Donna Stansell Thornton was born on February 11, 1948, in Sheffield, Alabama, and passed peacefully in her home on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, with her husband and daughter by her side.
Donna lived a life defined by love, kindness, faith, and service to others everywhere. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend. She poured herself wholeheartedly into caring for those around her. Helping others wasn’t something Donna did – it was who she was. Whether through quiet acts of kindness or unwavering support in times of need, she was always there, shining a light of goodness and helpfulness for all people.
A loving Christian, Donna faithfully served the Lord in countless ways through Northampton Christian Church, where she was a devoted member for 35 years. Her faith guided every part of her life and shone through in her kind spirit, generous heart, and steadfast compassion.
Donna earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Biology, with a minor in Chemistry, from the University of North Alabama. In 1980, she began her career at Newport News Shipbuilding, where she formed many lifelong friendships. She retired in 2007 as an Administrative Supervisor in the Nuclear Engineering Division, eager to spend more time doing what she loved most—being with her grandchildren.
Family meant everything to Donna. Her greatest joys were Jesus and her family, and she loved them with a selfless, sacrificial, and unwavering devotion. She was the one you could always count on—the helper, the encourager, the steady presence who made everyone feel cared for and seen.
Donna is survived by her beloved husband of 56 years, Jim Thornton; her daughter and best friend, Ragan Rose, and Ragan’s husband, David; her treasured grandchildren, Tatum Smith, Henley Smith, and Ayden Rose; her sister, Kathy Elliott (Jim); and her brothers, James Stansell (Donna) and Alan Stansell.
She was preceded in death by her parents, James and Dorothy Stansell, and stepmother, Nell Stansell.
Donna’s legacy is one of unconditional love, deep faith, and a life spent serving others. She will be deeply missed and forever loved by all who were blessed to know her.
The family would like to thank special friends Augustine Paku, Nancy Wheless, Sharon Caldwell, and many others who provided loving care during Donna’s time of need.
In addition, the family wishes to express heartfelt gratitude to Riverside Hospice for the tender care Donna received at home. The nurses and caregivers provided not only medical support but also comfort, reassurance, and genuine compassion to Donna and her family throughout this journey.
Expressions of love may be directed to the Riverside Foundation or any other organization whose mission is to reduce or eliminate memory care issues and care for those patients who suffer from them.
A Celebration of her life will be held on March 14, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. at Northampton Christian Church, 1409 Todds Lane, Hampton VA 23666.