Donna Lou Robins

Donna Lou Robins, age 82, of Hendersonville, Tennessee passed away on Friday, March 22, 2024. She was the youngest of six children. Her parents were Wilford and Bernice Graves (Bernice later remarried, and her last name became Erickson). Donna was born on April 17, 1941 in Des Moines, Iowa. She graduated from Drake University in Des Moines with a degree in education and a second degree in music.

She was a loving mother and devoted wife of Donald Ralph Robins, and her sons, Lance and Timothy. Donna was an excellent pianist, sang in the church choir, a Cub Scout den mother, and traveled often with her sons for their speed skating competitions, and also won a bowling tournament with her son, Timothy. She was known for her love of baking and was a long-time employee of Dahl's Grocery Stores in Des Moines and Steven’s Grocery Store in Hendersonville, TN.

Donna worked for Gannett Newspaper in the circulation department in West Des Moines and continued to work for Gannett after moving to Tennessee in 1984 until her retirement in 2006. Donna also opened a bakery in Hendersonville and for many years drove a bus for Sumner County Schools. She earned her status of Professional Baker at a time when women were not typically in the baking industry due to the weight lifting requirements. Donna was an amazingly strong woman, and proved she could hold her own in a male dominated environment.

Amusement parks (especially Disney themed) were a favorite past time that Donna enjoyed with her kids. She also loved animals, singing, classical music, movies, as well as, playing the piano, organ and video games.

Preceding her in death is her husband, Donald Ralph Robins; mother, father and four brothers. Donna is survived by her sons Lance (and daughter-in-law Hale) Robins and Timothy Robins; grandchildren Kenan and Ayden Robins; sister Joyce Graves Thomas, and numerous nieces and nephews.

Donna Robins will be laid to rest next to her husband at Forest Lawn Cemetery in Goodlettsville, Tennessee. There will be a private graveside service for the family.