Donna Nicole Smyre, known affectionately to friends and family as Donna Smyre, passed away peacefully on January 1, 2026, in her hometown of Knoxville, Tennessee. Born on October 2, 1970, Donna’s vibrant spirit and infectious laughter left an indelible mark on all who had the pleasure of knowing her.

A proud graduate of Rule High School, Class of 1988, Donna's youthful energy and enthusiasm were evident as a member of the cheering squad, where she encouraged and uplifted her team with vigor and joy. She channeled that same passion into her professional life, dedicating herself to the care of the elderly as a certified nursing assistant. Donna's work at various institutions including Shannondale, Little Creek, Autumn Care, and NHC Farragut was not just a job; it was a calling. She was a beacon of warmth and kindness to the geriatric population, ensuring that their golden years were filled with the utmost care and compassion.

Donna's Christian faith was the cornerstone of her life, guiding her in her daily actions and providing her with strength and comfort throughout her journey. She lived her beliefs through her actions, always putting others before herself and spreading love and generosity wherever she went. Donna's ability to make everyone around her laugh was unmatched, and her love for dancing was apparent to all who witnessed her joy in motion.

Family was the center of Donna's world, and she leaves behind a legacy of love and cherished memories. Preceded in death by her father, Donnie Edwards, Donna’s memory will be eternally held in the hearts of her mother, Carolyn Wilkerson of Knoxville; her devoted children, Jeffrey Johnson, Jessica Johnson, and Brandon (Alexa) Kirchoffer; and her adored grandchildren, Nevaeh, Kaydence, Jerome, Julian, and Sebastian. Her loving siblings, Michael Johnson, Kim Mooney, Jeanetta (Thomas) Morris, Sabrina Johnson, Carol (Preston) Huddleston, and Donnie (Julia) Edwards, will miss her deeply, as will her niece and nephews, Ashley (Rashaad) Gibbs, Christopher Johnson, Alex Johnson, Angela Mooney, Nicholas Mooney, Morgan Winton, Sierra Strickland, Anamarie Edwards, Gregorio Edwards, and Evah Edwards. Her close-knit family also includes her cousins Kim Wagoner-Roller (Elton), Kevin Wagoner, Latonya (Joe) Grissett, and Paul Rodgers; her Aunt Deloris; and cousins Gladys, Gail, Glenda, Jill, Ricky, Cedrick, and Anthony, all of Alabama. A host of additional nieces, nephews, and extended family members will also feel the loss of Donna's bright presence.

In addition to her family, Donna's devoted friends, including Regina and Yvonne Blair, Valerie (Freddie) Bellamy, Doug (Wendy) Kirchoffer, and the entire Western Heights Community, will remember her for the laughter, support, and unwavering friendship she provided.

Donna Smyre will be remembered as a loving mother, daughter, sister, and friend. Her generosity knew no bounds, and her ability to bring humor and light into the lives of others was truly remarkable. As we say goodbye to Donna, we celebrate a life lived with purpose, love, and an abundance of laughter. Her legacy of caring for others and spreading joy will continue to inspire those who were fortunate enough to have known her.