Donna Hunter

In Loving Memory

Donna Hunter, 66, of Lexington, South Carolina, passed away unexpectedly at her home on Tuesday, October 14, 2025. Born December 3, 1958, in Columbia, SC, she was the beloved wife of  the late Paul Hunter, devoted mother of Ashley Hunter and Adam Hunter, and cherished sister to Vicki Traufler and Cheryl Vello. She was the daughter of Nancy June Jones and Babern “Jimmy” Jones, sharing a deep and lifelong bond with her mother.

Donna graduated early from high school and attended Columbia College. She was a woman of remarkable intelligence, humor, and compassion. For many years, Donna ran a home daycare, pouring her heart into caring for children each day. She had a remarkable way with them — calm, patient, and full of humor. She didn’t need strict rules or time-outs; children simply listened to her, drawn to the comfort and kindness she gave so freely.

A woman of faith and boundless love, Donna was known for her infectious laugh, her quick wit, and her ability to see the good in every situation. She loved traditional hymns and often played piano at church recitals and services, sharing her musical talent with her community. A lifelong member of both Earlewood Baptist Church and First Baptist Church of Lexington, her faith was a steady light throughout her life.

She was also a talented artist who created realistic collectible dolls, a passion that connected her to friends and collectors around the world. Her creativity and kindness touched people far beyond her family — especially within the reborn doll community that will deeply feel her loss.

At home, Donna was the heart of the family — funny, strong-willed, and always making sure everything was just right. She adored her family, loved dogs of all kinds (especially poodles), and poured herself into every Christmas, every detail, and every laugh shared around the table. Donna was loved very deeply by her husband, Paul, who cherished her strength, humor, and the life they built together.

She is survived by her children Ashley Hunter and Adam Hunter; her daughter-in-law Tiffany Hunter; her sisters Vicki Traufler and Cheryl Vello and her husband David; her sister-in-law Nikki Hunter; her nieces and nephews Joshua Traufler, Lauren Hayes and her husband Sam, along with their children Beckham and Walker; and her nephew Matthew Vello.

Services will be held at First Baptist Church of Lexington.