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Donna Maxine Scheel, a beloved mother, grandmother, sister and friend, passed away peacefully Aug. 7, 2025, at the home of her daughter, Deborah McGlaughlin, in Foley, Alabama.
Donna was born Nov. 10, 1937, to Dalton Frank Jones and Ruth Nell (Alexander) Jones in Rushville, Missouri. She was raised and educated in Union County and graduated from Creston High School with the class of 1956. Just one week after her graduation, she married the love of her life, Donald Dean Scheel, June 3, 1956, in Creston.
For 30 years, Donna dedicated herself to her role as one of the cooks for Creston Public Schools, where she became known for the care and love she infused into every meal. Many children who were lucky enough to have known Donna will remember the warmth she brought into their lives. Donna was also a wonderful, doting mother, raising three children: Ricky, Deborah and Christine, instilling in them values of kindness and generosity.
After retiring from the school system, Donna remained ever industrious and dedicated to her community. She spent the next eight years working for the Creston News Advertiser, but her passion for giving did not wane. Donna volunteered countless hours, notably baking cakes every month for the Creston Fire Department, police department and courthouse employees, earning the cherished nickname, “The Cake Lady.” Her involvement didn’t stop there; she actively contributed to the Salem Lutheran Church, assisting with any church function she was asked to help with.
Donna was a long-time member of the Trinity Lutheran Church until the passing of her husband Donald. Her vibrant spirit was also evident in her membership with the T.O.P.S. Club, where she fostered friendships that would last a lifetime.
Donna’s ability to touch the hearts of those around her came not just from her culinary talents or her diligent service, but more so from her innate kindness. She was a typical, all-American wife and mother of her era, always accommodating and caring to those she met throughout her life. Donna’s warmth and generosity will be fondly remembered by all who crossed her path.
In addition to her cherished roles as a mother and community member, Donna is survived by her two daughters, Deborah (Mike) McGlaughlin of Foley, Alabama, and Christine Anderson of Creston; three grandchildren: Matthew (Joyce) Sheren of Georgia; Unity Bauman of South Dakota and Lindsey as well as four great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her sister Ruth Jones of Phoenix, Arizona; two sisters-in-law, Nancy Jones of Colorado and Donna Myers of Pensacola, Florida; brother-in-law Tom Jensen of Leon; many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.
Donna is preceded in death by her loving husband, Donald Dean Scheel; her son Ricky Scheel; her sons-in-law, Bob Bauman and Rod Sheren; her parents; her brothers: Dalton, Bill and Lonnie Jones and two sisters, Joe Ann Lutz and Connie Jensen.
As we remember Donna Maxine Scheel, we celebrate her life, her endless love and the beautiful legacy she leaves behind. Her spirit will live on in the hearts of all who had the privilege to know her.
Funeral services will be 10:30 a.m., Saturday, Aug. 16, at Pearson Family Funeral Service & Cremation Center with Rev. Jim Mossman officiating. Burial will be in the Maple Hill Cemetery, Cromwell. Open visitation will be 3-7 p.m., with family receiving friends 5-7 p.m., Friday, Aug. 15.
Memorial contributions may be directed to the Maple Hill Cemetery. Online condolences can be shared online at www.pearsonfuneralhomes.com.