Donna Rose Cox, 87, of Decatur

Donna Rose Cox, a cherished mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend, left this world peacefully at the age of 87 on July 2, 2024, at Carriage Crossing Senior Living in Decatur, Illinois.  Born on February 16, 1937, in Mode, she was the beloved daughter of Harry and Mildred (Grove) Slifer.

In 1954, she married Morris "Gene" Wittenberg, and together they built a family founded on warmth and affection.  Although Gene preceded her in death in 1989, the legacy they created continued to flourish through their daughters, Eugena (Robert) Watters of Decatur and Noreen (Jerry) Bowman of Clarksville,Tennessee.  Donna's joy was multiplied by the presence of her four grandchildren, Sarah Spain of Mt.Zion, Andrea (Chris) Morrison of Woodstock, Georgia, Christopher (Lisa) Thomas of Munford,Tennessee, and Kelly (Ellie) Thomas of Bettendorf, Iowa, as well as her eleven great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild.  Also surviving are her sister, Deb Clawson and brother, David (Julie) Slifer, both of Effingham.

She was preceded in death by her parents and her sisters, Dottie and Doris.

Donna's artistic passions and love for nature were reflected in her hobbies.  Her acrylic paintings were a testament to her talent and eye for beauty, while her flower and vegetable gardens showcased her nurturing spirit.  The joy she found in these activities was only matched by the pleasure she took in wintering in Florida for 20 years, where she embraced the warmth and vibrancy of the coastal life.

Family and friends are invited to honor Donna's memory at a memorial service to be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, July 20, 2024, at Lovins-Lockart Funeral Home in Windsor.  A gathering for friends and family will be from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service.  Inurnment will follow the service at Stewardson Cemetery.  Memorials may be given in Donna’s honor to the Alzheimer’s Association and mailed to Lovins-Lockart Funeral Home, P.O. Box 54, Windsor, Illinois 61957.

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