Donna Jean McDonough, born on November 17, 1946, to Josephine (Evans) and Howard D. VanAusdall, departed this world on June 14, 2024, at Auburn Rehabilitation and Health Center, concluding her battle with Alzheimer's. Donna's life was enriched by her roles as a Military Wife, Day Care Provider, Foster Parent, and Aunt.
She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Thomas (Tom) McDonough; her parents, Josephine and Howard VanAusdall; her aunts, Ann Butell (Evans) and Hellen Fruge (VanAusdall); her sister, Patricia A. (Smith) Spiker; brother-in-law, James McDonough; and in-laws, Loretta C. (Ebel) and Daniel E. McDonough.
Though Donna and Tom never had children, she is survived by her sister-in-law, Shirley McDonough; nephew, Brian McDonough; brother-in-law, Richard V. Spiker; and nephew, Stephen V. Spiker. She is also lovingly remembered and survived by her cherished niece and foster-daughter, Christina L. (Spiker) Ball, her husband, Bryce, and their son, Justin Thomas (Spiker) Ball, who held a special place in her heart.
Donna attended Feitshans High School until the 10th grade. She traveled with her husband during his military service, enjoying the camaraderie of military families and attending officers' clubs while stationed in Missouri, Alabama, Texas, and Germany. She often fondly recalled her time in Germany and visiting historic sites.
In 1983, Donna’s husband took early retirement from the Army under a compassionate care act to care for Donna's mother, Josephine, and to foster their niece, Christina. Because Donna and Tom considered Christina as their daughter, Christina's son Justin knew them as his grandparents. Donna dedicated most of her adult life to working as a day care provider and foster parent.
After Tom's retirement, they became active members of The American Legion Post #32. Donna greatly enjoyed participating in the Woman’s Auxiliary, serving as one of its presidents, and engaging in various activities, outings, parties, and political events. Her dedication to the Legion extended to fostering one of the member's daughters, Tabitha Gilbert, for two years.
In light of Donna’s passing, services will be private for immediate family. She will be interred with her husband at Camp Butler National Cemetery. May Donna rest in eternal peace, reunited with her husband and parents in Heaven.
The family is being served by Butler Funeral Home-Springfield, 900 S. 6th St., Springfield, IL.
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