Donna Jane Hillard

Donna Jane Hillard, age 72 of Ozark, Arkansas left her earthly home for her eternal home in Heaven on Saturday, November 9, 2024 at 4:58 a.m. in Savannah, Georgia. Donna was a beloved wife, mother, “D.D.”, daughter, aunt, friend, and P.E./Health teacher. She brought joy to everyone around her. Donna was known for sending heartfelt birthday and anniversary messages to not only her family and friends, but to her former students as well. She never met a stranger and her kindness was beyond measure. Everyone who knew her was touched by her genuine concern for your happiness, well-being, and struggles. You just knew you mattered to her and to quote a former student “she saw you-no matter of the circumstances of your socio-economic status or popularity”. Memories shared by former students always include learning to square dance, dance offs, physical fitness tests, and her ability to whistle louder than any man. The common denominator in all their memories was that Mrs. Hillard was fun, energetic, and caring. Many students have chosen education, in particular physical education, as their career because of the impact Donna had on their lives. Donna loved her yellow Volkswagen Beetle and if asked, would always say she would rather drive a “Beetle” than any other vehicle. Donna was born on Dec 9, 1951 in Siloam Springs, AR and graduated from Springdale High School in 1969; received her undergraduate degree from Arkansas Tech University and her Master’s degree from Arkansas State University. Her teaching career began in Elaine, Arkansas. Donna taught at Chaffin Junior High School, then after taking a few years off to raise her boys, she finished out her career at Ozark School District, where she taught K-6 P.E. and 10-12 P.E./Health Education. She also drove a school bus for 17 years. Donna retired after 36 years of service in education. Donna is survived by her husband of 41 years, Randy. Two sons and daughters-in-law, John and Megan of Fort Smith, AR and James and Jodie of Ozark, AR. Her biggest blessings her five grandchildren Sebastian, Sullivan, Loryn, Stratton, and Morgan; mother-in-law, Pat Hillard of Ozark, AR; her brothers Mike Stout (Connie) of Flippin, AR and Charlie Stout (Tammy) of Siloam Springs, AR; Sister in law, Paula (David) Halmes of Ozark, AR; 3 nephews and 2 nieces; several great nieces and nephews, cousins, and countless friends that she considered her extended family. She was preceded in death by her parents Ross and Fran Newton Stout; her beloved “Sookie”; Uncle Wes; and her father-in-law Jim Homer Hillard. Visitation will be Friday, November 15 from 6-8 p.m. at the Garner Family Life Center and the memorial service will be held Saturday, November 16 at 10 a.m. at the Ozark High School Activity Center officiated by Rev. Brad Elrod. Pallbearers will be John Hoyt, Darrell Russell, Mark Ross, George Lindley, Don Burns, Mark Young, Newt Shaffer, and David Shaffer. Honorary pallbearers will be Tammy Lindley, Kelly Burns, Susan Gibbons, Martha Smith, Terry Cannon, Peggy Bartlett, Cindy Kramer, Mary Lou Shaffer, Brenda Shaffer, Stacie Young, Kathy Jones, Dianne Ross, Julie Russell, Libby Hoyt, Sue Rakes, Connie Christianson, Margaret Davis, Terry Rothwell, Donna Parker, Malynda McCain, Carol Harvell, Paula Cornett, Sherri Wheeler, Kay Woodiel, Kathy Hubbs, Mikie Wiley, Sandy Welborn, Sharon Steele, and Glenda Woods In lieu of flowers, a Donna Hillard memorial scholarship has been established at BankOZK. Deposits may be made at any BankOZK location or mailed to P.O. Box 196, Ozark, AR 72949. To leave an online memorial visit www.shafferfuneralhomeweb.com

Donna Jane Hillard

December 9, 1951 - November 9, 2024