Donna Rose (Chowning) Whiteside was born on June 12, 1945 in Montier, MO to Earl and Dorene Chowning. She departed this life peacefully at home on January 2, 2026 at the age of 80.
She is preceded in death by her parents; late husband, John Triplett; and sister-in-law, Erma Chowning. She is survived by her husband of 48 years, Richard Whiteside of the home, daughter Tamme Conner of Mountain View, MO, sons, Skip Layman of Billings, MO, Michael Triplett, and wife Shannon, of Henderson, AR; granddaughters, Kaitlin Caldwell (Dylan), Kelsey Batesel (Matt), and Madison Layman; grandsons, Cade Dannhaus (Courtney) and Cale Dannhaus; great-grandchildren, McKennah, Addyson, Harper, Ryett, Ridge, and Hollyn; brothers, Marshall Chowning (Cheryl) and Mike Chowning (Janet) as well as many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends who will forever treasure her memory.
Donna was a devoted mother and grandmother whose love extended far beyond her own family. For 23 years, she opened her home and her heart as a babysitter, becoming “Grandma Donna” to generations of children who still proudly call her that today. She had a gift for making everyone feel safe, seen, and loved- whether they were family by blood or by the time spent under her watchful eye.
Some of her greatest joys were found at the cabin on Jacks Fork, where she found peace in nature and joy making memories on the deck with KK and Kelsey. She never passed up a good deal, loved a good thrift store find, and could happily spend hours with a word search in hand. She could always be found in front of the TV on game days, rooting for the Kansas City Chiefs, cheering on Travis Kelce, supporting the Mizzou Tigers, and keeping up with Nascar.
A hardworking and determined woman, she also owned and operated the Auto Parts in Mountain View, proving she could run a business just as confidently as she ran a household. She was also a member of the Mountain View Christian Church.
Sassy, spirited, and undeniably a spitfire, she was known for her legendary phrase, “I’m gonna put on my Donna Rose britches,” usually accompanied by that finger- the one that meant a lecture, a warning, or a loving reminder that she meant business. That finger might have been firm, but it always pointed from a place of love, wisdom, and a deep desire to see those she cared for do right.
Her legacy lives on in the countless lives she shaped, the lessons she lovingly delivered, and the laughter she left behind. No doubt, Grandma Donna is still keeping an eye on things- finger pointed, britches on, and love leading the way.
