Donna Callahand

Donna Callahand, a woman whose life was defined by unwavering strength, boundless love, and remarkable selflessness, passed away peacefully on June 11, 2026, in Southaven, MS, after a long battle with her health. Born on March 26, 1948, in Memphis, TN, Donna's journey was marked by devotion to her family, church, and God, qualities that shaped every aspect of her enduring legacy.

Donna was a single mother who faced life's challenges with incredible resilience and positivity. She was a fighter in every sense—a beacon of kindness and care. Her love for her children and grandchildren was the heart of her existence, and raising them was her proudest accomplishment. Her family was her world, and she poured her spirit into their happiness and well-being.

She delighted in quilting and sewing dresses for her girls, finding joy in the gentle craft that mirrored her nurturing nature. Donna cherished nature, flowers, and the outdoors, embracing the simple beauty of country life with an open heart. Alongside her family, she found comfort in the company of her two cherished fur-babies, Little Miss Callahand affectionately known as Callie, and Ellie.

Donna’s spirit shone through her deep connections with those around her. She will be lovingly remembered by her daughters April (Cole) Taylor and Heather (Jeremy) Lawson, as well as her daughter-in-law Cyndi Rathje. She was also a devoted presence in the lives of her step-daughters Terri (Van) VanTassell and Wanda (Steve) Tuck. Her legacy lives on vibrantly in her grandchildren Asher Rathje, Kaitlyn Garcia, Allayna Rathje, Noel Lawson, Jacob Garcia, Conner Lawson, Elijah Lawson, Austin Arnold, Mason Arnold, Rosie Arnold, and her beloved great-grandchild Athena Rathje. Donna shared her life with a host of step-grandchildren and great-grandchildren who carry forward her spirit.

Siblings Ruby Cotham, Carol Gross, and Sue (Dave) Ablestein and sister-in-law Marcia Sanders join her family in mourning the loss of a true matriarch, alongside numerous cherished nieces and nephews who admired her generous heart.

Donna’s life was marked by the love she cultivated within her family and the broader community. She was preceded in death by her parents Edward and Mary (Cherie) Sanders, her husband Frank Callahand, her son Nathan Rathje, and her brother Edward (Butch) Sanders. Though they have gone before her, their memories remain enshrined in the love that shaped Donna’s journey.

Visitation will be held on June 14, 2026, from 1:00 PM until 2:00 PM at New Beginnings Baptist Church located at 6125 Pleasant Hill Rd, Olive Branch, MS 38654. This will be followed immediately by the funeral service at the same location from 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM. Donna will be laid to rest in a solemn burial service beginning at 3:15 PM at Twin Oaks Memorial Gardens & Funeral Home, 290 Goodman Rd E, Southaven, MS 38671.

As we gather to honor Donna’s life, we remember a woman who loved deeply, fought tirelessly, and gave endlessly. Her kindness, strength, and fierce dedication to her family and faith leave a lasting imprint on all who knew her. Though she has departed from this world, Donna’s spirit lives on in the hearts of those she cherished most—a symbol of unwavering love and courage that will never fade.