Funeral services for Donna McClung Whitaker, 79, of West Monroe, will be held at 10:00 A.M., Thursday, April 17, 2025 in the chapel of Kilpatrick Funeral Home in West Monroe. Interment will follow at Roselawn Memorial Gardens under the care and direction of Kilpatrick Funeral homes. A visitation will be held from 5:00 P.M. until 7:00 P.M., Wednesday, April 16, 2025 at the funeral home.

Donna was born on December 24, 1945 in Little Rock, Arkansas and passed away peacefully at her home early Tuesday Morning, April 15, 2025, surrounded by her family and joining Ralph for a life in Heaven together.

Donna was a passionate animal advocate who dedicated her life to rescuing and caring for animals in need. Her compassion knew no bounds, and through her unwavering efforts, she gave countless animals a second chance at life and love. As the eldest of five siblings, Donna played a maternal role from early on—not just to her younger brother and sisters, but to their children as well. To her many nieces and nephews and extended family, she was a steady presence, a source of belonging, of advice, and unconditional love.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Ralph Whitaker, her parents, Jim McClung and Sue Johnston; brother-in-law, Babo Malcomb; and nephew, Tod Allbritton. 

Donna is survived by her siblings, Karen Heath (Neal), Peggy Malcomb, Sandy McClung, Michael McClung (Lisette), and Janet McClung; nephews, Jason Wood (Trudy), Micah McClung (Dana), Marc Bowie (Joy), Garrett McClung, Jonas Finklea (Trish), and Ben Finklea; nieces, Crystal Wood, Suni Hancock and Molly McClung Ellis (Matthew). She is also survived by a host of extended family members who cherished her. 

The family extends its sincere gratitude to the compassionate team at Louisiana Hospice Care who helped care for Donna in her final weeks. 

Pallbearers will be Michael McClung, Neal Heath, Ben Finklea, Jonas Finklea, Marc Bowie and Micah McClung; Honorary Pallbearer is Jude Finklea. 

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to a pet rescue organization of your choice.

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