Donna Lynn Heiser

Donna Lynn Heiser, a beloved educator, businesswoman, and cherished friend, passed away on July 27, 2024, at the age of 77. Born on February 7, 1947, in Wichita Falls, Texas, Donna was the daughter of Wanda and Milton Cone. Her journey through life was marked by a profound dedication to her family, community, and profession, as well as a deep, abiding faith in the Lord.

Donna’s early years were spent in Crane, where she graduated from Crane High School in 1965. Her passion for learning and commitment to her goals led her to Angelo State University, where she earned a degree in Education in 1968. During her high school years, Donna received her Cosmetology degree, then worked as a beautician while completing her college education. Her love for fashion and her keen eye for detail were evident in all aspects of her life.

On July 1, 1967, Donna married Billy Heiser in Crane, Texas. The couple then moved to Crane in 1970 to help run Cone Jewelers with Donna’s parents, Pinky and Wanda Cone. In 1972, they relocated to Kermit to open a second Cone Jewelers, where they began to build their family. Donna and Bill’s three sons, Byron, Brandon, and Brantley, were born and raised in Kermit, where Donna was deeply involved in both family life and community activities.

Donna’s faith was a cornerstone of her life. A devoted member of the First Baptist Church, she drew strength and inspiration from her profound belief in the Lord. Her commitment to her faith was reflected in her roles as a Sunday School teacher  and GA leader, where she nurtured the spiritual growth of many young lives.

In the early 1980s, Donna pursued another passion by owning C&H Fashions, a clothing store that reflected her love for clothes, shoes, purses, and makeup. Her impeccable style and ability to always be “put together” were hallmarks of her vibrant personality. Following the closure of the clothing store, Donna transitioned into education, teaching at Goldsmith and earning her Master’s Degree in Counseling from UTPB.

Donna’s educational career at Kermit Independent School District began in 1990 as an English teacher at Kermit Junior High. She then served as the counselor at Kermit High School from 1992 to 1996. Her professional journey continued as a recruiter for DeVry University before she returned to KISD in 2001 as an elementary counselor. Donna concluded her educational career at Region 18 Educational Service Center as an educational consultant, retiring in 2018. Her career was a testament to her unwavering commitment to shaping and influencing the lives of countless students and colleagues.

In 2010, Donna and Bill moved to Midland, Texas. After retirement in 2018, they enjoyed their time together and pursued their shared passion for travel. They cherished their adventures and the time spent exploring new places.

Beyond her professional achievements, Donna was known for her kindness, dedication, and warmth. She was a devoted grandmother, attending her grandchildren’s sporting events, birthdays, and school activities with unwavering support and enthusiasm.

Donna is survived by her husband, Bill Heiser; their three sons, Byron Heiser and wife Amber, Brandon Heiser and wife Misty, and Brantley Heiser and wife Amanda; as well as her grandchildren, Brittany Manuel and husband Dominic, Dusti Gaines and husband Alec, and Hunter, Hope, Brayden, Lexi, Kinzi, Camryn, Braden, Jake and Jackson Heiser; great-grandchildren, Audrey and Addilyn Manuel, Waylon and Whitten Gaines;  and a host of extended family and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents, Wanda and Milton “Pinky” Cone, her beloved in-laws, Mable and Erdman “Buck” Heiser, brother Darrell Cone, and sister-in-law Linda Jones.

The family will receive visitors on Friday, August 2, 2024, from 6:00 to 8:00 pm at Nalley-Pickle Welch Funeral Home & Crematory of Midland. A memorial service to celebrate Donna’s life will be held on August 3, 2024 at 2:30 at Renew Life Church in Midland, with interment to immediately follow at Sunset Memorial Gardens in Odessa, Texas.  In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation.

Donna Heiser’s life was a beautiful tapestry of faith, love, and service. Her memory will live on in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Pallbearers will be Aaron O’Donnell, Mike Sweeten, Dewayne Brown, Brent Mitchell, Andy Fires, Brett Scott, Grant Helmer, Bryan Bentley, and Honorary Pallbearer Brett Baremore.

Arrangements are under the direction of Nalley-Pickle & Welch Funeral Home & Crematory of Midland. Online condolences may be made at www.npwelch.com.

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