Donna Gene Bailey, 100, of St. Petersburg, Florida, entered into eternal rest on October 21, 2019.

The Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:00 am on Saturday, October 26 at St. Mary Our Lady of Grace Church. There will be a viewing before Mass at 9:30 am. Burial will immediately follow Mass at Calvary Catholic Cemetery.

Donna Gene was born in Okmulgee, Oklahoma on January 9, 1919.

Donna Gene grew up in Oklahoma with her brother, Fred. She enjoyed ballet, tap dancing, and listening to Frank Sinatra on her record player. She was actively involved with the Daughters of the American Revolution (D.A.R.) and was a faithful Catholic with a devotion to The Holy Rosary. Up until the end of her life, Donna Gene stayed up-to-date on current news events and with professional sports, especially tennis and the Tampa Bay Rays.

She graduated with her Masters Degree at Sul Ross State University in Alpine, Texas and worked as a special education teacher.

Donna Gene was the loving mother to 13 children. She is survived by her children Donald, Linda, Annette, Robert, Diana, Mark,  Elizabeth, and by her many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchidren.

Donna Gene is preceded in death by her children LaMarr, William, John, April Mae, Michael, and Patricia Ann.

When asked what the secret to living to 100 years old is, Donna Gene said, “It just happened.” Her family, however, credits Donna Gene’s long life to her healthy routine, optimism, strong faith, and her love for her grandchildren.

We will always carry her love and faith in our hearts.