Donna Carter

Donna Irene "Bird" Carter (Riddle), age 90, passed away peacefully on December 4, 2025, at Haven Hospice in Gainesville, Florida.

Born on February 10, 1935, in Greenville, West Virginia, she lived a life marked by compassion, dedication, and quiet strength. Donna was a 1954 graduate of Washington High School in Massillon, Ohio. She remained connected to the Massillon community for many years and was a devoted member of St. Paul's Lutheran Church. Her faith and commitment to service were evident throughout her life.

She married Louis H. "Bud" Carter in 1956 and together they built a family rooted in love and resilience. Donna was the proud mother of three children: Michael L. Carter (Vikki) of Gainesville, Florida; Peggy A. Lewis (Jay) of Brewster, Ohio; and the late Vicki L. Criswell (Tom). She was also a cherished grandmother to four grandchildren and great-grandmother to three great-grandchildren. Her family was the heart of her world.

Donna’s nurturing spirit extended far beyond her immediate family. For eleven years, she faithfully drove disabled children to school, ensuring their safety and comfort each day. She opened her heart and home to foster babies, providing them with care during their earliest days. As a Cub Scout leader and Girl Scout leader, she guided young minds with patience and encouragement.

Her talents were many—she loved gardening and found joy in tending to her plants; she delighted in cooking meals that brought people together; she sewed with skill and creativity; and she immersed herself in the stories of Danielle Steele novels with enthusiasm. Donna was known for her determination—if she set her mind to something, it got done. Her strength of character left an impression on all who knew her.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband Louis H. "Bud" Carter; her daughter Vicki L. Criswell (Tom); granddaughter Kristeena R. Carter; parents Roy F. Riddle and Marie B. Riddle; and brothers Richard H. Riddle and Ralph Dale Riddle.

Her legacy lives on through those who knew her best—her children Michael and Peggy, their spouses Vikki and Jay, her grandchildren and great-grandchildren—and through the countless lives she touched with kindness. May Donna’s memory bring comfort to all who were fortunate enough to know her.