Donna Adams

Madeline Donna Adams (Ladnier), age 77, of Tuscaloosa, Alabama, passed away peacefully on September 12, 2026, and is now in the presence of her Lord and Savior. Born on August 27, 1949, Donna was a beloved mother, cherished Mimi, devoted friend, and a woman of deep faith whose kindness touched countless lives.

Born to Arnold and Betty Ladnier, Donna was preceded in death by her parents. She is survived by her children, Bill Adams Jr. (Charlye), Shelley Thetford (John), and Angel Hubbard (Brett); her brother, Rod Ladnier (Vicki); and her sister, Jen Ladnier. She was the proud and adoring Mimi of Coleman Thetford, Madeline Thetford, Harrison Hubbard, Bailey Hubbard, Anna Cate Adams, and William Adams.

Crowned Miss Tuscaloosa in 1967, Donna carried the same grace, beauty, and quiet strength throughout her life. She was a woman of remarkable character with a heart that never stopped giving. Kind in both word and deed, she loved deeply and was deeply loved in return. Her faith was the center of her life. She loved the Lord with her whole heart and reflected that love daily in the way she loved those around her. A devoted member of Circlewood Baptist Church, she found great joy in her church family and in sharing her faith with others.

Donna had an extraordinary heart for people. She will be remembered for her warmth, generosity, and gentle spirit, and willingness to help anyone in need. She was always ready to lend a helping hand, offer a word of encouragement, cook for, or simply be present for someone who needed her. Even during her own battle with illness, she would bring bags filled with snacks, goodies, and Scripture to other chemotherapy patients, offering them comfort and encouragement. She found ways to share her love of the Lord with others even while experiencing hardships of her own.

Above all, Donna treasured her family. She was a loving mother and grandmother to her six grandchildren, who brought immeasurable joy and happiness to her life. The love she gave them and the memories they shared with her will remain in their hearts forever. She also cherished her friendships, especially her beloved coffee group of ladies and best friends who held a special place in her heart. Together, they shared countless laughs, wonderful memories, and a friendship that Donna treasured deeply.

Donna leaves behind a beautiful legacy of faith, love, kindness, generosity, and friendship. Her life was a reflection of the love she had for the Lord and for the people around her, and the impact she made on others will continue through all who knew and loved her.

The family extends a special thank you to Dr. Warner Huh and staff at UAB, Dr. Vaughn and staff, Bob Kempster, and the many other friends who supported Donna and her family throughout her journey. A very special thank you to her caregivers, who became like family, and her dear friends, Mrs. Libby Beard and Ms. Jackie Chambers, for the loving care, compassion, and friendship they provided each day.

Donna will be profoundly missed, but her family finds comfort in knowing that her work on earth was finished and she is now safely home in the arms of Jesus. “Well done, good and faithful servant”- Matthew 25:23

Serving as pallbearers will be Coleman Thetord, Harrison Hubbard, Steve Shelton, Johnny Jones, Berry Fields, and Chad Green.

Visitation will be held at Circlewood Baptist Church, 2201 Loop Rd, Tuscaloosa, Alabama 35405, on September 17, 2026, from 11:00 am to 12:00 pm, followed by a Celebration of Life at Circlewood Baptist Church, beginning at 12:00 pm. Pastor Herb Thomas will be presiding.

A Committal Service will take place at Memory Hill Gardens, 2200 Skyland Blvd East, Tuscaloosa, Alabama 35405, on September 17, 2026.