Donna K. Gribble, born on July 6, 1945, in Troy, Tennessee, passed away peacefully at her home on February 20, 2026 in Newport News, Virginia surrounded by family after a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer. Donna was a strong woman who loved her family, friends, and Christian faith.
Donna spent her career as a devoted in-home daycare provider, nurturing and caring for hundreds of children with love and compassion. Her gentle spirit and kind heart left an indelible mark on those she cared for.
In her leisure time, Donna found joy in sewing, cooking, watching soap operas, and shopping on QVC. She was happiest when surrounded by her family, watching over her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and sharing in their lives. Her home was a haven filled with warmth and laughter, where everyone felt welcome.
A faithful member of the Church of Christ, Donna’s unwavering belief provided strength and guidance throughout her life. Her commitment to her faith was evident in her actions and the love she showed to all who knew her.
Donna was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 62 years, Jimmie Gribble; her loving parents, Clarence and Rachel Brandon; and her siblings, Johnny Ray Brandon, Regina Brandon, Jackie Brandon, and Bob Brandon.
She leaves behind a legacy of love through her surviving family: her daughter, Rachel Leann Jones; granddaughter Angela Nicole Hill and her husband Matthew Hill; grandson Joshua Brandon Jones; and her precious great-granddaughters, Alaina and Sydney Hill. Donna is also survived by her sister, Tonya Willette.
A memorial service celebrating Donna and Jimmie’s lives will be held at the Peninsula Church of Christ, 502 Woodland Rd. Hampton, VA on Friday, February 27th, 2026, at 2 p.m. Family and friends are invited to gather in remembrance of a remarkable couple whose lives exemplified love, kindness, and devotion.