The Richmond News, Jan. 26, 2024

“Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need.” (Hebrews 4:16)

Becky Donaldson

Linda Rebecca Donaldson (Becky) was born Nov. 19, 1940, in Knoxville, Tenn., the firstborn of Reid and Helen Watts, and was followed by three siblings: Priscilla, Brenda and Eddie. She graduated from Manatee High School, Bradenton, Fla., and earned her bachelor of arts degree in 1963 from Johnson Bible College, Knoxville, Tenn., graduating as valedictorian of her class. While in college, she married Daniel Donaldson on May 21, 1961. They were the last couple to be married in the old chapel at Johnson Bible College and stayed married for 62 years till death parted them.

As a homemaker, she raised three children: Dan (Dora), Dave (Shari) and Leah (Alan). They blessed her with seven grandchildren: Caleb (Rachel), Luke (Elisa), Ben, Seth, Abbie (Traix), Lydia and Sophia. She also had three great-grandchildren: Elijah, Samuel and Jesse.

Becky served as a Sunday school teacher, choir director, VBS director, song leader, and ladies’ events speaker and coordinator. She sang as a soloist, in choirs and in ensembles, including being a guest soloist in presentations of Handel’s “Messiah.” She considered this as one of her most joyous privileges – the opportunity to teach songs and choruses to kids in VBS and children’s choirs. Her home was filled with her singing. This past Christmas (one month ago), while suffering from advanced Alzheimer’s disease, she still sang carols with her family.

Becky taught Bible college courses on the Christian home and Christian womanhood. She and her husband conducted seminars on marriage and family. She had several articles on family life and devotion published in Christian magazines.

After the onset and progression of Alzheimer’s, Becky received nursing care, and amazed staff and other residents with her ability to remember songs, even when all else seemed forgotten to her. She also never forgot her Creator. She spoke of God, Jesus and Heaven mere days before she quietly left her earthly life. While holding her husband’s hand the morning of Jan. 18, 2024, she entered glory to sing her Maker’s praise forever.

“Bless the Lord, O my soul: and all that is within me, bless his holy name.” (Psalm 103:1) The family suggests memorial contributions be made to Johnson University in Knoxville, Tenn. They can be left at or mailed to Thurman Funeral Home; 507 E. Main St.-P.O. Box 190; Richmond, MO 64085.

A memorial service will be held at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 27, at the Christian Fellowship Ministry Church in Richmond. Graveside services will be held at noon, also Saturday, at Richmond Memory Gardens. Following the graveside services, a meal for family and friends will be held at the church.

Thurman Funeral Home in Richmond is in charge of the arrangements.

Please share your memories of Becky by visiting www.thurmanfuneralhome.com.