Donna Mae Randolph was born on October 9, 1934, in Edmore, North Dakota, and passed away peacefully on Wednesday, June 24, 2026, in Harrison, Arkansas.

Donna’s life wove together resilience and steadfast independence. Born and raised in North Dakota, she faced significant challenges from an early age, overcoming polio at just five years old—a testament to the strength that would define her character throughout her years. 

Donna spent the majority of her working years in Memphis, Tennessee, where she built a proud career at Kellogg Cereal Company. Over the course of 30 years, she distinguished herself as a loyal and dedicated employee. Even after retirement, Donna’s pride in her professional life continued; never once did she buy any cereal brands other than Kellogg’s, a small but heartfelt loyalty that spoke volumes of her gratitude for the company she so faithfully served.

Her resilience was matched by her creative spirit. Donna was a remarkable artist, with a particular love for painting. A journey to England with her close friend to see more of the world, resulted in her capturing the beauty of the English countryside in paintings of castles, bridges, and quaint villages. Another of her beautiful works of art was her rendering of the St. Louis Cathedral.

In 1991, Donna relocated to Harrison, Arkansas, where she would live out her later years. In her personal life, she bore hardships with dignity, losing her firstborn son, Thomas Anthony, at only eight weeks old after a heart surgery, and her beloved daughter, Karen Marie, at age 22 in a tragic accident. Despite these unimaginable losses, Donna remained steadfast in her faith and resolve, supporting herself with determination. She took great pride in her ability to buy two homes on her own, providing for her family through sheer will and hard work.

Donna was known as a woman who told you exactly what was on her mind—honest, intelligent, and brave. She loved in her unique way, and her support for her family was unwavering. Fiercely independent, Donna’s life was a continual triumph over adversity, marked by courage and what she believed to be right. She loved the Lord, and her Lutheran faith was an important part of her life. Her faith gave her strength and hope during life’s most challenging moments and remained a guiding presence throughout her life.

Donna Mae Randolph is survived by her granddaughter, Christi Leigh Cooper; her four great-grandchildren: Tiffany Marie (Cooper) George, Aydenn McCachren, Emma McCachren, John Granville McCachren; two great-great grandchildren, Stacie George, and Elena George; and a host of nieces, nephews, and cousins. 

She is preceded in death by her son, Thomas Anthony Randolph; her daughter, Karen Marie (Randolph) Cooper; and her son, David Duke Randolph; her parents, Walter and Dorothy Slaamod; her sister, Viola (Vi); her brother, Walter (Wally); and the father of her children, Thomas Duke Randolph.

Donna’s journey was neither easy nor simple, but it was lived with authenticity, courage, and conviction. Her story will remain an inspiration to all who knew her, and her memory will be cherished by family and friends alike.

Private burial will be at Maple Leaf Cemetery in Harrison, Arkansas, at a later date. 

Arrangements under the direction of Coffman Funeral Home of Harrison.