In Loving Memory of Donna Gayle Runyon

Donna Gayle, born in Tallassee, Alabama on January 7, 1957 to the late Luther Donald and Ida Merrell Clark, passed away peacefully October 17, 2025 at her daughter's home, surrounded by her loving family, after a long and courageous battle with illness.

She was married for 47 wonderful years to her childhood sweetheart, Chuck, a love story that stood the test of time and was an inspiration to many.

From a young age, she dedicated her life to caring for others, starting out in her family's in-home care home. Her passion for caregiving blossomed into a lifelong career that spanned decades. She worked at Golden Rule Nursing Home for 10 years and then spent over 30 years at Fresenius Dialysis Center, where she became a beloved and respected figure. Known for her tireless dedication, she often arrived hours before her shift began to prepare for the day, committed to ensuring her patients—whom she lovingly considered family—received the very best care.

One of her proudest personal accomplishments was being known as "the best stick in the house" at the dialysis unit. Patients frequently requested her by name, trusting her gentle touch and skilled hands to start their treatments. Her talent, compassion, and work ethic made her a caregiver unlike any other—truly the best of the best.

Outside of work, she found joy in being the best Maw ever and watching her family grow as well as a deep love in music. Whether it was singing along with a song,  singing acappella, karaoke, or dancing the night away especially in her kitchen. She had a playful spirit, a mischievous grin, and a sense of humor that included everything from sweet stories to the occasional off-color joke—all delivered with love.

She is survived by her children: Leonda Gayle (Billy) Maiden, Nick "Chuck" Runyon (Hollie);

Grandchildren:Brett Lamb, Natalie Ellis, Blake Maiden, Cassidy Lamb, Chase Maiden, and CJ Runyon;

Great-grandchildren: Jaxon, Isaiah, Dezmond, Avianna, Phoebe, and Waylon;

One beloved sister: Sandy Clark.

Many nieces and nephews; a host of great-nieces and nephews, several great-great-nieces and nephews, aunts, and many cousins and friends who adored her.

She is preceded in death by her parents, brothers Billy Wayne & Charles D Clark, infant sister Melinda Fay, brother n laws Danny and Gary Runyon, father n law Charles A Runyon, and her mother n law Janet Jones.

The family would like to express their heartfelt thanks to Dr. Tina Reichley and Nurse Molly for their many years of dedicated care, and to the Reid Hospital Hospice Team for their compassion and support, especially to her daughter during the final chapter of her life.

She lived a life of love, laughter, and service—and leaves behind a legacy of care, kindness, and unforgettable memories.

Services will be 1:00 PM Friday October 24, 2025 at Stegall-Berheide-Orr Funeral Home with Gary Sellers officiating; burial will be in Goshen Cemetery. Friends may call from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM Thursday October 23, 2025 at the funeral home. Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.stegallberheideorr.com