Donna Fay Lawson

Donna Fay Lawson, 68, died on Dec. 7, 2014, at home after a long illness.

Mrs. Lawson was born in Casa Grande on Dec. 8, 1945, to Buford and Zellah Wagner. Much of her childhood was spent riding horses on the Ak-Chin Indian Community, where she made many lifelong friends. She attended Maricopa schools, graduating from high school in 1963. She had a desire to help others, putting herself through nursing school at Central Arizona College and graduating in 1974. She built on her knowledge and skills, obtaining certifications in advanced nursing care. She spent the next 34 years as a highly specialized surgical intensive care nurse at University Medical Center in Tucson, providing lifesaving skills.

She loved to attend auctions and garage sales, hunting down Coca-Cola memorabilia and antiques, and she was a true Coke lover. Over the years she had several beloved pets and recently had Jerry, a Chihuahua, and Charlie, a parrot. Above all, she loved her family. She always remembered birthdays, Christmas and special occasions, giving the best and most original, thoughtful gifts. She never had children of her own but was a shining example for all of her nephews and nieces.

She is survived by a brother, Mike Wagner of Casa Grande; a sister, Thelma Foreman of Maricopa; and a stepdaughter, Sherry Lawson-Smith of Casa Grande. She was preceded in death by her husband, JC; a stepdaughter, Tommie Lawson-Wahl; a sister, June "Bobby" Thornhill; three brothers, Sonny, Jimmy and her twin, Danny Wagner.

Visitation will begin at 12:30 p.m. Friday, with the service at 1, at J. Warren Funeral Services, Cole & Maud The Gardens Chapel. Burial will be in Mountain View Cemetery.