Mrs. Donna Jo Sanders Gifford

We mourn with heavy hearts the loss of Donna "Jo" Sanders Gifford, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend. Donna "Jo" passed away following an unfortunate fall on January 9, 2024. Despite being home alone at her time of passing, she was deeply loved and will be profoundly missed. Her passing came during a time when she was courageously winning her battle with cancer, a testament to her strength and resilience. Donna "Jo" was born on January 28, 1961, to Ruby Lee and Aaron David Sanders in her treasured home in Georgiana, AL. Her upbringing in a nurturing and loving family environment deeply influenced her compassionate and caring nature. She met the love of her life, Jon Ed Gifford, on New Year's Eve of 1989. The couple wed on October 26, 1994, and shared over 29 years of blissful marriage. Together, they created a beautiful life, welcoming their children with open arms and hearts. Tragically, Donna "Jo" was preceded in death by her daughter Summer Lee, her parents Ruby and Aaron Sanders, her brother Anthony Sanders, her sister Debra Jay, and her fur babies Bailey and Bella. Their memories, combined with her steadfast faith in Jesus and our Lord, remained a guiding light in her life. Donna "Jo" is survived and will be profoundly missed by her devoted husband, Jon Ed Gifford; her sons, Jeremy David Sanders and Justin Aaron Gifford; her granddaughter, Julianna Louis Sanders; her sister, Jackie Brown (Dwight); brother Darrell Sanders (Rita); and numerous nieces and nephews. Each of them holds cherished memories and lessons learned from Donna "Jo". Her absence leaves a void in the lives of those who loved her, but her spirit and legacy will forever live on in their hearts. Donna "Jo" was the epitome of strength, love, and wisdom. Her home was a haven of joy and kindness, and she cherished every moment spent with her family. She imparted the values of kindness, respect, and integrity to all who knew her. Known for her radiant smile and gentle heart, Donna "Jo" (also known as Gammy) embraced life with enthusiasm and joy. She was a passionate fan of Alabama Football (Roll Tide!) and held a keen interest in politics. She relished shopping online while finding joy in picking out the perfect gifts for her children. Gammy cherished reading her Bible and spending precious moments with her adored granddaughter Julianna. Her presence was a source of comfort and happiness to all. Beyond these passions, Donna "Jo" loved the outdoors, especially boating, sunbathing, and fishing with PaPa. She had a profound love for travel and going to the beach, activities that reflected her zest for life and the simple pleasures it offered. A matriarch in her own right, Donna "Jo" created a home filled with love, laughter, and timeless wisdom. Her commitment to her family was evident in every aspect of her life, from the traditions she established, to the values she instilled in her children and granddaughter. A celebration of Donna "Jo's" life will be held on Sunday, January 14, 2024, at Hunter Hills Church of Christ, located at 330 Old Farm Ln N, Prattville, AL 36066. The visitation will begin at 1:00 PM, with the services following at 2:00 PM. After the service, there will be a procession to Brookside Memorial Gardens in Millbrook for the final burial service. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to Montgomery Area Food Bank (https://hafb.org) or Shriners Children's Hospital (lovetotherescue.org), both causes were very close to Donna "Jo's" heart. Donna "Jo's" legacy of love, compassion, and kindness will forever be remembered and celebrated. She was a remarkable woman. Her influence will endure through the generations. We find comfort knowing that she is at peace, surrounded by her loved ones who have passed before her, and rejoicing with Jesus and Summer Lee, a reunion she longed for. Rest in eternal peace, my dear Donna "Jo". Your love will always be in our hearts. The service will be live streamed at www.facebook.com/hunterhills. Brookside Funeral Home, Crematorium & Memorial Gardens of Millbrook, AL directing.