Obituary for Donna Lee Walters
Donna Lee Walters (Tanner), age 83, of Ora, Indiana, passed away July 7, 2025, at her home surrounded by her family. Donna was born in LaPorte, Indiana on October 26, 1941, the daughter of Edward Allen Tanner and Eileen A. Tanner (Hazlett). She attended the Ora school in Ora, Indiana.
On September 30, 1959, she married the love of her life, Rutherford Byron Walters, and together they celebrated 65 years of steadfast devotion. Beloved by everyone who knew her, she delighted in welcoming her grandchildren into her home—often hosting family gatherings where each of us contributed dishes to nourish their large, close-knit clan.
Mom’s greatest joy was the warmth of family—she savored every hug and treasured every kiss. She delighted in watching little faces light up: she was the first to hand out Halloween treats to eager trick-or-treaters, reveled in the excitement of little ones hunting for hidden Easter eggs, and surprised every child at Christmas with her special gift. But nothing compared to those tender moments with her loved ones. She lived for the embraces of her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren—those simple acts of affection were her world. The undeniable glue of our clan, she poured out unconditional love, filling our days with laughter, comfort, and memories we’ll cherish forever.
Mom poured her entire heart into raising six children—five daughters and one son—teaching us kindness, love, and an unwavering work ethic every day. Through her gentle guidance and steadfast example, she showed us what it means to support each other, to be generous without hesitation, and to stand by our principles. Her legacy lives on in each of us, a living tribute to her endless love and the values she so lovingly instilled—and her spirit will remain at the very core of our family for generations to come.
She is survived by her husband, Rutherford Byron Walters, her children, Donna Holcomb (Niel) of Ora, Kathy Minnick (Brad) of Winamac, Connie Cogdill of Lebanon, Helen Short (Bob) of Toto, Debbie Anderson (Edward Sr.) of Rensselaer and Rutherford “RB” Walters (Brenda) of Monterey. Donna and Byron were blessed with 22 grandchildren and 26 great-grandchildren.
She was blessed to grow up with three brothers and four sisters, Ronald Tanner of Plymouth, Eloise Monter (Jack), North Canton, Ohio, Sue Fritter of Plymouth, Carol Craddock (Doug) of Warsaw, George Tanner of Rochester, Jerry Tanner of Winamac and Jana Richardson (Rick) of Warsaw.
She was a devoted mother who balanced family life with a strong commitment to her community. Early in her career, she honed her skills at The Shirt Shed in Culver and at a nursing home in Knox, Indiana, before finding her true calling at Walters Grocery Store. There, she not only took pride in managing day-to-day operations but also in the relationships she built, chatting with neighbors, swapping stories with delivery drivers, and making every customer feel welcome. Through her hard work and genuine warmth, she showed us the value of service, the importance of a strong work ethic, and the impact one person can make in the lives of many.
Preceding Donna in death are her parents, Edward Allen Tanner and Eileen Tanner (Hazlett), her brother, Rodger Allen and four great-grandchildren.
Visitation will be Thursday, July 10, 2025, from 4-8pm (ET) at M.C. Smith Funeral Home in Knox. Funeral services will take place on Friday, July 11, 2025, at 11am (ET) at M.C. Smith Funeral Home. Burial will follow at the Alexander Heinemann Cemetery in Ora.
Contributions may be made in her memory to the charity of your choice.
To plant a tree in memory of Donna Lee Walters, visit the Tribute Store.
Previous Events
Visitation
Thursday
10
Jul
4:00 PM
- 8:00 PM
MC Smith Funeral Home
153 E. Washington St
Knox, IN 46534
Service
Friday
11
Jul
11:00 AM
- 12:00 PM
MC Smith Funeral Home
153 E. Washington St
Knox, IN 46534
Cemetery Details
Location
Alexander Heinemann Cemetery
8480 S. 750 E.
Ora, IN 46968
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