Donna Arlene Schilling, 91, of Cedar Hill died Oct. 13, 2024. Mrs. Schilling was born on an Army post in Colorado and lived the life of an “Army brat,” traveling extensively throughout her childhood. Her family’s military life took her to many places, including the Philippines and Guam, where she experienced different cultures and made many memories. She was a dedicated member of Hope Lutheran Church in High Ridge where she was involved in the church choir. She had a passion for writing poetry, with several pieces published in books. She maintained lifelong friendships with the girls she graduated with from Mehlville High School, and they continued to meet every week. She also enjoyed attending and sometimes hosting her class's annual high school reunion. A lover of elephants, she had a large collection that spanned jewelry, photos and garden statues. She will be remembered for her caring nature. Born Oct. 19, 1932, she was the daughter of the late Earl and Esther Smith.
She was preceded in death by her husband of 50 years: Jack B. Schilling.
She is survived by two children: Jackie Fonad and Ron (Michele) Schilling; three grandchildren: Ronnie (Trisha) Schilling, Kennedy (Diane) Harding and Kristina (Greg) Lindemann; six great-grandchildren: Dakoda Schilling, Jacob Harding, Kayla Harding, Landon Schilling, Alyssa Schilling and Kreed Lindemann; and many other family members and friends.
She also was preceded in death by two siblings: Lori Schilling and Glenn Schilling.
Services were held Oct. 22 at Hope Lutheran Church in High Ridge. Burial was in the National Cemetery at Jefferson Barracks. Memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society. Arrangements were under the direction of Chapel Hill Mortuary in Cedar Hill.