands and flourished as a solo artist, music wasn't just Donna's career; it was her heartbeat. She took immense pride in being named the Florida Country Music Association’s Female Vocalist of the Year and recording her first CD. Whether she was performing in Nashville or opening for legends such as Alabama, Faron Young, and Hank Williams Jr., Donna commanded the stage with a grace uniquely hers.

Donna’s creativity didn't stop at the microphone. She defied stereotypes by fully embracing "geek" culture with contagious enthusiasm. She was just as comfortable under the spotlight as she was in full cosplay at conventions with her son, Stacy, and his family. For Donna, life was a canvas for self-expression—whether through her stage performances, cosplay costumes, or her final public performance in “Hoedown” at The Firehouse Community Theatre in LaBelle.

Always ready for her next great adventure, Donna recently took "her girls"—her daughter, daughter-in-law, and granddaughter—on a final, joyful spa getaway to Mexico. She lived a life defined by artistry, birdwatching, and a deep compassion for animals, tending to a neighborhood menagerie of squirrels, birds, stray cats, and chickens. Her favorite was her fur baby, “Baby,” a sweet kitty she adopted after her grandson rescued a stray mama cat.

In recent years, Donna found her "Happy Place" in her dream home in LaBelle. A reflection of her spirit—warm, colorful, and filled with personality—it was a sanctuary where she delighted in decorating and sharing her space with others. Her neighborhood will especially miss her during Halloween, a holiday she celebrated with legendary flair.

Donna lived life deeply. She cherished her friends and family, and she was deeply loved in return. Those who knew her will forever remember her passion, her humor, and her rare ability to make everyone feel welcome simply by being herself.

Donna is lovingly remembered by her family and friends. She is survived by her daughter, Jerri Lynn Blake and her husband, Glen; and her son, Stacy Edward Carver and his wife, Deonna. She also leaves behind her cherished grandchildren, John Merritt, Clayton Merritt and his wife Breanna, Hunter Blake, Lisa Holbrook and her husband Ross, Lauren Carver, and Xander Carver; as well as her beloved great-grandchildren, Conor and Kieran Holbrook.

Donna is also survived by her sister, Debbie Coleman and her husband, Bob; along with her nieces and nephews, Jade Cheney and her husband LaWayne, Lee Youngblood and his wife Liz, and Blythe Arscott and her husband George. She will also be fondly remembered by her great-nieces and great-nephew, Delaine, Layne, Lauren, and Samantha.

A Festive Celebration of Donna’s Life will be held on March 28, 2026, at 4:30 p.m. at 1350 Alex Blvd, LaBelle, FL 33935. In honor of Donna’s vibrant spirit, the family encourages guests to wear bright colors or a touch of "geek" flair. Please bring a photo or a memory to include in her remembrance book.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Firehouse Community Theatre in LaBelle, Florida.

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Love You, Mean It, Bye.