Donna Mae Province

Donna Mae Province, 87, of rural Mechanicsburg passed away Tuesday, April 14, 2026 at Middletown Nursing and Rehabilitation Center. She was born September 24, 1938 in Mechanicsburg, Indiana to the late Don T. and Esther Geraldine (Ebbert) Farmer.

A 1956 graduate of Cadiz High School, Donna led a vibrant life characterized by a unique blend of hard work, artistic flair, and devotion to her family. Her journey took her to Germany, where she lived with her first husband, Maurice Baker, during his service in the U.S. Army. Following her time in Germany, she moved back to the rustic charm of the family farm where she spent her days milking cows. Eventually, she transitioned into the world of cosmetology, attending Apex Beauty College in Anderson and working in numerous salons before sharing her expertise as an instructor at PJ’s Beauty School. Donna’s creative spirit knew no bounds; she was a talented pianist and even yodeled, and her artistic legacy remains visible on her barns through the murals she painted. Whether she was exploring her interests in genealogy and interior design or meticulously sewing costumes for her children’s school plays—and even sewing outfits for horses—Donna remained a deeply involved mother who poured her heart and multifaceted talents into everything she touched.

She worked for a short time at the Sulphur Springs Post Office. Her truest joys were found in the experiences she shared with her late husband, David Province. For twenty years, the couple escaped the cold to enjoy winter camping trips in Florida and took to the open road as members of the Honda Goldwing Touring Association. Beyond her love for travel, Donna held a profound affection for animals, finding particular fulfillment in the special care she provided to horses. Above all, she was known for her selfless nature, consistently making herself available to offer a helping hand to anyone in need. Donna is survived by her children, Stephanie (Bill) Lantz, Leslie Torrence, Carla (John) Bostel, Cara (Don) Bauer, Chris (Sara) Province; grandchildren, Stacy (Steve) Philips, Doug Conwell, Gabrielle Swasey, Brad Conwell, Tina Lantz, Evan Bostel, Caleb (Sierra) Province, Amber (Shane) Wilkerson and Ashley Province; several great grandchildren; a sister, Karen (Bill) Griffin and several nieces and nephews. In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by her husband, David Province; an infant daughter, Lisa; grandchildren, Brian Lantz, Joshua Hudson and Nicholas Bostel.

Services will be held at 2:00 PM Saturday, April 18, 2026 at Hinsey-Brown Funeral Service in New Castle with Dr. Phil Rogers officiating. Friends may call from 1:00 PM until the time of the service on Saturday at the funeral home. You may express condolences or sharing memory of Donna at www.hinsey-brown.com.