In Loving Memory of Donna Loreen Nelson
1943 – 2026
Donna Loreen Nelson, age 82, passed away peacefully at her home in Helena, Montana, on March 16, 2026, surrounded by her loving family.
A woman of faith, Donna was known for her deep love for the Lord and her tireless service to her church and community. She lived her life with an open heart and open hands, giving freely of herself to those in need and reflecting the grace she found in her faith. Her legacy is one of quiet strength, grounded in the belief that we are called by God to serve others.
Donna shared a remarkable life of 63 years with her devoted husband, James Eugene Nelson. Together, they built a life in Helena defined by devotion and the many beautiful things Donna created with her hands. Whether she was sewing a gift, crafting, or tending to her flower garden, she found joy in nurturing life and beauty.
She is survived by her beloved husband, James, and their five daughters and sons-in-law: Karen (Mike) Ryan, Kristine (Jim) Larson, Holly (Joe) Miller, Becky (Mark) Yurian, and Jill (Cory) Gregerson.
Donna had special love for each of her grandchildren: Cole, Megan, Danny, Ashley, Rachael, Cody, Kayla, Brooke, Madi, and Mason, as well as her many cherished great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Floyd and Thelma Zeigler, and her siblings: Verle, Marjorie, Marion, Sherman, Harley, Alice, Gary, Avis, and Arleda.
“Well done, good and faithful servant.” — Matthew 25:23
Service Schedule
Family Receiving Friends
4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Friday March 20, 2026
Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home
3750 N. Montana Avenue
Helena, Montana 59602
Service Schedule
Family Receiving Friends
4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Friday March 20, 2026
Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home
3750 N. Montana Avenue
Helena, Montana 59602
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Brenda Thomas says
Donna was such a sweet, caring, generous person. It was such a pleasure visiting with her whenever I saw her. She will be greatly missed. I loved her so much
Jackie Armstrong says
Karen and family
I am so sorry for your loss. Remember the love and devotion to all. Hugs
Mary Runkel says
Donna was always gracious and knowledgeable- I often contacted her for advice and she was prompt and efficient and she smiled all the time she was talking to you! A delightful colleague that I enjoyed so much. May your family find comfort in all the memories you share! You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Carol Dullum says
Donna was a special lady who always had a smile. She wouldn’t hesitate to visit when you ran into her while she was out and about. She loved her family and she loved life. She will be missed. May God be with her family at this difficult time.
Julie Massaro says
Becky, I’m so sorry to see the passing of your sweet Momma. The last time I saw the two of you was in Winco parking lot! Costco before then! She was always so pleasant to talk with. I hope I can see you on Friday! Sending love to you and the whole family.
Connie Jerome says
Oh dear sweet Donna how I will miss you.
I first met Donna at the Lewis & Clark Republican Women,
then at church and got to know her much better when attending a “Refreshing” Ladies event.
She was a delight to be around, full of wisdom on so many things.
I send my prayers to her family and other friends who have grieving hearts right now.
We will see her again one day in Heaven when we join her there.
Our loss is indeed heavens gain. I am certain she is “sprucing up” heaven already.
Jody and Shawn blessinger says
Donna was so thoughtful, so caring, and had an attention to detail she knew exactly when something was bothering somebody she always was eager to help figure things out she loved the garden that she took care of at church she loved life she loved family very inspirational she was a natural mentor she was very thoughtful and always wanted to help she’s going to be greatly missed especially at the woman at the well Bible study at Mountain family fellowship we will miss her prayers for her family, her husband’s family and friends
Evy Burris Sass says
Our Donna will be truly missed for certain. Her positive can do attitude was always refreshing & fun, & her faithful attendance & support for years at the LCRW meetings were so welcome. Donna’s professional displays of fund-raising projects were always creative & appreciated. My condolences to Donna’s family & loved ones, Rest In Pease Dear Donna, Your friend Evy.
Kaysee Williams Curley says
I’m sorry to hear of sweet Donna’s passing. She was such a beautiful person. We are so grateful to her for being there for us in a time of need when our parent’s passed away by decorating the church for their services as she did for so many other families in the community. She was a blessing. Sending prayers to the family during this difficult time.
Donna Elford says
Beautiful Beautiful Donna,
Everything you did you did with style and grace. Your eye for details always amazing.
You gift of hospitality was as none other.
Many many people were blessed by your garage of treasures that you joyfully shared .from babies, to Wedding to Christmas to all
Holidays you made everything more beautiful.
Catherine and Randl Ockey and family says
We are so sorry to hear of Donna’s passing. For the past twenty-five years we’ve had the privilege of living next door to Donna and Jim. We will miss Donna’s always pleasant smile and conversations with her as she worked in her beautiful garden. She’s been the best neighbor we could ever hope for. Our love and condolences to Jim, Kris, and the rest of the family.
AL& Glady Turnquist says
Karen & Mike and family we are so sorry for your loss. You are all in our thoughts and prayers. Love you. Hugs your way.
Cindy Hoy says
I first met Donna back in 2000 when we were both hired by the VA. She was always such a kind lovely person and known for her warm smile and hospitality. So sorry to her family for your loss but heaven has gained lovely soul.
Carolyn Truscott says
Donna, my life won’t be the same without my Donna Momma at my side planning for weddings, Refreshings, teas, Galas and any other event that needed tablecloths, tea pots and flowers! Oh what fun we had alongside Jan and other ladies we roped into helping us put on the Ritz! Your patience, wisdom and sweet love for me will always be cherished and I will miss you greatly. Until we meet again….
Deanna Johnson says
Donna, beautiful woman of God, prayer partner especially for our families. I will miss seeing you at church and your lovely flower arrangements on the altar. Thank you.
Dear Kris and family you are in my thoughts and prayers at this time of missing your wonderful mother. I’m sorry to miss the celebration of her life and hope to see you for a hug when back in Helena.
Katie says
Hello Holly. So sorry for the loss of your mother, Donna. A week after I started working for her my mother passed. Donna was so kind and understanding to my situation. It’s not easy to lose your mother…probably one of the hardest things we can go through. Hang in there. Sending you and your family love and light. Katie Linjatie FMA Herrera.