Donna L. Smith, age 65, of Fort Myers, FL went to be with our Lord and Savior on January 4, 2017 after a four month battle with cancer. Donna was born on November 24, 1951 the daughter of Ivan and Joan Mitchell. She is survived by her son, Stephen (Rebecca) Nankervis Jr.; beloved grandchildren, Ava and Owen; mother, Betty Joan Mitchell; brothers, Jack (Dawn) and Ron (Maureen) Mitchell; nieces, Jaclyn Mitchell and Andrea (Nathan) Teft; nephew, Kevin Mitchell; great nephew and nieces, Drexell, Renly and McKayla; as well as her special friend, Gary Hill; son, Michael; and the Hill family.
Donna was preceded in death by her father Ivan Mitchell.
Originally from Lebanon IN, Donna moved to the Ft. Myers area in her youth. Donna was a graduate of Cypress Lake H.S. and Lee Vocational School specializing in cosmetology. At the age of nineteen, with her cosmetology license in hand, she went to work at Rikk's Salon of Beauty. With forty six years of experience, three locations and owner changes later, Donna was still at the top of her industry. Ever so active, Donna was very involved and had many interests from team mom duties and booster clubs, cheerleading coach and pageants, bowling leagues and stock car racing, scrapbooking and baking groups, watching sports, and traveling. Those close to her knew that she was always willing to get involved and lend a hand whenever called upon. From her sisters in the PEO and every client that ever sat in her chair, knew they were getting Donna's best at all times. She was always the most smiley and energetic person in the room. A committed mother, grandmother, daughter, sister, aunt, friend, and co-worker her love for all is unmeasurable. She had a special bond with her "babies" (Ava and Owen) and they were her WORLD. Donna never passed up an opportunity to travel to Wisconsin for a dance recital, soccer game, birthday, holiday, or babysitting duties. Donna was so much to so many that one title would not properly fit. Quick to offer a hug or lend an ear, she will forever have all of our hearts.
The family would like to thank Hope Hospice for their compassion and care in her final days.
Visitation will be held at Hodges Funeral Home at Lee Memorial Park, 12777 State Rd 82, Fort Myers, FL 33913 on Monday, January 9, 2017 from 4-8pm. In lieu of flowers the family will use memorials to make donations in Donna's name.
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