Laura D. Barnes

Laura “Donna” Donetta Barnes, age 87 of Grove City, Ohio, went home to be with the Lord on Wednesday, November 4, 2026, surrounded by family and her loving cat, Gracie. She was born March 7, 1939. Donna spent her life caring for others-first as a devoted follower of God at New Beginings Freewill Baptist Church and always as the heart of the family. She was known above all for her open-door policy, a kitchen that smelled perpetually of homemade noodles and an unmatched ability to make anyone feel like the most important person in the room. She spent most of her time loving her grandkids, taking pictures of the sky, selfies and the world around her. She loved to travel, including her recent hike to Bryce Canyon at 85. If you said "lets go" she was already packed.

Donna was preceded in death by her husband, William E. Barnes Sr., brothers, Edward Donaldson, Frank Wayne Donaldson and Robert Donaldson. Donna is survived by her son William E. Barnes Jr., his wife Connie Barnes, Tammy Barnes (daughter-in-law), Mitzi Barnes (daughter-in-law) and Johnny Barnes (son). She leaves behind grandchildren Brittany Barnes, Jennifer Nelson (Barnes) and Seth Barnes. As well as several beloved great grandchildren who will deeply miss her.

A small graveside service celebrating Donna’s exceptional life will be held on Monday, November 9, 2026 at 1:00 PM at Maple Grove Cemetery in Lancaster, Ohio. Following the service, we will invite all who knew and loved Donna to join us for a celebration honoring her memory.

Arrangements are being handled by the FRANK E. SMITH FUNERAL HOME, LANCASTER, OHIO.