Donna Kaye Smith McCraw

Donna Kaye McCraw peacefully stepped into the arms of Jesus at the age of 61 on September 6, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family at Kate B. Reynolds Hospice House, following a courageous battle with cancer.

Donna was born in Forsyth County on December 3, 1964. She graduated from Salem Baptist Christian School in 1983. In 1984, she began her career with HanesBrands, where she worked until 2013. She later joined EMS Management and Consultants, where she continued working until May 2025. Donna was an incredibly dedicated and hardworking person who took great pride in her work and genuinely enjoyed helping others.

Donna was kindhearted, compassionate, and deeply caring. She had a tender heart, a gentle spirit, and a quiet strength that those who knew her could always see. She was thoughtful, dependable, and someone who genuinely cared about the people around her.

Donna found great joy in life’s simple pleasures. She loved watching the birds outside, especially her hummingbirds, which held a special place in her heart. She also loved caring for her plants and enjoyed many walks along the Yadkin River, a place that held special meaning to her because it was where she grew up. An animal lover at heart, she shared an especially sweet bond with her beloved dog, Rosie.

Donna carried a strong faith and a love for the Lord throughout her life. Her relationship with God brought her comfort, hope, and peace, and those who loved her take comfort in knowing she is now home with Jesus.

Above all, Donna loved her family deeply, and they were truly at the center of her world. She was a devoted mother, sister, aunt, and friend who treasured the people she loved. Throughout her battle with cancer, Donna showed remarkable strength, courage, and resilience, facing an incredibly difficult journey with determination and grace. She was surrounded by an extraordinary amount of love throughout her final days.

Donna was preceded in death by her parents, Carrie Sue Smith and Stanley “Buster” Smith.

She is survived by her devoted daughter, Brooklyn “Brooke” McCraw, whom she loved immensely and was incredibly proud of; Brooklyn’s fiancé, Josh Moser, whom Donna loved dearly and already considered a son; her beloved twin sister and lifelong best friend, Dianna Snow (Harley); her brothers, Michael Smith and Mark Smith; and her special nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews. She is also survived by many extended family members and dear friends who loved her deeply.

A Memorial Service will be held at 4:00 p.m. Saturday, September 19, 2026 at Hayworth-Miller Kinderton Chapel with Rev. Adam Ridenhour officiating. The family will receive friends following the service at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, those wishing to honor Donna's memory are encouraged to perform an act of kindness for someone, spend meaningful time with a loved one in her honor, or make a donation to the Forsyth Humane Society.