

She was born on February 26, 1952, at Tampa General Hospital in Tampa, Florida, to the late John David “JD” Boutwell of Bainbridge, Georgia, and Gladys Mae (Pinder) Boutwell of Key West, Florida.
Donna was raised in Tampa and attended Temple Terrace Elementary School, Greco Junior High School, and King Senior High School. She later worked for Progressive Insurance Company, where she dedicated 17 years before retiring.
Those who knew Donna knew a woman whose heart was as beautiful as her spirit. She had a deep love for the beach and cherished frequent visits to Key West, where she always felt close to her family roots.
She found joy in life’s simple pleasures—painting, collecting seashells along the shore, decorating for the holidays, and making the world around her more beautiful. Above all, she delighted in her family, who were the center of her life.
Donna believed strongly in doing the right thing, no matter the circumstances. She loved music of all genres, welcomed everyone she met with warmth, and never met a stranger. A woman of deep faith, she loved the Lord and lived her life guided by that faith.
She was also a compassionate advocate for children and for those less fortunate. Graceful, warm, and kind, Donna was truly a lady—a Southern belle whose love and generosity touched many lives. She loved her children and grandchildren with all her heart. If she could leave one message behind, it would be to live life fully, laugh often, and never forget to dance.
Donna was preceded in death by her sisters, Joyce Gallo and Shirley Pinkleton.
She is survived by her devoted and loving husband of 35 years, Joe “Steve” O’Steen; her daughters, Rhonda Custable (Scott) of Tampa, Florida; Angela Clem (Barron) of Murphy, North Carolina; Michelle O’Steen of Zephyrhills, Florida; and Megan Gabor (Joe) of Riverview, Florida. She also leaves behind her beloved grandchildren: Barron Clem Jr., Brittany Silva, and Adam Custable, all of Tampa, Florida; and Olivia Clem and Cameron Clem of Murphy, North Carolina, along with many cherished nieces and nephews.
Donna will be remembered for her gentle spirit, her unwavering love for family, and the beauty she brought into the lives of everyone around her. Her memory will live on in the hearts of all who were blessed to know and love her.
In lieu of flowers, please donate to the American Heart Association in honor of Donna O’Steen.
There will be a gathering of Family and Friends on Saturday, March 21, 2026 from 1:30-2:00pm at Blount & Curry Life Event Center - MacDill, located at 605 S. MacDill Ave, Tampa 33609. A Memorial Service officated by Ray Noland will begin at 2pm at the same location.
If you plan on attending Donna's service, please RSVP to her daughter Rhonda by emailing her at [email protected].
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