Donna LaRae Whitfield Simmons, age 62, of Alto, Georgia, went home to be with the Lord on Thursday, August 20, 2026.

Born in Gainesville, Georgia, on December 7, 1963, Donna was the daughter of Mr. Billy Joe Whitfield and Mrs. Brenda England Green. She was a graduate of North Hall High School, Class of 1981.

Donna was a woman whose life was centered around the people she loved. For many years she was a homemaker, a fitting occupation for someone who found such joy in creating and caring for others. Whether she was cooking a favorite meal, baking something special, working on a craft, or making one of her herbal remedies, Donna had a gift for putting a little piece of her heart into everything she did.

Above all, Donna treasured her family. She was a loving wife, a devoted daughter and mama, and a wonderful “Nanny” to her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Her family was her greatest joy, and the memories made around her table, in her home, and simply spending time together will remain precious for generations to come. To be loved by Donna was to know the warmth of a woman who cared deeply and gave freely of herself.

Donna's faith was also an important part of her life. She was a member of Rock Springs Baptist Church, and her family finds comfort in knowing that the one they loved so dearly has now gone home to be with the Lord.

She was preceded in death by her step-son, Paul Simmons; and brother, Barry Joe “Buffalo” Whitfield.

Survivors include her loving husband of 39 years, Tony Wesley Simmons; daughter, Heather Sheridan; step-son, Howard Simmons; mother, Brenda England Green; father, Billy Joe Whitfield; grandchildren, Walker Bennett (Ashlyn) and Chloe Bennett (Garrett Oliver); great-grandchildren, Wrenly Bennett and Greyson Oliver; brothers and sisters-in-law, David Green (Deborah), Matt Whitfield, and Heath Green (Jennifer); sister, Tiffany Green (Mike Pugh); special friend & sister-in-law, Jerelynn Whitfield; as well as numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews, other relatives, and many friends.

Though Donna's earthly journey has ended far too soon, the love she poured into her family will continue to live on. She will be remembered in the recipes she shared, the things she made with her hands, the traditions she helped create, and most of all, in the hearts of those who were blessed to call her wife, daughter, Mama, Nanny, sister, and friend. Her family will miss her deeply, but they will forever cherish the love, laughter, and beautiful memories she leaves behind.

A Celebration of Donna's Life will be held at a later time to be announced.

An online guest registry is available for the Simmons family at www.mcgaheegriffinandmcentire.com.

McGahee-Griffin & McEntire Funeral Home of Cornelia, Georgia (706/778-8668) is honored to serve the family of Donna LaRae Whitfield Simmons.