Donna L. (Glass) Heindl, 76, died peacefully in her home in Swayzee, Indiana, while surrounded by her family on Saturday, March 27, 2021. Donna was born in Dayton, Kentucky, on September 23, 1944, to the late Clarence and Lucille (Garrison) Glass. On June 1, 1968, she married Robert J. Heindl, who preceded her in death.
Donna graduated from Highland High School in Fort Thomas, Kentucky, where she was an excellent student with an adventurous spirit. She was a majorette in the marching band and member of the Sub Debs Sorority. The fact that there was not a girl’s dive team at the time would not deter Donna from pursuing her passion. Instead, she joined the boy’s diving squad and excelled. She later attended the University of Cincinnati, where she earned an Associate’s degree. She was a member and secretary of the Richmond, Indiana, chapter of Beta Sigma Phi. After many years of service in various roles, Donna retired from Richmond Community Schools.
Donna’s faith in Christ took root as a child growing up in Highland United Methodist Church in Fort Thomas. After marriage and eventual move to Richmond, her relationship with Christ grew while a member of Central United Methodist Church. She faithfully attended Bible Study Fellowship, as well as actively participated in the Emmaus community and bell choir. Her faith journey came full circle at Mt. Olive United Methodist Church in Marion, Indiana, where she became a member and served as an usher. There she found a community of wonderful caring friends. Donna also volunteered as a Kid’s Hope USA mentor and on the Frances Slocum Elementary School encouragement team through College Wesleyan Church.
It was in her role as “Mimi” where Donna’s light shone brightest. Her children and grandchildren were her greatest joy, and she was immensely proud of each one of them. They knew that she believed in them and was a consistent source of love, encouragement, and support. Mimi was dedicated to providing them with magical holidays and special memories. Her quick wit and stories from her youth were always good for a laugh. She also passed down to them her love of swimming, golf, sewing, baking, stained glass, Bridge, games, and quilting. Most importantly, her legacy is one that is rooted in faith and godly character. Her life was a beautiful demonstration of service to the Lord, His Church, and others.
Donna is survived by her son, James (Jennifer) Heindl of Fort Thomas, KY; daughter, Amy (Roger) Alcock of Swayzee, IN; brother, Kenneth (Nancy) Glass of Asheville, NC; grandchildren, Kinsey Price, Khloe Price, Graer Heindl, Audrey Heindl, and Eleanor Heindl; niece, Lara Glass; and her good boy, Oreo.
She was also preceded in death by her nephew, Ryan Glass.
The family will receive visitors from 11:00 am to 12:30 pm on Thursday, April 1, 2021, at College Wesleyan Church, 200 E. 38th St., Marion, IN.
A funeral service to honor Donna will begin at 1:00 pm with Rev. Dr. Emily Vermilya and Rev. Vickie Conrad officiating. The service will be streamed at live.collegewes.com.
Donna will be laid to rest at Earlham Cemetery in Richmond next to her husband, Bob, at a later date.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Needham-Storey-Wampner Funeral Service, North Chapel, 1341 N. Baldwin Ave., Marion, IN.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed to the Indiana Wesleyan University Women’s Swimming and Diving Program, 4201 S. Washington St., Marion, IN 46953.
Memories may be shared online at www.nswcares.com.