Leone May Smith Donalson Obituary (1924 - 2014)

Leone was born November 24, 1924 in Shelton, Nebraska. She was the oldest daughter of Benjamin Franklin Smith and Della Irene Dugdale. Leone grew up on the family farm in Shelton, Nebraska where she loved to ride her pony, Queenie. Leone was active in glee club, she was a straight A student and an avid reader. She also was the high school Drum Majorette. Leone married her sweetheart John Leas Donalson on May 2, 1943 in Shelton, Nebraska who preceded her in death 10 months ago. Leone and Johnny met while they were both in high school. They dated prior to Johnny's enlistment in the US Army Air Corp. during World War II. Leone and Johnny were married for 69 years and shared a wonderful life together. Mom never lost hope that Johnny would return, even after he was shot down on a bombing mission over Germany. While Johnny was gone MIA, Leone taught school and waited anxiously for word of Johnny's status. Leone was blessed with two wonderful sisters Carol and Gloria. Together with their husbands, the three sisters enjoyed adventures together, including the famous mobile home trip to Canada, trips to Europe, England and Scotland and many cruises with friends. Leone was active in Eastern Star and Toast Mistress. In her later years she was an active member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter day Saints. She appreciated the friends in the ward who kindly visited her and supplied rides to church when the weather was bad. In 1948, Leone and Johnny moved to Oregon and established their first and only home, on Old Highway 47, between Forest Grove and Gaston. Leone was employed by US Bank in many capacities and had many friends at "The Bank". She retired after 30 years. Leone was preceded in death by her parents, her sisters, and her beloved husband Johnny. She is survived by her children: Sheri Leas Friel (John), John Darrell Donalson (Leoma), Bradley Ray Donalson (Mona), Janis Leone McCorquindale (John); also 18 grandchildren and 40 great-grandchildren. Leone will be remembered for her love of family, her love of chocolate shakes from McDonalds with whip cream and a cherry on top. Her beautiful flowers and home, and all the family gatherings shared over the years. We want to thank all the individuals who provided loving service to mom over the last months of her life. Those include family, Hearts for Hospice, Home Health Care, neighbors and friends. Also a special thank you to John and Janis McCorquindale for bringing Leone into their home and giving such loving care. Funeral services will be held on Monday, March 17, 2014 at 11:00 am at the Daybreak 2nd Ward, 4137 W. Foxview Drive, South Jordan, Utah. A viewing will be held from 10:00-10:45 am.