Donna Jeffers Lived a Life of Love Adventure and Service

Donna M. Jeffers, a devoted educator, gardener, and community leader, passed away peacefully on September 23, 2026, at the age of 92 in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Born in Illinois in the house her great-grandfather purchased in 1860, Donna grew up on several farms near Atkinson, where she learned the value of hard work and developed a lifelong love for gardening. She attended Western Illinois University, graduating in 1955 with a degree in Elementary Education, and began her teaching career in Peoria before embarking on an adventure to teach in Hawaii in 1957.

Donna's personal life was marked by love and adventure. She met her future husband, Bob Jeffers, before leaving for Hawaii, and they married in December 1958. The couple moved to California, where Bob worked as an engineer for Caterpillar, and they raised their three children, Sarah, Rob, and Andy, before returning to central Illinois in 1966. Donna resumed teaching as a substitute and later worked at the Lincoln Grade School Learning Center, where she also volunteered as the 'Picture Lady,' teaching children about classical art.

Donna was deeply involved in her community, particularly at Washington Presbyterian Church, where she served on the Session and led various initiatives. In retirement, she and Bob cherished time with their granddaughters and made memorable trips to the Boundary Waters, documenting their experiences through photos, maps, and journals. Donna spent her final years at Sunrise Assisted Living in Grand Rapids, where she remained active in exercise classes, Bible study, and community service. She is survived by her children, six granddaughters, and eight great-grandchildren.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Washington Presbyterian Church on November 15, 2026. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to Washington Presbyterian Church or the Boundary Waters Advisory Committee.