Dateline: Brighton, IL
Donna Young, 78, died at 5:15 p.m. on Wednesday, October 4, 2023 at St. John's Hospital in Springfield, IL. She was born August 28, 1945 in Granite City, IL, the daughter of the late Clarence "Red" and Frances (Stuart) Dowthitt. Donna was a graduate of Madison High School where she was the valedictorian of her graduating class. She went on to graduate from Belmont University in Nashville, TN, where she was voted Miss Tower and was the Salutatorian of her class. Donna taught kindergarten and 1st grade school for over 30 years, retiring from the Southwestern School District. She was an avid singer, performing with the Beltones and touring professionally with the group "Up With People." She attended Abundant Church where she sang in the choir. Donna loved traveling, long rides on the River Road and dining out, but her greatest joy was spending time with her family and grandchildren. She attended all of their activities, recitals and school programs. On December 26, 1970 in Piasa, IL she married John Young, who preceded her in death on February 12, 2023. Surviving are one daughter, Becky Winslow (Kenny) of Springfield, IL, one son, John Young Jr. of Brighton, six grandchildren, Hailey Winslow, Abby Winslow, Drew Winslow, Alaina Winslow, Cash Young and Oliver Young one sister in law Joy Corlew and many nieces and nephews. Besides her parents and husband she was preceded in death by her beloved brothers in law and sisters in law, Betty and Eulen Beaird, Suzanne and Vernon Griggs and Ray Corlew. Visitation will be from 2:00 p.m. -5:00 p.m. on Sunday, October 8, 2023 at Gent Funeral Home in Alton where funeral services will be at 10:00 a.m. on Monday, October 9, 2023. Burial will be at Brighton Cemetery. Pastor Randy Copeland will officiate. Memorials may be made to Southwestern Foundation for Educational Excellence. Additional information and online guest book may be found at www.gentfuneralhome.com