Donna Louise Mullennix

Born on May 27, 1939, in Normal, Illinois, to Don M. Chism and Ardith Mae Walton Chism, Donna grew up with a love of learning and a gentle, inquisitive spirit. She graduated from high school in 1957, attended Stephens College, and later transferred to Illinois State Normal University, where she earned her Bachelor of Science in Education in 1961.

Donna began her teaching career in Downers Grove, Illinois, before moving to Southern California, where she taught kindergarten and later developed English as a Second Language programs for young children. In 1973, she joined Honey Tree Early Childhood Center in Thousand Oaks, where she taught and inspired three year- olds for 33 years. Donna’s impact as an educator was profound—she was often recognized in the community by former students and their families, a testament to her lasting influence and dedication.

On July 3, 1964, Donna married Robert Gene Mullennix in Santa Ana, California. Together, they raised two children, Bryan and Lisa, instilling in them the same curiosity and kindness that defined Donna’s life. A loving and devoted caregiver, Donna supported both her husband and her mother through illness with unwavering patience and compassion. Donna was a cherished member of the United Methodist Church of Thousand Oaks for over 50 years, actively participating in the bell choir and chairing the UMW book club. She also volunteered as a docent at the Stagecoach Inn Museum, where she delighted in sharing local history while dressed in pioneer period attire.

A lifelong learner, Donna pursued her passion for genealogy, meticulously researching the Chism family ancestry. She enjoyed puzzles, book club, pizza movie nights with her family, and staying active through walking, yoga, and Tai Chi. Donna’s gentle guidance and thoughtful gestures—like slipping comic strips into her elementary school children’s lunchboxes—reflected her nurturing nature and quiet wisdom.

Donna was preceded in death by her husband, Robert Gene Mullennix; her parents, Don M. Chism and Ardith Mae Walton Chism; and her younger brother, Gary Chism. She is survived by her son, Bryan Mullennix (Wendy); daughter, Lisa Mullennix Sylvester (Marc); and four grandchildren: Caleb Mullennix, Devan Sylvester, Jake Sylvester, and Cody Sylvester.

Recently, Donna moved to Leisure Village in Camarillo, fulfilling her dream of remodeling and living in her parents’ former home, with her daughter and son-in-law living just down the street. She found great joy in this new chapter of her life.

Donna’s life touched many—she had two children’s stories published—and her legacy as an educator and loving matriarch will live on in all who knew her. Donna was interred at Pierce Brothers Valley Oaks-Griffin Memorial Park, resting beside her husband, parents, and brother.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Donna’s memory to the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research (https://www.michaeljfox.org/).

Donna’s life was one of quiet strength, gentle care, and enduring love. She will be deeply missed by her family, friends, former students, and all who had the privilege of knowing her.