At the age of 89 years, 1 month, and 11 days, Mrs. Donzella Marie Gaines concluded her earthly Christian journey on Friday, August 15, at 2:10 p.m. at Baptist Health of Paducah. Her life commenced on July 4, 1936.
Mother Donzella was a devoted member of Macedonia Missionary Baptist Church, where she served diligently on the Mother’s Board. She dedicated over 30 years to her profession as a presser at various local businesses.
Mother Donzella was a woman who cherished shopping, cooking, and fishing whenever time permitted. She took great pleasure in watching television, particularly her favorite programs: “The Young and the Restless,” “The Family Feud” hosted by Steve Harvey, and “The Price is Right.”
Those who awaited her at Heaven’s Gates included her husband, Raymond Gaines, Jr., her son, Anthony Gaines, and her sister, Mary Louise Ellison.
Mother Donzella’s nurturing and affectionate nature will always be remembered by Her Children: Jacqueline “Orlando” Moore of Cypress, TX, Shavonne Gaines and Daniel Gaines both of Clarksville, TN, Desmond Gaines of Lexington, KY, and Justan Gaines of Paducah, KY; Her 20 Grandchildren, with Courtney Gaines being the first-born; Two Brothers: Johnnie Ross and Thomas Ross both of Detroit, MI; Several Great Nieces and Great Nephews; Her Two Sisters-In-Law, Joyce (Leon) Biles of Paducah, KY, and Charlotte (Roger) Carter of Ft. Lauderdale, FL; Her Two Brothers-In-Law, Ralph Gaines and Don Gaines, both of Paducah, KY; and Her Close Friends, Dolores Morris McSparin of Lexington, KY, Suzanne Bacon and Browyn Newell both of Paducah, KY.
The Life and Legacy of Mother Donzella Marie Gaines will leave a lasting impression on the lives of every individual with whom she came in contact.
Funeral services have been scheduled for Thursday, August 21, 2025, 12 noon at Mt. Moriah Missionary Baptist Church with Reverend Donna Hawkins officiating. Burial will follow in Oak Grove Cemetery.
Family will receive friends Thursday at the church from 11:00 a.m. until the funeral hour.
You may light a candle or leave online condolences at pettusrowlandfh.com.
