Donna Louise Berry

Donna Louise Berry, 73, passed away peacefully on October 2, 2026, at Vita of New Whiteland. She was born on March 13, 1953, in Indianapolis, to the late John and Helen (Howe) Deeds.

Donna graduated from Warren Central High School in 1971. In 2005, she earned her real estate license and enjoyed working in real estate for several years. She also worked at a print shop and, most recently, spent nine years at St. Francis Hospital, where she served food trays to residents. She retired in 2022.

In December 2005, Donna co-founded Desert Rose, a shelter for battered women in Martinsville, Indiana. Her involvement with Desert Rose reflected her compassionate heart and desire to help others and make a difference in the lives of women in need.

Donna attended the Unitarian Universalist Church for several years and found community and fellowship there.

Donna was an artistic and creative soul who found joy in painting and photography. She especially loved nature and could often be found taking photographs of animals, insects, and the little details of the world around her. Her creativity was something she shared with others, particularly her beloved sister and best friend, Karen. The two sisters would travel to Nashville, Indiana, where they sold their paintings and enjoyed their time together.

Donna and Karen shared a special bond and spent countless days together. They went out to lunch nearly every day, with Dong’s China Buffet being a favorite destination. They also enjoyed taking walks several times a day and simply spending time together. Their friendship and sisterhood were a treasured part of Donna’s life. She also very much enjoyed taking trips out West to visit her brother, Johnny.

Donna had a generous and playful spirit. She volunteered at the Indianapolis Zoo, including helping to hang Christmas lights. She loved sweets of all kinds, especially chocolate and ice cream. Independent and spirited, Donna stayed active in her hobbies and social activities and especially enjoyed spending time with her high school girlfriends.

Those who knew Donna will remember her whimsical personality, her sense of humor, and her love of a good prank. She had a funny, playful way about her that could bring laughter to those around her. Above all, Donna adored her grandchildren and cherished the time she spent with them.

Survivors include her daughter, Rebecca Berry (Hans Jaeger) and Emily Berry; siblings, Karen Deeds and Johnny Deeds (Angie); grandchildren, Berlin Dilg and Memphis Gibson; father of her children, Robert Berry; and several nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents, Donna was preceded in death by her nephew, Mahan Deeds.

Family and friends are invited to visit on Wednesday, October 14, 2026, from 12 Noon to 2:00 pm in the chapel at Carlisle – Branson Funeral Service & Crematory in Mooresville. A memorial service will begin at 2:00 pm.

Please visit www.CarlisleBranson.com to share a favorite memory or sign the online guest registry.