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Donna Leah (Rilling) Nelms, a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother, passed away March 26, 2026 surrounded by her family and the love she so freely gave throughout her life.
As a teenager working at Hart’s Pharmacy, Donna met a tall, lanky young man who simply would not stop asking her out. That young man, Phillip Grady Nelms, became the love of her life and her very best friend. Together, they built a beautiful life and shared nearly 52 years of marriage. Their story was one of deep, steady, unwavering devotion, a love so evident that even in her final days, nurses often remarked they had never witnessed a husband love a wife the way Phillip loved Donna.
Donna spent the majority of her life caring for her family, and she did so with extraordinary intention and grace. She created a warm, welcoming home, preparing homemade meals each day and making sure her girls were “neat as a pin” and had everything they needed. She loved her daughters fiercely and faithfully, building a life filled with security, laughter, and unconditional love. Her greatest joy was her family.
While she enjoyed fishing, music, dancing, and her favorite television shows and Hallmark movies, her true passion was simply being with the people she loved. As a grandmother, her love only deepened. She never missed an activity, a celebration, or a moment that mattered. Her grandchildren, Tyler and Hailey, were treasures to her, and she made every birthday and Christmas magical with thoughtfully chosen, beautifully wrapped gifts. She was known for her special way of giving, often offering several options so each person could choose what they loved most, a tradition that will always bring smiles and laughter.
Donna had a gift for making life feel special. She was known for her cornbread, pound cake, fudge, and countless family recipes that will continue to be shared for generations. She could stretch a dollar in remarkable ways, creating abundance even in the simplest of circumstances.
She was, for her family, a reflection of Christ’s love. Donna held high standards, but she also taught grace, that no one is perfect, that everyone is doing the best they can, and that kindness and love matter most. She prayed with her girls and then her grandchildren, created silly games, used funny voices, and filled her home with music, singing, and dancing.
Though naturally quiet and reserved in the outside world, within her family she was joyful, playful, and full of life. She was the safest place to land, a steady, comforting presence who made each person feel deeply seen, heard, and loved. Whether in moments of celebration or hardship, she made you feel like the most important person in the world.
After dedicating many years to raising her family, Donna returned to the workforce and served faithfully at Fayette Medical Clinic until her retirement. There she made new connections and built deep friendships she cherished for years.
She loved her husband so deeply that she embraced the things he loved, not for the activities themselves, but simply to be by his side. Whether fishing or deer hunting, her joy was in being with him. Phillip often joked that they were married several years before he realized she wasn’t born with makeup on, as she would rise early each morning to be ready before he woke. Even the simplest trip to the mailbox called for earrings and a fully put-together face. She carried herself with quiet pride, grace, and beauty.
Her beautiful green eyes brought calm in life’s storms. She was the steady center of her family, their comfort, their strength, and their constant.
Donna lived to love her family, and she did so exceptionally well.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Harold Rilling and Bonnie Rilling, and her father-in-law, William “Sonny”
Nelms.
She is survived by her beloved husband, Phillip Grady Nelms; her daughters, Kimberly Wisener (Brian) and Lori Bailey (Jim); her cherished grandchildren, Tyler Wisener (Elizabeth) and Hailey Wisener; her siblings, Jill Horton, Randy Rilling (Terri), Greg Rilling, and Gary “Tug” Rilling (Cyndi); along with many dear nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends who will forever treasure her memory.
“Well done, good and faithful servant.” Matthew 25:23
Donna lived a life of quiet faithfulness and deep love, and we rest in the promise that she has now heard these words from her Savior. We take comfort in knowing she is fully healed, whole, and rejoicing in the presence of the Lord, and we look forward with hope to the day we will see her again.
She was deeply loved, and she will be profoundly missed.
A memorial service will be held at Harps Crossing Baptist Church on Saturday, April 18, 2025, at 10:00 a.m., with visitation beginning at 9:00 a.m.
The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to Southwest Christian Care for walking alongside them in Donna’s final days. In her short stay they not only cared for her with such tender love, but also surrounded her family with compassion and support during such a difficult time. In lieu of flowers, donations can be given in Donna’s honor to their amazing facility and outreach to families.
Randy & Terri Rilling says
We are so sorry for the loss of one of the sweetest ladies around. Know that you all are in our prayers and thoughts. Be comforted knowing she is in the hands of Jesus and totally healed. We love you all!!
Dana Rilling says
Phillip, Kim, Lori and the entire family, I am so sorry for your loss. Donna was always such a kind person to all that knew her. My mom always told me when she would see Donna at Fayette Medical or the grocery store and she always enjoyed talking to her. Please know that you are all in my thoughts and prayers.
Southwest Christian Care says
We the staff of Southwest Christian Care would like to extend our condolence to family of Donna Nelms we are sorry for your loss
Brenda Raptis says
I didn’t know Donna personally but remember her sweet face from Harp’s Crossing Baptist. Always with a smile. May she rest in paradise and our Lord Jesus surround Philip and her family with only the peace he can give.