Dona Harry Haynes

Born to Mr. and Mrs. John Jason Harry on December 4, 1943, Dona Harry Haynes passed quietly from this world to enter the gates of Heaven on April 25, 2025, at the age of 81.

She is predeceased by her parents, her husband of 45 years, James Howard Haynes “Jimmy”, her sister, Mollie Harry Doucet and her brother-in-law, George Schloegel.

She is survived by her three children, Donna Haynes Feeney (Adam), James Howard Haynes, Jr. (Luranda), and Denise Haynes Nault (Matt), her sister, Peggy Harry Schloegel, her grandchildren; Haynes Nault, Briggs Nault, Eva Clair Nault, Analeise Williams, Braxton Williams, Hudson Williams, Eliza Williams, Tyler Feeney (Chelsea), Bryar Feeney (Bailey), Chandler Feeney, Tanner Feeney (Jules), Brenner Feeney and numerous loving nieces and nephews and extended family members.

She graduated from Gulfport High School in 1961, attended Mississippi State College for Women and then Mississippi State University, studying elementary education.

Dona was employed by the Gulfport School District for nearly 20 years working as a long-term substitute teacher, librarian in the media center and administrative assistant to the Superintendent.

A devoted wife and mother, Dona lived passionately for her family, her friends and her community. She immersed herself in her children and their activities and served on the PTA in leadership positions, led Girl Scout Troops, traversed the southeast for soccer games and cheer competitions and never stopped championing her children even into adulthood. Likewise, she was her grandchildren's biggest fan. She attended every school program, baseball game, dance recital, powerlifting competition and fishing tournament weigh-in that she could.

She began attending and became an active member of Westminster Presbyterian church shortly after its formation; served several terms as an Elder and spent her entire life on various committees and mission efforts largely focused on children' s education and youth programs.

She was equally as involved in the community. She was an active member of numerous clubs and civic organizations including the Jaycettes, Junior Auxiliary of Gulfport, Gulfport Hospital Auxiliary, Bayou View Garden Club, Feed My Sheep, Backpack Buddies, Gulfport Fine Arts Club and Gulfport Yacht Club. She stayed involved with her GHS Class of ‘61 serving on reunion and bereavement committees and looked forward to their monthly girls’ lunches. Dona loved Mardi Gras, and her families’ involvement with Gulf Coast Carnival Association; some of which included serving as Maid to her sister Peggy in 1959, the Queen Mom in both 1991 and 2001 and King’s Consort in 2007. She was also an active member of Gulfport Revelers, holding several board positions including President. Her most favorite pastime of late was her Porch Party gatherings held weekly with her dear neighbors and beloved friends.

After valiantly battling a brief illness, Dona passed away with the same quiet, dignified and ladylike demeanor that she exhibited her whole life.

Services will be held on Thursday, May 1, 2025, at 11:00 AM at Westminster Presbyterian Church. A visitation will be from 9:00 AM -11:00 AM. Interment will follow at Floral Hills Memorial Gardens.

The family thanks Riemann Family Funeral Home for handling all arrangements with such care and compassion.

Memorials may be made to the Westminster Presbyterian Church Pipe Organ Fund or the charity of your choice.