Donna “Nonna” Arnold, 72, passed away peacefully on June 9, 2020 in Zephyrhills, FL, after a long battle with Parkinson’s.
Born in Brookport, IL, on February 28, 1948, Donna graduated high school in Coal City where she also married her high school sweetheart and raised their daughters until moving to Tampa, Florida. Donna worked as a volunteer coordinator before retiring from Tampa General Hospital where she cherished her volunteers especially those in the teen program.
Nonna was a creative, kindhearted soul who loved to take care of people she crossed paths with in life. She always made them feel accepted as her own. She loved to bake, throw parties, and never let an occasion go by without a celebration. Her legacy will live on forever our hearts.
Donna is survived by her husband of 54 years, Gary and her daughters Kalene (Brian) Farrell, Krystl (Paul) Nicoletti, and Kandi Custer. Her favorite role in life was being grandmother to Brandan (Lynze) Nicoletti, Kyle Custer, Jakob (Misty) Nicoletti, Bethani Nicoletti and great grandmother to Braylyn, Weston, Briella, Blake, and Tristan. Nonna had a huge heart and adopted many as her own including Lisa, Juan, JJ and Lia Alfonso, Jen Lynch and Jessica Brosey.
After a successful heart transplant for Gary in 2000, Donna became a passionate advocate for organ donation. Memorial gifts may be made in her honor to Donate Life (donatelife.net). A celebration of life will be held at a later date.
8 Comments
So sorry for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers for the family.
Sorry for your loss, her pain and suffering is gone and she can fly with the angels and smile. Much love
Kandi,
Darrell and I send our condolences to you and the family. If you need anything, please do not hesitate to reach out. I know this is a difficult time for everyone. Just know that I’m here for you. Love you my light-skinned sister.
The Phillips’ Family (Darrell & Tangela)
I’m so sorry for your loss.
We are truly sorry for your loss. Please accept our most sincere condolences
I am sooo sorry for your loss, Hugs, prayers for peace and comfort, my Heart is with you?
My Love and Condolences to the Family
My deepest sympathy. ‘The Other’ as we fondly referred to each other, was an amazing lady! My heart goes out to her beloved family. Because of your family, and the time I spent with Donna during Gary’s struggles, I registered to be an organ donor in 2000. Donna made such an impact on those who were fortunate enough to know her. I wish you all peace. Cherish your wonderful memories.
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