It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of LaDonna Blake Hamner, of Ottawa, KS. A greatly loved Mom, Grandma, Great Grandma (Mimi) and friend, left us peacefully at the age of 88 years, 8 months and 5 days. LaDonna was a devoted mother to her daughters: Anna Lorraine, Joanne Catherine, Jennifer Ruth, and Jaclyn Kim. She also cherished her role as matriarch to 12 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren, and 5 great-great-grandchildren. She nurtured her family with boundless love and set an example with personal strength and independence.
An exceptionally talented seamstress, LaDonna had a knack for crafting beautiful matching dresses for her young daughters. Her love for music shone through in her enchanting dulcimer playing, filling her home with melodies that brought joy to all who heard them. LaDonna delighted in praising the Lord with music by singing old hymns. She enjoyed performing as her creation, Hattie Pearl, fictional cousin to Minnie Pearl. From cruise ships, to stages in local talent shows, she brought her vibrant spirit and sense of humor to many audiences.
She was an active member of her church community, through her long participation with women’s ministries always willing to lend a helping hand or share a kind word.
LaDonna is preceded in death by her first husband Ken, who passed away too soon when she was only 62. Then the good Lord brought J.T. Gilbert into her life, and after nearly 20 years of marriage, he too passed away. She also endured the loss of her infant daughter, Anna Lorraine, and daughter, Joanne who passed at the young age of 57yrs. In addition, she was predeceased by her parents, Jess and Mable (Potts) and her older brother, Joe Blake.
She is survived by her daughters, Jennifer (Allen) Goodwin of Warsaw, MO and Jackie (David) Lucas of Memphis, TN, her sister Emily Kirkpatrick, grandchildren, great grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren and a plethora of nieces and nephews who will forever cherish her memory.
Her legacy of faith, love, and strength, will continue to inspire those who knew her. A celebration of LaDonna’s life will be held Friday, May 30, 2025, at Leavenworth National Cemetery.
LaDonna will be profoundly missed but fondly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing her.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions to your local Humane Society c/o Dengel & Son Mortuary, 235 S. Hickory, Ottawa, Kansas 66067.
