Donna Sue Darby

Mrs. Donna Sue Darby, daughter of the late Peter Pettey and Laura Pettey, born of the late Lawrence Roy and Vera Roy, was born on November 5th, 1935, in Flint, Michigan. She attended the public schools of Genesee County and was a graduate of Bendle High School in 1953. At an early age she professed her faith for Jesus Christ and joined Riverside Tabernacle where she was a dedicated member into adulthood. Since 1968, she was a faithful member of the Church of God, attending Trinity Life Church of God (formerly West Lakeland) and Ridge Community Church of God.

She was united in holy matrimony to Daniel E. Darby in April 1955. This union was blessed with 4 daughters. Daniel E. Darby proceeded her in death on November 7th, 2004.

As a result of her outgoing personality, she was loved by many. Well known for her match making skills that were proved by several marriages lasting 50 plus years. She was employed by ButterKrust Bakeries for 25 years prior to her retirement. A cherished Sunday School teacher and loyal choir member for more than 50 years. Her Christian life was notable, and her influence will forever remain in the lives of all who knew her. She quietly departed this life on Tuesday, January 31st, 2023, at Good Shephard Hospice in Auburndale, Florida. She was also preceded in death by her granddaughters, Celeste Thompson, Hope Montesino; and brothers, Lowell Roy, Jerry Pettey.

Her beautiful life will forever be cherished in the lives of her children: Danita (Lee) Farnsworth, Teresa (Steve) Thompson, Brenda (Rex) Farlow and Linda (Keith) Pennington; grandchildren: Tiffany Alfonso, Nathan Tanksley, Kendra Claridy, Steven Thompson, Meagan Montesino, Beau Farlow, Katie Bassett, Koby Pennington; 15 great grandchildren and 5 great-great grandchildren.

Faithful, loyal, Servant of God.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, February 4, 2023, at 10 am with services to follow at 11 am at Trinity Life Church of God, 1942 W Memorial Blvd, Lakeland, FL 33815. Interment at Glen Abbey Memorial Gardens, 2200 K-Ville Ave, Auburndale, FL 33823.

The church is unable to receive flowers before the service. Please send flowers to Heath Funeral Chapel, 328 S. Ingraham Avenue, Lakeland, FL 33801.

Any monetary donations can be contributed to Trinity Life Church in mom’s memory.