Donna Gill Freeman

Donna Gill Freeman, 76, of Colonial Heights passed away on September 13, 2024. Born in Petersburg, Virginia on September 19, 1947, she was the daughter of the late Frances Bowman and Edward R. Gill, Sr. 

Donna was a beloved and lifelong member of The Heights Baptist Church in Colonial Heights, where she found great joy in attending Sunday School, supporting the church’s food missions, youth events, and mission trips. 

Donna began her professional career as a clerk typist at the Defense General Supply Center, where she worked diligently for a few years before taking a position at Fort Lee (now known as Fort Gregg-Adams). During her years at Fort Lee, she took advantage of career advancement opportunities and finished her career as a contract specialist. After 37 years of dedicated service, she retired in June 2002. Her commitment to excellence earned her the respect and admiration of her colleagues as well as many awards and commendations.

She also served her community as a member of the Board for the Kennon Pointe Homeowners Association, where she held various leadership roles over the years. Donna loved her community and spending time with Betty Jean, Cindy, Betty, Jack and her newest neighbor, Pam. Donna was also an active member of the Lee Ladies, a group of retired civil servants, who cherished their time together through lunches, events, and supporting one another.

Donna was a proud graduate of the first class at Colonial Heights High School in 1965 and remained connected to her classmates as the treasurer of the reunion committee. She cherished these lifelong friendships and made sure to stay connected through meaningful events and get-togethers. Over the years, Donna remained in close contact with many of her classmates, especially Willie who was a dear friend, handyman, and chef, making the best ribs in town.

With a zest for life, Donna enjoyed traveling with her closest friends Doreen, Kay, Tish, Eileen, and Connie, whether it was a trip to the beach, doctor’s appointments, or anywhere in between. Their bond was one of unwavering friendship and love.

A beach lover at heart, Donna spent many happy days in the Outer Banks and at her home in Wilton Manors, Florida, where she loved to float in the pool surrounded by family and friends, soaking in the Florida sunshine. Music brought her much happiness as well, with Elvis, Rod Stewart, and The Eagles being among her favorites. She regularly attended concerts and loved going to plays at Swift Creek Mill Theatre and Keegan Theatre in Washington, D.C., both of which she supported with generous donations.

A true Washington Redskins fan, Donna’s enthusiasm for the team never wavered. She was overheard a few times stating that she hoped the new owner and coach could get their “stuff” together and win us another Super Bowl! 

Donna will be deeply missed by her family, friends, church, and community, but her legacy of kindness, service, and joyful spirit will live on in the hearts of those who knew her.

She is survived by her loving son, Todd Jones and partners, David and Tony; niece, Stacy Anspach and husband, Billy; great-nephew, Todd Anspach; great-niece, Teagan Anspach and husband, Irvin; many cousins both locally and throughout the country; other extended family members and many beloved friends, especially Doreen “Reenie” Sloan who was her closest friend for over 50 years. 

A Celebration of Life will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, September 21, 2024 at The Heights Baptist Church, 17201 US-1, South Chesterfield, VA 23834. Interment will be private in Southlawn Memorial Park at a later date. The family will receive friends from 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. on Friday, September 20, 2024 at the Colonial Heights Chapel of E. Alvin Small Funeral Homes and Crematory, 2033 Boulevard. Online condolences may be registered at www.ealvinsmall.com.