Donna Blake Hicks

Donna Elizabeth Blake Hicks, 77, of Columbia, South Carolina, passed away peacefully at Lexington Medical Center on March 9, 2026. Donna was born in Montgomery, Alabama, to the late Maude and Tom Blake. She was also preceded in death by her brother, Thomas Blake, Jr.

A proud graduate of Sidney Lanier High School, Donna completed her studies in 1966. She continued her education at Auburn University, graduating in 1970. During her time at Auburn, Donna was a devoted member of Kappa Delta Sorority and was honored to serve as the Sweetheart of Sigma Chi. Donna was beloved by all who had the joy of knowing her. Her radiant smile could light up any room, and her warmth made others feel instantly at home. She adored beautiful clothes and sparkling jewelry, always expressing her vibrant spirit through her signature style. Even in the smallest details, Donna’s sense of refinement shone through — in selecting her urn, it simply had to be classic and elegant, perfectly fitting her timeless grace. Her final wish was so wonderfully “Donna” — to have her hair perfectly fixed, her makeup just right, slip into something fabulous, and head out to lunch. Instead, her family and friends brought the celebration to her, filling the room with laughter, stories, and a little sparkle — just the way she would have planned it herself. As she often reminded us, “Chardonnay before five… and red after five!” And lovingly, we fulfilled her wish. She was a proud past president of P.E.O., Chapter M of Columbia, and a dedicated member of the Daughters of the American Revolution. Her commitment to faith, friendship, and service was evident in every season of her life.

A memorial service will be held on Friday, April 3, 2026, at Dunbar Funeral Home - Dutch Fork Chapel from 2:30 – 3:30pm, followed by a Celebration of Life at The Jasmine House on River Road from 4pm – 6pm in Columbia, SC. A graveside service will take place at Leak-Memory Chapel in Montgomery, AL. Date and time to follow. Donna requested that family and friends wear colorful clothing in celebration of her life.

She is survived by her son, Jack (Jason) Haigler Hicks III (Melissa); her daughter, Kelly Elizabeth Hicks; her cherished grandsons, Jack and Jeffrey; her brother, Robert McGowan Blake (Dana); her dear family friend, Flossie Gamble -Stephens; and her “sister from another mother,” Susan Powell (Hank).

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital or the Tunnel to Towers Foundation. Contribution notices sent to Kelly Hicks at [email protected].

Donna’s legacy of love, friendship, style, laughter, and that unforgettable smile will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.

Memories may be shared at www.dunbarfunerals.com.