Donna Casey

Donna June Vinson Casey was born in Abilene, Texas, on February 24, 1937, to Avery and Jewell (Archer) Vinson. She grew up at Colony Hill alongside her siblings, shaping the roots of the strong, spirited woman she would become. Donna left this world on January 18, 2026, but her love and spirit will forever remain in our hearts.

A proud graduate of Wylie High School’s Class of 1955, Donna married Richard “Dick” Casey on June 3 of that same year. Together they had four children—Rick, Kathy, Debra, and Mark. Though Donna and Dick later parted ways, they remained lifelong friends, always united by their family.

As a young Momma, Donna poured her energy, love, and unwavering dedication into raising her children. In Hamby, she could always be found actively supporting school and church events. When the family moved to Potosi in 1975, she continued that pattern of involvement in the Potosi community and Wylie School’s.

She was a longtime member of Potosi Baptist Church.

Once her children were grown, Donna entered the workforce. With her outgoing personality and genuine compassion, she found her calling working in several nursing homes throughout Abilene. She enjoyed visiting with the families and loving on the residents—something that came naturally to her. At the age of 83, she finally decided it was time to retire.

Donna was sassy, funny, and always ready with a quick comeback. She loved George Jones, crossword puzzles, jewelry, collecting clocks, Wheel of Fortune, and cheering on the Dallas Cowboys—though she affectionately referred to them as “The Hamby 6th Graders.” Many evenings were spent on her front porch, watching the birds and hollering at cars to slow down.

She cherished family time: laughing, cutting up, sharing stories, and playing dominoes. Donna was also a wonderful cook, and her coconut cream pie was legendary.

Donna is survived by her daughter, Debra Havner and husband David of Tuscola, TX; her son, Mark Casey and wife Melody of Brownwood, TX; her treasured granddaughters, Kristen Lieder and husband Chris of Royse City, TX; Shilah Delatorre and husband Hector of Brownwood, TX; and Emily Garner of Abilene, TX. She also leaves behind three adored great-grandchildren, Rayne, Raelynn, and Dean Delatorre of Brownwood, TX; along with many nieces and nephews; and her lifelong best friend, Bonnie Davis.

She is preceded in death by her parents; her siblings, Jack Vinson, Jean Brown, and her twin sissy, Monna Casey; her son, Rick Casey; infant daughter, Kathy; and grandson, Dusty Apple.

The family wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude to her wonderful neighbors Jackie and Barbara Hinkle, Ron Owen, her niece Vicky Vinson, Janie Gonzales of Generations, the compassionate staff at Hendrick Hospice Care, and Missy and Brenda of Melissa’s Assisted Living for the love and tender care they provided during Donna’s final weeks.

Donna never left a room without a sassy remark, never held back a laugh, and certainly never let a moment pass without a hug and a smile. She left a little sparkle everywhere she went.

Donna was always dressed to the nines and to honor her love of fashion please wear her favorite colors: purple, red or animal print to the funeral.

Donations can be made to your favorite charity or The Dusty Apple Scholarship Fund c/o Mark & Melody Casey, 1150 CR 135 Brownwood, TX 76801.  The times and dates for the visitation and service are currently being finalized by the family. They will be posted as soon as they become available.