Donna Dee (née Chasten) Counts peacefully passed away on December 1, 2025, at her home at the age of 72.
She was born on July 11, 1953, in St. Louis, Missouri, to Paul Herbert and Violet Elaine (Winingar) Chasten.

Donna was preceded in death by the love of her life, her husband John Counts; her parents; infant sister, Linda Deniece; and grandparents, William Alton and Lillie Belle (Pogue) Chasten, and Charles Arthur and Jesse Ann (Freer) Winingar.

She is forever loved by her children, Tonya (Peter) Schmidt and Sean (Jennifer) Counts, both of DeSoto, Missouri; and Kathleen (Mitchel) Falk of San Antonio, Texas.
Her cherished grandchildren include Victoria Drinnin, James Falk, Madyson Falk, John Schmidt, Dalton Falk, David Counts, and Logan Falk.

Donna is also survived by her brother and sister-in-law, Paul L. and Mary Chasten of Lebanon, Missouri.

Donna worked as a legal secretary with Thompson & Coburn until retirement was forced due to her battle with multiple sclerosis.

Donna was a smart, loving, and selfless woman whose life was centered around her family. She was a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother—but being “Grandma” was her greatest joy. She deeply loved her children, and her grandchildren meant the world to her; she treasured every moment she spent with them.

She was an excellent seamstress, a gifted gardener, and an avid reader, but she was happiest simply being with the people she loved. Donna possessed a remarkable memory and delighted in sharing cherished stories from her life. She also had a lifelong love of horses and animals, finding comfort in the companionship of her cat and loyal dogs, and she especially enjoyed her newest hobby of raising backyard chickens.

She loved deeply, gave generously, and her presence will be missed forever.

You are invited to Celebrate the Life of Donna Counts.

Join us in honoring the memory of Donna, a beloved wife, mother, niece, cousin, and friend whose spirit will forever live on in our hearts.

Date: January 17th, 2026
Time: 12pm – 3pm
Location: DeSoto Community Center
Address: 400 Boyd Street, DeSoto, MO 63020

We invite you to share stories, memories and laughter as we come together to celebrate Donna’s life. Your presence will bring comfort and joy as we honor her legacy.

Refreshments will be served.