Donna Rae Sparks

In Loving Memory of Donna Sparks

Donna Sparks, 63, passed away peacefully on August 8, 2026. Donna was the heart of the family-the one who held everyone together, the one people turned to, the one who picked up the pieces and the person her family could always count on. Her family was her world, and the love she gave them will remain long after her passing.

Born in Savannah, Georgia, Donna was the daughter of Donald Ray Hurst and Helen Lamb Hurst. She was a devoted mother, grandmother, sister, partner, and friend. Donna will be remembered for her kind heart, dependable nature, easygoing spirit, and the way she made those around her feel welcome and cared for.

Donna was the mother of Tiffany Fortier and the late Adrian Hilliard. Her children were at the heart of her life, and being their mother was a role she carried with great pride. She and Tiffany shared the many chapters that come with a mother and daughter—from childhood memories and family traditions to the everyday conversations and moments that become treasured over time. Their bond was one that could never be replaced, and Tiffany will carry her mother's memory with her for the rest of her life. Donna lovingly called Tiffany "doctor" even though she wasn't one, a name that became their own little joke but also reflected the pride and confidence Donna had in her daughter. It was one of those small things between them that Tiffany will miss hearing more than words can express. Donna also carried the loss of her son Adrian in her heart, and his memory remained an important part of her life. There is comfort in knowing she is reunited with Adrian, together again sharing the peace of eternity.

Her grandchildren, Jaccari David, Elijah David, and Adreanna Warren, brought her a different kind of joy. Donna treasured her time with them and took great pride in watching them grow. She was there to celebrate their happiness, share in their lives, and give them the kind of grandmotherly care they could always count on. The memories they made with her will become part of their lives that they carry forward.

For 17 years, Donna shared her life with Samuel “Bubba” Rivers. Together, they experienced nearly two decades of everyday life, creating memories through both the good days and the difficult ones. Their time together was an important chapter in Donna's life, and the years they shared will always be remembered. Bubba was more than her partner, he was her best friend, her rock, and the steady hand by her side through life’s ups and downs. He brought laughter to her days, strength in hard times and a love that helped build a life full of moments they will carry in their hearts forever.

Donna shared a lifelong family bond with her sister, Lisa Piroska-Broome. Growing up together gave them a history filled with memories, family stories, laughter, and the experiences that only sisters can share. As sisters, Donna and Lisa shared a connection shaped by a lifetime of growing, changing, and experiencing life alongside one another. The bond they carried as sisters was uniquely theirs. Through the years, Lisa remained an important part of Donna's life

For 35 years, Donna had the friendship of Debbie and Gary, a friendship that grew into something much greater. Over the years, they became "Aunt Debbie" and "Unk", not through blood, but through the kind of bond that makes people family. They shared good times and difficult ones, laughter, stories, and countless memories. Their place in Donna's life was earned through decades of simply being there, and their friendship became an enduring part of her story.

Donna found happiness in the people around her and in the simple moments that made up everyday life. She had a way of making others feel comfortable, and her presence became familiar and reassuring to the people who knew her. She will be remembered not for one single thing, but for all the little pieces of herself she left with the people who were fortunate enough to know her.

Donna is survived by her daughter, Tiffany; her grandchildren, Jaccari, Elijah, and Adreanna; her sister, Lisa; her partner, Bubba; her Aunt Debbie and Uncle Gary; extended family members; and many friends who will miss her deeply. She was preceded in death by her son, Adrian.

Though Donna is no longer here to make new memories with the people she loved, the ones she left behind will continue to tell her stories, remember her laughter, and carry pieces of her with them. Her life will remain a part of the family she built, the friendships she formed, and the hearts she touched.

Donna's story may have come to an end, but her place in the lives of those who knew her never will.