Donna Morey, a beloved teacher, coach, Special Olympics coach and faithful Christian passed away on January 29, 2026, at the age of 69. Her life was a testament to service, compassion and unwavering belief in the potential of every person she encountered.
For many years, Donna dedicated herself to education, viewing teaching not simply as a profession, but as a calling. She believed deeply in her students, often seeing strengths they did not yet see in themselves. Her classroom was a place of encouragement, structure and genuine care, and she left a lasting impact on generations of learners. She later carried the same passion into her role as Executive Director of the Arkansas Retired Teacher Association.
As a coach Donna was known for her leadership, patience and heart. She understood that athletics were about more than competition – they were about building confidence, resilience and character. This belief was demonstrated most brightly in her work as a Special Olympics coach. She poured her heart into her athletes, celebrating every achievement and advocating fiercely for their dignity and joy.
Above all, Donna was a woman of faith, actively involved in her church and service as a Stephen Minister. She lived her beliefs daily through acts of kindness, humility and service. Her faith guided her work, her relationships, and her response to life’s challenges.
Donna is survived by her mother, Dorthy Morey, her brother Michael Morey, sister-in-law Charlotte Morey, nephew Scott Morey and great nieces and great nephew. Her legacy lives on in the lives she shaped, the confidence she built and the love she shared so freely.
A family-hosted celebration of life will be held at Pulaski Heights United Methodist Church on February 5th, at 11am.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggested donation be made to Pulaski Heights United Methodist Church, Special Olympics Arkansas or Arkansas Retired Teacher Association, in her lifelong commitment to serving others.
Arrangements by A Natural State Funeral Service 2620 West Main Street, Jacksonville, Arkansas 72076. 501-982-3400. Online guestbook available at www.anaturalstatefuneralservice.com
11 Comments
AEA honors the lifelong commitment that Donna made to public education. We will miss her fierceness, her loyalty, her strength, and her passion for doing right. It has been an honor to know this amazing woman, and have the privilege of calling her my friend.
God’s love, and prayers for Morey family, and friends as we remember, and celebrate Donna Morey’s life! ✨🙏🏼💛✨
Donna was a great encouragement to my daughter Susan. She took Susan on an overnight trip to compete in a Special Olympics event. Donna was an honorable Christian leader. Rest in Peace.
I was sorry to learn of Donna’s passing. I guess I’ve known her as long as I have known anybody. Such a fine person. She will be missed. My condolences to the family.
Knees her and her family simply all my life, especially at Oak Forest UMC and Pulaski Heights UMC. Lived her faith. BH
Dot and Michael. My family was so sorry to learn about Donna. We remember you all as great neighbors and Donna was just the sweetest. Our prayers are with you and all your family.
The Ashley County Retired Teachers Association would like to express our condolences to Donna’s family. We are so appreciative of Donna’s work on behalf of all Arkansas teachers . We will miss her leadership.
I knew Donna through our work on the Board for the Association of Retired Teachers Executives (ASRTE). Donna always had a big smile, a big hug and a big hello for anyone she ran into. Even thought she had her physical challenges, she never let it stop her. Trips to Europe, NYC, you name it, Donna was up for it and leading the group. Her big heart and smile will be missed by all of us. Give God a hug for me Donna.
On behalf of the Board Of Directors, and staff of the AEA Federal Credit Union, please accept our sincere condolences in the passing of our Friend. May God’s peace and comfort surround you.
Donna was one of a kind. She exemplified service in each and every endeavor. She adored students with all abilities and more importantly those with disabilities. Public education was her passion. She never stopped seeking the best salaries, accommodations and motivations for those of us who chose that path.
I love you sweet Donna from the deepest part of my heart
My heart aches for you all in the loss of your precious Donna. I didn’t get to know her, but I remember all my connections to your family. I lived across the street from you in Oak Forest when Mike was born, and Dorthy would let me visit and hold the baby, which I considered quite an honor. Then when I was practice When I teaching in Corrie Freeman’s room, I met sweet Mike again. Charlotte was also in that class, and they were both the kind of kids that every teacher loves.
I read later that Mike and Charlotte married, and that Mike became a minister. I have fond memories of all of you and I with sh I had done a better job of keeping in touch. May your memories of Donna give you great comfort now.
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