Doris "Donna" Virginia Pope, beloved mother, grandmother, friend, and matriarch, passed away peacefully on October 17, 2026, in Watertown, South Dakota, at the age of 102. Visitation will be held from 5:00 - 7:30 pm, Thursday, October 22, 2026, at Miller Funeral Home - Southside Chapel (7400 S. Minnesota Ave., Sioux Falls).

Donna was born on June 30, 1924, in Caruthersville, Missouri, to Mary and Jim Bratton. She carried her Southern roots with her throughout her life, charming those around her with her unmistakable Southern accent, quick wit, and wonderful sense of humor.

On March 11, 1945, Donna married the love of her life, Arthur "Wayne" Pope, in Yuma, Arizona. Together, they shared 70 years of marriage, building a life filled with love, laughter, friendship, and countless cherished memories. They adopted two children, Mary and Jim, and made their home in Hill City, Kansas, before moving to Watertown, South Dakota, in 1968.

Donna and Wayne created a lifetime of memories together, especially on the golf course and along the shores of Lake Kampeska. These places, along with family trips, celebrations, and holidays, became the backdrop for treasured moments that would be carried through generations.

Donna was a devoted and loving grandmother to Jennifer and Ben, who adored their grandparents and treasured the time spent with them. Family was at the heart of Donna's life, and she had a special gift for making gatherings memorable. Whether hosting a holiday, organizing an event, or welcoming loved ones around her table, she brought people together with warmth, grace, and an extraordinary attention to detail.

An accomplished bridge player, Donna loved a good card game and was known for her skill at the table. She also enjoyed golf, sewing, and reading, but perhaps her greatest talents were found in the kitchen. Her family will forever remember her beloved fried chicken, comforting chicken and dumplings, and delicious homemade pies. Through her cooking and baking, Donna expressed her love in a way that nourished both body and soul. Her table was a place of connection, tradition, and belonging.

Donna was a member of P.E.O. and First Congregational Church of Watertown, where she shared in the fellowship of her community. Throughout her life, she cultivated deep and lasting friendships, remaining fiercely loyal to those she loved.

Those who knew Donna will remember her sharp wit, her impeccable Southern accent, her humor, and her remarkable ability to make life a little more enjoyable for everyone around her. She was a natural entertainer, a gracious hostess, and a woman who approached life with spirit and style. Above all, she loved her family beyond measure.

Donna's legacy lives on in the generations she nurtured, the traditions she created, the friendships she cherished, and the countless memories that will continue to bring smiles and laughter to those who loved her. Her life was a testament to the enduring power of family, loyalty, laughter, and love.

Donna is survived by her daughter and son-in-law, Mary and James Labesky of Sioux Falls, South Dakota; her granddaughter and family, Jennifer Findell and Jeff Clemens, Kurt Clemens, and Sterling Clemens, all of Albuquerque, New Mexico; and Jackson Jostad of Sioux Falls, South Dakota.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Wayne Pope; her grandson, Ben Jostad; her son, Jim Pope; and many other cherished family members and dear friends.

Though Donna will be deeply missed, the love she gave, the laughter she shared, and the memories she created will remain forever in the hearts of those fortunate enough to have known her. A remarkable woman, a devoted wife and mother, a treasured grandmother, and a loyal friend, Donna leaves behind a legacy that will continue to live on through the family she loved so dearly.