Donna F. Courtney

Donna Courtney, in her own words, “has cut a “chogie”. Always the lady, she was the epitome of class, gunpowder, lipstick, fast cars and her beloved gardens. She loved blowing out the stereo speakers in her car by blasting the bass. Her whit was quick and her sense of humor wickedly sharp but her softness and generosity of spirit is what she’ll be remembered for. Her laugh was a deep hearty chuckle with a slight cackle that would make you burst into laughter. Piercing blue eyes with a mischievous twinkle, she was a head turner. Beautiful inside and out. On February 11, 1960 she would meet the love of her life Gary. This October they would have celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary. Working side by side to create a life together, her favorite quote was “grow old with me, the best is yet to be”. And that they did. From a roller skating rink in Indiana to a paradise in Northern Michigan. They wintered in Biloxi where they lived when they were first married and loved each other fiercely. They were blessed with a daughter Marla who shares her mothers savage spirit and was lucky enough to be her best friend. To her daughter she was the world. There was always an adventure to be had. A magical childhood with a mom who taught the neighborhood kids how to play penny poker, hot cocoa and peanut butter cookies on a winters day, handmade dolls and picnics in the woods. Later their adventures included driving down route 66 to the grand canyon, numerous trips to her beloved New Orleans and a cruise to Mexico. The true light of her life was her grandson Logan. As soon as he was born and she became a Grandmother, it was game over. He was her world and they remained the best of friends until the very end. She is now with her beloved grand babies Cameron and Chloe and we rejoice knowing they are together again. Her legacy will be Cedar Hedge Gardens. Affectionately known as “The Hosta Lady”, her 6 acres of gardens attracted people from all over the world. She loved visiting with customers in the nursery, she knew the name of every single plant and created the most beautiful landscapes. A tea house, buddhas, ponds and the ever present tinkling of wind chimes was a magical place for many. She is survived by her husband Gary Courtney, daughter Marla Courtney, grandson Logan Wood and her younger sister Marlene Sipes. She was preceded in death by her parents Roy and Mary Reed, her sister Dawn Reed and her twin grandchildren Cameron and Chloe Wood. Per Donna’s wishes there will be no memorial service or funeral. In lieu of flowers we ask that you make a donation to your local women's shelters in Donna’s honor. Hold the babies close and rest easy Mom. We love you, we miss you and your spirit will live with us forever.

Donna F. Courtney

April 21, 1946 - March 6, 2024