Donalene "Donna" Nelson Winchester

Born on July 6, 1936, Donna was the daughter of the late Theodore Taft Nelson, Sr. and Cleo Pardue Nelson. She graduated from Jonesville High School and North Greenville University. While a student, Donna played basketball and tennis and remained a lifelong sports enthusiast. She was a dedicated fan of her favorite teams, especially Duke basketball, and she never missed an opportunity to support her children and grandchildren at their events.

She was a devoted member of Shady Grove Baptist Church, where she faithfully served for over 50 years as the church pianist, a Sunday school teacher, and a joyful participant in worship. Donna had a deep love for Christ, music, and singing—whether lifting hymns in church or singing at home— her music was a reflection of her faith and the joy she carried throughout her life.

Donna cherished her family, friends, church, and community. She especially loved her weekdays at The Pickens Senior Center, where she also served as a board member, and she spent many years sharing her energy and encouragement as a water fitness instructor at the Pickens YMCA.

Donna is survived by her two daughters, Lynn LeClair of Sunset, South Carolina, and Christle Ross (Rob) of Six Mile, South Carolina; five grandchildren, Audrey LeClair, J.D. LeClair (Abbey), Elizabeth Slattery (Padraic), Kathryn Ross, and Daniel Ross; and two great-grandchildren, Ivy and James. She is also survived by her siblings JoAnn Combs, Theodore "Butch" Nelson, and Janice Stanley.

In addition to her parents, Donna was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 64 years, Douglas “Doug” Winchester; her son-in-law, Keith LeClair; and her sisters, Barbara “Bobbie” Welborn and Vera Petree.

Donna will be remembered for her unwavering faith, her love of music, her servant’s heart, and the way she showed up consistently and wholeheartedly for the people she loved.

Services for Donna will be held on Saturday, December 27, 2025 at Dillard Funerals and Cremations, 2402 Gentry Memorial Hwy Pickens, SC. Visitation will begin at 12:30 PM, followed by a funeral service at 2:00 PM. Donna will be laid to rest next to her husband in Hillcrest Memorial Park.

Flowers will be accepted or memorials may be made to Shady Grove Baptist Church, Pickens Senior Center, or Hospice of The Foothills.

Online condolences may be expressed to the family by visiting www.dillardfunerals.com. Dillard Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.