With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Donna Grimes McCrary, 71, of Pineville, Louisiana, who went to be with her Lord on October 14, 2024. Born on August 12, 1953, in Alexandria, Louisiana, Donna lived a life filled with grace, compassion, and love for all those who had the blessing of knowing her.

Donna was a proud lifelong resident of Pineville. A dedicated student, she graduated Cum Laude from Louisiana Tech before earning her master’s degree in social work. Her career reflected her deep desire to serve others, and she retired from the Veterans Affairs Department, where she provided comfort, guidance, and support to countless individuals. Even in retirement, Donna's heart for service never wavered. She spent her days volunteering for numerous causes and was particularly devoted to caring for her church community, often visiting and caring for ill members.

Donna's faith in Jesus was the foundation of her life. A loyal and active member of Calvary Baptist Church, she attended services with unwavering devotion, taught Bible study classes, and lived out her Christian beliefs daily. Her kindness, patience, and steadfast faith left an indelible mark on all who knew her.

Above all, Donna’s greatest joy was her family. She was a loving and devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. She is survived by her beloved husband of 48 years, Jerry McCrary, who was her best friend and partner in life. She cherished her daughter, Amy Barnes (Jake), and her stepchildren, Shawn Moreau and Wesley McCrary. Her grandchildren, Nicole Barnes, Joey Barnes, Allison LaCombe (Perry), and Jeremy Tate, along with her great-grandchildren, Rudy, Emilia, and Jack, were the light of her life. She was also deeply loved by her sister, Glenda Kelley.

Donna is preceded in death by her parents, Tillman and Eura Lee Grimes, and her brother, Ronnie Grimes, who have surely welcomed her with open arms in Heaven.

Her family extends heartfelt gratitude to Hixson Brothers Funeral Home for their exceptional care and compassion during this difficult time.

Pallbearers who will honor Donna’s memory include Gary Taylor, Pat Graves, Perry Welch, Jake Barnes, Jeremy Tate, Steve Frye, Aaron Kelley, and Zach Kelley.

Honorary pallbearers are Jimmy Faircloth, David Nagy, Dylan Burlew, Hunter Kelley, and Mark Kelley.

Funeral services for Donna Grimes McCrary will be held at 12:00 p.m., Thursday, October 24, 2024, at Calvary Baptist Church, 5011 Jackson Street, Alexandria, Louisiana 71303 with Reverend Todd Strain, and Reverend Jonathan Murphy officiating. Burial will be in Pine Grove Cemetery, Ruby.

The family requests that visitation be observed at the church Thursday from 10:00 a.m. until time of service.

Donna McCrary will forever be remembered for her unwavering faith, her loving heart, and the countless lives she touched with her generous spirit. Her memory will be cherished by her family and friends, and her legacy of kindness will live on in all who had the privilege of knowing her.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that donations be made in Donna’s name to a charity of your choice or to Calvary Baptist Church in support of their community outreach programs.