There is much to be said about our Donna Lou McElfresh. Wednesday, December 4th, she went peacefully to be with the Lord in her home surrounded by family.  For her 81 years on this earth, she dedicated every second to her family and Jesus, who was her main hope and focus.

Donna was born in Youngstown, Ohio on June 28th, 1943.  At the age of 9, she and her family moved to California where she met her husband, Gary McElfresh in La Mesa at 15 years old.  At 16, she became a Sunday school teacher and continued to teach children throughout her life.  Gary and Donna married on June 15, 1963.  They had 4 boys, Matthew, Jason, Jonathan and Ethan before moving to Flagstaff in 1973.

Gary and Donna settled into Flagstaff buying what was then the Wienerschnitzel, which later became the Dog Haus.  She was the office manager at an orthodontist office and did bookkeeping for the Dog Haus before retiring to be a full-time grandma.

Donna was known for her hospitality and love for God.  Everything she did reflected her walk with Jesus.  She selflessly served others the way Jesus did.  She was known for her cooking, and ensuring her family and friends were always full and happy.

Donna was an extremely loved wife, mother of 4, grandmother of 12 and great-grandmother of 13.  She was also a loyal and loving friend to many. She was a woman of extraordinary resilience, compassion and empathy.  She lived to serve her loved ones without complaint.  She was the light that everyone needed in the dark.  She will forever be in our hearts until we see her again.

Funeral services will be held at the First Southern Baptist Church in Flagstaff 951 N. Switzer Canyon Drive, Friday December 13th, 2024.  Viewing starts at 11:00, service at 12:00 and graveside at 1:30.  There will be a reception to follow back at the church.

Condolences may be shared with the family at norvelowensmortuary.com