Donna Dean Soard

Mrs. Donna Dean Soard, 78, of Carthage, Missouri, departed this life on Monday, May 25, 2026, following a sudden illness.
Donna was born on January 12, 1948, in Ava, Missouri, to the late Luther and Dorothy (McDonald) Lee. She was raised in Red Oak, Missouri, and throughout her life lived in several local communities, including Reeds, Sarcoxie, La Russell, and Carthage. Donna worked for many years with the Carthage R-9 School District and at McDonald’s in Carthage. Even up until the last few months of her life, she continued working through DoorDash.

Donna enjoyed crocheting, doing word searches, visiting the casino, spending time outdoors in her yard, and most of all, being with her family. She also had a playful spirit and was known for “burning anything she could,” a memory her loved ones will always smile about.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Luther and Dorothy Lee; her husband, Kenneth Dale Soard; her sons, Kent Soard (Cynthia) and Darin Soard (Mary Jo); and one daughter, Shawn Soard.

She was also preceded in death by five siblings: Kenneth Lee (Marie), Ralph Lee, Gary Lee, Phyllis Shields (Evert), and Rick Lee.
Donna is survived by her three children: Kendra Soard (Richard), Dickie Soard (Cody), and Daleann.

She is also survived by her thirteen grandchildren: Kipp Soard; Dakota “Bear” Soard (Sky); Jaden Green; Sasha Evans (Jake); Krista Soard (Jeff); Kyle Shelton (Emily); Kalebb Soard (Ebb); Devin Soard (Tailyn); Chloe Soard (Steven); Lacie Hibbs (Blake); Brittany Rissman; Dylan Rissman (Kaylee); and LJ Parker.
She also leaves behind nineteen great-grandchildren.

Donna is further survived by six siblings: Beverly Williamson; Jerry Lee (Barbara); Sherri Ritchie (Stanley); Dan Lee (Sheila); Dickie Lee (Patty); and Carolyn Sloniker (Richard); as well as two sisters-in-law, Judy Lee and Bea Lee. She also leaves behind several nieces, nephews, extended family members, and many dear friends.

Donna will be deeply and dearly missed by her surviving family and friends. She never missed an opportunity to help anyone she could and had the most caring heart. Her family and loved ones will always treasure the moments they shared with her throughout this lifetime.

Arrangements are under the personal care and direction of Ozark Memorial Park Crematory of Joplin, Missouri.