Donna Corrine Dennis' Obituary
Donna Dennis was born September 19th, 1942, in Belvidere, Illinois to Donald Burton and Theresa Houdin, lived a life marked by dedication, resilience, and compassion. She grew up with two younger sisters, Jerrine and Marcia, and later survived by Deborah Badman, Sue McKerlie, Linda Welding, Jerry Dennis, and Steve Dennis. After graduating from Belvidere High school, Donna embarked on a long career with the phone company, where she worked nearly her entire adult life.
Her early career took her to Chicago, Illinois, where she worked until she went thru a divorce. However, in 1967 she meet and married Verl Dennis, a wonderful man with six children. Donna embraced Verl's children as her own, becoming a loving step-mother. though Jim and Jeff have passed, Donna's devotion to family was unwavering.
In 1976, Donna moved to Dekalb, Illinois, where she continued working for the phone company. Her time in DeKalb was filled with weekends and vacations camping-an activity she cherished. Throughout her life, Donna was defined by her hard work and commitment, especially in her career. She eventually move to Florida in 1985, settling first in Lady Lake before relocating to Harbor Shores. in Florida she continued her work with the phone company in Altamont Springs, retiring from Sprint in 2010 or 2011.
Even after retiring Donna's work ethic didn't fade. She took a job with The Villages and continued working until 2014, when she retired for good at the age of 72. Throughout her life, Donna displayed a deep love for animals. She as known for rescuing dogs and cats, and dog training became a significant part of her life. Her compassion extended to all creatures, and her home was a place of love for her furry companions.
In her later years, Donna moved to Grand Island, Florida, where she continued to live her life with the same independence and vibrancy she had always shown. She lived fully, enjoying the peace of retirement while still nurturing her love for her family, her animals, and the simple joys of life.
On September 28, 2024, Donna passed away peacefully, leaving behind a legacy of love, resilience, and kindness. Her surviving sibling, children, grandchildren, great grandchildren, and great great grandchildren remember her as a woman who devoted herself fully to those she loved. She as a strong, independent woman who lived her life with purpose, love, and commitment to making the world around her a better place-whether through her work, her care for animals, or the love for family.
What’s your fondest memory of Donna?
What’s a lesson you learned from Donna?
Share a story where Donna's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Donna you’ll never forget.
How did Donna make you smile?