It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Dona Elizabeth Whaley of Sandoval, Illinois. Dona departed this life peacefully on Saturday, January 31, 2026, at the age of 77. Born on November 15, 1948, in Salem, Illinois, the daughter of Noble and Pearl B. Wells of Sandoval, Illinois.
She had an eye for beauty—both behind the camera and in everyday life. Her passion for photography captured the world as she saw it: full of color, emotion, and meaning. Music was another great love of hers. With The Beatles often playing in the background, she filled our homes with melodies of joy, laughter, and a lot of rock and roll spirit.
Her Fur-baby companions, Ziggy & Lucy, were never far from her side—loyal friends who brought her endless comfort and smiles. But above all, what she cherished most was her family. She found her greatest joy in spending time with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, creating memories that will live in our hearts forever.
She served as a CNA in the OB department at St. Mary’s Hospital in Centralia, Illinois, for 26 years, caring for others and helping welcome new life and joy into the world. Also, a long-time licensed cosmetologist with an eye for bringing out the beauty in each individual.
Her legacy is one of love, creativity, laughter, and, most importantly, family. Though she may be gone from our sight, she will never be gone from our hearts.
“And in the end, the love you take is equal to the love you make.”
She truly lived by those words.
Left to cherish her memory are her five children: Kenny (Debbie) Whaley of Rockford, Illinois, Jamey Whaley of Peoria, Illinois, Chris (Jenny) Whaley of Peoria, Illinois, Dustin (Amy) Whaley of Hoyleton, Illinois, and Jodie Whaley (Matt Pryor) of Centralia, Illinois. Her love will continue through her 12 grandchildren: Megan, Leighla, Alyssa, Brandon, Brayden, Kaitlynn, Melody, Emma, Kinzley, Avery, Maverick, and Hunter. And her 7 great grandchildren – Haven, Maddex, Zander, Paisley, Kaja, Khalyla, and Aviyana.
Dona was preceded in death by her father and mother: Noble & Pearl B. Wells. Her brother: Danny Wells, Grandchild Keighla Howard.
Cremation and a private family memorial will be held in her honor. Online condolences and memories of Dona may be shared with the family by visiting maczfuneralhomes.com and/or on the funeral home’s Facebook page. Irvin Macz Funeral Home in Centralia is privileged to be assisting with Dona’s arrangements.
