Donna Lynn Read

Donna Lynn Read passed peacefully from this life into eternal rest on January 8, 2026, in her home in Arlington, Texas, at the age of 70, following a brief illness. She was surrounded by love and comfort.

Donna was born on March 18, 1955, in Iraan, Texas, to Dr. Edwin Read and Eugenia Read. Her family later settled in Grand Prairie, where her father established a medical practice and where Donna was raised. She graduated from Grand Prairie High School in 1972, where she was a dedicated student, cheerleader, and a beloved friend to many.

Donna continued her education at Texas Woman’s University in Denton and later earned her degree in education from the University of Texas at Arlington. She taught Theater Arts for several years, finding great joy in nurturing creativity and confidence in her students. Teaching was not just a profession for Donna, but a calling she embraced with love.

Donna found joy in the beauty of life—especially music, travel, and creativity. She loved attending live concerts and cherished artists such as The Kinks, The Cars, Tom Petty, Ten Years After, and Led Zeppelin. She also loved to travel and visited Europe twice, collected McCoy pottery, and expressed her creativity through sewing, often making the clothes she wore. Her pets and her family were constant sources of comfort and happiness.

Donna’s greatest blessing and most treasured role was being a mother to her daughter, Amee. She was deeply proud of Amee, her family, and her many accomplishments. Amee lovingly cared for her mother at home, offering comfort, devotion, and grace until Donna’s passing.

Though many were unaware, Donna lived with chronic pain for much of her life due to a fall and a car accident. She carried this burden quietly and with strength, eventually leading to early retirement and her move to Arlington. Through it all, she remained resilient, kind, and full of humor.

Donna had an extraordinary ability to light up a room with her lively conversation, quick wit, and endless sense of humor. What began as conversations with strangers often grew into lasting friendships that she treasured throughout her life.

Donna was preceded in death by her parents. She is survived by her beloved daughter, Amee Nicole Smith; son-in-law Darren; and granddaughter Kaylynne, all of Arlington. She is also survived by her sister, Danette Dougan, and brother-in-law James of Grand Prairie; her brother David Read of Grand Prairie; and her nephew Allen Read, who all brought her great comfort and love throughout her life.

Donna will be cremated and laid to rest in Cameron, Texas, beside cherished family members. Plans for a celebration of her life will be announced at a later date.