Donna Lou Chapman

Jesus came and welcomed our mom, Donna Lou Chapman, into His presence on June 29, 2026. Born on March 13, 1942, in Uniontown, Pennsylvania, Donna Lou lived a life defined by grace, gentleness, unwavering faith, and a genuine love for people. While her family grieves her passing, they rejoice knowing she is now whole again, reunited with her husband, Burly, and in the presence of the Savior she faithfully served throughout her life.

Donna Lou was the daughter of J. Frank and Frances Myers. She graduated from McKinley High School in Canton, Ohio, and later earned her teaching degree from Bowling Green State University. She and Burly devoted their lives to raising their two children, Jenny and John, and together built a home where faith, family, and hospitality were woven into everyday life. In 1984, they purchased Dogwood Hills Golf Course in Claysville, Pennsylvania, where they welcomed friends, neighbors, and strangers alike with warmth and generosity.

Donna Lou is held in highest esteem by her daughter, Jennifer Jenkins; her son, John (Libby) Chapman; and her treasured grandchildren: Caroline, Kaitlyn, Matthew, and Isaac Jenkins, and Colin, David, and Faith Chapman. She is also survived by her sister, Cheryl (William) LaSalle; her brother-in-law, Ron (Diane) Chapman; and her beloved nieces and nephews, Michael, Matt, Chris, Kim and Lori. Donna Lou exemplified a Proverbs 31 woman, and her family “rises up and calls her blessed”.

To know Donna Lou was to experience kindness. She had an extraordinary gift of hospitality and always made everyone feel welcome. Her home was a place where the coffee was always on, the table was always full, and no one ever left without feeling loved. Her spaghetti, lasagna, and "famous" tuna salad became family favorites, but it was the warmth behind every meal that people will remember most.

Above all, Donna Lou’s greatest calling was her faith in Jesus Christ. She was a devoted prayer warrior who faithfully served the Lord both in New Zealand and here at home, ministering to those with wounded hearts through prayer, compassion, and quiet acts of love. Her gentle spirit, encouraging hugs, and steadfast faith touched countless lives and remain her enduring legacy.

A Celebration of Donna Lou’s Life will be held onFriday, July 3, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at Life Church, 100 North Main Street, Washington, PA 15301.

Arrangements have been entrusted to William G. Neal Funeral Homes, Ltd.