Donna Mearse, a beloved mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully on April 1, 2026, in Starks, Louisiana. She was born on May 1, 1947, in Knoxville, Tennessee, to her loving parents, Henry and Lummie Buckner.
Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m., Monday, April 6, 2026, at Claybar Funeral Home in Orange. Officiating will be Pastor Jeremy Shields. Burial will follow at VFW Cemetery in Starks, Louisiana.
Visitation will begin prior to the service at 1:00 p.m., Monday, April 6, 2026, at Claybar Funeral Home in Orange.
Donna dedicated her professional life as a cook for Michelle's Kitchen, where her warm spirit touched many. Beyond her work, Donna's greatest joy was in her family, especially her cherished grandchildren, who affectionately knew her as "Maw Maw." She delighted in spending time with them, creating lasting memories through shopping trips, movie outings, and shared meals. A woman of simple pleasures and deep connections, Donna also enjoyed her Tuesdays at the Silver Dollar and the excitement of "pushing buttons" at Delta Downs. She shared an incredibly close bond with her sister, living just across the street, where they could always be found chatting and enjoying spirited games of Yahtzee. Donna was deeply involved in her family's life, always participating in her children's sports and extracurricular activities, a testament to her unwavering love and support.
Donna is preceded in death by her parents, Henry and Lummie Buckner, and her beloved husband, Harce Mearse.
Her loving memory will be cherished by her daughters, Dana Sanders and Jeannie Blackketter; her sons, Timmy Mearse, Danny Mearse and wife Arlene, and Rusty Mearse. She also leaves behind a beautiful legacy through her 12 grandchildren; 15 great-grandchildren; and 2 great-great-grandchildren. Donna is also survived by her dear sisters, Beverly Huff and partner Freddie Mac, and Cindy Hall, along with numerous other loving family members and friends who will miss her dearly.
Serving as pallbearers will be Justin Masten, Summer Masten, Freddie Huff, Timmy Mearse, Rusty Mearse, and Daniel Buckner.