In Loving Memory of Dr. Donna Lou Puccio (nee. Gibbs)
March 11, 1949 – April 22, 2026

Dr. Donna Lou Puccio (77)—a woman of profound grace, unwavering faith, and an infinite capacity for love—passed away peacefully, surrounded by the family that was the center of her world. A cornerstone of her community and the heartbeat of her home, Donna leaves behind a legacy of selflessness that will bloom in the hearts of those she touched for generations to come. Throughout her journey, Donna fought a courageous battle with Multiple Myeloma with the same dignity that defined her life.

Visitation for Donna will be held from 2 to 6 p.m., Sunday, April 26, 2026 at the Reiff Funeral Home in Epworth, Iowa.  A celebration of Life services will be held for Donna at 10:00 a.m. on Monday, April 27, 2026 at the Divine Word Seminary Chapel in Epworth, Iowa.

Born on March 11, 1949, to Glenn E. “Bud” and Rosemary Gibbs, Donna’s life was defined by a steadfast commitment to others. For 52 years, she served as the Secretary to the President at Divine Word College in Epworth, Iowa. More than a career, her work was a ministry of kindness; she was a guiding light and a constant, supportive presence for decades of students and faculty. In 2022, her lifelong contributions were formally recognized when she was bestowed with an Honorary Doctorate of Philosophy from Divine Word College—a testament to her wisdom and enduring impact.

In 1968, Donna married the love of her life, Charles A. Puccio. Together, they built a life rooted in faith and devotion, celebrating 58 beautiful years of marriage. Donna’s greatest pride was her five children: Brenda Puccio, Sandra (James) Caudill, Debra (Adam) Hardy, Charles (Amy) Puccio, and Renee Puccio.

As the family grew, so did Donna’s joy. She was the cherished grandmother to: Anthony Puccio, Sophia Harris,  Spencer (Alyssa) Caudill, Reese Caudill, Michael Caudill, Britney (Luke) Koehler, Austin Branstetter, Jackson Hardy, Emma Puccio, Margaret Puccio, Addison Puccio, Tayler (Tyler) Ankney, and Regan (Carter) Schminke.

She was also the doting “Gramma” to seven great-grandchildren:  Archer, Willow, Brady, Macy, Julian, Gracelyn, and Maclyn. She taught them all that love is not just a feeling, but an action—found in the time spent together and the quiet, steady support she offered everyone she knew.

Donna found God’s handiwork in the simple pleasures of life. She loved fiercely and lived for family gatherings. Her summers were a vibrant tapestry of color, spent tending to her garden where her favorite Asiatic lilies stood tall. She found peace in the whirl of hummingbirds visiting her flowers, their tiny songs providing the soundtrack to her many happy afternoons in the sun.

Donna is survived by her devoted husband, Charles; her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren; and her siblings: Ronald (JoAnn) Gibbs, Daniel (Madonna) Gibbs, James (Donna) Gibbs, Kenneth, William Gibbs, Mary Anne (Chuck) Dunne, Julie (Phil) Meyer, Jane Schilling, Walter (Jane) Puccio, and Mary Nell (John) Kertels. A sister-in-law, Kathi Puccio of Farley, IA.  She also remains a cherished aunt to many nieces and nephews who sought her wisdom and warmth.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Glenn and Rosemary; her sister, Connie Scott; her brothers-in-law, Anthony and Samuel Puccio; and her stepmother, Betty Jane Puccio-Gibbs.

“To live in hearts we leave behind is not to die.”

Donna Lou Puccio lived a life that was a testament to the power of a gentle spirit. While her presence will be deeply missed, her family finds comfort knowing that every time a lily blooms or a hummingbird visits, Donna is there—reminding us all to love fiercely and live beautifully.

The Puccio family extends their heartfelt gratitude to her medical team at Unity Point—Dr. Mark Hermann, Tony Heiar ARNP, and the entire team of nurses at the Unity Point Wendt Regional Cancer Center. Dr. Salas, Dr. Ringold, Dr. Iverson, Dr. Martin, as well as the compassionate staff at Hospice of Dubuque, for their exceptional care.