Donna Sue (Sartin) Brawley was born on December 11, 1947, in Birch Tree, Missouri. She was the daughter of George MacDonald and Rachel Lee Sartin. Donna married James Edward Brawley on November 14, 1964, at Winona Church of Christ. They spent 50 wonderful years together, and had two sons, David Eugene and Darrin Wayne Brawley, both of Winona, Missouri. She passed away on May 4, 2023, at Ozarks Healthcare in West Plains, Missouri, at the age of 75.
She is preceded in death by her parents, George and Rachel Sartin; husband, James Edward Brawley; sister, Louise Ferber; brother, Mack Sartin; brothers-in-law, Gene Miley and Gary West.
Donna is survived by sons, David Brawley and Sarah Bridgeforth, and Darrin (Heather) Brawley; grandson, Hayden Brawley; sister, Kathy (Bill) Champ; brother, Rick (Karen) Sartin; brother, Randy (Kathy) Sartin; sister, Tammy West; brother, David (Tammy) Sartin; sister-in-law, Janet Sartin; step grandchildren, KC Hartema and Mikaela Hartema; step great-grandchildren, Dawson and Waylon Morris; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and lifelong friends.
Donna spent her years in the home caring for her husband and two sons. She always said it was her “job” to take care of her family and she did so with pride and love. And proud she was. Whether we’re talking about her son who became the County Sheriff, or the one who made a career of reloading and selling guns from his own personal business, she never stopped boasting on the accomplishments of her boys. Donna’s whole world resided on that hillside there in Booger County. The hillside being another one of her “pride and joy’s” due to all of the flowers, bushes, fruit trees, and grapevines. She poured her heart into everything she touched. From annual Halloween blowouts to grand 4th of July parties, chicken and fish fries to chili cook-off’s, Turkey shoot’s and gun raffles to card tournaments and endless Yahtzee marathons down at the shop, or just good ol’ family gatherings for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, it was always a joyous and tasty experience. You never left without a smile on your face, love in your heart, and a gut full of some of the best food you ever tasted. And yes, we’re talking about her famous hot dog gravy and homemade ice cream.
Donna lived for the simple things in life. She loved porch sitting, bird watching, going fishing, visiting with her friends and family, her Church and the people in it, and last but not least, “Days of Our Lives”. Donna had a heart of gold, a soft and nurturing voice, the warmest hug you ever felt, and a smile that stuck with you for days. She will be monumentally missed by all who knew her.
Donna was a devout Christian, and a lifelong member of the Winona Church of Christ. Her soul will live eternally at peace with our Lord and Savior.
Funeral services will be held at 3:00 p.m. on Monday, May 8, 2023, at Yarber Mortuary, Winona, Missouri. Visitation will be held prior to the service from 1-3:00 p.m. also at the funeral home. Interment will be in Mt. Zion Cemetery, Winona. Condolences may be expressed at www.yarbermortuary.com.
