Donna was born on November 26, 1942 to the late Raymond and Violet (Nelson) Pray in Litchfield, MN.
Donna was preceded in death by her spouse of 48 years James E. Heatherly. Parents Raymond Pray and Violet and one grandson Joseph.
Donna grew up in Minnesota and moved to Arizona with James in 1970 where they fell in love with the desert and mountain views. Donna was strong willed and taught her daughters to be the same. Donna loved cooking, dancing, and country music. She loved to travel as well, some of her favorites were taking cruises and her time in Germany.
Donna’s greatest teaching’s to her girls was that of a compassionate heart and the willingness to accept others as family. It wasn’t abnormal for her to open her heart and home to a young person that needed a safe place. Two young boys became the son’s that she never had. She carried her love for them throughout the years and was proud to think of them as her son’s.
Donna’s daughters are grateful to have been raised by compassionate, intelligent, hard-working, and practical parent’s. They have great memories of fishing and camping with family and friends.
She is survived by three daughters, Jacquline Moore husband Kelly, Nicole Ellison husband Bernard, Jody Heatherly/Skovly husband Matthew. Three grandsons, Samuel Deering, Jacob Throneberry and Devin McColl. Two granddaughters Breaunna and Terra Ellison, one sister Delores Saenz (Nick) and a brother Dale Pray (Vicky).
When tomorrow starts without me don’t think we are far apart. For every time you think of me, I’m right here in your heart.