Donna Lou Riley was born on June 5, 1950 in Jasper County, Mississippi. Over the next  years, this little girl would learn, grow and become the matriarchal cornerstone of the Holifield family.

While the war in Vietnam was raging, Donna's school friend gave her the idea of writing to a Marine serving in active duty. What transpired next  is a one-of-a kind love story. Donna started writing  back and forth with Jimmy Holifield. When he was able to take leave and come home for a few days, he arrived with wedding gifts in hand and a solitary mission in his mind. Just a short time later, that little girl from Jasper County married that young Marine from Jones County. And just like the old saying goes, the rest is history.

Donna Lou and Jim were married for 55 years. They had 3 children, 10 grandchildren, and 11 great grandchildren. To say they have  left a legacy would be an understatement.  Jim and his strong work ethic paired with Donna, and her even stronger built in nurturing instinct, helped form the bond between the people who called them Mom, Dad, Mawmaw,  Pawpaw, Aunt and Uncle.

Donna Lou is preceded in death by her husband of 55 years, Jim Holifield ;parents Joe B. Riley and Katie Stokes Riley ;siblings Katherine Smith, Bobbie Adams, Elizabeth Clark, Pete Riley  , Bill Riley, and Buddy Riley. She is survived by her children James (Ann) Holifield, David (Tabitha) Holifield , and Kristi Kirkwood; grandchildren Josh (Allison) Holifield, Katie (Trevor) Reeves, Jesse (Tekeisha) Holifield, Gracie Holifield , Rebekah (Kier) Whitt, Tyra (Alberto) Whiddon, Emmia Holifield, Aaliyah Holifield, and Elizabeth Kirkwood; great-grandchildren Jasper, Ansleigh, Amelia,Wesley, Kinsley, Mariaana, Khloe, Clara, Roux,Shelby, and Daisy; special and beloved nephew Micheal Siddon as well as numerous relatives and friends.

Calling hours will be held on August 23, 2026 from 12:00pm to 1:00pm at Sigler Funeral Home, 4248 Main St. Lucedale, MS.
Graveside services will follow in Carter Cemetery, Section Line Rd Lucedale, MS.