Birth date: Aug 9, 1951 Death date: May 9, 2026
Donna Jo Blackwood, 74, of Fayetteville, Arkansas, passed away May 9, 2026 in Springdale, AR. She was born on August 9, 1951, in Poteau, Oklahoma, to James and Reba Gene (Burrow) Connelly. Donna was a member of Cross Church in Sp Read Obituary
Those of us who sang in the Hope First Baptist Church Youth Choir remember well Donna's solo in one of our favorite a cappella performance pieces: "Jesus, Name of Wondrous Love." She had the voice of an angel!
We were so fortunate to have a young, energetic, immensely talented choir director (Bill Flanders) who took us on choir tours to multiple states, culminating in an amazing musical experience in Glorieta, New Mexico.
A few of us were able to be at the Miss America contest when Donna was one of the Top Ten and performed flawlessly. I had just returned from a trip to Europe with the Hendrix College Choir and instead of flying home with the rest of the choir, I bailed in New York and took a bus to Atlantic City so that I could see her perform. Amazing!
My heart goes out to Donna's family - her husband, children, grandchildren and to her siblings. We have no doubt that she fought the good fight, she finished the race, she kept the faith.
Mel, sorry for your loss. We live in Little Rock and would be happy to welcome you in our home anytime.
Donna was beautiful and talented. She had a kind and loving spirit. Julie Hill
