Miss Donna Jean Gaines transitioned home to be with the Lord on August 4, 2022.
A native of Akron, Ohio, she was born as a fraternal twin with Donald L. Gaines on May 13, 1949, to the late Thornton and Annie Gaines.
Miss Gaines was preceded in death by her father and mother, Thornton E. and Annie E. Gaines; daughter, Barbara Gaines; brother, Thornton E. Gaines Jr. and four sisters, Juanita Standifer, Eva Gaines, Geraldine Pritchett and Barbara (Alvin) Lee.
Donna Jean graduated from Central High School with the class of 1967. She was known for lifelong learning, and in her later years obtained a research grant to further her pursuit of education and life.
Warmly known by family as “Donna Jean”, she sparked life to those having the opportunity to spend cherished time with her. She personified the Gaines family trait of boldness, strength, and love. Donna Jean loved to dance and listen to music.
Donna leaves the comfort of love to her daughter, Simone Gaines and grandchildren, Laevon Joseph Gaines and Shyiann Jean Gaines. Additionally, she leaves the torch of life to her siblings, Elizabeth (Fredric) Sellers, twin brother, Donald (Liandre) Gaines and Annie (Sheldon) Fant; aunt, Ms. Eleanor Saunders and host of dear cousins, faithful nieces, nephews, and friends.
Donna’s life was a blessing, the memory of her a treasure; she is loved beyond words and will be missed beyond measure.