Donna Isham, a beloved mother, grandmother, businesswoman, and friend, passed away peacefully on Thursday, April 16, at the age of 85. Family will host a visitation from 6-8 pm Sunday, April 19 at Heartland Funeral Home in Early. Services for Donna will be held at 2 pm Monday, April 20 at Blanket First Baptist Church in Blanket, Texas, with interment to follow at Blanket Cemetery.
Donna was born on April 26, 1940, in Partridge, Kansas, to Walter Blackburn and Pearl Evalena (Parker) Blackburn. She developed a strong work ethic early in life, beginning her first job at just 14 years old at a small restaurant called the Salad Bowl. By 15, she was working as a waitress at the Corner Diner, where she earned enough to buy her first car, discovered her love for stylish clothes, and met her husband, Raymond Isham. The two shared many years of marriage together.
After moving to Texas, Donna worked for 17 years at Safeway before she and Raymond pursued their entrepreneurial dream. In 1965, they opened Longhorn Campers, where they built custom campers with care and craftsmanship. After Raymond’s passing in 2000, Donna continued to run the business, along with the RV park and Red Door Storage Buildings, for another 20 years. She retired at the age of 80, leaving behind a legacy of hard work and dedication.
Donna was a woman of many talents. She was a skilled cake decorator, a gifted artist, and had a remarkable ability to sew-creating curtains and cushions for campers as well as beautiful Barbie clothes, which she sold in a local shop in Comanche. She even lent her hand to tile work, proving there was little she couldn’t do.
Deeply rooted in her community, Donna was an active member of Blanket First Baptist Church and the Red Hat Society. She had a special place in her heart for animals and supported the local humane society and opened her home to countless strays over the years.
Donna is survived by her children, Scotty Isham of Blanket and Linda Williams and her husband Bill of Shubert, Nebraska; her grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren on the way; her special friend, W.T. Harris; and numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family members.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Raymond Isham; her infant son, Randall Isham; her parents; and seven siblings.
Donna will be remembered for her independence, creativity, generosity, and the love she shared with her family, friends, and community. Her legacy lives on in the lives she touched and the memories she leaves behind.
Online condolences, memories and tributes can be made to the family at www.heartlandfuneralhome.net
