Today, we gather to honor the life and legacy of Donna Graening, a remarkable woman whose love, faith, and strength left a memorable mark on everyone she knew. Born in June as Donna Robinson, she grew up alongside her three sisters—Ruth Ann, Mary, and Betty—all of whom have preceded her in death. Donna's life was one of resilience, faith, and devotion to her family and her Lord.

Donna married Ralph Schen, with whom she shared two children, Cheryl and Jerry. Though their marriage ended, Donna and Ralph remained close friends until Ralph's passing. Cheryl, her beloved daughter, has also passed, but Cheryl's legacy continues through her husband, Ed Garnett, and their children, Eric and Julie.

Eric and his wife, Monya, have been blessed with four children: Jack, Ty, Katie, and Grace. Ty has four children—Cohen, Sophia, Melody, and Bentley—and Grace has one child, Phoenix. All who have loved Grandma Donna dearly.

Julie, married to Jody Loftus, carries on her mother's legacy of kindness and care.

Donna's son, Jerry Schen, married Kathy and together they had two sons, Joshua and Jordan. Joshua has blessed Donna with a great grandson,

Donna married Ralph Graening, and the two shared a life loving and devoted to family until Ralph's passing.

Donna was a woman of unwavering faith, and her love for Christ was evident in the way she lived her life. Her faith was contagious, inspiring all who knew her to seek God's love and grace. She was a strong Christian woman who believed that no obstacle in life was insurmountable with Christ by your side. Donna's greatest desire was for her family and friends to come to know Jesus as their Savior, so they might join her in heaven one day.

Her life reflected the truth of 2 Corinthians 12:9: "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." Donna leaned on this promise throughout her life and encouraged others to do the same. She wanted everyone to know the peace of Philippians 4:13: "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me."

To those struggling or searching, Donna's message would be clear: Turn to Christ, for He is the way, the truth, and the life (John 14:6). She would remind us of Romans 8:28: "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose."

Donna's legacy is one of love, faith, and encouragement. She would want each of us to remember her by growing in faith and sharing Christ's love with others. Her greatest joy would be knowing that her family and all those she cherished would one day join her in the eternal embrace of God's glory.

May we honor Donna's memory by living lives full of faith, love, and hope, as she so beautifully exemplified. Let us carry forward her message, her love for Christ, and her prayer for all of us to one day meet again in heaven.

Calling hours will be Friday, May 9, 2025, from 11 - 12 PM at the Arnold & Spiker-Foster-Shriver Funeral Home at 4817 Cleveland Ave NW. Memorial services will begin at 12 Noon.