Donna May Yard, 87, of Springfield, IL, passed away on April 3, 2026, at her home with her family by her side.
Donna was born on October 4, 1938, in Springfield, the daughter of Brice George Runkels and Rosella May Armstrong Runkels. She grew up in Springfield and was a proud graduate of Lanphier High School, class of 1957. Throughout her life, she carried the values of hard work, kindness, and resilience that were rooted in her upbringing and reflected in the way she cared for those around her.
She was united in marriage to Clarence J. Yard on May 28, 1988, and together they shared many years of companionship until his passing on January 10, 2012. Donna was also preceded in death by her parents and her brother, Jack Runkels. Those who knew her will remember the deep love she held for her family and the steady presence she provided through every season of life.
Donna spent 25 years working as a bookkeeper at Prescription Learning, where she was known for her dependability and attention to detail. After the company was sold, she continued her career in bookkeeping at Easter Seals for approximately 10 more years before retiring.
Outside of work, Donna enjoyed the simple pleasures that made life meaningful to her. She loved to read books of all genres and could always find joy in a good story. She enjoyed going to the farmer’s market each week with her sister and best friend, Rose. All summer long, her weekly trips to the market to socialize was a highlight for her. She also enjoyed gaming and trying her luck at the slots, and she even took a job at one of the local gaming establishments, where she found both enjoyment and connection. Even traveling to gaming destinations around the country with family and friends brought her great happiness.
Donna is survived by her four daughters and two step daughters, Debra Bitschenauer of Springfield, IL, Mesta (Robert) Patarozzi of Edinburg, IL, Karen Bentley of Springfield, IL, Linda Burtle of Springfield, IL, Valerie (Ed) Watts of Ridge Crest, CA, and Vicki (Chad) McConnell of Springfield, IL. She also leaves behind 13 grandchildren, numerous great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild. In addition, she is survived by her sisters, Mary (John) Jennings of Mt. Sterling, IL, Rose Magowan of Buffalo, IL, and Bev Tumulty of Athens, IL, as well as her brother, George (Debbie) Runkels of Springfield, IL. She is also survived by numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Donna’s family and friends will remember her for her loving heart, her strong personality, outspoken attitude and her extreme stubborness through life’s challenges. Her memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her, and she will be very deeply missed.
Graveside Service: 10:00 am, Friday, April 10, 2026, at Camp Butler National Cemetery with Pastor Darrin Thurman officiating. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.
Memorial contributions in memory of Donna may be made to the Alzheimer's Association.
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