Donna Sue Heern

CARBONDALE - Donna Sue Heern, age 62, passed away on Friday, May 22, 2026 at Integrity Healthcare of Marion surrounded by her loving family.

Donna was born on October 25, 1963 in Murphysboro, Illinois to Aubrey and Joan (Robinson) Smith. Donna married Laverne Joseph "Joe" Heern on May 13, 1988 in Madison, KY. He preceded her in death on September 28, 2012.

Donna dedicated 35 years of her life to caring for others as a CNA, a role she approached with unwavering compassion and strength. She was devoted to her husband, daughter, and granddaughters however, she was also a Mom to many in her family offering a loving home to anyone who needed guidance or a place to land. Headstrong yet deeply caring, Donna found joy in the simple things: hunting for treasures at yard sales, browsing antique shops, or spending an afternoon playing bingo. Her door was always open, her heart always full, and her presence made life softer for everyone who knew her.

Donna is survived by her daughter, Ashley (Andrew) Chambliss of Mount Vernon; grandchildren, Riley and Avery Chambliss; mother, Joan Smith of DeSoto; brother, Donald (Ruth Shubert) Smith of Royalton; sister, Barbara Bundren of DeSoto; and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Joe; father, Aubrey Ray Smith; brother, Bobby Ray Smith and Sister, Nancy Ann Woolsey.

Private family services will be held for Donna.

Memorials may be made in Donna's name to Makanda Evergreen Cemetery and will be accepted at the funeral home or can be mailed to Makanda Evergreen Cemetery c/o T. Heern; 1699 Springer Ridge Road; Carbondale, IL 62902.

Meredith Funeral Home in Carbondale is in charge of arrangements. To leave a story or memory of Donna visit www.meredithfh.com