Love You, Mean It, Bye

Donna Jean Hodges, born in 1948 in Evansville, Indiana, to the late Marion E. “Sonny” and Jacqueline “Jackie” Hust, passed away peacefully on March 1, 2026, in Fort Myers, Florida, surrounded by her family and close friends.

A lifelong singer who has fronted several bands and flourished as a solo artist, music wasn't just Donna's career; it was her heartbeat. She took immense pride in being named the Florida Country Music Association’s Female Vocalist of the Year and recording her first CD. Whether she was performing in Nashville or opening for legends such as Alabama, Faron Young, and Hank Williams Jr., Donna commanded the stage with a grace uniquely hers.

Donna’s creativity didn't stop at the microphone. She defied stereotypes by fully embracing "geek" culture with contagious enthusiasm. She was just as comfortable under the spotlight as she was in full cosplay at conventions with her son and his family. For Donna, life was a canvas for self-expression—whether through her stage performances, cosplay costumes, or her final public performance in “Hoedown” at The Firehouse Community Theatre in LaBelle, Florida.

In recent years, Donna found her "Happy Place" in her dream home in LaBelle. A reflection of her spirit—warm, colorful, and filled with personality—it was a sanctuary where she delighted in decorating and sharing her space with others. Her neighborhood will especially miss her during Halloween, a holiday she celebrated with legendary flair.

Donna lived life deeply. She cherished her friends and family, and she was deeply loved in return. Those who knew her will forever remember her passion, her humor, and her rare ability to make everyone feel welcome simply by being herself.

In lieu of flowers or other donations, please consider donating to another "Happy Place" of Donna's: The Firehouse Community Theatre in LaBelle, Florida. This is a non-profit 501(c)(3) small-town community theatre run by a staff of 100% volunteers.

To find out more: firehousecommunitytheatre.org

All proceeds from this fundraiser will go directly to The Firehouse Community Theatre, Inc.