Donna Barks, age 72, of St. Louis, Missouri, passed away peacefully on August 14, 2026. Born on November 10, 1953, Donna was a loving, funny, and wise wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and aunt who truly lived as a master of all trades.

Throughout her life, Donna wore many hats with excellence and passion. She was a licensed cosmetologist, expert landscaper, champion gardener, chef extraordinaire, and masseuse. Famous for her world-class pies and baking, she was also a pool cue master, an animal whisperer, and an avid treasure hunter. Above all, her warmth and colorful spirit brought joy to everyone who knew her.

Donna was preceded in death by her father, John Behiter; her mother, Nellie (Duncan) Behiter; her brother, Richard Behiter; and her sister, Linda (Behiter) Hankemeyer.

She is survived by her devoted husband of 54 years, John Barks; her daughter, Tina (Barks) Hastings and her husband Ernest; her cherished grandchildren, J.P. Hastings and Lydia Hastings; her brothers, John (Patricia) Behiter, Phillip (Dianna) Behiter, Stanley Behiter, Mark Behiter, and Charles Phillips; her sister, Sandy (Lyndon) Beckley; along with many beloved nieces and nephews.

Per Donna’s wishes, no formal services will be held. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Donna’s honor to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital(opens in new tab) or the ASPCA.(opens in new tab) She will be dearly missed.