Donna Swink

Donna Swink, 76, of Dongola, died Friday, Dec. 14, 2018, at her home.

She was born on Oct. 24, 1942, the daughter of Merle and Ethel Dover Childers. Her mother later married Benton Hancock, who raised Donna as his own child.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, James “Red” Swink; and three sons, Larry Don McKee, Anthony “Tony” Winsor and Donald Shane Swink.

Survivors include her sister, Helen Bedwell of Brighton; two sons, Kerry Treece of Wetaug and Ron Swink of Cape Girardeau; a daughter, Laura Patterson of Dongola; eight grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.

She was the life of the party. There was never a dull moment when she was around. She was a very generous person and opened her doors to anyone who needed a place to stay. The family holidays were held at Donna’s house. 

She liked to help people and worked as a nurse. She received her nursing degree at Shawnee Community College. She retired from the State of Illinois.

At one time, she also managed The Railway Cafe in Marion ,which was owned by her son, Tony.

She had many tragedies in her life, but still managed to face life with a smile and a positive attitude.

Funeral services were at 11 Wednesday, Dec. 19, at  Rendleman & Hileman Funeral Home in Jonesboro, with the Rev. Bon Reynolds officiating. Interment was in the Jonesboro Cemetery. 

Memorials can  be made to the family.

To view the obituary and to leave online condolences for the family, visit www.rendlemanhilemanfh.com.

Rendleman & Hileman Funeral Home in Jonesboro was in charge of arrangements.