Donna Pryor, age 67, passed away at her home on Tazewell Pike in Knoxville on Monday evening, April 16, 2018. She was born to J. Leland Acuff and Virgie Bates Acuff in Bethesda, MD on March 12, 1951. She is preceded in death by her parents and her two brothers Jack Acuff and Byron Acuff as well as her husband Walter T. Pryor whom she was married to for 37 years. Donna is survived by her niece whom she helped raise Katie Acuff Belissary (Charlie) and her children Madison and Matthew Belissary who referred to Donna as Nana. Also by cousin’s close to her heart Renee Bates Dail (Steve) and daughter Hannah. As well as all of Earl Bates children and their families. Also survived by sisters in law Rosie Mazurek Acuff and Linda Lytle Acuff and nieces Kim Acuff Cullop and Kelly Acuff Ford. Donna was blessed with dear friends. The first friends she met when she was 10 years old after moving to Knoxville was Nancy Ruth Patterson and Ginger Hilbert Branch and they all attended Fulton High School. After high school Donna became a hairdresser and worked several years at NHC HealthCare. Special Friends she met while she working: Lea Ann Patrizio (Aunt Patty), and Leslie Johnson McAmis. She loved monthly dinners and occasional lunches with her sweet friends including, Sharon McDaniel and Cindy Bates. Donna loved the cabin in Townsend, TN she shared with Walt and hosted many dinners, cookouts and parties through the years. While she struggled with an illness that was destructive and robbed her of her joy, she was saved many times by these dear friends and caregivers. The family would like to thank all those who loved Donna and gave her love and laughter over the years. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to Young Williams Animal Shelter or a charity of your choice. The family will receive friends from 3:30 – 5 pm Saturday followed by the funeral service at Berry Lynnhurst Funeral Home, 2300 Adair Drive. The entombment service will 9 am Sunday at Lynnhurst Cemetery. Condolences may be offered at www.berrylynnhurst.com
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