Donna Newton

COOKEVILLE CHAPEL - Donna May Newton, passed away peacefully at her residence on Tuesday March 10, 2026. She was born July 23, 1935, in Detroit, Michigan. She moved to Southern California around 1979 and earned an associates degree in accounting.

She lived in California for many years and owned a business, Ravenscar Machining with her late husband Michael Newton in Sage, California.

Her passions extended well beyond the professional realm. A fun and spunky soul, Donna delighted in the simple pleasures: savoring her evening cocktails of Jim Beam or Jack Daniels, playing cards and backgammon, enjoying needlepoint, knitting and crocheting, bowling and darts (having been on many leagues throughout the years), listening to music, and watching FOX News. She was an excellent cook whose talents delighted family and friends alike. Her love for reading sparked countless journeys within pages, and her adventurous spirit found joy in traveling on cruise ships, experiencing the vastness of the world and embracing its wonders.

Her family was the cornerstone of her heart. Donna’s vibrant presence enriched the lives of her five children- Jamie Winestone, Rick Kerr, Jill Kerr, Jo Anna Kerr, and Rebecca Moffitt. She cherished her 16 grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren, finding immense joy and pride in their milestones and moments. She is also survived by a brother, Norbert Goedeke.

Donna’s life was also shaped by those who preceded her-her fist husband and father to her first four children, James Kerr; her last husband, Michael Newton; her beloved parents, Andrew Wilder and Ellen Weister; her daughter, Jo Anna Kerr-Buick; her infant grandson, Isaiah Moffitt; her siblings C.Edward Wilder, Lola Wilder, Dorothy Richards, Elsie Goedeke, Jean McFayden-England,and Audrey McFayden-Delicato. Though they have passed on, their memories live on within the tapestry of Donna’s story.

In 2014, Donna moved to Cookeville, TN where she enjoyed retirement and living out her latter years close to her youngest daughter Rebecca Moffitt and grandchildren, Madeleine Moffitt and Lillie Moffitt. Her vibrant spirit, as bright and lively as ever, will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

Donna Newton’s life was a beautiful mosaic of strength, love, laughter, and passion. She leaves behind a legacy that is felt in the hearts of her family and friends, a legacy of unwavering love and enduring memories. Her spirit remains alive in the stories told, the crafts she lovingly created, the recipes she perfected, and in the countless lives she touched with her unique blend of warmth and spark.

No services are planned at this time

Hooper Huddleston & Horner Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. (931)526-6111. Share memories and condolences at www.hhhfunerals.com.