Donna Jean Willits passed away unexpectedly on March 25, 2024 at her home in Pataskala, Ohio. She was 80 years old. Donna is survived by her husband David, son Mark (Cindy), grandson Ryan and granddaughters Ashley (Matt) Smith and Brianna; daughter Dana (Kevin) Blair, granddaughters Sydney, Riley, Camryn, and Avery; son Michael; and daughter Darcy and granddaughter Cathryn. She was preceded in death by her father Donald Brown and beloved mother Imogene (Imy).
Donna was born July 7, 1943 in Toledo, Ohio. She attended Ohio University and graduated with a degree in Library Science in 1965. David and Donna wed on January 30, 1965 in Toledo. Throughout their 59 years of marriage, she remained a steadfast beacon of compassion, patience, and unwavering support. Donna stood faithfully by his side, sharing in times of joy and offering strength and solace when facing uncertainties.
With remarkable patience and unconditional love, Donna poured her heart and soul into creating a safe and loving home for their four children. She nurtured each into the unique individuals they were meant to be, instilling in them the confidence, resilience, and compassion needed to navigate life's ups and downs with grace and courage. She was a constant source of comfort, wisdom, and support, available 24/7 with all the right things to say. She extended the same love and support to each grandchild, always reaching out via text or phone excited to catch up on everything. She was more than Grandma or Gigi - she was a best friend and confidante.
Donna began her career as a librarian at Reynoldsburg High School. She then stepped away from working to raise their children before returning to work in 1990 as the young adult librarian at the Pataskala Public Library. She was more than just a librarian during her 18 years there. Her dedication to fostering a love of reading and learning was evident in every interaction, as she eagerly recommended books and welcomed patrons with a smile. She loved being surrounded by books and sharing her knowledge and love of books with others. Donna was a friend to all who crossed her path. She had genuine interest in people and an ability to connect on a personal level which made her beloved by coworkers, patrons, and community members alike. Whether discussing the latest bestseller or simply lending a listening ear, she had a gift for making everyone feel valued and understood. Donna radiated warmth and hospitality within the library walls and beyond.
Beyond her family, Donna treasured her many, many friends. Her vast circle of friends were the sisters and brothers she never had. All those lucky enough to call her a friend, know how deeply she loved. Her generosity knew no bounds, she embraced all the flaws, offered support and guidance through challenges, and celebrated life's blessings. She thrived on a full social calendar filled with breakfast and lunch dates, very often multiple dates in one day. She loved long chats on the phone, shopping, audio books, keeping up on trends and pop culture, watching TV and movies, researching whatever topic came her way, sharing articles and recipes, and filling her texts with heart-eye emojis. Donna's legacy as a wife, mother, grandmother, and friend will forever be remembered as a testament to the power of love.
A Celebration of Life will be planned for this summer. Details will be shared later. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Pataskala Public Library, https://www.pataskalalibrary.org/support.
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