Donna Melinda Cordell, age 66, It is with heavy hearts and deep sadness, we announce the passing of our beloved sister, Donna passed away surrounded by her family. Her life was a blessing to those who knew and loved her, and we find comfort knowing that she is now resting in the presence of her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, whom she faithfully loved and followed. Her faith was not simply something she believed; it was something she carried with her each day. She found comfort, strength, and hope in Jesus and trusted Him through the joys and challenges of life. Her love for Christ was reflected in the love and compassion she showed toward the people and animals she cared for. Donna’s faith gave her a deep sense of peace, and her family finds comfort in knowing that she is now with the Savior she loved.

Donna was a member of Emory Heights Baptist Church. She graduated from Roane County High School Class of 1980. Donna loved the color purple and had a special love for angels. She also deeply loved her dogs, who brought her great joy and companionship. Donna had a deep love for her nieces and nephews. She thought of them as her own and loved each of them with all of her heart. Her love for her family and animals was one of the most special parts of her life.

She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by her immediate family, Guinn E. Shingleton, Deborah (Kay) Karena McKinney, Dawn Cordell Fallon, and Thomas Jason Cordell.
She was preceded in death by her mother, Mollie Bailey Moore and Stepfather George E. Moore; her Father Ellis Cordell and her brother, Ellis Dwight Cordell; and niece Veronica Denise Cordell.

Donna’s memory will live on in the hearts of her family, friends, nieces, nephews, and all those who knew and loved her. Her life was a gift to those around her, and she will be remembered with love and affection.

The family will receive friends from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. Thursday, September 24, 2026, at the Kyker Funeral Home in Harriman with the funeral to follow at 7:00 p.m. with Reverend John Bonham officiating. Burial 2:00 p.m. Friday September 25, 2026, at Emory Heights Cemetery. Kyker Funeral Home of Harriman is serving the Cordell Family.