Donna Sue Peebles

Donna Sue Peebles

Donna Sue Peebles, beloved mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully on Saturday, March 22, 2025, at the age of 87. Surrounded by the love and care of family and friends, she spent her final days embraced by those who cherished her— a testament to the deep love and devotion she gave so generously throughout her life. She was a woman of boundless love, infectious laughter, and undeniable spunk, known for welcoming everyone into her heart and into her home.

Born Donna Sue Edwards on July 29, 1937, in rural Williamson County, to Earl and Hazel (Boyd) Edwards, she was the youngest in her family and carried an adventurous spirit from the start. Early in life, she formed a deep bond with W. Wayne Fosse, a love affair that blossomed into marriage and the birth of their son, Wayne Dale. Later, Donna and Wayne would open their hearts and welcome children Rocky, Terry, and Connie, creating a family built on her boundless love and commitment.

Donna spent much of her life in Marion but also cherished many happy years at her Lake of Egypt home with her second husband, Loren Peebles. There, she created a warm and welcoming space filled with laughter, storytelling, and a sense of comfort that made everyone feel like they could sit down and stay a while. Whether playing cards at the dining room table, fishing on the dock at the lake, or painting in her basement studio, Donna’s vibrant spirit filled every corner of her life. Her generosity knew no bounds, always ready to make room at her table for anyone who needed a place to belong.

She was the best kind of grandmother—patient, kind, and endlessly fun. Whether it was playing games, sharing stories, or creating lifelong memories, she delighted in every moment spent with the children in her life. Her sense of humor was sharp, her words often colorful, and her love unconditional.

Even after losing her sight later in life, Donna remained fiercely independent, adapting with her signature wit and resilience. She never lost her love for conversation, companionship, or a good cup of coffee on the back porch. She found joy in the simplest moments and laughter in the everyday.

Donna is preceded in death by her son, Terry Fosse; her husband, Loren Peebles; and many dear family members and friends. She is also reunited in eternal peace with her beloved mother, Hazel, who she spoke of and yearned for often until the very end of her life.

Donna is survived by her devoted son, Wayne Dale Fosse, who was the joy of her life. She also leaves behind a granddaughter, Sara Fosse, who was endlessly grateful to be loved by her (and is the author of this obituary).

Donna is survived by her beloved sister, Shirley Mandrell, whose love and laughter were a constant presence, filling Donna’s life with joy from beginning to end.

She is also survived by her daughter, Connie Burke, whose love and care brought Donna so much comfort in her later years; her granddaughter, Morgan Burke; her son, Rocky Brown, and his wife, Jimmie; her devoted stepson, Doug Peebles, and his wife, Lisa; her stepdaughter Joann Violett, and her husband Keith; and her stepson, Mike Peebles, and his wife, Mary. Her grandchildren, Ethan Peebles (Ashlyn) and Dillon Peebles (Melanie) will forever cherish her memory, as well as her great grandsons, Owen and Jackson Peebles.

Special love goes to her newest great grandson, Javier Fosse Boria, son of Sara and her husband, Joe Boria, and grandson of Wayne, who will grow up hearing about the wit, warmth, and playful spirit of his Grandma Donna, which will become a cherished part of his story too. Her legacy will live on in the stories we tell, the laughter we share, and the love she instilled in all who knew her. While we mourn her loss, we take comfort in knowing that Donna is already seated at that heavenly table, surrounded by loved ones, ready to deal the next hand.

A service to celebrate Donna’s life will be held at Blue Funeral Home located at 1704 North Court Street, Marion, on Thursday, March 27, 2025. Visitation will be from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM, with the funeral immediately following at noon. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that donations in her honor be made to Lake of Egypt Christian Church or Hospice of Southern Illinois. Please visit www.bluefuneralhome.com to leave online condolences.