Donna Gwen Drew

Donna Gwen Drew, age 82, of Holts Summit, died on Friday, April 5, 2013 at Adams Street Place in Jefferson City. She was born on June 12, 1930, in Lawton, Okla., daughter of Glen and Doris Drew. Donna graduated from high school in 1948 in Poplar Bluff, Mo., and received her degree in Art from Washington University in 1952. She worked for several years as a fashion illustrator for major department stores in Tulsa, Okla. and Dallas, Texas. She was married to Arthur Jablonsky in Poplar Bluff in June of 1953. She and her family moved to Jefferson City in 1968. At that time Donna worked as a lobbyist for the Christian Civic Foundation, which was a leader in the fight against legalized gambling in Missouri. As a devoted mother, she stayed home to raise her children. Later, Donna served for 20 years with Jefferson City Public Schools as the commercial art instructor at Nichols Career Center, the public relations director for the district, and as a vocational counselor. During her career she earned her master's degree in education from the University of Missouri in 1986. During this time she continued her work as a professional artist, had a great love for the outdoors, and enjoyed floating and camping in Missouri. She also served as a volunteer on the Katy Trail and was a past member of the Holts Summit Planning and Zoning Commission. Donna faithfully volunteered in her church throughout her lifetime, serving in leadership with Christian Women's Fellowship, creating newsletters, leading teens on a mission trip to Australia, and teaching Sunday School even into her 80's. She is survived by a son, Dane (Gwyn) Jablonsky, Williamsburg, Va.; a daughter, Jan (George) Syrigos, Meta, Mo.; three sisters, Janet (Richard) Uhrmann, Merritt Island, Fla., Lisa (Mac) Alton, Republic, Mo., Cynthia (Douglas) Kneibert, Sedalia; and three grandchildren, Reni and Tia Jablonsky, and Sophia Syrigos. Friends will be received from 1:00-2:00 p.m. on Tuesday, April 9 at Community Christian Church, Jefferson City, Mo. A public memorial service will be held at Community Christian Church on Tuesday, April 9 at 2:00 p.m., with a reception following. Private graveside services will be held at Southside Cemetery in Meta. Donations are suggested to Community Christian Church Building Fund. Arrangements are under the direction of Fancher Funeral Homes in Meta. (573) 229-4228 Condolences may be shared with the family at www.fancher-rekusfuneralhomes.com.