Donna Jean Gardner

Donna Jean Jones Everson Gardner, 86, passed away on August 3, 2024. Donna was born on December 17, 1937, as the first child of Edna Margaret and John Paul Jones, in Newberg, Oregon. She was later joined by sisters Betty Lou, and Beverly Ann. The family lived in Milwaukie, Oregon where she attended grade school and high school. She met her husband Clinton Clifford Everson, of Colton, Oregon, and they were married June 21, 1957. Together they welcomed five children, Debbie Marie, Becky Lynn, Sherrie Lynnette, Steven Ray, and Randy Scott. Donna worked in banking for much of her work life. She completed a lifelong dream of becoming a nurse when she graduated with her degree in Licensed Practical Nursing from Clackamas Community College in August of 1970. Donna was an accomplished homemaker, who made delicious baked goods and canned fruit and vegetables. The smell of her freshly baked bread was a comfort through the years. She was a talented cookie baker for many years her Christmas cookie exchanges were enjoyed by her family and friends. She enjoyed crafts and made a variety of painted wood and needlecrafts which she sold at local stores including the wood heart “Special Days Calendars.” Donna loved gardening and tending her flowers. She was an avid reader, and encouraged her children to enjoy books as much as she did. As a young mother she took her children to the Oregon City Library on the weekends, making sure the each had a library card. Even in her last years, she enjoyed reading books from the Canby Library. Donna enjoyed playing the accordion and the piano as a young person, and many of her grandchildren play a variety of musical instruments. Donna also was a member of 4-H Club and then became a leader as an adult for her own children as well as the community. Donna’s faith was very important to her, which was given to her by her mother. Donna had all of her children baptized at a young age. Donna supported Christian Child Fund monthly through the years. She supported a young girl who grew up and finished college with her financial help. Donna also gave to mission trips and vacation bible school programs over the years. Donna enjoyed attending Christian church services every Sunday at her home at the Rackleff Place. When asked what she was most proud of accomplishing in her life, she always responded, “My five children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren.” Donna is survived by her children Deb Borofka, Becky Hayes, Sherrie Fillis, Steven Gardner, and Randy Gardner and their families, and her sister, Beverly Ann and her husband Ray Clore. The family would like to extend their deepest thanks to the staff of Rackleff Place in Canby for their kind and compassionate care over the past five years. Also, to the Christian pastor who was faithful to bring the message every Sunday. They would also like to extend their thanks to the team and Willamette Falls Hospital for their amazing support and care over the last weeks of Donna’s life. I have fought the Good fight, I have finished the Race I have kept the faith. 2 Timothy 4:7 A memorial service is scheduled for Friday, September 27th, 2024 at 11 am at Belle Passi Mausoleum, in Woodburn Oregon, concluding with interment. Funeral arrangements are provided by Simon Cornwell Colonial Chapel. In lieu of flowers the family is suggesting donations to Anchor Christian Fellowship, Children’s Programs in Canby, Oregon. *A time of remembrance and food will be held right after the service at the home of Sherrie Fillis, 1001 NE 10th Ave, Canby Or Everyone is welcome to attend for a special time together.

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Donna Jean Gardner

December 17, 1937 - August 3, 2024