Donna Graves was born May 2, 1942 in Turlock California to Olin and Leona Graves.
Donna grew up in Turlock with her younger brother Dennis Graves, and graduated from Turlock High School in 1960.
Donna married her high school sweetheart, Dick Wilkey in 1961. Donna was employed by esteemed attorney, Gilbert Moody as a legal secretary for many years until her retirement in the 1990’s.
Dick and Donna raised two daughters, Danette & Denyse Wilkey. The Wilkey family was very involved in the Turlock Horsemen’s Club, Turlock Hoof & Horns 4-H Club and numerous community volunteer activities.
She was a dedicated supporter of her grandchildren’s activities and their biggest cheerleader.
Donna was always one of the first people to step up, volunteer, and help when needed. We often joked and told her that she had the word “Sucker” stamped on her forehead.
Donna was well known for her high energy, infectious smile, generosity, community involvement, compassion for others and her strong will.
Dick and Donna moved from Turlock to Mariposa County in 1990 where they have been raising beef cattle with their daughter Danette and her husband Tony Toso.
Donna is survived by her husband Dick Wilkey, daughters Danette Wilkey Toso (Tony Toso) and Denyse Wilkey Bergman, grandchildren Alyssa Toso Haines (Cody Haines), Gianna Toso Adem (Uhuru Adem), Halie Bergman, Hannah Bergman Moody (Cody Moody), Isaac Bergman, and four great grandchildren.
Donna passed away peacefully August 19th at home, after her long battle with dementia.
A memorial service will be held Thursday, September 12th at 11:00 am at the Turlock Horsemen’s Club 1506 S. Tegner, Turlock.
Donna was fascinated with Hornitos history and often said that if she won the lottery, she would buy the entire town.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Hornitos Historical Society c/o Danette Toso P. O. Box 270 Hornitos CA 95325 if you are so inclined.