In Memory
Donna J. Jones
June 3, 1934 ~ October 22, 2025 91 Years Old
Donna June (Merrell) Jones, 91, of Englewood, Colorado, passed away on October 22, 2025, with family by her side.
Donna was born on June 3, 1934, in Maywood, Nebraska, to John Clark and Emily Annie (Larson) Merrell. She grew up on a small family farm alongside her siblings Kenneth, Dorothy, Irene, Ruby, and Norma. As a child, she attended a one-room country school that even had a barn for horses. She and two sisters famously rode one horse together to class, a memory she loved to share and laugh about.
Determined to further her education, Donna attended McCook High School, where she lived in a boarding house during the week. Though she missed home, she often said her parents wanted her to have every opportunity to succeed. It was there that she met Charles “Chuck” Jones, whom she married after graduation. They made their home in McCook, but soon moved to Englewood, Colorado and raised three daughters, Pamela, Patricia, and Peggy.
Donna worked for Ralph Schomp Automotive, where she built lasting friendships and eventually retired in 2000. She was a devoted member of South Suburban Christian Church, rarely missing a Sunday service. Even when she no longer drove, she made sure to stay connected through rides arranged by her church family or home visits for communion. Her faith and friendships gave her life rich meaning, and she remained active in her church community, attending worship, luncheons, and movie gatherings. She also volunteered regularly, and cherished her many clubs and organizations, including the Red Hat Society, Lady’s Auxiliary, Littleton Elks, and Footprinters, where she proudly served as president.
After Chuck’s passing in 1988, Donna later married Charles “Chuck” Collins in 1994 in Las Vegas. Together they shared many happy years of travel, laughter, and friendship until his passing in 2013. They loved taking road trips, cruises, and exploring new destinations; from Canada and Mexico to Hawaii and the East Coast.
Donna had a deep love for her family and found joy in the traditions that brought everyone together. Thanksgiving feasts around the yellow fold-out table, Christmas mornings crowded with cousins and gifts, and the annual “tallest to shortest” cousin photo were beloved family staples. Her home was always filled with warmth, laughter, and something delicious in the kitchen. The family would often tell stories of famous fried chicken wrapped in waxed paper for Sunday drives and her legendary homemade pies.
Donna loved reading (especially romance, mystery, and western novels), playing cards (Hand and Foot, Pinochle, and Bridge), and games like Mexican Train, Bingo, and board games with friends. She enjoyed bus trips to Central City and Blackhawk, family reunions, gardening, crocheting, knitting, and dancing. A devoted Denver Broncos season ticket holder, she never lost her enthusiasm for game day. In her later years, Donna continued to treasure “Grandma Fun Days,” biweekly outings with family that included lunch dates (a hamburger and shake made her day), shopping trips, puzzles, and simple time together.
Donna is survived by her three daughters Pamela, Patricia, and Peggy; six grandchildren; and seven great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by both of her husbands, Charles Jones and Charles Collins, as well as her parents and siblings.
She was known for her respect, kindness, and sense of humor. She made everyone feel welcome, always inviting others to join in the fun. Donna will be remembered for her unwavering faith, welcoming spirit, quick wit, and the way she made everyone feel like family. Her laughter, warmth, and love will live on in all those who were blessed to know her.
A memorial service will be held on Monday, November 24, 2025, at Drinkwine Family Mortuary in Littleton, Colorado.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Kidney Fund and Breast Cancer Fund, in Donna's name and memory.
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