Donna Hunt

Donna Hunt was born in Salem, UT, on November 9th, 1938, to Arvel Thomas Hunt and Garnet Bauer Hunt, followed shortly by her twin brother, Don. She grew up on a humble dairy farm. Her graduating "Class of '57 had its dreams" (Statler Brothers).

Donna learned to play the piano and loved to sing alto. Music was always present throughout her life; it’s impossible to think of Donna without a song coming to mind.

She is survived by her four daughters: Laureen (Calvin Gabbitas), Shirlyn Zerkle, Shauna (Mark Houser), Deanne (Scott Wells). She is also survived by 20 grandchildren and 37 great-grandchildren.

Donna worked tirelessly to provide for her family, starting at the Oasis Casino in Mesquite, Nevada, in 1985. She began at the coffee shop, then moved to the buffet, where she retired in 2007 as a supervisor.

Donna served her family and community with kindness and love, often humming an old country song while doing so.

Donna was an avid gardener, especially fond of fresh tomatoes and onions, which she loved as an after-work snack. She snapped beans faster than anyone, and weeds didn’t dare grow in her garden.

As a faithful member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Donna found joy and purpose in quiet service. No task was ever too large or small for her to refuse. She inspired others with her example of selfless giving, asking for nothing in return. She often played the piano, even for churches she did not attend, refusing payment because she considered it a service she was happy to provide. One of her favorite tools was her trusty multipurpose fly swatter. Birthday cards were always lovingly sent to each grandchild, with a personal message inside. Donna encouraged others to be their best selves, no matter the circumstances.

Throughout her life, Donna traveled between Mesquite, NV, and Genola, UT, dividing her time between the two. Winters were spent where there was no snow and summers where the heat was mild. Traveling back and forth always involved careful planning around stopping at The Creamery in Beaver Utah. Donna was often accompanied by her grandchildren, visiting friends and spreading joy and squeaky cheese. Road trips with Grandma were the best!

Donna was preceded in death by her parents, Tom and Garnet Hunt, and her siblings Coleen, Arvel, Carol, William (Zera), and Sam. She is survived by her siblings Mae, Don, Norma Jean, and Gordon.

Donna was dearly loved by all who knew her and will be greatly missed by family and friends.

Funeral Services will be held Thursday August 28, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. at Salem LDS Church, 56 North Main Street Salem UT. A viewing will be Wednesday August 27th from 6:00 - 8:00 p.m. at Brown Family Mortuary, 66 South 300 East Santaquin, and Thursday from 9:30 - 10:30 a.m. at the church prior to the services. Interment, Salem City Cemetery.  

In lieu of flowers, please perform a kind deed or service for a friend, family member, or even a stranger in need.