Donna Genean McAllister (Seymour), aged 91, of Memphis, Tennessee, passed away peacefully on August 9, 2024. Born on January 28, 1933, to Lawrence and Grace Seymour (Plunkett) in Palestine, Illinois, Donna was a spirited and loving individual known for her energetic and determined nature.
She attended Robinson High School in Robinson, Illinois, and became a wife and homemaker after graduation. She became mother to six children and went on to own a successful fabric store in Kahoka, Missouri. Donna’s passion extended beyond her family and professional life into her community involvement. She was an active hospice volunteer and served on the board of Van Buren County Senior Services. Her love for music was evident as she played the piano or organ in several churches throughout her life and enjoyed singing. Donna was also an avid gardener possessing a deep knowledge of plants which she loved to share with others.
Donna is survived by her children, Julie O’Day (Memphis), Jerry McAllister and his wife, Mary (Birmingham, Alabama); James McAllister and his partner, Reta Hollbrook (Fairfield Bay, Arkansas); and Sue Jenkins and her partner, Steve Yates (Kahoka, Missouri) along with 26 grandchildren. She recently responded to a question about the number of great grandchildren with “You’ll need a calculator.” She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Fred McAllister; her sons, David Fuller and Doug McAllister; and her sister, Emma Allen.
A memorial gathering to celebrate Donna’s life will be held on September 21, 2024, from 2-4 p.m. at Memphis Funeral Home in Memphis, Tennessee, which is assisting the family during this time.. There will also be a memorial service in Kahoka, Missouri at a date to be determined.
Her legacy of love, music, and community service will be remembered by all who knew her. She loved and was loved.
