Donna Thompson Gore

Donna Thompson Gore, born on January 3, 1972, in New Bern, North Carolina, graced the world with her compassionate spirit, generous heart, and loving nature for 52 radiant years. A beacon of light in every room, her thoughtful demeanor and natural warmth touched every soul she met. Donna’s life was a testament to her unwavering faith and her firm belief in the power of kindness. Raised in the church, she had recently accepted the Lord as her Savior, giving her loved ones the assurance that all is well with her soul. Her family takes solace knowing that Donna's final journey led her to a place free of pain and suffering.

Donna was a graduate of New Bern High School, where her vivacious spirit and infectious laughter were cherished by all. Her dedication and hard work led her to briefly serve as a dental technician before she found her calling in the food service industry. Donna’s love for people made her a much-loved waitress at Famous Subs & Pizza and later at The Flame. Her customers loved her, and she served them until her health began to fail. Yet, it was not only her professional achievements that marked her life, but her personal passions as well. Donna was an avid Pittsburgh Steelers and NC State fan, cheering on her teams alongside her brothers, with a joy that was contagious.

She is survived by her parents, Nell and Larry Jernigan; her faithful companion, Dave Blanton; her brothers, David Thompson and wife, Rachel, of Sumter, SC and Billy Thompson and wife, Joanne, of Eden, NC; and her uncle, Herbert Davis of New Bern, along with many friends.

The family is deeply grateful to Craven County Hospice, especially Joy, Erica, Jodi and Chaplain Angel Lorton, for their unending care and concern for Donna during her final weeks. As we remember Donna, we are reminded of the words from Philippians 4:7: “And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”

Funeral service will be 12 p.m. on Wednesday, March 27, 2024 at Highland Park Christian Church with Pastor Rex Bennett officiating. The family will receive friends for one hour prior to the service at the church. She will be laid to rest at Greenleaf Memorial Park.

For those who cannot attend the service and would like to pay their respects to Donna, she will be available for viewing from 1 to 5 p.m. on Tuesday, March 26, 2024 at the funeral home. The family will not be present during this time.

We invite you to leave memories, share stories, and upload photos of Donna on her memorial page. In celebrating her life, let us remember her radiant smile, her generous spirit, and her loving heart.

Bennett Funeral & Cremation Care is honored to serve the family and friends of Donna Thompson Gore.