Donna Jean Tobin

Donna Jean Tobin passed peacefully from all earthly cares on August 10, 2021.

Born in Cambridge, Ohio on June 14, 1934, she was the youngest of four children, and had many memories of a happy, secure childhood surrounded by a loving family. She recalled these times fondly throughout her life, and they defined the person she became.

In school, Donna was always one of the smartest in her class and she soon caught the eye of a tall, handsome, outgoing young man – (who thought she was the prettiest too). They were together happily for nearly 70 years.

While still a teenager, Donna delayed her education and marriage to care for her mother through a long, debilitating illness. The love and devotion, the selfless care she displayed in this act were qualities evident throughout her life.

Donna was a kind and gentle woman. Her quiet strength was the foundation of a beautiful family. She and Bob had four happy children that grew into principled, loving adults like their parents. They did that together. While Bob was busy making a living, Donna was busy making a life for the family. You’d be hard-pressed to find four grown siblings that share so many vivid, funny, and poignant childhood memories in common. They were secure and happy in the loving home their parents created, and in many important ways Donna was the driving force.

Because Donna was a quiet, humble woman it would be easy to underestimate her. No one who knew her ever did. She was both smart and wise, and her faith in God gave her a strength and confidence that was a comfort and support to her many friends.

Donna and Bob enjoyed a long and healthy retirement that took them around the country, stacking up shared experiences that they frequently reminisced about. They were able to spend lots of time with their adult children and grandchildren in Florida, Colorado, Texas, Idaho and Virginia, and Donna’s greatest joys were these times when she was surrounded by family.

While Donna will be desperately missed by her family, the many memories they shared and the beautiful example of a life well-lived will always be present. While her life among us is over, her spirit will continue to animate us in a very real way. She will always be greatly loved and never forgotten.

Donna is survived by her husband Bob, sons Dan Tobin (Kerry) and Mike Tobin, daughters Becky May (Steve) and Judy Haselden (Barry), niece Susie Blatchly (Steve), nephew Jeff Cosby (Robbie), and beloved grandchildren Joshua, Taylor, Tory, Casey, Ben and Andrew.

Tharp Funeral Home & Crematory, Smith Mountain Lake, is assisting the family. To send condolences, please visit obituaries.tharpfuneralhome.com.