Donna Lue Pratt

Donna Lue Pratt

Birmingham

Donna Lue Pratt, 85, of Birmingham, IA, passed away on Thursday, May 18, 2023, at Addington Place of Fairfield. Funeral services will begin at 10:30 a.m. on Friday, May 26, 2023, at the Cranston Family Funeral Home in Fairfield with Pastor Danny Cary officiating. Burial will be held at the Dibble Cemetery located south of Stockport immediately following the service. Visitation will begin at 2:00 p.m. on Thursday, May 25, 2023, at the Cranston Family Funeral Home in Fairfield with the family present to greet friends from 5:00 until 7:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Donna's honor may be directed to the Dibble Cemetery Association or to the Bentonsport Cemetery Association. Friends may leave online condolences at www.cranstonfamilyfuneralhome.com.

Born on October 27, 1937, in Keosauqua, she was the daughter of the late Richard and Nellie Walter McCracken. A proud graduate of Bonaparte High School in 1956, Donna went on to work as a Certified Nursing Assistant for over 48 years. She began her career at the Van Buren County Hospital and later moved to the Jefferson County Health Center, where she worked until her retirement. Donna's dedication to her work and the well-being of her patients was a testament to her selfless and caring nature.

Donna married Keith Pratt on September 9, 1956, at the Bonaparte United Methodist Church, and their love story spanned over six decades. Together, they raised a beautiful family and created countless memories with their children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Donna's love for her family was unwavering, and she was always there to support and encourage them in all their endeavors.

Throughout her life, Donna was an active member of her community. She served as a 4H leader in Van Buren County for over 20 years and was a member of the Red Hats Society. Donna also served as president of the Bentonsport Cemetery Association, where she played a significant role in its renovation. Donna had a passion for quilting and making rag rugs with her mother's loom. She enjoyed sharing her skills by demonstrating the loom at the Midwest Old Threshers in Mt. Pleasant with her mom and other family members for many years. Donna and Keith loved to square dance, even dancing in Paris, and their love for dance brought joy to those around them. She was a faithful Christian and dedicated churchgoer at the former First Presbyterian Church in Birmingham and the Fairfield First Christian Church.

An avid collector of arrowheads, Donna enjoyed exploring the outdoors and hunting morel mushrooms. She was a talented cook and baker, known for her delicious homemade cinnamon rolls and pies plus making maple syrup with her extended family. Donna's adventurous spirit led her to purchase a para plane, which she flew often, much to the delight of her family and friends. Donna and Keith loved to travel, embarking on many cruises, and exploring the world together. Their adventures took them to many beautiful destinations, creating memories that will be cherished by their loved ones forever.

Donna will be remembered for her industrious work ethic, as a selfless, passionate, and loving woman who touched the lives of many. Her unwavering love for her family and her dedication to her work and community will be greatly missed by all who knew her.

Donna is survived by her devoted husband of over 66 years, Keith Pratt; and their children, Allen (Elise) Pratt of Lemont, IL, Cindy (Ancel) Kennedy of Truro, IA, Brenda (David) Keith of Menlo, GA, Nancy Pratt of Menlo, GA, Marvin Pratt (Kerry Yeast) of Cedar Rapids, IA, and AFS student, Ugur Dalbeler of Istanbul, Turkey. She is also survived by her sister, Letha Mellinger; eleven grandchildren; and seven great-grandchildren.

Donna was predeceased by her siblings, Ervin McCracken, Vera Behm, Mary Alice Keller and Leah McCracken.